The Chicago area is one of the most unique, bio-diverse regions in America. The Brookfield Zoo captures this fascinating detail by showcasing animals native to the region as well as the most unusual species from around the world.

The Brookfield Zoo has 216 acres of indoor and outdoor exhibits for both young and old to enjoy observing the habits of over 450 species of animals. Upon its opening on July 1, 1934, the Brookfield Zoo stood out as an innovative establishment for its unique design of incorporating moats and ditches instead of sole relying on cages. The zoo was the first in the nation to exhibit giant pandas and to build a fully indoor dolphin exhibit and rain forest simulation, “Tropic World.” The Tropic World exhibit features animals from the exotic rainforests of Africa, Asia and South America.

Visitors to the Brookfield Zoo have many options about how to spend their day. The Seven Seas Dolphin Show is a popular attraction as dolphins show off for their audience with a series of tricks and jumps that will leave you waiting for more. If your little ones are getting restless, head over to the carousal for a short ride or visit the Children’s Zoo which has cow/goat milking at 11:00 a.m. daily and wool-spinning demonstrations on Tuesdays.

Featured exhibits include the Stingray Bay, TOUCH Experience in which visitors will have a hands-on experience with Cownose Rays and Southern Stingrays, "ZooTunes" outdoor music concerts, the Butterfly exhibit and birthday celebrations for many zoo favorites including Affie the Elephant and Cookie the Cockatoo. If you find your feet dragging at some point during the day, catch a ride on the Motor Safari for a guided tour or grab a snack at the Safari Stop Restaurant.

For mini zoologists in training, the Brookfield Zoo offers a series of Summer Camp sessions including Discovery Camp for grades K-2, Adventure Camp for grades 3-5, and Zoo Labs for grades 6-8. For more information or to apply to any of these amazing programs, visit http://www.brookfieldzoo.org/0.asp?nSection=15&pageid=350&nLinkID=137

Visiting the Brookfield Zoo is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon whether you are an animal lover, concerned environmentalist, tourist, student or parent trying to find a new way to entertain the family. Pack sunscreen and your camera before embarking on the Brookfield Zoo and make sure you don’t lose your map!