Introduction
Every year, thousands of visitors make their way to one of Illinois’ most beloved wildlife destinations — the Brookfield Zoo. Located just 14 miles west of downtown Chicago in Brookfield, Illinois, this expansive 216-acre facility is home to over 2,300 animals representing more than 240 species. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a school field trip, or a peaceful solo adventure through nature, parking is a crucial part of the experience. But before you start your engine, you’re likely wondering: how much is parking at Brookfield Zoo?
This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about parking fees, hours, accessibility, payment options, and money-saving tips. We’ll also cover what’s included with your parking fee, alternatives to driving, and insider strategies to ensure you have the most enjoyable and hassle-free visit possible. Let’s dive into the details.
Current Parking Fees at Brookfield Zoo (2024)
As of 2024, parking at Brookfield Zoo is not included with regular admission and requires a separate fee. The cost varies depending on the day, time of year, and vehicle type.
Standard Parking Rates
- $16 per car on weekdays (Monday–Friday)
- $23 per car on weekends (Saturday–Sunday) and major holidays
- $80 for buses and motorcoaches (reservations required in advance)
- Motorcycles: $5 daily (subject to availability)
These rates are subject to change during special events like ZooLights in the winter or Boo! at the Zoo in the fall. During these high-traffic times, parking demand increases significantly, and prices may be adjusted.
Payment Options
Visitors can pay for parking using a variety of convenient methods:
- On-site touchless kiosks (accepting credit/debit cards and mobile wallets)
- Pre-purchase parking online through the official Brookfield Zoo website
- Apple Pay and Google Pay at select kiosks
- Some kiosks also accept cash, but this is not guaranteed — card payment is strongly recommended
<parking is cashless on certain peak days, so card users should expect the smoothest experience.
Operating Hours and Accessibility
When Is the Parking Lot Open?
The Brookfield Zoo parking lot is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, aligning with the zoo’s operating hours. Early arrivals are encouraged, especially during weekends and holidays when the lot can fill up quickly. The gates close promptly at 5:00 PM, so be sure to arrive with enough time to park and enter the zoo before closing.
ADA-Compliant Parking
For visitors with disabilities, accessible parking spaces are available in all designated parking areas near the main entrance. These spaces adhere to ADA standards and are located for maximum convenience. To use these spots, you must display a valid disability parking permit. A limited number of these spaces are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis.
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
Brookfield Zoo supports eco-friendly transportation by offering a limited number of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. These stations are free to use and located in the main visitor parking lot. While there are not many charging spots, they are available on a first-come, first-served basis and typically include Level 2 chargers (J1772 connectors). Note: These spots are intended for zoo visitors only, and parking time may be limited depending on demand.
Where to Park at Brookfield Zoo
All vehicles must park in the designated public parking lot located directly in front of the main zoo entrance at 8401 W 31st Street, Brookfield, IL 60513.
Main Parking Lot Layout
The main lot is structured in three key zones:
- General Public – Standard parking for most visitors
- ADA Accessible – Reserved for vehicles with disability permits
- Bus and Group Parking – For school groups, tour buses, and motorcoaches (requires advance reservation)
Parking attendants are stationed at various points during peak times to direct traffic and assist guests. Follow the signs upon arrival — they clearly direct you to available parking areas.
No Overlapping or Overflow Parking
It’s important to note that there is no overflow parking available on zoo grounds. If the main lot is full, visitors may be turned away or referred to remote shuttles during special events (like ZooLights). However, this is rare, as the zoo’s parking can accommodate over 3,200 vehicles.
Using nearby residential streets for parking is strongly discouraged and may result in towing or fines. The zoo is located in a residential community, and local authorities enforce parking regulations strictly.
Why Is Parking More Expensive on Weekends?
Several factors influence the weekend parking rate increase:
Higher Demand
Weekends and holidays draw the largest crowds. With expanded hours and special programming, demand for parking surges. The 70% jump in price from weekdays to weekends reflects this increased congestion and operational cost.
Enhanced Guest Services
On weekends, the zoo deploys more staff for parking management, including traffic control, customer support, and safety personnel. These additional operational costs are partially offset by higher parking fees.
Special Events
Events like “Zoo Brew,” “ZooBoo,” and “ZooLights” occur primarily on weekends and holidays. During these timeframes, parking is in high demand, and the zoo may implement special pricing strategies to manage volume effectively.
Is Parking Included with Zoo Admission?
No — parking is not included in the general admission price at Brookfield Zoo. You’ll need to pay the parking fee separately, whether you pay on-site or pre-book online.
Ticket + Parking Bundling Options
While there is no automatic bundling, visitors who purchase tickets online through the official website have the option to buy parking at checkout. This can save time upon arrival and ensure you have a spot reserved, especially on busy days.
Pro tip: buying parking in advance may lock in a lower rate during promotional periods, so always check for online deals before visiting.
Are There Any Free Parking Options Near Brookfield Zoo?
Unfortunately, free public parking is not available at Brookfield Zoo. While free options might appear on some third-party maps, these are typically private lots, resident-only areas, or outdated listings.
Some local businesses near the zoo offer limited or short-term parking, but they are not affiliated with the zoo and rarely permit extended stays.
Parking Myths and Misconceptions
-
Myth: You can park for free behind the Brookfield Village Mall.
Reality: This lot is privately managed and often requires validation from shopping at mall stores. It’s not a reliable or legal option for zoo-goers. -
Myth: The Metra station offers free all-day parking.
Reality: The Brookfield Metra Station (BNSF Line) does have free parking, but only for commuters using the train. Leaving your car there for a full day while visiting the zoo may violate local transit policies.
Stick to the zoo’s official parking lot for the most dependable, worry-free experience.
Money-Saving Tips for Parking at Brookfield Zoo
For budget-conscious families and frequent visitors, parking costs can add up. Here are several ways to save:
Visit on a Weekday
By scheduling your visit Monday through Friday, you can save $7 per car compared to weekend rates. This is especially beneficial for school groups, retirees, and those with flexible schedules.
Arrive Early
Parking availability isn’t typically an issue, but arriving early (before 10:00 AM) may help you avoid congestion and potential on-site delays. Parking kiosks are less crowded, and you’ll have easier access to shuttle services if needed.
Use a Zoo Membership
While standard memberships do not include free parking, Conservator-level memberships ($150+) often include a parking benefit. These premium tiers may offer free or discounted parking on select visits. Always check the current benefits with your membership level.
Group and School Visits
Organized groups of 15 or more people are eligible for group admission rates, which include parking coordination. For schools, scout troops, and nonprofit organizations, bus parking can be arranged at a reduced rate (or sometimes waived) with proper advance notice and documentation.
Contact the zoo’s Group Sales department directly to discuss your options.
Special Promotions and Event Pricing
During seasonal events like “ZooLights,” the zoo sometimes offers combo packages that include parking. For example, a “ZooLights All-Inclusive Pass” might bundle admission, parking, carousel rides, and a snack — providing substantial savings compared to paying a la carte.
Stay updated by subscribing to the Brookfield Zoo newsletter or following them on social media.
Alternative Transportation to Brookfield Zoo
If you’re trying to avoid parking fees altogether or prefer sustainable travel options, consider these alternatives:
PUBLIC TRANSIT: Metra Rail + Walking
Take the BNSF Metra line to the Brookfield station. From there, it’s approximately a 20-minute walk (1 mile) to the zoo’s south entrance. While scenic and free if you have a transit pass, this route involves sidewalks and street crossings, which may not be ideal for young children or mobility-limited guests.
Rideshare Services (Uber/Lyft)
Rideshare drop-off and pick-up are permitted at the main entrance. This eliminates parking fees and removes the stress of navigating traffic after a long day. However, surge pricing during peak hours can make this option more expensive than driving yourself.
Pro tip: Schedule your return ride before leaving the zoo to minimize wait times.
Biking to the Zoo
Cyclists are welcome at Brookfield Zoo! Bike racks are available near the main entrance, and bike parking is completely free. The path from Central Avenue to the zoo includes bike-friendly roads and is popular among local riders. This is an excellent option for eco-conscious visitors.
Parking During Peak Seasons and Events
Certain times of the year dramatically affect parking availability, pricing, and logistics.
Spring Break and Summer (March–August)
This is the busiest time for the zoo. Weekends are especially packed. While parking rates remain standard, visitors are encouraged to arrive early and consider pre-booking parking.
Insider advice: Tuesdays and Wednesdays during summer weeks are less crowded and can offer a more peaceful experience.
ZooLights (November–January)
This annual holiday light display attracts thousands nightly. Parking during ZooLights is only $10 in addition to general admission, despite the weekday/weekend rate structure. This discounted rate is a promotional tactic to encourage more nighttime visits.
However, spaces fill up rapidly. The zoo also offers parking shuttle services from remote overflow lots during ZooLights, so be prepared for potential delays. Check the official event page for detailed parking instructions.
Boo! at the Zoo (October)
During the Halloween season, themed activities and photo ops increase attendance. Parking follows the standard weekend rate ($23), but pre-purchased parking is strongly advised due to high demand.
Parking Rules and Safety Measures
To ensure a safe and organized experience, the zoo enforces several parking regulations:
Vehicle Restrictions
– No overnight parking
– No camping, sleeping, or prolonged loitering in vehicles
– Trailers and RVs must be parked in designated areas only (contact zoo staff in advance)
Security and Surveillance
The parking lot is monitored by security personnel and surveillance cameras. Theft or vandalism is rare, but the zoo recommends locking vehicles and not leaving valuables visible.
No Tailgating or Grilling
Cooking, drinking alcohol (outside Zoo Brew events), and loud music are prohibited in the parking lot. These activities are restricted to designated areas inside the zoo or during authorized events.
Visitor Experiences and Testimonials
Based on recent visitor feedback, parking at Brookfield Zoo is considered well-organized, clean, and secure despite the cost. Many guests appreciate the ease of kiosk payments, clear signage, and proximity to the entrance.
Some common praises include:
– “Parking was simple — paid at the kiosk and walked right in.”
– “The $23 weekend fee felt high, but the staff were helpful and the lot was full by 11 AM.”
– “We pre-bought parking online and saved 10 minutes at entry. Worth it on a busy Saturday.”
A small number of visitors expressed surprise at the cost, especially families arriving in multiple cars. However, most agree that the convenience outweighs the expense.
Final Thoughts: Is Parking at Brookfield Zoo Worth the Cost?
When weighing the $16–$23 parking fee, consider what it buys you: security, convenience, accessibility, and the peace of mind of a seamless arrival. Factor in the effort and potential cost of alternative transportation (like rideshares or transit time), and the parking fee becomes a reasonable — if not ideal — part of the zoo experience.
For those visiting multiple times per year, explore membership options. For occasional visitors, simply plan ahead: choose a weekday, arrive early, and consider bundling your parking when buying tickets online.
Summary of Key Points
Parking at Brookfield Zoo in 2024:
- Weekday rate: $16 per car
- Weekend/holiday rate: $23 per car
- Bus/motorcoach: $80 (reservation required)
- Parking is NOT included in admission
- ADA spots available with permit
- EV charging stations on-site (free)
- No free public parking nearby
- Pre-purchase parking online to save time
Plan Your Visit Today
Now that you know how much is parking at Brookfield Zoo and how to avoid common pitfalls, you’re ready for a stress-free adventure. Whether you’re marveling at the tigers, watching sea lions splash, or walking through the Hamill Family Play Zoo, proper parking preparation ensures you start your visit on the right foot.
Visit the official Brookfield Zoo website for real-time updates on hours, rates, and special events. By planning ahead, you’ll save time, money, and energy — so you can focus on what matters most: making unforgettable memories with family and friends.
How much does general parking cost at Brookfield Zoo?
General parking at Brookfield Zoo costs $18 per vehicle on weekdays and $20 per vehicle on weekends and holidays. This fee applies to standard passenger cars, minivans, and small SUVs that fit within the designated parking spaces. The fee is collected upon entry, and payment can be made by credit card, debit card, or mobile payment options—cash is not accepted at most entry points.
The parking fee helps maintain the zoo’s large lot, which is well-lit, monitored, and designed for easy access to the main entrance. Parking attendants are available to assist with directions and special accommodations, such as ADA-accessible spots. It’s important to note that pricing may vary during special events, so checking the official Brookfield Zoo website before visiting is recommended to confirm current rates.
Are there reduced parking rates for members or seniors?
Brookfield Zoo members receive complimentary parking as part of their membership benefits, making it a valuable perk for frequent visitors. When entering the parking lot, members simply need to present their valid membership card or use a designated member parking lane, if available, to bypass the payment process. This benefit encourages continued support and regular engagement with the zoo.
Unfortunately, there is no specific discounted parking rate for seniors who are not members. However, seniors may qualify for reduced admission prices, which can still help lower the overall cost of the visit. The zoo occasionally runs promotions that include free parking—these are typically available to the public during certain events or off-peak seasons—so it’s worth checking the zoo’s calendar or newsletter for possible savings opportunities.
Is parking available for large vehicles like RVs or buses?
Yes, Brookfield Zoo accommodates larger vehicles such as RVs, motorhomes, and tour buses, but the parking fee for these vehicles is higher than for standard cars. The rate for oversized vehicles typically ranges from $35 to $50, depending on the size and type of vehicle and the day of visit. Advance notification is strongly recommended when arriving with a large vehicle to ensure proper space and guidance upon arrival.
Large vehicles must park in designated areas to avoid disrupting regular traffic flow and to comply with fire and safety regulations. These areas are located near the main entrance but may require a slightly longer walk. Drivers should follow signage or attendants’ instructions for safe navigation within the lot. Due to limited space, availability is not guaranteed without prior coordination, especially during busy holidays or school excursions.
Are there any free parking options near Brookfield Zoo?
There are no official free parking options directly at Brookfield Zoo; all visitors must pay the standard parking fee upon entry. While some nearby streets in Brookfield may offer residential parking, these areas are generally restricted and not recommended for extended zoo visits due to local ordinances and potential towing risks. Additionally, unauthorized parking can create inconvenience for local residents and may not be safe or accessible.
The most reliable and visitor-friendly option is to use the zoo’s main lot. Though it is not free, this lot provides direct access, security, and convenience. Some visitors explore public transit alternatives, such as the Metra BNSF Railway line to the Brookfield stop, which is a short walk from the zoo and allows visitors to avoid parking fees entirely. This option is ideal for individuals or small groups traveling from nearby communities.
What time does the parking lot open and close?
The parking lot at Brookfield Zoo typically opens 30 minutes before the zoo’s official opening time, which is usually at 10:00 AM. For most days, this means parking becomes available around 9:30 AM. Closing times align with the zoo’s closing hours, which vary seasonally—ranging from 4:00 PM in winter months to 6:00 PM or later during summer and holidays. The lot generally remains open for 30 minutes after the zoo closes to allow visitors to exit comfortably.
These hours are consistent most days, but may be adjusted during special events, such as ZooLights or seasonal festivals, which often feature extended evening hours. It’s advised to verify the exact parking lot hours on the day of your visit through the Brookfield Zoo’s official website or visitor information line. Arriving early not only ensures better parking spots but also helps avoid congestion during peak visiting times.
Is there accessible parking for visitors with disabilities?
Yes, Brookfield Zoo offers designated accessible parking spaces close to the main entrance for visitors with disabilities. These ADA-compliant spaces are free of charge and available on a first-come, first-served basis. To use these spots, vehicles must display a valid disability parking placard or license plate issued by any U.S. state or Canadian province.
The accessible parking areas are fully paved, well-marked, and located within a short walking distance to the entrance. Wheelchair-accessible pathways and ramps are available throughout the approach to the ticket gates and into the zoo grounds. Parking attendants are trained to assist visitors with special needs and can provide guidance upon arrival. For added convenience, visitors requiring additional assistance may contact zoo accessibility services in advance.
Can I reserve a parking spot in advance at Brookfield Zoo?
Brookfield Zoo does not currently offer a formal reservation system for individual parking spots. All parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and there is no guarantee of space even during off-peak hours. However, large groups, school trips, or bus tours may coordinate in advance with the zoo’s group sales office to ensure parking availability for their fleet or caravan.
While individual reservations aren’t possible, visitors can improve their parking experience by arriving early, especially on weekends, holidays, and during popular events. The lot fills quickly between 10:30 AM and 12:00 PM. Using navigation apps before departure can help estimate traffic and arrival timing. For the most seamless visit, consider combining early arrival with membership benefits or public transportation alternatives.