Hamill Family Play Zoo

This unique interactive zone is where young explorers can discover the natural world through play and direct contact. Located in the suburbs of Chicago, USA, this facility is part of the famous Brookfield Zoo.

Opened in 2001, the two-acre site is divided into several themed sectors. Here, children aged 1 to 10 can feel like real farmers in play gardens or veterinarians in specialized areas. This isn't just a classic zoo, but an innovative space designed to develop an emotional connection between the child and the environment.

The highlight of the exhibit is the combination of historic 1928 architecture with modern play elements. The Hamill Family Play Zoo is home to lemurs, goats, tortoises, and many birds that act as "ambassadors" for the animal kingdom, helping little ones learn care and responsibility in an engaging way.

To check the latest information on special events and educational programs, you can reach out to zoo staff through official channels. The administration actively stays in touch with visitors, providing prompt responses via phone and social media. Below are the key contact details to help you reach the site representatives.

Young visitors can step into the role of a zookeeper: they are allowed to feed parrots, pet friendly goats, and observe the habits of lemurs up close. One of the most popular activities is mud painting and creating natural animal habitats from organic materials, which stimulates creative thinking.

In the "animal clinic," children can "treat" plush pets while examining real X-rays, and in the greenhouses, they can tend to plants using spray bottles. In the summer, there are heartwarming ladybug release events, and year-round, there are areas for sand painting and building homes for small mammals.

Active play is encouraged with giant flower-shaped percussion instruments and a huge bird's nest that the whole family can climb into. Regular informal meetings are held with veterinarians and artists, who share fascinating stories about the zoo's residents and the secrets of their professions.

The Hamill Family Play Zoo is located in the suburb of Brookfield, approximately 25 kilometers from the city center. The fastest way to get here is by car via the I-290 W, which takes about 30–40 minutes in favorable traffic conditions. Spacious paid parking for visitors is available on the zoo grounds.

For those choosing public transport, a convenient option is the Metra BNSF commuter train from Union Station to the Hollywood stop. From this station, the zoo's main entrance is just a 10-minute ride by taxi, Uber, or local bus. In the summer, bicycle routes through the scenic parks of DuPage County are also popular.

The facility is fully equipped for visitors with strollers, and special entrances and accessible pathways are provided for guests with disabilities. If you are staying at one of Chicago's major hotels, it's worth checking for organized shuttles that sometimes transport tour groups directly to Brookfield Zoo.

The history of this unique site began in June 2001. The project was launched as an ambitious part of Brookfield Zoo, based on the idea of adaptive reuse of a historic 1928 building. Thanks to the support of the Hamill family foundation, these historic walls were transformed into an ultra-modern space for children's discovery, becoming one of the first such facilities in the country.

In 2016, the zoo celebrated its 15th anniversary. To mark the occasion, large-scale celebrations were held on the 15th of every month, featuring live music, creative workshops, and 'clinics' for plush toys. Such events highlight the project's mission: nurturing a love for nature in children through play and direct interaction with animals.

An interesting fact is the development of the surrounding areas. The Hamill Family Nature Plaza eventually emerged on the site of the former baboon island. This expansion allowed for the addition of new educational elements, such as a science garden and pavilions for meeting vets and artists, making it an even more significant educational hub in Chicago.

To allow a child to fully enjoy all the interactive zones, it is recommended to set aside 1.5 to 3 hours for your visit. This is enough time to participate in creative workshops, feed the animals at the contact area, and explore the play gardens at a leisurely pace.

If you plan to combine a trip to the children's sector with a tour of the main Brookfield Zoo exhibits, you should plan for a full day (about 4–6 hours). Given the abundance of playgrounds and rest areas, time here flies by for both children and their parents.

The site welcomes guests daily, typically opening its doors from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Depending on the season and special events, operating hours may vary slightly, so it is recommended to check the current schedule on the official Brookfield Zoo website before your visit.

Please note that entry to this zone is paid separately from general zoo admission (the cost is approximately $3), while admission for children under 2 remains free. During special holidays, access for visitors may open as early as 9:30 AM.

Exploring the Brookfield area can significantly enrich your trip, especially if you are traveling with family. Within a short drive, you'll find numerous entertainment centers and theme parks offering activities for every taste.