Chicago Zoological Society
Rating
Family of 4
This is the Chicago Zoological Society administrative office rather than a standard zoo visitor attraction.
Duration
2-4 hours
Best Ages
All ages
About
The Chicago Zoological Society at 3300 Golf Rd in Brookfield is the administrative and education headquarters of the organization that runs Brookfield Zoo. This is a distinct location from the main zoo visitor entrance at 8400 31st St — and the visitor experience here is different.
Rather than a standard zoo visit, this location offers access to educational programming, conservation work, and the scientific operations behind one of the Midwest's premier zoological institutions. For families interested in wildlife conservation as a deeper topic — older kids curious about how zoos work, what animal care actually looks like, or what conservation science does day-to-day — this is the access point.
The 4.7 rating from 320 reviews reflects visitor experiences that include educational programs, tours, and conservation-focused activities rather than a traditional zoo walk-through.
For the standard Brookfield Zoo family visit with animals and exhibits, use the main entrance at 8400 31st St. For programming, educational tours, or learning more about the Society's conservation mission, contact the Chicago Zoological Society directly through brookfieldzoo.org.
Membership in the Chicago Zoological Society/Brookfield Zoo provides additional access to programs and events at this location, in addition to free zoo admission.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
Yes
Nursing / Changing
Available
Kid Meals
Available
Setting
Indoor & Outdoor
Rainy Day
Great option!
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings for the best staff access and education programming. This is the administrative and education center for Brookfield Zoo rather than the main zoo visitor entrance — check the website for current programming and visitor access.
Wait Times
Administrative facility — visitor access varies. Check brookfieldzoo.org for tours or educational program reservations.
Nearby Food
Brookfield Zoo's main campus (0.5 miles) has multiple food options. Brookfield's 31st St has chain restaurants nearby.
Why Kids Love It
The Chicago Zoological Society connects visitors with the scientific and conservation work behind Brookfield Zoo. Educational programs and behind-the-scenes access make this a meaningful experience for curious kids who want to understand how zoos operate and what wildlife conservation actually looks like.
What Parents Say
“We paid a quick visit on Sunday thinking we could hide out in the Hamill family play area if the rain kept up.”
Pro Tips from Parents
- This is the administrative/education headquarters of the Chicago Zoological Society, distinct from the main zoo entrance.
- For the standard zoo visit, use the Brookfield Zoo entrance at 8400 31st St.
- Contact the Society directly for educational programs and conservation tours.
- Members of Brookfield Zoo have additional access to Society programs.
- Check brookfieldzoo.org for current programming, as this location's visitor access varies.
What to Bring
- Confirm programming before visiting
- Comfortable clothes for any tours
Cost Info
Admission Prices
- Adult
- free
- Parking
- free
Tips to Save
- If you're interested in the educational mission of the zoo, contact the Chicago Zoological Society directly for program information.
- For the main zoo visitor experience, use the Brookfield Zoo main entrance at 8400 31st St.
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- 10AM-5PM
- Monday
- 10AM-5PM
- Sunday
- 10AM-6PM
- Tuesday
- 10AM-5PM
- Saturday
- 10AM-6PM
- Thursday
- 10AM-5PM
- Wednesday
- 10AM-5PM