No, dogs are not permitted inside Brookfield Zoo, with the exception of service animals. Service animals, including dogs and miniature horses, are welcome at the zoo, but they must be checked in at the North or South Guest Relations Building upon arrival. Emotional support animals are not allowed at the zoo.
Service Animals at Brookfield Zoo
Brookfield Zoo welcomes service animals, which are defined as dogs or miniature horses that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities. These animals are allowed inside the zoo, but they must be checked in at the North or South Guest Relations Building upon arrival.
The zoo staff will provide a tag for the service animal, which must be worn at all times while on the zoo grounds. Service animals must be under the control of their handler at all times and are not allowed to interact with the zoo’s animal exhibits.
Emotional Support Animals Not Allowed
Emotional support animals, which are not trained to perform specific tasks, are not permitted at Brookfield Zoo. The zoo’s policy states that only service animals are allowed, and emotional support animals do not qualify under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines.
General Admission and Accessibility
Brookfield Zoo offers general admission for visitors, which is free of charge. The zoo is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with buildings closing 30 minutes before the zoo.
Parking is available for cars ($17.00) and buses ($25.00), with free parking for members. The zoo also offers various accessibility features, including tactile elements, visual schedules, and American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters, to ensure a comfortable and inclusive experience for all visitors.
Unique Experiences at Brookfield Zoo
In addition to the standard zoo exhibits, Brookfield Zoo offers several unique experiences for visitors:
Butterflies!
The Butterflies! exhibit allows visitors to walk through a lush, tropical garden filled with hundreds of free-flying butterflies from around the world. This immersive experience is a popular attraction at the zoo.
Tropic World
Tropic World is a massive indoor exhibit that simulates the environments of Africa, Asia, and South America. Visitors can observe a variety of animals, including gorillas, orangutans, and snow leopards, in their naturalistic habitats.
The Carousel
The Brookfield Zoo Carousel is a classic amusement park ride that features hand-carved, life-sized animal figures. Riders can choose from a variety of animals, including horses, zebras, and giraffes, as they enjoy a leisurely spin around the carousel.
Preparing for Your Visit
Before visiting Brookfield Zoo, it’s important to plan ahead and familiarize yourself with the zoo’s policies and amenities. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your visit:
- Check the zoo’s website for the latest information on hours, admission, and accessibility features.
- Review the zoo’s map and plan your route to ensure you don’t miss any of the exhibits or experiences you’re interested in.
- Pack any necessary items, such as sunscreen, water, and snacks, to make your visit more comfortable.
- If you’re visiting with a service animal, be sure to check in at the Guest Relations Building upon arrival.
Conclusion
Brookfield Zoo is a popular destination for families and animal enthusiasts, offering a wide range of exhibits and experiences. While dogs are not allowed at the zoo, with the exception of service animals, the zoo provides a welcoming and accessible environment for all visitors. By planning ahead and familiarizing yourself with the zoo’s policies, you can ensure a enjoyable and memorable visit.
References:
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g35805-i32-k541658-Lincoln_Park_Zoo_Pets-Chicago_Illinois.html
- https://www.brookfieldzoo.org/visit
- https://www.czs.org/custom.czs/media/BZ_Accessibility/Visually-Impaired-Service-Animal-Map-8-2015.pdf
- https://www.brookfieldzoo.org/custom.czs/files/1f/1f552bb2-2175-4f78-8d1f-a8eb8419230e.pdf