Brookfield Zoo in Chicago |
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At Brookfield Zoo for visitors and employees who prefer more privacy when breastfeeding or breast pumping in public, the zoo does provide comfortable nursing facilities. The nursing room is located the women's restoom near the main zoo entrance.
Brookfield Zoo, located just outside Chicago in Brookfield, Illinois, is a world-renowned zoo that offers families an unforgettable experience with its diverse array of animals, engaging exhibits, and educational programs. Opened in 1934 and spanning 216 acres, this zoo is home to over 2,300 animals from around the world. Here are some fun facts and highlights for families planning a visit to Brookfield Zoo.
Pioneering the Use of Moats: When Brookfield Zoo opened, it was one of the first zoos in the United States to use moats and ditches instead of cages to separate animals from visitors. This design provided a more natural and humane environment for the animals and allowed visitors to observe them in settings that closely mimicked their natural habitats.
Zoo Library: Brookfield Zoo is home to the Hamill Family Play Zoo, which includes a unique feature: a zoo library. This library offers children’s books and educational materials about animals and nature, making it a perfect spot for kids to learn and explore.
The Living Coast: The Living Coast exhibit transports visitors to a coastal environment, complete with a giant 20,000-gallon saltwater tank that houses a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and colorful fish. Interactive touchscreens and educational displays provide fascinating information about the animals and their habitats.
Tropic World: Tropic World is one of the largest indoor zoo exhibits in the world, featuring three distinct rainforest environments: South America, Asia, and Africa. Families can walk through the lush, tropical settings and observe a wide range of animals, including monkeys, orangutans, and exotic birds. The immersive environment makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a real rainforest.
Hamill Family Wild Encounters: This interactive exhibit allows families to get up close and personal with a variety of animals, including wallabies, reindeer, and red pandas. Guests can also feed parakeets and pet goats and alpacas. The hands-on experiences provided here are both educational and memorable, especially for younger visitors.
Dolphin Shows: Brookfield Zoo is one of the few zoos that features live dolphin shows. The Seven Seas Dolphinarium offers exciting performances where families can watch these intelligent and playful creatures perform acrobatic tricks and learn about their behavior and conservation.
Zoo Camps: Brookfield Zoo offers a variety of camps for children of all ages. These camps provide a hands-on learning experience where kids can explore different animal habitats, participate in fun activities, and learn about wildlife conservation. The zoo’s camp programs are a great way to engage children and foster a love for animals and nature.
Zoo Academy: The zoo’s Academy for Conservation Science and Leadership offers high school students a unique opportunity to engage in conservation research and leadership training. This program helps students gain valuable skills and knowledge in environmental science and conservation, preparing them for future careers in these fields.
Boo! at the Zoo: Every October, Brookfield Zoo hosts Boo! at the Zoo, a family-friendly Halloween event featuring trick-or-treating, pumpkin smashing, costume contests, and themed animal exhibits. The zoo is decorated with festive fall decorations, making it a fun and spooky experience for visitors of all ages.
Holiday Magic: During the winter holiday season, Brookfield Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland with Holiday Magic. This event features over one million twinkling lights, ice-carving demonstrations, carolers, and Santa Claus visits. Families can enjoy hot cocoa while strolling through the beautifully lit zoo, creating a magical holiday experience.
Butterflies! Exhibit: The Butterflies! Exhibit is a seasonal attraction that allows families to walk through a lush garden filled with hundreds of free-flying butterflies. This immersive experience provides an up-close look at these delicate creatures and offers educational information about their life cycles and conservation.
Great Bear Wilderness: Great Bear Wilderness is a sprawling exhibit that showcases North American animals, including bison, bald eagles, and polar bears. The exhibit’s highlight is the underwater viewing area, where families can watch polar bears swim and play. The realistic habitats and interactive displays provide a deeper understanding of these magnificent animals.
Chicago Zoological Society: Brookfield Zoo is managed by the Chicago Zoological Society, which is dedicated to wildlife conservation and education. The zoo participates in numerous conservation programs and research projects aimed at protecting endangered species and preserving natural habitats.
Species Survival Plans: The zoo is involved in Species Survival Plans (SSPs) for many endangered species. These plans include breeding programs, habitat preservation, and public education efforts to ensure the survival of these species. Families can learn about these efforts through various exhibits and educational programs throughout the zoo.
Dining Options: Brookfield Zoo offers a variety of dining options to suit all tastes. From casual cafes serving burgers and pizza to more upscale dining experiences, there’s something for everyone. The zoo also provides picnic areas for families who prefer to bring their own food.
Stroller and Wagon Rentals: To make navigating the zoo easier for families with young children, Brookfield Zoo offers stroller and wagon rentals. These rentals are available near the zoo’s main entrance and provide a convenient way to explore the expansive grounds.
Accessibility: Brookfield Zoo is committed to being accessible to all visitors. The zoo offers wheelchair rentals, accessible restrooms, and designated parking spaces. Additionally, many of the exhibits and pathways are designed to accommodate visitors with mobility challenges.
Inclusive Programs: The zoo offers sensory-friendly events and resources for visitors with sensory processing needs. These events provide a more relaxed environment with reduced noise and crowds, ensuring that all families can enjoy their visit to the zoo.
Knowledgeable Keepers: The zoo’s animal keepers are passionate about their work and eager to share their knowledge with visitors. Families can often find keepers giving talks or demonstrations throughout the zoo, providing fascinating insights into the animals’ behaviors, diets, and care routines.
Volunteer Opportunities: For families looking to get more involved, Brookfield Zoo offers volunteer opportunities for both adults and teens. Volunteering at the zoo is a great way to learn more about animal care and conservation while giving back to the community.
Brookfield Zoo is a treasure trove of fun, education, and adventure for families. From its pioneering exhibits and engaging animal encounters to its commitment to conservation and education, the zoo offers something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring the vast Tropic World, watching a dolphin show, or participating in a seasonal event, a visit to Brookfield Zoo promises to be a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to embark on a wild adventure at Brookfield Zoo!
Photo credit by mom Anne Slaughter.
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| Zip Code: | 60513 |
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