Brookfield Zoo in Chicago has a comprehensive set of rules and regulations in place to ensure the safety and well-being of both visitors and the animals. As a zoo touring enthusiast, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with these guidelines to have a memorable and responsible experience.

Animal Safety

Maintaining the health and safety of the animals is a top priority at Brookfield Zoo. To achieve this, the following rules are in place:

1. Feeding the Animals: Feeding the animals, including free-roaming birds like geese, peacocks, and guinea fowl, is strictly prohibited. This is to maintain the animals’ balanced diets and prevent any potential harm.
2. Touching the Animals: Touching the animals is generally not allowed, unless specifically noted, such as in the Hamill Family Play Zoo where some domestic animals are tame and visitors can interact with them.
3. Pets and Service Animals: Pets are not allowed within the zoo premises. However, service animals must be registered with the Gate Attendant upon arrival.

Zoo Grounds and Facilities

To ensure the safety and preservation of the zoo’s grounds and facilities, the following rules are in place:

1. Climbing: Climbing is not allowed anywhere in the zoo, except on designated children’s playgrounds.
2. Guardrails, Fences, and Barriers: Visitors must respect all guardrails, fences, and barriers at all times for their own safety.
3. Running: Running is not permitted within the zoo.
4. Commercial Photography: Commercial photography requires written permission from the zoo administration before the visit.
5. Drones: The use of drones is strictly prohibited within the zoo premises.

Attire and Dress

To maintain a respectful and appropriate atmosphere, Brookfield Zoo has the following dress code guidelines:

1. Proper Attire: Visitors must wear proper attire, including shoes and shirts, at all times.
2. Footwear: Shoes must be worn inside all buildings within the zoo.
3. Costumes: Guests over the age of 13 are not allowed to wear full-body costumes with their heads covered.

COVID-19 Protocols

In response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Brookfield Zoo has implemented the following protocols to ensure the safety of visitors and staff:

1. Advance Tickets and Parking Reservations: Visitors must purchase tickets and reserve parking in advance.
2. Social Distancing: Guests must maintain a distance of at least six feet from others.
3. Face Coverings: Face coverings are required for all guests aged 2 and over.
4. Cashless Transactions: Food, beverages, and merchandise can only be purchased through cashless transactions.
5. Temporary Closures: Indoor spaces are temporarily closed, and attractions like Dolphins in Action and the Carousel are not operating.

General Information

1. Operating Hours: Brookfield Zoo is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., except for Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
2. Building Closures: All buildings within the zoo close 30 minutes before the zoo’s closing time.
3. Parking Fees: Parking fees apply, with members receiving free parking.

By familiarizing yourself with these rules and regulations, you can ensure a safe, enjoyable, and responsible visit to Brookfield Zoo. Remember, these guidelines are in place to protect both the animals and the visitors, so please be mindful and follow them during your zoo tour.

Reference:
– Brookfield Zoo Official Website