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 Ferris wheel and carousel are 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. Pavilions open with music, plus food and drinks will be available for purchase
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, carousel, and Ferris wheel 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.
How much is the race registration?
Registration is $50 for non-members and $45 for members. Children riding in strollers during the race do not need to be registered.
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 Lot?
No, guests will be required to park in the North Gate parking lot, as race check-in is at the North Gate Entrance.
Will there be food and drinks?
Water will be provided for the runners at the end of the race.
Additional food stands will be open during the race for spectators.
Where is the water located?
Water will be at the finish line. Water should be provided only to Dino Dash participants wearing race bibs while spectators should be advised to purchase water.
What is the schedule of events?
6:30 a.m. - Registrants can enter and check in at North Gate Entrance.
7:45 a.m. - Runners should have their race bibs on and make their way to the start line – anyone with a stroller should hang to the back of the line
8:00 p.m. - Dino Dash begins! (Last call for bib pickup)
9:30 a.m. - Zoo opens for the rest of the guests and will operate under normal schedule for the rest of the day.
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.
How many participants will there be?
Our capacity for runners is 2,500.
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?
During the race, the buildings will not be open. All habitats and attractions will open at 9:30 am and operate on a normal schedule for the rest of the day.
How many miles is the race?
The race is a 2-mile fun run. Dino Dash is a non-competitive, fun run, and will not be timed.
Will the dinosaurs be visible from the racecourse?
Yes, the racecourse will take you around the park and past several of the dinosaurs.
Can I dress up in dino clothing?
Yes, you can dress up in “DINO” costumes, clothing, hats, and whatever else helps obtain your dino vibe.
