Brookfield Zoo

Are you a nature lover who’s looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life? Look no further than Brookfield Zoo, just a short drive from downtown Chicago. Located in the suburb of Brookfield, Illinois, this 216-acre zoological park has been turning heads and capturing hearts since it opened its gates in 1934.

Brookfield Zoo is home to over 2,000 animals from over 400 different species, making it one of the largest zoos in the country. The zoo is divided into several different exhibits, each of which is designed to replicate the natural habitat of the animals living within them.

One of the most popular exhibits at Brookfield Zoo is the Tropic World Rainforest, which is home to a variety of exotic wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and even a jaguar. The rainforest exhibit is particularly unique because it’s one of the few places in the world where you can see both orangutans and gorillas living in the same habitat.

The Habitat Africa exhibit is another must-see at Brookfield Zoo. This exhibit is designed to mimic the African savannah, complete with giraffes, zebras, and rhinos wandering about. There is also an indoor section of the exhibit called the Regenstein African Journey that houses hippos, crocodiles, and other aquatic wildlife.

Meanwhile, the Hamill Family Play Zoo is the perfect place for young children to get up close and personal with some of the zoo’s friendlier inhabitants. Children can pet goats, sheep, and cows, and even get their hands wet at the touch pool, where they can interact with crabs, starfish, and other sea creatures.

Apart from its animal exhibits, Brookfield Zoo also features several other attractions, including a 3D theatre, a carousel, and a tram ride that takes visitors through parts of the park that might otherwise be difficult to reach on foot.

Visitors can get even closer to the animals by participating in one of the zoo’s many animal encounters. For example, you can hand-feed the giraffes, take a behind-the-scenes tour of the rhinoceros habitat, or even meet a penguin up close and personal. Prices for these experiences vary, but they all provide a unique opportunity to learn more about the animals living at Brookfield Zoo.

Brookfield Zoo is well-aware that preserving wildlife is a serious matter. As such, the park has taken several steps to minimize its environmental impact, including the use of solar panels, composting, and installing water-conservation measures throughout the park. Additionally, Brookfield Zoo is actively involved in preservation efforts for several endangered species, including the Arabian oryx and the Mexican gray wolf.

Despite its size, Brookfield Zoo can get quite crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. To avoid long lines and wait times, visitors are encouraged to arrive early in the day, to beat the crowds. Additionally, the park offers several membership options that allow visitors to return multiple times throughout the year at discounted rates.

In conclusion, Brookfield Zoo is an unforgettable experience, offering a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the world’s most fascinating creatures. Whether you’re an animal enthusiast or simply looking for a fun and educational day trip, Brookfield Zoo is the perfect destination. So pack up the family, put on your sunscreen, and spend a day surrounded by the wonders of nature.