Brookfield Zoo is a renowned zoological park located in Brookfield, Illinois, that offers a wide range of accommodations and accessibility features for guests with disabilities. Whether you’re a seasoned zoo enthusiast or planning your first visit, this guide will provide you with all the essential information to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience at the Brookfield Zoo.
Mobility Devices for Rent
Brookfield Zoo understands the importance of accessibility and offers a variety of mobility devices for rent to cater to the needs of its visitors. These include:
| Device | Rental Cost |
|---|---|
| Wheelchair | $15.00 (plus credit card deposit) |
| Electronic Convenience Vehicle (ECV) | $30.00 (plus credit card deposit) |
| Wagon Stroller | $13.00 (plus $10 deposit) |
| Dolphin Stroller | $10.00 (plus $10 deposit) |
| Single Stroller | $10.00 (plus $10 deposit) |
| Double Stroller | $13.00 (plus $10 deposit) |
These rentals are available at both the North and South Gate entrances, and it is recommended to reserve wheelchairs and ECVs in advance to ensure availability.
Accessible Areas and Features
Brookfield Zoo has made significant efforts to ensure that the entire zoo is accessible to guests with disabilities. Some of the key accessible areas and features include:
Wheelchair Accessible Areas
- Motor Safari
- Snowball Express Trams
- Carousel
- Safari Tours
Accessibility Accommodations
- Accessible Parking: Available at both the North and South Gate entrances on a first-come, first-served basis.
- BZ Care Kits: Available at the North and South Guest Relations for guests with sensory disabilities, including zoo visual schedule books, noise-deafening headphones, name tags, and stickers.
- Service Animals: Welcome at the zoo, with a Service Animal Map provided upon arrival to indicate areas where service animals are prohibited.
- Assistive Listening Devices: Available for loan at the South Guest Relations building.
- TTY: Available in the South Gate Reception office for placing outside calls.
- Large-Print Maps: Available at the North and South Guest Relations with access information.
- Quiet Spaces: Maps of quiet space locations are available for download.
- Sign Language Interpreters: Available for public programs and classes by advance request (minimum 14 days’ notice).
Additional Tips for Accessibility
While Brookfield Zoo has made significant strides in accessibility, there are a few additional tips to keep in mind:
- Parking: The South Gate parking lot is recommended as it provides closer access to the zoo and is generally quieter.
- Stroller Restrictions: Some exhibits, such as Tropic World, Australia House, The Fragile Kingdom, and Seven Seas Dolphin Discovery, do not allow strollers due to safety concerns.
By taking advantage of these accommodations and planning ahead, guests with disabilities can have a more enjoyable and accessible experience at Brookfield Zoo.