For those searching for an economical way to entertain the family this winter, Brookfield Zoo in Chicago extends an inviting hand. In an offer that will surely warm the hearts of animal enthusiasts and bargain hunters alike, the zoo is providing an opportunity for visitors to explore its fauna-laden grounds without the obstacle of an admission fee on select days.
Starting January 5 through February 28, guests can stroll amidst the diverse array of creatures that call the Brookfield Zoo home on any Monday and Tuesday, CBS News Chicago reports. The zoo's gates will welcome guests from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., offering a peek into the lives of its newest residents which include polar bear Amelia Gray, African painted dog Kellan, the grey seal named Jersey, and gorilla brothers Barney and Shango, not to mention the hatchlings of two juvenile Humboldt penguins earlier this year. The only days when pockets will need to be dipped into for entry are January 19 and February 16, in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, and Presidents' Day, respectively.
Visitors can anticipate seeing a range of new exhibits that have been established over the past year. CBS News Chicago notes that the zoo has been a revolving door of fauna, with recent arrivals like the tamanduas in November, and the ethereal jellyfish in October. Though, after a year of delighting guests, the koalas Brumby and Willum have concluded their stay and returned to San Diego in September.
The free admission offering is a continuation of the zoo's previous initiatives to grant visitors access during November and December. Those interested in planning their visit to the esteemed Chicago attraction can find more details and a full list of available programs on the zoo's website, as mentioned by FOX 32 Chicago. The move to open doors freely aims to encourage more families to experience the wonders of wildlife, and arguably, kindles the spirit of conservation through direct engagement with the natural world.
