Last Updated on March 23, 2024 by Usama
To make your visit to the Brookfield Zoo as enjoyable as possible, getting to know the zoo’s services and rates is a must. Parking Access will provide all the information you need and help you reduce your costs. Find out all about the general admission tickets, Brookfield Zoo parking costs, transportation alternatives, and more! If you’re a tourist, go through the city’s attractions to learn more about them and their parking services. Use our guides and tips to have the best experience and explore Chicago without any hassle!
Brookfield Zoo Tickets
Unlike most zoos, such as the Denver Zoo, the Chicago Zoological Park doesn’t require reservations. If you wish to reserve a ticket, you can do it online easily, but you’re welcome to arrive at any time either way. The price of your general admission ticket depends on your age—the list below offers details on all Brookfield Zoo tickets.
| Admission | Price |
| Adults | $24.95 |
| Seniors | $19.95 |
| Children (3-11) | $17.95 |
| Children (2 and under) | Free |
| Military personnel | Free |
The Brookfield Zoo attractions—such as Dolphins in Action, The Carousel, and Motor Safari—are available at an additional cost, and most adult tickets are $6. Whatever you choose to visit, be sure to come during working hours:
- On weekdays: 10 AM – 5 PM
- On weekends: 10 AM – 6 PM
Free Admission
The zoo offers free admission on selected days throughout the year, and all visitors are allowed to enter free of charge. In 2021, the zoo is open at no charge on the following days:
- October: 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 26, 27, 28
- November: 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18
- December 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21
If it fits your schedule, visit the zoo on one of these days to save $24.95 or more if you’re coming with your kids! Note that, even though the admission is free, you’ll still need to pay the Brookfield Zoo parking fee.
Brookfield Zoo Parking Options
Zoo visitors have two public parking lots suitable for both standard and oversized vehicles. The lots are placed near North and South Gates and grant easy access to the Chicago Zoological Park. You cannot pre-book a parking spot—all visitor parking fees have to be paid for upon your arrival. Using any of the two parking areas is a much better choice than on-street parking—it’s safer and helps you avoid Chicago parking tickets! To see the Brookfield Zoo parking map, as well as the locations of all exhibits and attractions, check out the printable zoo map.
Brookfield Zoo South Parking Lot
The Brookfield Zoo South Parking Lot is located right at the South Gate. It’s a smaller one of the two parking areas but still provides plenty of outdoor parking spaces. To enter this lot, head to the following address: 3300 Golf Road, Brookfield, IL 60513. To discover the Brookfield Zoo parking prices in the South Lot, see the list below.
| Parking Pass | Parking Rate |
| Car | $15.00 |
| Bus | $21.00 |
| Members | $5.00 |
The listed daily parking rates include all taxes.
Brookfield Zoo North Parking Lot
The Brookfield Zoo North Parking Lot is a huge parking structure located a short walk away from the North Gate. Here’s its address: 8400 31st Street, Brookfield, IL 60513. See the following list to discover the daily rates in the North Lot:
| Parking Pass | Parking Rate |
| Car | $15.00 |
| Bus | $21.00 |
| Members | Free |
Visitors prefer this lot to the South one because it offers easier access, more car parking spots, and free parking for members.
Accessible Parking
Handicapped parking at the Brookfield Zoo is available on a first-come, first-served basis in both parking structures. You need to own a disabled parking placard or permit if you wish to use it. Standard parking rates apply.
Transportation to the Zoo
To lower your expenses, use public transportation to reach the Brookfield Zoo! The Pace bus offers Route 331 which runs every day and stops right outside the South Gate. The one-way bus fare is only $2.00. To cut your costs and avoid dealing with traffic, take the Metra’s BNSF Line train from downtown or any western suburb. Exit at the Hollywood Station, and take a 10-minute stroll to the gate. If you get off at Brookfield or Riverside Station, the walk to the zoo will take 15 to 20 minutes. The train fare depends on your departure point—for instance, the price for a ride from Union Station to the Hollywood stop is $5.50. If you search for a ride from an airport or want to rent a car, look into the transportation guides to O’Hare Airport and Midway Airport!
FAQs
- How much is the parking at Brookfield Zoo?
The Brookfield Zoo parking pass is $15 for standard vehicles and $21 for buses.
- How much does it cost to get into Brookfield Zoo?
The general admission ticket for an adult costs $24.95.
- What time does Brookfield Zoo open?
The Brookfield Zoo opens at 10 AM.
Other Chicago Attractions & Parking Guides
Chicago visitors have so much to see in the city and surrounding areas. If you wish to drive to the most popular attractions and sights, Parking Access will help you find your way through the vibrant city! In addition to the Chicago Zoological Park, we suggest exploring the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Art Institute of Chicago, and John Hancock Center. You discovered all about the Brookfield Zoo parking options—now, go through the following guides to learn more about:
If you plan to fly out of Chicago soon, check out our guides to find the most convenient parking service and book a spot in no time: