Accessibility


Brookfield Zoo makes a concerted effort to make its grounds, pathways, buildings, exhibits and programs accessible to all visitors. Below is a list of resources available at Brookfield Zoo:

Accessible Amenities
  • Electronic convenience vehicles (ECVs), wheelchairs, child strollers, and wagons are available for rent near the North and South Gates. Due to limited quantities of ECVs and wheelchairs, we recommend reserving one in advance by calling 708-688-8347. Same day reservations are not accepted. For additional information on the rental cost, click here.
  • If a guest needs a wheelchair or ECV at the North entrance, a Crew Member can call North Buggies and someone will bring the wheelchair or ECV up to the North entrance.
  • Brookfield Zoo strives toward providing inclusive recreational programs to all our guests. To request an accommodation, ideally no less than 14 days in advance, please complete the ADA Accommodation Request Form or call the Zoo’s ADA Coordinator at (708)-688-8338.
  • Large-print maps with access information are available at Security, North and South Guest Relations.
  • Service animals are allowed, but guests are to alert the Gate Attendant upon arrival, who will contact Security to give you special instructions before entering the park. Service Animal maps (with locations that are not ideal for service animals to go; ie. Habitat Africa! The Forest and the Goat Yard in Children’s Zoo) will be provided to you upon your arrival or are available by clicking Service Animal Map.
  • Motor Safari is wheelchair accessible and both Snowball Express buses are equipped with a motorized lift.
  • There are accessible parking spaces available in both lots. (The South Gate is an easier entrance for people with disabilities).
  • Brookfield Zoo has a teletype writer (TTY); the TTY number is (708) 688-8659 which is available for guest use at our Membership Office. Please see a Zoo staff person at South Gate Reception building for assistance. To speak to someone at the Zoo using the Illinois Relay service, please call 711 and then (708) 688-8000. Illinois Relay offers services for people who want to use their voice or hearing with their TTY, for Spanish speaking people who use a TTY, and for people who are deaf-blind and use a Telebraille device.
  • Life-size statues and cutouts of animals are located throughout the zoo (gorilla, dolphin, tiger, etc.) Also, at Wolf Woods we have bronze plaques depicting social behaviors.
  • Assistive Listening Devices for presentations are available for loan in the South Guest Relations office near South Gate.
  • Visual Schedule books are available to print and assemble prior to your Zoo visit here:
  • Accessible picnic tables are located throughout the park.
  • The videos playing in The Living Coast and Seven Seas Dolphin Theater are captioned.

Programs and Classes
  • Educational programs are modified or developed to meet the needs of diverse audiences.
  • Sign Language interpreters are available for public programs and classes by advance request. Call the Zoo’s ADA Coordinator at (708)-688-8338 or complete the ADA Accommodation Request Form. Please allow a minimum of 14 days advanced notice.
  • Hands-on educational programs for groups with disabilities are available through Conservation Education and Training department call 708-688-8369.
  • Good Works and Bridges Volunteer programs for teens and adults. Please call 708-688-8304 for information.