Next Century Plan

As we stand on the brink of our 100th anniversary in 2034, Brookfield Zoo Chicago is poised to embark on an extraordinary journey with our Next Century Plan. This groundbreaking, ambitious vision aims to elevate our Zoo to unprecedented heights, leveraging over 90 years of unwavering commitment to wildlife conservation. With the urgent call to action against biodiversity loss and climate change, our mission is more critical than ever.

The Next Century Plan will transform Brookfield Zoo Chicago into a beacon of conservation and education, blending our storied legacy with innovative advancements. Our campus will be reimagined with dynamic animal habitats, updated facilities, and elevated standards of animal care. We will create an environment that is not only a beloved family destination but also a vibrant educational hub, ensuring unforgettable experiences for all our guests.

A Message from Dr. Michael J. Adkesson, President and CEO of Brookfield Zoo Chicago and Molly Keller, Brookfield Zoo Chicago Trustee.

• A 15-Year Plan with a 30-Year Vision: Anchored on our 2034 centennial, our plan balances new, immersive experiences with the preservation and care of historical structures.

• Expansion and Enhancement: Doubling the experience footprint within our 235 acres on the Forest Preserves of Cook County, our westward expansion on Zoo property will feature immersive spaces that transport guests to distant landscapes, illustrating the interconnectedness between humans and nature.

• Innovative Animal Habitats: Introducing dynamic mixed-species environments based on 14 global ecoregions of the world will allow for ever-changing guest viewing opportunities, immersive environments that showcase the natural behaviors of our animals, and connections to wildlife that guests may never otherwise have the opportunity to see.

• Unprecedented Guest Experience: Our framework will ensure top-tier guest satisfaction as we strive to become the number one zoo in the country. Designing amenities that serve our guests of the future ensures accessibility, interactivity, and engagement for all backgrounds.

• Substantial Investment: With an investment expected to reach $500 million, and rippling economic impact, this plan is not just about physical transformation but also about solidifying our role as a leader in global wildlife conservation and bolstering the Zoo's renowned stature as a global destination.

• A Zoo For All: Our commitment to accessibility means removing barriers to access and learning, ensuring all communities and individuals can participate and benefit.

• Environmental Educational and Community Engagement: Our vision extends beyond the Zoo, providing a North Star for delivering impactful education and community programs, making Brookfield Zoo Chicago a welcoming and inclusive environment not tethered to a physical visit.

• Comprehensive Conservation Integration: Our impact will extend throughout the county and across the globe, with a comprehensive 10-year conservation strategy underway that interweaves our animals, their care, and the development of our exhibits and experiences.

• Advancing Conservation Science and Research: Our plan will enhance our role in global conservation science, supporting groundbreaking research and innovative approaches to wildlife preservation.

• Animal Wellness and Veterinary Excellence: Elevating standards in veterinary care, animal wellness, and husbandry practices ensures the highest quality of life for our animal residents.

• Sustainability and Climate Resiliency: Integrating sustainability into our operations and facilities, we will prioritize climate resiliency to minimize our environmental footprint and model eco-friendly practices.

Join us as we embark on this transformative journey. Together, we will shape a future where wildlife thrives, and our connection to nature is deepened for generations to come.