Chicago Zoological Society — photo 1 of 5

Chicago Zoological Society

1 / 5

Rating

4.7(320)

Family of 4

This is the Chicago Zoological Society administrative office rather than a standard zoo visitor attraction.

Duration

2-4 hours

Best Ages

All ages

About

The Chicago Zoological Society at 3300 Golf Rd in Brookfield is the administrative and education headquarters of the organization that runs Brookfield Zoo. This is a distinct location from the main zoo visitor entrance at 8400 31st St — and the visitor experience here is different.

Rather than a standard zoo visit, this location offers access to educational programming, conservation work, and the scientific operations behind one of the Midwest's premier zoological institutions. For families interested in wildlife conservation as a deeper topic — older kids curious about how zoos work, what animal care actually looks like, or what conservation science does day-to-day — this is the access point.

The 4.7 rating from 320 reviews reflects visitor experiences that include educational programs, tours, and conservation-focused activities rather than a traditional zoo walk-through.

For the standard Brookfield Zoo family visit with animals and exhibits, use the main entrance at 8400 31st St. For programming, educational tours, or learning more about the Society's conservation mission, contact the Chicago Zoological Society directly through brookfieldzoo.org.

Membership in the Chicago Zoological Society/Brookfield Zoo provides additional access to programs and events at this location, in addition to free zoo admission.

Age Suitability

Infants (0-1)Toddlers (1-3)Little Kids (4-6)Big Kids (7-9)Tweens (10-12)Teens (13-17)

Parent Logistics

Stroller-Friendly

Yes

Nursing / Changing

Available

Kid Meals

Available

Setting

Indoor & Outdoor

Rainy Day

Great option!

Plan Your Visit

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings for the best staff access and education programming. This is the administrative and education center for Brookfield Zoo rather than the main zoo visitor entrance — check the website for current programming and visitor access.

Wait Times

Administrative facility — visitor access varies. Check brookfieldzoo.org for tours or educational program reservations.

Nearby Food

Brookfield Zoo's main campus (0.5 miles) has multiple food options. Brookfield's 31st St has chain restaurants nearby.

Why Kids Love It

The Chicago Zoological Society connects visitors with the scientific and conservation work behind Brookfield Zoo. Educational programs and behind-the-scenes access make this a meaningful experience for curious kids who want to understand how zoos operate and what wildlife conservation actually looks like.

What Parents Say

We paid a quick visit on Sunday thinking we could hide out in the Hamill family play area if the rain kept up.
Google Review

Pro Tips from Parents

  • This is the administrative/education headquarters of the Chicago Zoological Society, distinct from the main zoo entrance.
  • For the standard zoo visit, use the Brookfield Zoo entrance at 8400 31st St.
  • Contact the Society directly for educational programs and conservation tours.
  • Members of Brookfield Zoo have additional access to Society programs.
  • Check brookfieldzoo.org for current programming, as this location's visitor access varies.

What to Bring

  • Confirm programming before visiting
  • Comfortable clothes for any tours

Cost Info

Admission Prices

Adult
free
Parking
free

Tips to Save

  • If you're interested in the educational mission of the zoo, contact the Chicago Zoological Society directly for program information.
  • For the main zoo visitor experience, use the Brookfield Zoo main entrance at 8400 31st St.

Hours & Contact

Hours

Friday
10AM-5PM
Monday
10AM-5PM
Sunday
10AM-6PM
Tuesday
10AM-5PM
Saturday
10AM-6PM
Thursday
10AM-5PM
Wednesday
10AM-5PM

Contact

3300 Golf Rd, Brookfield, IL 60513

Frequently Asked Questions

Tickets & Booking

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