Whether you’re a tourist or a local, Brookfield Zoo Chicago is the best place to experience FREE admission days!
Join us for our upcoming free admission days and experience the magic of the Zoo like never before. Please read the options below to learn more about our free admission opportunities.
Brookfield Zoo Chicago offers 2026 Free Days for all guests on every day January 5 - February 28 with exceptions on January 19 and February 16.
Please note, parking fees and attraction fees still apply on Free Days.
If you’re a Chicago Public Library cardholder, you may check out an Explore More Illinois pass that provides four complimentary general admission passes to the Zoo.
The Museum Adventure Pass program, available at SELECT suburban regional libraries, allows patrons to check out two complimentary general admission passes to the Zoo.
Through Museums for All, those receiving food assistance (SNAP benefits) can gain free or reduced admission to more than 1,400 museums throughout the United States simply by presenting their SNAP EBT (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Electronic Benefit Transfer) card.
Brookfield Zoo Chicago offers up to four free general admission tickets with presented card and ID. Parking, add-on experiences, events, or attractions are not included. P- EBT (Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer) cards are also accepted at this time, but for ONLY admission of the card holder at the time of entry.
The Zoo provides free admission to any group visiting via the Forest Preserves of Cook County’s Nature Express Bus.
The Zoo provides free admission to all active, reservist and veterans of the military. Please present a military ID at one of the Zoo’s admission booths for entry.
Your local elected officials may receive a Museums in the Park Constituent Card for residents to use, providing free access to various museums and attractions, including Brookfield Zoo Chicago. Contact your local office to find out more.
Members enjoy exclusive benefits like FREE admission, FREE parking, and much more!
