Boo! at the Zoo
Brookfield Zoo Chicago transforms into a Halloween wonderland for 'BOO! at the Zoo,' a family-friendly celebration from October 4-31, 2025. Visitors can enjoy festive decorations, themed food and drinks, and trick-or-treating. Weekends bring extra fun with costume parades, a magician, and inflatables, while Sundays feature a special Art Fair. It's a perfect way to celebrate the season with enchanting, not-too-spooky activities for all ages.
What to Expect
Family-friendly Halloween celebration with festive decorations and animal encounters.
Event Details
Duration
Daily event with varying weekend hours
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Featured Performers
- 52nd Street: Tribute to Billy Joel
- Hello Weekend
Organizer
Brookfield Zoo Chicago
Food & Drink
Specialty treats and themed menu offerings available daily, including at Cup and Cone, Roaring Oven, The Grove, and a weekend funnel cake station.
Local Insight & Ratings
Scare Factor
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive and spooky
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: Main Entrance Parking Lot: Cars $17.00, Buses $25.00. South Gate Entrance Parking Lot: Cars $20.00, Buses $25.00. Parking is free for members at the Main Entrance, and $7.00 for members at the South Gate.
- Accessibility: The zoo provides a large print/service animal map. Specific accessibility details for the event are not explicitly mentioned, but general zoo accessibility information is available.
- Pets: No pets allowed (service animals welcome)
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early on weekends to maximize your time for activities like inflatables, costume parades, and magician shows, as these are popular and can have lines.
- Check the 'Pumpkins to Animals' schedule in advance to catch specific animal feeding and enrichment demonstrations, offering a unique view of animal care.
- Consider visiting on a weekday for a less crowded experience, especially if you want to focus on trick-or-treating and exploring the zoo's regular exhibits.
- Download the Brookfield Zoo Chicago app for easy navigation, event schedules, and to access your digital membership card.
- Take advantage of the 'Magical Pumpkin Seek-N-Find' activity around The Carousel for a fun, interactive challenge that also offers a chance to win prizes.
Special Events & Promotions
- Free admission for members
- Weekend-exclusive activities
- Sunday Art Fair
- Themed food and drink specials
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the specific hours for 'BOO! at the Zoo'?
The event runs from October 4-31, 2025. Weekdays are from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and weekends are from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Is admission free for members?
Yes, admission to 'BOO! at the Zoo' is free with a Zoo membership.
What activities are available on Sundays?
Sundays feature the new 'BOO! at the Zoo Art Fair,' in addition to regular weekend activities like trick-or-treating, costume parades, and a magician.
Are there any age restrictions for the activities?
The 'Inflate-a-BOO!' zone is for children aged 3-10. Costumes for guests over 13 cannot cover their heads. Most activities are suitable for all ages.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
While the zoo offers specialty Halloween-themed food and drink options, specific policies on outside food and beverages are not detailed. It's best to check the zoo's general park rules.
More Halloween Events Near Brookfield
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.