10 Reasons to Check Out Brookfield Zoo {Brookfield, IL}

I received tickets in exchange for sharing my honest opinion.

My family has been visiting Brookfield Zoo since my kids were toddlers and before that I went as a child with my parents. Honestly to me Brookfield Zoo never gets old as it is so big it is easy to miss some animals and attractions and plus the animals obviously have different temperaments depending on the day or season.

Here are 10 reasons to Check Out Brookfield Zoo:

• There are so many different animals to see across 235 acres – specifically more than 2,400 animals belonging to over 400 species.

• There are zoo chats throughout the park to learn more about the animals and ask any questions you may have about them. You can check out the zoo website for times of the zoo chats and where to find them.

• There is always a big attraction to explore from dinosaurs to bugs to currently its Ice Age Giants. We actually didn’t even make it to that half of the zoo so we have plans to go back before the attraction changes out.

• In addition to attractions, there are always events going on at the zoo such as zoo runs, Oktoberfest, beer fest, concerts and more! Our family favorite event is always Boo at the Zoo!

• From penguin encounters to feeding the giraffe to petting and feeding small barn animals, there are tons of ways to interact with the animals for curious kids! These do cost extra typically but create priceless memories.

• The Dolphin show is amazing to watch. I honestly could see this show everytime we go as its so amazing to me how the trainers get the dolphins to do the tricks they do. Sit close if you want to get splashed on!

• Need a break with kids? There is a splash area and two playgrounds at opposite ends of the parks. We definitely took advantage of these when the kids were little.

• No need to spend extra money on food if you don’t want to as you can bring in a picnic lunch and enjoy at a picnic table with your family. So many places force you to buy their food and don’t allow anything outside in but at Brookfield you are allowed outside food and beverages (not alcoholic obviously but they do sell beer and wine inside zoo.) We have done both at the zoo, brought in food and bought food. I’d suggest a wagon if you have one to carry everything.

• The zoo is great for all ages and has something everyone can enjoy. This last time we met my brother-in-law and his family and from my 1-year-old niece to my 15-year-old had a favorite exhibit. The zoo is a great meeting spot too for families and friends.

• There is even a few “rides” to go on such as the motor safari and carousel. They are nice breaks from the sun or for kids who want some “action”!

Whether you are an animal lover or not, Brookfield Zoo is really a great way to spend a nice day for all ages.

Visit Brookfield Zoo

Check out the Brookfield Zoo website to plan your day! I highly recommend a membership if you plan on going at least twice.