Brookfield Zoo spans over 200 acres and features immersive animal habitats, family-friendly attractions, and award-winning conservation programs. Home to nearly 450 species, this zoo in the Chicago suburbs combines fun with education and is a top destination for wildlife lovers.

Recommended For

Families with children
Hands-on exhibits like the Play Zoo and Wild Encounters offer immersive learning experiences.

Animal lovers
Explore 20 unique habitats and meet everything from dolphins and lions to wolves and clouded leopards.

Conservationists
Learn about endangered species breeding programs and animal care science.

Educators & students
Benefit from classes, lectures, backstage experiences, and field trip resources.

History

  • Founded: 1919, opened to the public in 1934
  • Land donated by: Edith Rockefeller McCormick
  • Notable additions: Tropic World (1960s), Wolf Woods, Hamill Play Zoo, and the largest hand-carved carousel in the U.S.
  • Conservation focus: Active participant in 87 Species Survival Plans covering 116 species

Animal Habitats

  • Australia House
  • Big Cats
  • Feathers and Scales
  • Fragile Desert
  • Clouded Leopard Rain Forest
  • Great Bear Wilderness
  • Habitat Africa! The Forest & The Savanna
  • Hamill Family Play Zoo
  • Hamill Family Wildlife Encounters
  • Hoofed Animals
  • Living Coast
  • Pachyderm House
  • Pinniped Point
  • Regenstein Wolf Woods
  • Reptiles and Birds
  • Salt Creek Wilderness
  • Seven Seas
  • The Swamp
  • Tropic World

Zoo Animals

Brookfield Zoo houses approximately 450 species, including:

  • Lions, tigers, leopards
  • Polar bears, seals, dolphins
  • Giraffes, zebras, rhinos
  • Wolves, bison, kangaroos
  • Clouded leopards, primates, eagles

Conservation & Animal Care

  • Species Survival Plans (SSPs): African lions, Amur tigers, California sea lions, clouded leopards, Eastern black rhinos, gorillas
  • Center for the Science of Animal Care: Pioneering program that ensures high standards for animal well-being

Attractions & Experiences

  • Dolphins in Action: High-energy educational show highlighting dolphin agility and behavior
  • Hamill Family Wild Encounters: Hands-on animal feeding and interactive experiences
  • Hamill Family Play Zoo: Nature-themed play space with imaginative activities
  • The Carousel: One of the largest hand-carved carousels in the U.S. with 72 unique animals
  • Motor Safari: Open-air guided tram tour of the zoo’s grounds with unlimited rides for the day

Educational Programs

  • Children’s classes, zoo camps, and family workshops
  • Adult lectures and classes
  • Backstage adventures and keeper experiences
  • Teacher resources and virtual field trips

Visit the zoo’s website for detailed registration information and upcoming events.

Visitor Tips

  • Parking: Available on-site for a daily fee
  • Accessibility: Wheelchair and stroller rentals available
  • Dining: Multiple cafes and seasonal snack stands throughout the park
  • Shopping: Gift shops with zoo-themed merchandise and souvenirs

Location

Brookfield Zoo
8400 31st Street, Brookfield, Illinois 60513
Phone: 708-688-8000
Website: czs.org/Brookfield-ZOO

Plan Your Trip