Brookfield Zoo, a renowned zoological park located in Brookfield, Illinois, is a popular destination for families and nature enthusiasts. One of the unique features of this zoo is its policy on outside food, which allows visitors to bring their own meals and snacks. This blog post will explore the details of Brookfield Zoo’s outside food policy, the available picnic areas, and the on-site dining options, providing a comprehensive guide for zoo touring enthusiasts.
Bringing Your Own Food to Brookfield Zoo
Brookfield Zoo is one of the few zoos in the United States that permits guests to bring their own food and drinks into the park. This policy is a significant advantage for visitors, as it allows them to save money, accommodate dietary restrictions, and enjoy a more personalized dining experience during their zoo visit.
Picnic Areas at Brookfield Zoo
Brookfield Zoo has designated several outdoor areas with picnic tables where visitors can enjoy their own food. These picnic areas are strategically located throughout the zoo, providing ample seating and space for families and groups to gather and refuel.
Behind BZ Red Hots in the East Mall
One of the largest picnic areas at Brookfield Zoo is located behind the BZ Red Hots food stand in the East Mall. This spacious area offers numerous picnic tables, making it an ideal spot for larger groups or families to gather and enjoy their meals.
South of the Bison Habitat on the West Side
Another sizable picnic area can be found on the west side of the zoo, south of the bison habitat. This location provides a scenic backdrop for visitors to relax and savor their homemade or packed lunches.
Grassy Malls around the Roosevelt Fountain
In addition to the larger picnic areas, Brookfield Zoo also has several grassy malls located around the iconic Roosevelt Fountain. These smaller, more intimate spaces offer visitors the opportunity to find a quiet spot to enjoy their food while taking in the sights and sounds of the zoo.
On-Site Dining Options at Brookfield Zoo
While Brookfield Zoo encourages visitors to bring their own food, the zoo also offers a variety of on-site dining options for those who prefer to purchase their meals. These include:
Seasonal Food Stands and Walk-Up Carts
Throughout the zoo, you’ll find seasonal food stands and walk-up carts that offer a range of snacks, beverages, and light meals. These convenient options are perfect for those who want to grab a quick bite without leaving the zoo grounds.
Restaurants and Cafes
Brookfield Zoo is home to several full-service restaurants and cafes that provide a more substantial dining experience. These include:
- Hamill Family Play Zoo Cafe: Located in the Hamill Family Play Zoo, this cafe offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and kid-friendly options.
- Bocaditos Cafe: Situated in the Tropic World exhibit, this cafe specializes in Latin American-inspired cuisine.
- Carousel Cafe: This cafe, located near the iconic Carousel, serves a selection of burgers, hot dogs, and other classic fare.
These on-site dining options cater to a range of tastes and dietary preferences, ensuring that all visitors can find something to satisfy their hunger during their zoo adventure.
Preparing for Your Brookfield Zoo Visit
When planning your visit to Brookfield Zoo, it’s essential to consider the outside food policy and the available picnic areas. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your experience:
- Pack a Picnic: Bring your own food, snacks, and beverages to enjoy in one of the designated picnic areas. This can help you save money and ensure that you have the perfect meal to fuel your zoo exploration.
- Bring Necessary Supplies: Don’t forget to pack any necessary utensils, napkins, or other items you might need to enjoy your picnic comfortably.
- Explore the Picnic Areas: Take some time to familiarize yourself with the different picnic areas and choose the one that best suits your group’s needs.
- Utilize the On-Site Dining Options: If you prefer not to bring your own food or want to try something new, take advantage of the various on-site dining options available throughout the zoo.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water or other beverages to keep yourself and your family hydrated during your visit.
By understanding Brookfield Zoo’s outside food policy and the available dining options, you can plan a seamless and enjoyable zoo experience that caters to your personal preferences and needs.
Conclusion
Brookfield Zoo’s outside food policy is a unique and convenient feature that sets it apart from many other zoos. By allowing visitors to bring their own meals and snacks, the zoo provides an opportunity for families and groups to save money, accommodate dietary restrictions, and enjoy a more personalized dining experience during their visit.
Whether you choose to pack a picnic or take advantage of the on-site dining options, Brookfield Zoo offers a variety of options to satisfy your hunger and enhance your overall zoo experience. By following the tips outlined in this blog post, you can make the most of your visit and create lasting memories with your loved ones.