Nestled in the heart of Chicago’s western suburbs, the Brookfield Zoo offers a unique blend of wildlife encounters and natural beauty—here’s exactly where it stands and why it’s a must-visit destination.
Where Is the Brookfield Zoo Located?
The Brookfield Zoo, officially known as the Chicago Zoological Society, is located in Brookfield, Illinois, approximately 14 miles west of downtown Chicago. Situated at 2000 Lake Cook Road, it sits within a 216-acre park that combines educational exhibits with scenic walking trails, making it easily accessible via public transit and car from the city.
Access and Getting There
Visitors can reach the zoo by car in under 30 minutes from downtown Chicago via I-290, or by CTA train to the Metra Union Pacific West line, followed by a short shuttle or walk. Plenty of parking is available, and the zoo offers shuttle services during peak hours to ease congestion.
Highlights of Your Visit
The zoo features over 1,500 animals across 200 species, interactive exhibits like the tide pools and ape habitats, and daily educational programs. Its strategic location makes it an ideal day trip destination for families, school groups, and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
With its prime location in Brookfield, Illinois, the Brookfield Zoo delivers an unforgettable experience just a short drive from Chicago’s bustling core. Plan your visit today and discover why it remains one of the region’s most beloved attractions.
Brookfield Zoo Chicago is located at First Avenue between Ogden Avenue and 31st Street in Brookfield, Illinois, just 14 miles west of downtown Chicago. There are exits to First Avenue from the Eisenhower Expressway (I-290) and from the Stevenson Expressway (I-55) (See detours above). Brookfield Zoo Map (2025 - 2023) Planning your visit to Brookfield Zoo just got easier with the most up-to-date Brookfield Zoo Map.
Brookfield Zoo, also known as Chicago Zoological Park, is a 216-acre zoo in Brookfield, Illinois, housing over 3,000 animals from 500 species. Brookfield Zoo Chicago, known until 2024 as simply Brookfield Zoo, and also known as the Chicago Zoological Park, [2][3] is a zoo located in Brookfield, Illinois. Brookfield Zoo is owned by the Forest Preserve District of Cook County and is managed by the Chicago Zoological Society.
It is the largest zoo in the Chicago metropolitan area and houses approximately 511 species of animals in an. Brookfield Zoo Hours, Location & More: Everything You Need to Plan Your Day One of Chicagoland's most beloved attractions, Brookfield Zoo Chicago, is a great place to spend a day with your family. In the summer, see animals out and about while you enjoy a snow cone.
In the winter, cold-weather animals emerge, and holiday lights illuminate the zoo. Brookfield Zoo is set within a 216-acre nature park. World-renowned, the Zoo's 2,000+ residents have captivated and educated visitors since 1934.
The Zoo's newest exhibit, Great Bear Wilderness allows visitors to Go Eye. Brookfield Zoo, nestled in Illinois, is a gem for animal lovers and conservation enthusiasts. Its sprawling grounds host myriad habitats, showcasing creatures from around the globe.
The zoo's commitment to education and conservation is palpable, with interactive exhibits that engage visitors of all ages. Highlights include the innovative Bear Wilderness and the immersive Tropic World, offering. Brookfield Zoo covers 216 acres and includes 25 major animal exhibits.
Animals live in innovative walk-through settings that re-create their natural habitats, with different species sharing space just as they do in the wild. The Living Coast's transparent water walls, squishy blue floor made to resemble the ocean floor and 60 animal species from the coast of Chile and Peru give the illusion of. Since it first opened in 1934, Brookfield Zoo Chicago has helped generations of families from around the world discover their love for animals.
Today, the 235-acre nature park is home to more than 5,000 animals and extensive conservation programs. The mission of Brookfield Zoo Chicago is to inspire conservation leadership by connecting people with wildlife and nature. Brookfield Zoo Chicago is the best destination to experience FREE admission days in Chicagoland! With convenient and equitable access, exciting animals, and special events, there's never been a better time to explore the Zoo's incredible wildlife.
