Yes, Brookfield Zoo has reciprocal membership agreements with other zoos and aquariums. As an Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited facility, Brookfield Zoo participates in the AZA Reciprocal Admissions Program, which allows members to gain discounted admissions to other participating zoos and aquariums across the country and internationally.
Brookfield Zoo’s Reciprocity Program
Brookfield Zoo’s membership program offers reciprocal benefits to its members, allowing them to enjoy discounted or free admission to over 160 AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums across the United States and around the world. This program is part of the AZA Reciprocal Admissions Program, which is designed to provide members of participating institutions with the opportunity to visit other zoos and aquariums at a reduced cost.
Participating Zoos and Aquariums
The AZA Reciprocal Admissions Program includes a wide range of zoos and aquariums, both in the United States and internationally. Some of the notable institutions that participate in the program include:
| Institution | Location |
|---|---|
| San Diego Zoo | San Diego, CA |
| Columbus Zoo and Aquarium | Columbus, OH |
| Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden | Cincinnati, OH |
| Philadelphia Zoo | Philadelphia, PA |
| Bronx Zoo | New York, NY |
| National Aquarium | Baltimore, MD |
| Shedd Aquarium | Chicago, IL |
In addition to the AZA-accredited facilities, some non-AZA institutions have also negotiated reciprocity agreements with Brookfield Zoo and other participating zoos and aquariums.
Benefits of Reciprocal Membership
Brookfield Zoo members can enjoy a variety of benefits when visiting other participating zoos and aquariums, including:
- Discounted or free admission
- Discounts on gift shop purchases
- Discounts on food and other attractions
The specific benefits may vary depending on the institution, so it’s important for Brookfield Zoo members to check the reciprocity policies of the zoo or aquarium they plan to visit.
Verifying Membership
To take advantage of the reciprocal benefits, Brookfield Zoo members must present their valid membership card or other proof of membership when visiting a participating institution. Some zoos and aquariums may also require members to show a photo ID to verify their identity.
Exclusions and Limitations
It’s important to note that some zoos and aquariums in close geographic proximity to Brookfield Zoo may not offer discounted admissions to each other’s members. However, these institutions may still offer alternative discounts or benefits to members of the Brookfield Zoo.
Additionally, the reciprocal benefits may be subject to certain restrictions or blackout dates, such as during peak visitation periods or special events. It’s always a good idea for Brookfield Zoo members to check the reciprocity policies of the institution they plan to visit before their trip.
Conclusion
Brookfield Zoo’s participation in the AZA Reciprocal Admissions Program provides its members with the opportunity to explore a wide range of zoos and aquariums across the country and around the world at a discounted rate. By taking advantage of these reciprocal benefits, Brookfield Zoo members can enhance their zoo-going experiences and discover new and exciting animal habitats and exhibits.
References:
– Brookfield Zoo. (n.d.). Membership FAQs. Retrieved from https://www.brookfieldzoo.org/MembershipFAQ
– NEW Zoo & Adventure Park. (n.d.). Reciprocating Zoo & Aquarium List. Retrieved from https://newzoo.org/support/zoopass/reciprocating
– ZooChat. (2022, November 2). AZA reciprocal memberships and discounts. Retrieved from https://www.zoochat.com/community/threads/aza-reciprocal-memberships-and-discounts.485807/
– Brookfield Zoo. (n.d.). Membership at Brookfield Zoo Chicago. Retrieved from https://www.brookfieldzoo.org/membership
– Association of Zoos and Aquariums. (n.d.). AZA Reciprocal Admissions Program. Retrieved from https://www.aza.org/reciprocity