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.
School might be back, but summer isn’t over yet!
There’s still time to squeeze in one more wild adventure at Brookfield Zoo Chicago. For two weeks only, buy one General Admission ticket at our Main Gate (North) and get a second admission ticket of equal value FREE!
Grab your favorite adventure buddy, soak up the last days of summer, and make one more wild memory together.
Buy One General Admission, Get One FREE (of equal value)
Two weeks only! August 24 through Sept 4.
Buy One Senior Admission, Get Second Senior Admission Free
September 13 through November 22, 2026
Tickets must be purchased in person at the Zoo
Senior Sundays Promotion Eligibility: Valid only for Zoo general senior admission purchased in person at the Zoo on September 13, 20, 27, October 4, 11, 18, 25, November 1, 8, and 15, 2026, including Holiday Magic senior admission purchased in person at the Zoo on November 22, 2026. Parking and attraction fees still apply on Senior Sundays. Excludes special event admission unless otherwise noted above. The Zoo does not endorse or promote any specific transportation provider.
Seniors can use the promo code SENIORSUNDAYS to get 50% off* to go to and come back from Brookfield Zoo Chicago
*Maximum discount of $16 per ride. Maximum of 2 redeems per rider. Offer expires 31/12/2026 at 11:59PM PST. Promo code is only available on Sundays to or from Brookfield Zoo Chicago. Promo code is available while supplies last. Discount does not apply to surcharges, government fees, tolls, or tips, and cannot be combined with other offers or discounts. For accounts with multiple valid promo codes, the promo with the highest savings will automatically apply to a rider’s next trip. One-time application only. Offer is non-transferable. Offer and terms are subject to change.
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!
