The debate between Milwaukee County Zoo and Brookfield Zoo largely depends on personal preferences and the type of experience you are looking for. Both zoos offer unique features and attractions, making it a tough choice for zoo enthusiasts. In this blog post, we’ll explore the key differences between these two renowned zoos to help you decide which one is the better fit for your next zoo adventure.

Size and Animal Collection

When it comes to size and animal collection, Brookfield Zoo has a clear advantage. Spanning over 216 acres, Brookfield Zoo is significantly larger than the Milwaukee County Zoo, which covers around 125 acres. This expansive size allows Brookfield Zoo to house a more extensive collection of animals, with over 2,300 creatures representing more than 450 species.

In contrast, the Milwaukee County Zoo, while still impressive, has a slightly smaller animal collection, with around 2,100 animals representing over 350 species. However, the Milwaukee County Zoo is no slouch when it comes to its diverse array of exhibits, featuring everything from African lions and polar bears to penguins and primates.

Cost and Accessibility

One of the key factors to consider when choosing between the two zoos is the cost and accessibility. Brookfield Zoo is generally more expensive to enter, with adult admission tickets costing around $24.95 and child tickets (ages 3-11) priced at $17.95. In comparison, the Milwaukee County Zoo offers more budget-friendly options, with adult admission at $16.25 and child tickets (ages 3-12) costing $12.25.

While Brookfield Zoo may be more expensive, it does offer easier parking access, with a large on-site parking lot that can accommodate a significant number of visitors. The Milwaukee County Zoo, on the other hand, can be more challenging when it comes to parking, as it relies on a combination of on-site and off-site lots, which can sometimes lead to longer wait times and more walking.

Atmosphere and Location

When it comes to the overall atmosphere and location, the two zoos offer distinct experiences. Brookfield Zoo is often described as having a more theme-park-like feel, with a larger variety of exhibits and attractions, including a 3D theater, a carousel, and a variety of dining options.

In contrast, the Milwaukee County Zoo has a more casual and relaxed atmosphere, with a focus on providing a more intimate and educational experience for visitors. The zoo is also located in a great area, just a short drive from downtown Milwaukee, making it an ideal destination for a quick visit or a day trip.

Rankings

Both the Milwaukee County Zoo and Brookfield Zoo are highly regarded in the zoo community, with each receiving recognition for their exceptional animal care and exhibits.

The Milwaukee County Zoo is consistently ranked among the top zoos in the country, with high scores for its animal care, exhibits, and overall visitor experience. In fact, the zoo has been recognized as one of the best zoos in the United States by various publications and organizations, including USA Today and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

Brookfield Zoo, on the other hand, is also highly ranked, though its exact position in the rankings is not as clearly defined. The zoo has received numerous accolades and awards over the years, cementing its reputation as one of the premier zoos in the Midwest region.

Conclusion

In the end, the choice between the Milwaukee County Zoo and Brookfield Zoo largely comes down to personal preference and the type of zoo experience you’re seeking. If you’re looking for a more extensive and theme-park-like experience with a larger animal collection, Brookfield Zoo might be the better option. However, if you prefer a more casual, budget-friendly, and conveniently located zoo, the Milwaukee County Zoo could be the perfect fit for your next zoo adventure.

Regardless of which zoo you choose, both the Milwaukee County Zoo and Brookfield Zoo offer exceptional experiences for zoo enthusiasts of all ages. Whether you’re interested in learning about the animal kingdom, exploring unique exhibits, or simply enjoying a day outdoors, these two zoos are sure to provide an unforgettable experience.

References:
– https://www.reddit.com/r/AskChicago/comments/1dkjpgd/which_is_the_better_zoo_brookfield_or_lincoln_park/
– https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g60097-d207622-r224615087-Milwaukee_County_Zoo-Milwaukee_Wisconsin.html
– https://zoowithus.com/zoo-rankings/