Chicago Zoological Society
đ Brookfield, IL
Brookfield Zoo features diverse animal exhibits including dolphins, primates, reptiles, and big cats, plus a carousel, ferris wheel, and seasonal events like Boo at the Zoo and summer concerts. Open year-round.
đ Family Action Verdict
A full-day destination for families with children of any age. Toddlers love the carousel and animals at eye level; older kids engage with keeper talks and the dolphin shows. Membership pays off quickly for Chicago-area families visiting more than twice a year.
âšī¸ What to Know Before You Go
đŦ What Families Are Saying
View all reviews â320 Google reviews
G Reviews from Google
Edna Tymick
10 years ago
âAlways enjoy visiting this zoo. They are constantly upgrading older areas and building new state of the art animal exhibits. There are summer concerts on the mall. The carousel is beautiful. The free flight show was amazing (performed only during summer). Craft beer is available at several vending areas throughout the park.â
Jeff
6 years ago
âAlways a good time at Brookfield Zoo! Everything is streamlined due to COVID but you can still watch a few hours disappear here. Most of the indoor exhibits are closed, so be sure you plan around the weather.â
Michael Endres
7 years ago
âA.K.A. the Brookfield zoo. It is a great place to take your kids. They are always having special events and are open year round. I would suggest if you live in Chicagoland too become a member. It is worth it.â
đŦ What parents mention
Overview
Brookfield Zoo covers 216 acres with hundreds of species across indoor and outdoor habitats, plus family attractions including Dolphin Discovery, carousel, and ferris wheel. Keeper talks and free-flight bird shows run seasonally. The zoo continuously upgrades exhibits and hosts major events throughout the year. Cafe dining, pram-friendly paths, and ample parking round out the visit.
