Brookfield Zoo
π Brookfield, IL
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Brookfield Zoo outside Chicago features spacious enclosures, close-up animal viewing, a new gorilla and spider monkey exhibit, and extensive grounds best explored across a full day or return visit.
π Family Action Verdict
Best for families with toddlers through primary-school-age children who want genuine animal proximity without the scale of a major metro zoo. The gorilla exhibit delivers close encounters reviewers consistently describe as a highlight. Pack snacks where permitted - on-site food is sparse in variety outside summer season when the Wild Burger opens.
βΉοΈ What to Know Before You Go
π¬ What Families Are Saying
View all reviews β28,251 Google reviews
G Reviews from Google
Miles, Meals & Magic
7 months ago
βBrookfield Zoo has become one of our favorite family spots, especially during the brutal winter months when youβre trying to figure out how to help a toddler burn off some energy without completely freezing outside. Itβs such a fun mix of interactive, educational, and family-friendly. Thereβs always something exciting to see, and getting up close with animals like the giraffes and polar bears makes the visit feel extra special. What we really love is that itβs not just entertaining for little ones, but also a great learning experience. Our toddler gets to explore, stay curious, and see animals up close in a way that keeps the visit both fun and memorable. Itβs one of those places where kids can move around, parents can enjoy the outing too, and everyone leaves happy and tired in the best way. Brookfield Zoo is definitely a great option for family outings, especially when the weather makes regular outdoor play a little more challenging. We always leave feeling like it was time well spent, and itβs become one of our favorite ways to make winter feel a little less long.β
Lonely A Z
8 months ago
βI had a great time with my family walking around and enjoying seeing the animals. Food is pricy but only worth it from (Wild burger) that opens in the summer time. Wish they had more things to do and see in the fall going into spring. Didnt take alot of pictures, rather enjoy it with my eyes.β
ΠΡΠ°ΡΡΡ Π‘ΠΈΡΡΠ΅ΡΡ
8 months ago
βA very nice and large zoo. Lots of different species of fish and animals, all of which are sought after. The grounds are huge. We couldn't see it all in 2.5 hours. So we'll definitely come back again. The only downside was that some of the enclosures didn't have enough exotic animals.β
π¬ What parents mention
Overview
Brookfield Zoo features large enclosures with close-proximity viewing across a sprawling grounds. The new gorilla and spider monkey exhibit is the current standout. Animal collection spans fish, mammals, birds, and reptiles. Exhibits run both indoors and outdoors, making it viable across seasons. Interior exhibit halls can run warm in winter - dress in layers. The grounds are large enough that most families cannot cover everything in a single visit.
