What is ZooBrew?
ZooBrew is an exciting, 21-and-over beer-tasting event held on Saturday, August 17 at Brookfield Zoo Chicago. From lions to lagers, guests will enjoy unlimited beer samples while exploring the Zoo and its fascinating animals.
In addition to all-day Zoo admission and parking, attendees can indulge in specialty food and drink options available for purchase. ZooBrew also features a DJ dance party and leisurely lawn games, creating a perfect mix of wildlife adventure and festivity.
Ticket Types
VIP Tickets for ZooBrew Event
Pricing:
$100.00 – Regular VIP
$60.00 – Designated Driver
Included with VIP Tickets:
All-day admission to Brookfield Zoo and parking (9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.)
Admission to the ZooBrew event in the Pavilions from 12:00 to 5:00 p.m.
80+ beer and drink samples (Designated Drivers have access to unlimited soft drinks and water)
Commemorative ZooBrew swag
DJ dance party and lawn games
Exclusive access to the Discovery Center with VIP brews, a chill center, and encounters with Animal Ambassadors
2 complimentary snacks and 1 entree
Additional food and beverage options available for purchase
General Admission Tickets for ZooBrew Event
Pricing:
$65.00 – Regular General Admission
$45.00 – Designated Driver
Included with General Admission Tickets:
All-day admission to Brookfield Zoo and parking (9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.)
Admission to the ZooBrew event in the Pavilions from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.
80+ beer and drink samples (Designated Drivers have access to unlimited soft drinks and water)
Commemorative ZooBrew swag
DJ dance party and lawn games
Additional food and beverage options available for purchase
Additional Information for all ticket holders:
All attendees must be 21+ No children allowed in the event area
IDs required for event entry
Event will proceed rain or shine
Programming subject to change
Animal buildings close at 5:30 p.m.
Zoo grounds close at 6:00 p.m.
2024 ZooBrew Breweries/Vendors
Carbliss
ZooBrew FAQs
Can I bring my baby or child if they stay in a stroller or swaddle? No. No one under 21 will be admitted.
Will I be able to walk around the Zoo? Yes. You can leave and re-enter the Pavilions and the Zoo during regular Zoo hours (9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.) and event hours (12:00 or 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.).
What are my parking/transportation options? Parking is included with your ticket, but public transportation or ride-share options are encouraged. Learn more about transportation options on the Zoo’s website.
The name on the registration/ticket doesn’t match the attendee. Is that okay? Yes, as long as the person redeeming the ticket is 21+ with a valid ID.
Are outside food and drinks allowed? Outside alcohol is not permitted in the Zoo or event space. You can bring outside food and water into the Zoo. VIPs receive food tickets to redeem at ZooBrew food locations, and additional food and drinks are available for purchase in the event space for all ZooBrew attendees.
Who can I contact with additional questions? For event questions contact MarketingTeam@brookfieldzoo.org; for ticket questions contact Admissions@brookfieldzoo.org.
Planning Your Trip to Brookfield Zoo Chicago
Brookfield Zoo Hours
There's always something happening at Brookfield Zoo Chicago. The zoo welcomes visitors every day, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Be sure to note that buildings close 30 minutes before the zoo itself (except for special events), and hours can vary depending on the habitat. During the summer, the zoo opens earlier at 9:30 a.m. and still closes at 6 p.m. to accommodate more guests.
Location and Directions
Brookfield Zoo Chicago is located at First Avenue between Ogden Avenue and 31st Street in Brookfield, Illinois, just 14 miles west of downtown Chicago. The zoo is easy to reach by car (I-290 West or I-55 South takes about 25 minutes) or train. Metra BNSF Line is a relaxed 25-minute trip from Chicago’s Union Station to the zoo stop (Hollywood Station) or Riverside Station, then take a short walk to the Brookfield Zoo Chicago entrance.
North Gate Main Entrance
8400 31st Street Brookfield, IL 60513
South Gate Entrance
3300 Golf Rd, Brookfield, IL 60513
Admission and Tickets
Brookfield Zoo Chicago offers a variety of captivating exhibits and attractions, making it an ideal place to observe nature and wildlife and a wonderful experience for visitors of all ages. Make your entry process easier by purchasing tickets in advance; visit BrookfieldZoo.org to buy tickets online.
General admission pricing:
Adults: $29.95
Seniors, 65 and over: $24.95
Children 3 to 11: $20.95
Zoo admission and all available attractions are free for children aged two and under.
Parking is not included in admission; it is $17 at the North Gate and $20 at the South Gate.
If you previously reserved tickets and parking for your visit, you can enter Brookfield Zoo Chicago any time during that day. If you have a general admission pass with a barcode, a member guest pass, a Chicago Public Library Museum Pass, or a Museum Adventure Pass, you can bring that directly to the zoo entrance; no reservation is required.
