About Brookfield Zoo
Brookfield Zoo offers a unique experience with free admission days, festive seasonal events, and a commitment to ongoing renovations that enhance the visitor experience. The zoo's layout allows for easy navigation, making it enjoyable for families.
What parents should know
Summarized from real visitor reviews.
Best for: Families looking for a budget-friendly outingHoliday celebrations with festive decorationsRegular visits to see updated exhibitsToddlers to teens, with engaging activities and exhibits suitable for all ages
Why families love it
- Free admission days
- Beautiful holiday light displays
- Active animal exhibits
- Knowledgeable staff
- Family passes that offer value for multiple visits
- Seasonal events like meeting Santa
Insider tips
- Bring your own lunch and snacks to save money
- Arrive early to see all exhibits before closing
- Check the schedule for free admission days
Good to know before you go
- Visiting during peak holiday times when crowds are larger
- Going late in the day to avoid missing exhibits that close early
- Ongoing renovations limiting access to certain areas
- High food and drink prices
- Difficulty finding specific animal exhibits like polar bears
- Crowds
- Can get busy during holidays and free admission days; visiting on weekdays may be quieter
- Value
- General admission is free on select days; family passes are cost-effective if visiting multiple times. Food and drink prices are noted as high, making outside food a better option.
- Food
- Outside food is allowed; bringing your own lunch is recommended due to high prices inside
- Accessibility
- No specific accommodations mentioned; check with the zoo for details
- Safety
- No specific safety measures mentioned; general zoo safety protocols likely in place
What parents say
"We went today on February 9th and it was a free day. We had a pass, but we thought it was cool that anyone could go. They are currently doing renovations on the tropic building so we couldn’t go inside which is a bummer, but understandable since I would rather they renovate now and have it ready for the summer. Overall, this was a great experience and even in the winter we were able to see a ton of animals. Would defiantly recommend to anyone who is in the area."
a week ago
"So glad that they were open late on Christmas Eve! The lights were very enjoyable. As far as animals I saw The Swamp, dolphins, otters, and a tiger. Outside pavilions where dark. Some snow would make it even prettier!"
a month ago
"We love this zoo during the nice weather, we go like once a month with my little niece. Christmas time is also a wonderful time cause the lights are gorgeous & it's so festive to meet Santa. Do wish they had more animals but it does look like they are building & making alot of changes that will make the zoo even more magical. The food, drinks & gift shop are expensive so we usually bring our own lunch & snacks."
2 months ago
Reviews sourced from public Google data.
