Brookfield Zoo redefines ‘monkey business’ with one of nation’s largest primate habitats

Brookfield Zoo in Chicago is set to unveil the James & Elizabeth Bramsen Tropical Forests, one of the largest primate habitats in the nation, on Friday, July 11. According to the zoo’s announcement, the nearly three-acre outdoor space aims to elevate conservation efforts and enrich the guest experience with its lush environments inspired by Africa, Asia, and South America.

Visitors will encounter majestic animals such as western lowland gorillas and Bornean orangutans navigating through a habitat enhanced with towering trees and cascading vines. Dr. Mike Adkesson, president and CEO of Brookfield Zoo Chicago, describes in the zoo’s press release that the space serves as both a dynamic environment for the animals and an inspirational message for guests to safeguard endangered species. 

“The James & Elizabeth Bramsen Tropical Forests represents a bold step forward in how we connect people to wildlife,” Dr. Adkesson says. “We’re thrilled to welcome our community to experience the wonder and the vital message of conservation that lives at the heart of this new habitat.”

Educational and conservation initiatives

The habitat encourages guests to engage as conservation scientists through hands-on exploration activities, including a "tug of war" challenge to measure strength against primates. According to the zoo’s press release, one standout feature allows guests to learn about gorilla identification through a life-sized bronze sculpture of a gorilla’s nose.

In addition to experiencing wildlife, visitors can explore pollinator gardens, gaining insight into the crucial role of bees, as well as conservation stories from Indigenous communities. A compelling sculpture made from poachers' snares illustrates the transformation of former poachers into artisans, part of international conservation efforts to support wildlife habitat restoration, the press release states.

The grand opening, taking place from Friday, July 11, through Sunday, July 13, features family-friendly activities, music, and Animal Ambassador interactions. Visitors can savor themed treats from The Grove, a new dining spot within the habitat, and purchase exclusive merchandise, including wildlife prints from the zoo’s photographer. Timed-entry tickets are required and can be secured through the Brookfield Zoo website.

The opening of Bramsen Tropical Forests coincides with upgrades to Tropic World, the zoo’s indoor primate habitat, including a jaw-dropping 48-foot waterfall and a revamped entryway that was created to resemble a fallen log. Initial access is provided to zoo members through "Member Mornings," allowing exclusive entry from Friday, July 11, through Sunday, July 20. Guests can support the zoo's "Grow the Forest" initiative for ongoing conservation efforts at brookfieldzoo.org.

This massive development at the zoo was made possible through support from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity/Illinois Office of Tourism, as well as the American Rescue Plan Act through Cook County and the Forest Preserves of Cook County.