Brookfield, Ill. — Imagine coming face to face with a western lowland gorilla, separated by only a two-story glass window; watching an orangutan move between trees overhead; or marveling as spider monkeys hang from their tails above a walkway. That’s exactly what zoogoers will be able to experience as Brookfield Zoo begins to move forward with an expansion of its current Tropic World habitat, which includes the addition of four new outdoor areas.

The new space, which encompasses approximately 2 acres, will feature new indoor and outdoor habitats for two gorilla troops—a family unit and a bachelor group consisting of adult and adolescent males—and outdoor areas for orangutans and several species of South American monkeys. The primates’ habitats will have running water features, climbing structures, grasses, and vines. And, nearly 75 new trees, 500 shrubs, and several pollinator gardens will be planted. Many of the few dozen trees that need to be removed will be repurposed and used in other areas throughout the Zoo for animal enrichment and new structures in habitats.

“I am tremendously excited about this project. Seeing our gorillas and orangutans come outside, some for the very first time, will be an unforgettable moment as they experience natural grass under their feet and sunlight shining on their faces,” said Dr. Michael Adkesson, president and CEO of the Chicago Zoological Society and director of Brookfield Zoo. “The new habitats will also allow guests to connect with these amazing charismatic animals in a whole new way. Our mission is to engage our guests in caring about wildlife and nature. From that connection, we can then inspire people to incorporate conservation-minded activities into their daily lives.”

In addition to the expanded habitats, the project also includes a Gorilla Conservation Center with state-of-the-art learning space for the public and a dedicated home for the Chicago Zoological Society’s King Conservation Leadership Academy, in which high-school age students participate in science programming with an emphasis on career and college readiness.

A fence has recently been installed around the new site as preparation work gets underway. During construction, guests will still be able to see the animals in Tropic World. Once complete, there will be opportunities in the future to make changes inside the current building that will feature new guest experiences.

It is anticipated the entire complex will be completed in 2025. Zoogoers will be able to see the animals in their new habitats beginning in 2025, and potentially extending into 2026 as animals acclimate and are introduced into their new spaces.

The official groundbreaking ceremony will take place later this fall. The project is the first of many exciting new changes coming to Brookfield Zoo that will be revealed this fall when the Chicago Zoological Society announces its Next Century Campaign as the Zoo looks forward to its centennial celebration in 2034.

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