Overview
Explore the Zoo After Dark
Looking for fun things to do at night? Whether you’ve got kids who love dinosaurs or you’re a full-grown dino fan yourself, Dinos After Dark is a one-of-a-kind after-hours Zoo and dinosaur experience you won’t want to miss.
Throw on your coziest pajamas and explore the Zoo and see all the dinos after dark. This unforgettable nighttime event is filled with prehistoric encounters, animals, treats, and live entertainment.
What's Included?
Every Dinos After Dark ticket gives you access to a full evening of after-hours adventure.
Experience the entire Zoo at night
Discover dinosaurs after dark
Enjoy unlimited carousel and Ferris wheel rides
It’s your chance to see Brookfield Zoo Chicago like never before; cozy, illuminated, and roaring with nighttime fun.
Dinos After Dark: Know Before You Go
Things to Do at Dinos After Dark
Meet a baby dinosaur and attend a live show with Dinosaurs Wild: Dinosaur Ranger Academy
Take a photo with a roaming t-rex!
Join Dino Don for a tour of the larger-than-life dinos around the Zoo!
Zoo Chats with some of your favorite animals
Stomp, dance, and roar along to live music in the East Mall
Free parking plus complimentary Carousel and Ferris Wheel rides included with admission
What Does My Dinos After Dark Ticket Include?
Free rides on The Carousel and Ferris wheel
Free parking in the Main Entrance
Enhance your Experience with Milk & Cookies
Treat yourself (or surprise someone special) with our cozy Milk & Cookies add-on, the perfect comfort snack at night!
You’ll receive two freshly baked cookies paired with a cold glass of milk.
Pricing: $8.88 when purchased in advance
Dinos After Dark Map
Coming soon!
Dinos After Dark: Schedule of Events
Live Dinosaur Shows
Performed by Dinosaurs Wild: Dinosaur Ranger Academy
Location: The Pavilions
6:30 p.m.
7:00 p.m.
7:30 p.m.
8:00 p.m.
8:30 p.m.
Roaming T-Rex Photos
Location: North side of The Carousel
6:30 p.m.
7:00 p.m.
7:30 p.m.
8:00 p.m.
8:30 p.m.
Tours with Dino Don
Location: Rhino statue by West Mall
7:00 p.m.
7:30 p.m.
8:00 p.m.
8:30 p.m.
Zoo Chats
6:15 p.m. Emu Chat at Australia Overlook
6:30 p.m. Lion Chat at Big Cat Walkway
6:45 p.m. Sea Lion & Seal Chat at Sea Lion Cove
7:00 p.m. Gorilla Chat at Bramsen Tropical Forests
7:30 p.m. Tamandua Chat at Hamill Family Play Zoo
8:00 p.m. Camel Chat at the Camel Habitat
Members Get More
Unlock special savings on Zoo events throughout the year with a membership.
Dinos After Dark FAQs
Will the animals be out?
The animals always have the choice to be in their habitats or behind the scenes. While we cannot guarantee which animals will be visible, habitats will remain open so you can see how the animals behave at night.
Can I wear pajamas?
Yes. We encourage guests to wear their coziest pajamas or favorite onesie!
Do I need to wear pajamas?
Not at all. Pajamas are encouraged but not required. Please wear whatever makes you feel comfortable.
When do the habitats close?
Animal habitats close 30 minutes before the end of the event.
Is this event family-friendly?
Yes. Dinos After Dark is designed for guests of all ages, including families with children and adult dinosaur fans.
Is parking included?
Yes. Parking is included with your event ticket.
Are food and drinks available?
Yes. Select food and beverage locations will be open during the event. Food and drinks are available for purchase unless otherwise noted.
What happens if it rains?
Dinos After Dark takes place rain or shine. Please dress appropriately for the weather.
Is the event included with regular Zoo admission or membership?
No. Dinos After Dark is a special ticketed event and requires a separate ticket for entry.
Are costumes allowed?
Yes. Pajamas, onesies, and family-friendly costumes are welcome. For safety reasons, full-face masks are not permitted.
Included with Your Ticket
Free Main Entrance Parking
Free Parking at the Main Entrance
Ferris Wheel
See the Zoo from New Heights!
Open (weather permitting)
Carousel
Take a spin in one of the largest hand-carved carousels in the country!
Open (weather permitting)
Explore Other Dino Events
Dino Dash Fun Run
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 from start to finish.
Dinos!
Dinos have taken over the Zoo! This special exhibit is included with Zoo admission or membership!
Experience the Zoo at Night
Glow Wild
Wander paths under the moonlight, illuminated by handcrafted lanterns representing wildlife and mythology from around the world.
Zoo Uncorked
Sip, savor and explore at Zoo Uncorked, our exclusive 21+ event.
Roaring Nights Concerts
Join us for unforgettable nights of music, fun, and celebration as the Roaring Nights summer concert series returns in 2026!
Holiday Magic: Sip & Stroll
This 21+ evening offers a festive mix of holiday cheer, warm drinks, and seasonal cocktails as you explore the zoo’s dazzling holiday lights before the main event opens to the public.
