Bold vision reshapes 113 acres as a world-class destination, elevating conservation, animal care
Looking ahead to its centennial anniversary in 2034, Brookfield Zoo Chicago released details of a transformational Next Century Plan vision that will reshape more than 100 acres (nearly half of the Zoo’s existing property) in innovative and inspiring ways for wildlife and guests. Blending its historic structures with new animal zones, the Zoo will create immersive habitats that provide for the best in animal care, while creating rich experiences for guests that engage and connect expanded audiences to conservation. Leveraging a 90-year legacy as a conservation leader, the Zoo is poised to tackle the growing threats of biodiversity loss and climate change through strategic conservation initiatives locally and around the globe that support the protection and care of habitats and threatened species.
In partnership with Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s Board of Trustees and input from Chicagoland communities, the Zoo’s bold vision outlines a 15-year campus plan in four phases, with further improvements projected over 30 years. This vision balances new, immersive experiences with the preservation of historical structures and includes nearly all existing Zoo areas. It also calls for significant westward expansion and development of current Zoo property, blending new dynamic, mixed-species environments inspired by 14 global eco-regions into the existing rich forest canopy. With an investment expected to reach $500 million from public and private funding, the plan aims not only to transform the physical campus but also solidify the Zoo’s role as a leader in global wildlife conservation. Overall, the plan promises to deliver substantial economic impact to local communities, surrounding counties, and the state, as well as bolster the Zoo’s renowned stature as a global destination.
“Our Next Century Plan reflects our core commitment as a zoo to save species and ecosystems. We inspire conservation leadership. We touch lives. We save animals,” said Dr. Michael Adkesson, President and CEO. “The plan boldly envisions the redevelopment and expansion of the Zoo’s physical campus to bolster our excellence in animal care and wellness, but our impact will also extend beyond our gates to reach local communities and global partners to provide a connection for people to develop empathy for wildlife and nature that drives positive action.”
The first phase of the Next Century Plan has already begun to transform the Zoo. It includes completed projects, such as the $10 million renovation of the Zoo’s Seven Seas dolphin habitat, reimagining of the Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Fountain, new animal habitats within the Hamill Family Nature Plaza, and opening of the Philip W. K. Sweet Jr. Animal Care and Conservation Center with state-of-the-art new office and collaborative spaces for animal and conservation teams. Culminating the end of Phase 1 is a project well underway – Tropical Forests, a $66 million project that creates four new outdoor habitats meticulously crafted to emulate the natural homes of gorillas, orangutans, and monkeys, set to open in 2025. The Tropical Forests project also incorporates a new Gorilla Conservation Center and the Zoo’s acclaimed King Conservation Leadership Academy that provides educational opportunities for teens.
“The Next Century Plan is a testament to our collective vision and commitment to conservation and education,” said Board Chair Cherryl Thomas. “We drew inspiration from the timeless wisdom to ‘make no small plans’ and ‘dream big’ to create a future vision for Brookfield Zoo Chicago that is befitting of our global stature and the impact we wish to make on conservation leadership in the years ahead.”
Four Key Zones
Moving to the future, the Next Century Plan illustrates an exciting and innovative new direction for Brookfield Zoo Chicago while weaving together legacy elements of the Zoo’s past. Nearly half of the Zoo’s sweeping 235 acres in the Forest Preserves of Cook County will be re-imagined, expanding wildlife habitats, and transcending conventional zoo design for a fully immersive experience organized into four key zones:
#1) Historical Core: Preserving Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s historic features, including the iconic North and South Gates, the hand-carved Carousel, and the Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Fountain, this area will serve as a bridge between the Zoo’s rich history and its innovative future.
#2) Immersive Ecoregions: To the west, 14 regions will transform the Zoo into a dynamic, landscape-based experience inviting guests through portals to various parts of the world. Native animal species will anchor each deeply immersive ecoregion with environments that mimic their natural habitats, fostering an appreciation for wildlife and their ecosystems. These regions will transport guests, allowing them to experience and connect eye-to-eye with wildlife they otherwise may never have the opportunity to see. These natural habitats will provide enriched animal care and spacious, mixed-species groupings that ensure the animals’ optimal well-being.
Key project examples include:
- Gateway to Africa: Leading Phase 2 of the plan, Gateway to Africa will be a 35-acre haven where guests can witness firsthand the splendor of Africa’s wildlife and natural landscapes. A multi-species habitat with 12.5 acres for elephants, alongside rhinos, lions, giraffes, and other iconic species, the transformation will provide a new innovation in animal shifting capabilities for flexibility between the various habitats, linking together four distinct ecoregions: South African Forests, African Savannah, East African Forests, and Central African Forests. This flexibility will be possible thanks to the creation of the new Savannah Passage, a half-mile-long, multi-species transfer corridor that allows for rotational habitat expansion and variety. The Savannah Passage links multiple habitats across the northwest quadrant of the Zoo, facilitating a changing landscape for the animals and guests to experience.
- Gateway to Africa – Pachyderm Building: The renovation of the beloved Pachyderm Building – one of the Zoo’s original structures – will reverse the current animal-guest relationship by replacing indoor animal space with exciting guest programs during the day, and private catering event space in the evening, offering expansive views to the flexible, mixed-species Savannah habitat north of the building. New animal facilities will be developed elsewhere that provide spacious indoor habitats and the best in modern zoological care.
- Southwest Australian Provinces: Guests will be instantly transported to the landscapes of Southwest Australia, venturing into scrublands with towering termite mounds and the mysterious call of tawny frogmouths, while vibrant rose-breasted cockatoos flit through the canopy. An elevated walkway will offer panoramic views of iconic species such as kangaroos and emus, and intimate encounters with koalas nestled in eucalyptus trees. Exiting through a forest portal, guests will reach the newly renovated historical Australia House, home to Tasmanian devils, wombats, and echidna in lush indoor and outdoor environments. This indoor sanctuary will showcase the rich tapestry of Australian wildlife, from tiny insects to elusive reptiles.
- Pacific Coasts of the Americas: Sights and sounds of the Peruvian coast come to life in this immersive experience. Guests are greeted by the rhythmic sounds of crashing waves and the salty scent of the ocean breeze, transporting them to the rugged shores of South America. The centerpiece, Sea Lion Cove, features a sprawling habitat where guests can observe sea lions in their natural element through rocky shores and underwater viewing windows, offering a glimpse into their dynamic social behaviors. Adjacent to the sea lion habitat, a training and education area allows care staff to share stories of conservation efforts and to demonstrate the Zoo’s excellence in animal care. The new Humboldt Penguin habitat, inspired by Peru’s Punta San Juan Marine Protected Area, showcases the playful antics of Humboldt penguins alongside free-flying terns and gulls, highlighting the region’s rich biodiversity. Interactive storytelling and environmental education sessions provide guests with a deeper understanding of the importance of protecting these endangered species and the impact of climate change on their habitats.
- Himalayan and Central Asian Steppe: Tucked into the western reaches of the Zoo, this region – a part of Phases 3 and 4 that represents projects starting in 2034 and beyond – will highlight the rugged landscape that is home to snow leopards and takin. Taking advantage of natural old-growth forest on the Zoo’s property, from under a viewing trellis, guests will be able to search among the rocky outcrops to find camouflaged cats exploring their habitats. A nearly invisible barrier between the habitats will create visual continuity with the new takin habitat beyond, where these rock-climbing mammals will delight guests with their graceful movements.
- Our Rivers to the Gulf: Also in this third phase, dolphins will have a new, indoor/outdoor shallow-lagoon simulating their home range at Sarasota Bay, Florida, where Brookfield Zoo Chicago leads the world’s longest- running dolphin conservation research program. A sweeping boardwalk will immerse guests in a mangrove forest where connections between the Illinois River and conservation efforts in the Gulf of Mexico are made.
#3) Wildlife Discovery: This zone will feature expanded attractions, recreational activities and interactive experiences to engage guests of all ages with the wonders of wildlife. New habitats at the Zoo’s former Bear Grottos will feature animals, including sloth bears, sun bears, wolverines, and red pandas. Designed to create a central, communal space to attract more new and diverse audiences to the Zoo, a spacious new amphitheater situated away from animal habitats will host programs from educational presentations to musical performances, such as the Zoo’s successful Roaring Nights concert series that supports the organization’s conservation programs around the globe. Additionally, a permanent butterfly house will provide year-round opportunities for visitors to learn about the lifecycle and migration of the important pollinators.
#4) Conservation Campus: Located at the Zoo’s south end, this area will be a hub for scientists, educators and conservationists, featuring cutting-edge facilities and collaborative spaces. Bringing what are typically behind-the-scenes spaces forward to the public, an indoor viewing gallery will showcase live conservation research and interactive exhibits, fostering a deeper understanding of global conservation efforts. Additionally, the expansion of the veterinary hospital and enhanced education spaces at the Mary Ann MacLean Conservation Leadership Center will provide engaging learning experiences and highlight the Zoo’s commitment to wildlife care and conservation education. The campus will provide an opportunity to further showcase the Zoo’s several programs and partnership with the Forest Preserves of Cook County and work with local wildlife species such as turtles, otters, cranes, and more.
“As part of our comprehensive expansion strategy, Brookfield Zoo Chicago is dedicated to advancing conservation science while prioritizing animal health and wellness,” said Dr. Adkesson. “By ensuring that the animals in our care are thriving, we not only enhance our role in creating conservation leaders and advancing global conservation efforts, but we also support groundbreaking research and innovative approaches to saving wildlife. By always working to elevate standards for the care of zoo animals, veterinary science, and animal wellness, we ensure the highest quality of life for our animals, underscoring our commitment to their well-being and contributing to the broader mission of wildlife conservation.”
Future Guest Experience
Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s ambitious vision for the next century aims to revolutionize the guest experience, redefining how guests discover, connect with, and experience wildlife. This transformative shift will inspire
empathy and understanding, and drive action for positive change. Modern amenities will meet the evolving needs of future audiences, redefining the concept of a zoo visit.
Streamlined ticketing and entry processes will ensure a seamless arrival, allowing guests to make immediate animal connections and personalize their visits according to their interests and needs. Highly immersive exhibits and participatory activities will bring guests face-to-face with awe-inspiring animals, while engaging recreational offerings will spark curiosity and fun for all ages. New wayfinding systems will provide seamless guidance through ecoregions and recreational zones, and enhanced transportation pathways will make park traversal effortless. Integrating technology such as virtual and augmented reality, interactive displays and mobile app features will extend educational dimensions and provide greater hospitality services. Additionally, new meditation and reflection gardens will provide a tranquil retreat amidst the bustling zoo environment – examples of some of the new spaces envisioned for guest comfort.
North Gate Arrival and Entry
The new arrival experience at Brookfield Zoo Chicago is filled with exciting and engaging activities, including a new pedestrian overpass, exciting concessions, and playful animal encounters for guests to enjoy. The restoration of the Zoo’s historic North Gate, which has welcomed hundreds of millions of guests for generations, highlights the Zoo’s exciting new direction as the starting point for unforgettable journeys for guests and wildlife. Additionally, a commitment to enhancing pedestrian access will make the experience for those guests who are arriving without a vehicle more walkable, seamless, and safe.
North Parking Lot: The Next Century Plan envisions that all guests will have a shared arrival experience, enhancing the functionality of the north parking lot and gate. Upon arrival, guests immediately proceed to their parking stall, as the removal of the parking ticket booth has eliminated the long waits in the queue of years past. On busy days, a parking shuttle circulates throughout the entire north parking lot, alleviating the long walk south to 31st Street. Additionally, the renovation of the north lot incorporates eco-friendly innovations such as solar-powered lighting, permeable pavement, and native plant landscaping, all of which put into practice the Zoo’s commitment to green practices, sustainability, and climate resilience.
North Gate Plaza: Once within the Zoo, guests are met with a renovated North Gate building, restored to its original prominence at the Zoo. The interior retail spaces are refreshed, with visual connectivity from 31st Street on the north to the North Gate Plaza on the south. From the southern arcade façade, an indoor/outdoor gift shop expands into the plaza. Gazing across the plaza toward the east, guests are drawn toward Sea Lion Cove or the new, permanent butterfly house along the west façade of Discovery Center. A new allée of trees running south along the Zoo’s original axis draws guests past the carousel toward Roosevelt Fountain to begin their Zoo excursion. Alternatively, an inviting pathway curves westward toward the reimagined Australia region, beginning the visit with an immersive, walk-through experience.
More Than a Campus Plan
The visionary expansion plan transcends more than campus development, aiming to redefine accessibility, education, and conservation in the realm of zoological institutions. With a steadfast commitment to inclusivity, the Zoo is poised to remove barriers to access and learning, ensuring that all communities and individuals can participate and benefit from its offerings. Beyond its physical confines, the institution pledges to serve as a beacon of environmental education and community engagement, fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment that extends far beyond a traditional zoo visit.
This ambitious endeavor also encompasses a comprehensive new 10-year global conservation strategy, intertwining the welfare of its animal residents with global conservation efforts, and advancing groundbreaking science to preserve wildlife for future generations, to be unveiled later this year. This framework will further solidify the Zoo’s commitment to environmental stewardship and global conservation efforts.
“Over the past 90 years, global wildlife populations have plummeted, natural habitats have shrunk, and our oceans face unrelenting pressure, fueled by climate change and biodiversity loss,” Dr. Adkesson said. “Despite these challenges, we at Brookfield Zoo Chicago hope to have a profound impact on wildlife conservation. Accredited zoos have evolved from menageries for human recreation to powerful contributors in the global effort to conserve wildlife and nature. Our new framework ensures that our growth is deeply rooted in sustainability and global conservation efforts, setting new standards for wildlife care, education, and community engagement, while reinforcing our mission to protect biodiversity for future generations.”
In tandem with its commitment to conservation, Brookfield Zoo Chicago aims to further integrate sustainability initiatives into its operations and facilities, embracing eco-friendly practices and prioritizing climate resiliency to minimize its environmental footprint. The plan will also include investments to foster a positive organizational culture through modernized office spaces, improved communal areas, enhanced service roads, and growth in the Zoo’s volunteer base to support its mission. This holistic approach underscores the Zoo’s dedication to serving as a leader in global wildlife preservation while providing an enriching and inclusive experience for all, including staff and volunteers.
“Nearly half of the Zoo’s 235 acres will be revitalized thanks to the Next Century Plan,” said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. “This ambitious initiative leverages the generous expanse of Cook County Forest Preserve land to promote a vital conservation message. It marks a significant step forward in our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, showcasing the crucial role our local ecosystems play in global conservation efforts.”
Fundraising for the Next Century Plan is well underway, with nearly half of the $400 million capital goal already raised through public and private funding. The Zoo also aims to bolster its endowment with $100 million to ensure a thriving institution for the next century.
Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s revolutionary Next Century Plan is a collaboration of several partners, including architectural and planning teams from Booth Hansen, Jones & Jones Architects and Landscape Architects, MAC Consulting Services LLC, Terra Engineering, V3 Engineering, Tilghman Group, ConsultEcon Inc., and IQ Magic, as well as the Zoo’s dedicated Board of Trustees, staff, and community stakeholders. A full description of improvements included in the Next Century Plan vision can be found at www.brookfieldzoo.org/next-century-plan.
