What is the South Parking Lot at Brookfield Zoo?

An alternate parking facility providing access to Brookfield Zoo through the South Gate entrance, as opposed to the main North Gate at 8400 31st St.

How much does parking cost at Brookfield Zoo?

Currently $15-20 per car. Check brookfieldzoo.org/visit for current parking fees before your visit.

Is the South Parking Lot better than the main Brookfield Zoo lot?

Depends on which exhibits you're prioritizing. The South Gate entrance is closer to the southern section of the zoo. On peak days, the South Lot may have more availability than the North lot.

When should I arrive at Brookfield Zoo parking on weekends?

Before 10:30AM on peak summer Saturdays and Sundays to ensure a parking spot. The lots fill during busy periods.

Is there an admission charge at the South Parking Lot?

The parking fee ($15-20) does not include zoo admission. Zoo admission is separate — see the Brookfield Zoo listing or brookfieldzoo.org for current admission pricing.

South Parking Lot at Brookfield Zoo Chicago

Rating

4.6(37)

Family of 4

Parking fee: $15-20 per car.

Duration

N/A

Best Ages

N/A — this is a parking facility

About

The South Parking Lot at Brookfield Zoo is the alternate entrance parking facility for one of Chicago's premier zoo experiences. Located at 8601 Rockefeller Ave, it provides access to the zoo via the South Gate, as opposed to the main North Gate at 8400 31st St.

For families planning a Brookfield Zoo visit, this lot is worth knowing about as an alternative when the main North Gate lot fills on peak summer weekends. The South Gate entrance puts you on the south end of the zoo grounds, which is actually closer to certain exhibits — depending on your visit priorities, it may be a better starting point.

Parking currently costs $15-20 per vehicle — check brookfieldzoo.org/visit for current fees before you go. The lot fills on busy weekend days; arriving before 10:30AM on peak summer Saturdays and Sundays is advisable.

For the complete Brookfield Zoo family experience — admission costs, best exhibits for kids, what to bring, and pro tips — see the Brookfield Zoo listing on KidPaths.

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

Not Available

Kid Meals

N/A

Setting

Outdoor

Rainy Day

Not ideal

Plan Your Visit

Best Time to Visit

This is the South Parking Lot for Brookfield Zoo — arrive early on weekends to get a spot. Parking fee applies (currently $15-20). The South Lot is closer to the South Gate entrance.

Wait Times

Parking can fill on peak summer weekends. Arrive before 10:30AM to guarantee a spot.

Nearby Food

Inside Brookfield Zoo grounds. See the Brookfield Zoo listing for food information.

Why Kids Love It

N/A — this is a parking facility. See the Brookfield Zoo listing for the actual family experience.

What Parents Say

“We loved going there, pre 2K, for our kids we made time once a month.”

Google Review

Pro Tips from Parents

The South Lot is for the South Gate zoo entrance — if you prefer to start your zoo visit from the south side of the grounds, use this lot.
Arrive early on summer weekends to avoid full lots.
The main North Gate entrance parking is at 8400 31st St — this lot is the south alternative.
Check current parking fees at brookfieldzoo.org/visit before your trip.
For the best overall Brookfield Zoo experience, see our full Brookfield Zoo listing.

What to Bring

Parking fee (cash or credit)
See Brookfield Zoo listing for full packing list

Cost Info

Admission Prices

Adult: free
Parking: free

Tips to Save

Arriving before 10AM on weekends secures better parking.
The South Gate entrance accessed via this lot provides a different entry point to the zoo from the main North Gate.