What You Can Bring into Brookfield Zoo: A Family-Friendly Guide

At Brookfield Zoo, every visit is designed to inspire curiosity and create lasting memories—here’s what you can bring to elevate your experience.

To make your trip seamless, bring a refillable water bottle, a reusable tote bag, and a small camera or smartphone for capturing memories. Don’t forget snacks (check zoo guidelines), sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes. These items ensure comfort and convenience throughout your day exploring the exhibits.

You can bring guided audio guides (available on-site) and interactive apps to deepen your learning. Photography is encouraged in most areas—bring a camera or phone to preserve moments, but always respect wildlife by staying on designated paths. Avoid bringing outside food or containers to maintain hygiene and safety standards.

Bring a notebook to jot down observations or favorite animal facts—perfect for kids and adults alike. Seasonal bringables like themed souvenirs, limited-edition merchandise, or event-specific items add personal touches to your visit. Check the zoo’s calendar for special exhibits where exclusive keepsakes are available.

Maximize your Brookfield Zoo experience by bringing smart, respectful items that support learning and enjoyment. Follow guidelines, stay safe, and create unforgettable moments—we can’t wait to welcome you and your thoughtful additions to the adventure.

Items thrown or dropped into exhibits can be ingested by the animals, which can be harmful or even fatal to animals. If you see any item fall into or thrown into an exhibit, please contact a Zoo staff person immediately. Bringing Food into Brookfield Zoo When planning a trip to the Brookfield Zoo, many visitors wonder if they can bring their own food into the zoo.

After all, a day at the zoo can work up quite an appetite, especially for little ones. The good news is that the Brookfield Zoo does allow visitors to bring their own food and beverages into the zoo. This is a great option for those who want to save.

Bring to bring, where to park, seasonal events, and more! Everything you need to know about planning a day at Brookfield Zoo. You can bring your own food into the zoo, including coolers, but please, no alcohol. (However, it is worth noting that you can purchase adult beverages throughout the zoo, especially during peak months and special events.).

Brookfield Zoo Chicago has minimal restrictions on bringing food to the zoo, so bring your own food and water bottles to save some money. However, you cannot bring alcoholic beverages, glass containers or grills into the zoo grounds. There are water fountains with water bottle fillers dotted around the zoo grounds.

For those with special dietary needs, we'll explain how you can communicate your requirements to the zoo in advance, so you can enjoy your day without any concerns. The 235-acre zoological park features 3,481 animals belonging to 511 species. Does it sound like a way to spend your day? We're here to help.

Let's dive into the Brookfield Zoo hours, location, and more so you can learn everything you need to know to plan your day. You can bring your own food into the zoo, including coolers, but please, no alcohol. (However, it is worth noting that you can purchase adult beverages throughout the zoo, especially during peak months and special events.)Mar 14, 2021.

The zoo is worth a visit on a nice day, but not during the dead of winter. What Brookfield Zoo tips do you need to plan and save money? You can book a private transportation service with them for your group trip to Brookfield Zoo Chicago.

GOGO Charters provides bus rentals in Chicago and around Illinois for group trips and events at Brookfield Zoo Chicago.