Brookfield Zoo Chicago

Brookfield Zoo Chicago Inspiring conservation leaders by connecting people and communities with wildlife and nature.

08/28/2026

A second chance starts with great veterinary care! 🐾🩺

Crouton, a rescued Virginia opossum, recently joined us from a local wildlife rehab and rescue. Due to injuries that left him missing several fingers and a portion of his ear, he was unable to be released back into the wild. Luckily, he found a home here at the Zoo as a soon-to-be Animal Ambassador!

After arriving to the Zoo, Crouton headed to our onsite veterinary hospital for his first checkup which included everything from being weighed to x-rayed. These exams are an essential part of animal care at the Zoo, helping our veterinary team monitor the health and well-being of animals of all shapes, sizes, and species.

With his first checkup complete, Crouton headed behind the scenes to continue settling in. Stay tuned for updates about when you can visit Crouton over at Hamill Family Play Zoo!

The gorilla group is welcoming two new members! 🦍🦍We recently welcomed two western lowland gorillas, 12-year-old Kamina ...
08/27/2026

The gorilla group is welcoming two new members! 🦍🦍

We recently welcomed two western lowland gorillas, 12-year-old Kamina and 8-year-old Zahra, to Brookfield Zoo Chicago. Both arrived from Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in recent weeks upon recommendation of the Gorilla Species Survival Plan. As they get settled in, they’re first getting to know Jontu and understanding their role within the troop’s dynamic social structure.

Gorillas are highly social animals, and building relationships can involve plenty of positive interactions like grooming, playing and foraging together. As introductions continue, you may see some behaviors that look intense, including loud vocalizations, physical interactions, or squabbling. While these behaviors may appear out of the ordinary, they’re a normal part of establishing relationships and social dynamics within the group especially as they navigate the first major change regarding females in the troop in more than two decades!

We've got one million reasons to celebrate! 🐾🎉Today our one millionth guest of 2026 walked through our gates! Special sh...
08/26/2026

We've got one million reasons to celebrate! 🐾🎉

Today our one millionth guest of 2026 walked through our gates! Special shoutout to Parrinello family who also received some special goodies including a Premier Family Membership, a Member Bag, and a plush!

A million visits mean a million opportunities to discover something new, make a memory, and connect with wildlife from around the world. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who has spent a day with us this year. Here's to many more visits to the Zoo!

08/26/2026

“To me, that has been the most magical part of my job: to have the opportunity to experience these animals up close, and the incredible curiosities that these animals bring.” In the latest edition of the Ozinga Said in Stone podcast, Brookfield Zoo Chicago's CEO and President Dr. Mike Adkesson speaks about his journey in animal care, from volunteering in a Zoo as a child to becoming a veterinarian and leading the Zoo today. Check out the full podcast at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fQBsm1qkhGc.

Bone marrow isn't just a delicious delicacy for humans, it's also beneficial for bears! 🐻🦴Brown bears are opportunistic ...
08/25/2026

Bone marrow isn't just a delicious delicacy for humans, it's also beneficial for bears! 🐻🦴

Brown bears are opportunistic omnivores, eating everything from fruits, grasses and leaves to meat and fish when available. Here at the Zoo, bones are sometimes offered as both a tasty treat and a form of enrichment!

Using their long claws and powerful teeth, bears can pull out the marrow or crush parts of the bone to access it. Bone marrow provides important nutrients like calcium and other minerals, making it a valuable, nutritious addition to their diet!

08/24/2026

Your prehistoric adventure awaits! Don't miss Dinos! at the Zoo through October 25.

Plan your visit today at https://bit.ly/3Swzcvs.

It’s a painted dog party at the Zoo! 🐾🎉We’re celebrating World African Painted Dog Day a few days early this Sunday, Aug...
08/21/2026

It’s a painted dog party at the Zoo! 🐾🎉

We’re celebrating World African Painted Dog Day a few days early this Sunday, August 23! Join us at Habitat Africa for fun African painted dog themed activities including:
🐾 Biofacts and crafts (while supplies last)
🐾 Painted dog chats at 11:30 a.m. & 3:30 p.m.
🐾 Enrichment at 3:30 p.m.

African painted dogs are currently classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN); they are largely threatened by habitat loss and hunting. As a participant in the Saving Animals From Extinction (SAFE) African Painted Dog Program, we’re proud to support efforts to identify threats, aid species recovery, and raise awareness about protecting this remarkable species.

Stop by Habitat Africa to spot the growing group of pups this weekend!

School might be back in session, but summer isn’t over yet! 🦁☀️There’s still time to squeeze in one more wild adventure ...
08/20/2026

School might be back in session, but summer isn’t over yet! 🦁☀️

There’s still time to squeeze in one more wild adventure at Brookfield Zoo Chicago! From Monday, August 24 through Friday, September 4 only, when you buy one General Admission ticket, you'll get a second admission FREE*! Grab your favorite adventure buddy, soak up the last days of summer, and make one more wild memory together. BOGO tickets are available for purchase and redemption onsite only at Main/North Gate Entrance.

Plan your visit today at https://bit.ly/4g5IWWJ

(*of equal or lesser value)

08/19/2026

Your year of Zoo adventures starts here! 🐒🦒🦩

Member Appreciation Month will be September 4-30, and there’s still time to join the celebration! A membership at Brookfield Zoo Chicago means you can enjoy special members-only perks in September, AND unlimited Zoo visits to explore, discover, and make memories all year long! Learn more about membership options and benefits at bit.ly/4wRRwhF

08/18/2026

These penguins are swimming, splashing, and snacking! 🐧🐟

Did you know every Wednesday the Humboldt penguins and Inca terns receive live minnows as a form of enrichment? Chasing and catching fish gives the birds an opportunity to practice natural hunting behaviors while staying active and engaged. It’s also one of the best times to see just how well adapted Humboldt penguins are for life in the water!

Address

3300 Golf Rd
Brookfield, IL
60513

Opening Hours

Monday 10am - 5pm
Tuesday 10am - 5pm
Wednesday 10am - 5pm
Thursday 10am - 5pm
Friday 10am - 5pm
Saturday 10am - 5pm
Sunday 10am - 5pm

Telephone

+17086888000

Website

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