Overview
Run with the Dinosaurs
Grab your dino costume, gather your pack and have a roaring good time at our brand-new Dino Dash! Race, jog, or stroll along a 2-mile fun run course entirely within Brookfield Zoo Chicago. You'll be surrounded by larger-than-life dinosaur displays and iconic Zoo views.
All registered Dino Dash participants will cross the finish line to receive a commemorative Dino Dash medal. Plus, keep the adventure going with free admission to the Zoo on race day. The Carousel is included with your Dino Dash registration.
Dino Dash: Know Before You Go
Race Day Schedule
6:30 a.m. Registrants can park at Brookfield Zoo Chicago's Main Entrance parking lot and then check in at the main gate
6:30 a.m. East Mall opens with music
8 a.m. Last call for bib pickup
8 a.m. Dino Dash begins!
9:30 a.m. Zoo opens, enjoy free entry
Registration Includes
Free parking
Complimentary access to the zoo and carousel after the race
A commemorative dinosaur finisher medal
Free entry for stroller racers
Race Course
Coming soon!
Save on Your Race with a Membership
Sign up with a membership and score a discount on your race registration, along with free admission to the Zoo all year!
Dino Dash FAQs
When is the event?
Saturday, May 30. This event will proceed rain or shine.
The event will be held from 6:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., with the race starting at 8:00 a.m.
Can my friends and family watch me?
Yes, friends and family can come and cheer on runners. Airhorns and noise makers are not allowed for the safety of the animals. Spectators may not roam the Zoo and must remain in designated areas until 9:30 a.m.
Do spectators have to register or pay to get in?
No, but they should accompany the registered runner at the time of entry and bib pick up.
Can we park in the South Parking Lot?
Guests are required to park in the Main Entry parking lot which is where the race check in is located.
Will there be food and drinks?
Water and bananas will be provided for the runners at the end of the race.
Additional food stands will be open after the race for spectators.
Where is the water located?
Water will be at the finish line for all participants!
Are stollers allowed?
Yes, strollers are allowed, and children in strollers may attend Dino Dash free of charge (no registration necessary).
Runners and walkers with strollers are asked to line up last at the starting line. Only participants with a bib receive a medal at the end.
Will Dino Dash be timed? Can I walk?
No, Dino Dash is a non-competitive, fun run and will not be timed. Participants may run or walk, and strollers are allowed.
Participants are welcome to time themselves using a phone or watch.
Will exhibits be open?
All habitats and attractions will open at 9:30 a.m. when the Zoo opens. Runners are welcome to explore!
How many miles is the race?
The race is a 2-mile fun run!
Will the dinosaurs be visible from the race course?
Yes, the race course will take you around the park and past several of the dinosaurs.
Can I dress up in dino clothing?
Of course! Feel free to dress up in dino costumes, clothing, and hats!
Guests over the age of 13 are not permitted to wear full-body costumes with their heads covered at any time. This is to avoid confusion with Brookfield Zoo Chicago costume characters and for the safety of all guests and animals.
What are some of the highlights I can expect during the Dino Dash?
All participants will receive a medal commemorating the Dino Dash 2026 event.
There will be a DJ spinning out tunes to get the runners ready.
There will be dino themed music as you navigate the course
You can enjoy the Zoo afterwards, allowing you to revisit and discover some of the dinosaurs in the park.
Which restrooms will be open?
The Northwest Lot, Discovery Center, North Gate, and BZ Red Hots restrooms will be open.
Who can I contact if I need assistance with Dino Dash?
Please contact us with any questions, info@brookfieldzoo.org
