First Trip To Brookfield Zoo

We went to the zoo this week!

It was our first time to the zoo since last year's trip to Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago. This time we went to Brookfield Zoo, also in Chicago but not downtown. They have free days twice a week during the fall!


Peacocks just wander around the place--this one did NOT appreciate J following him around.
We went with some of our friends--we totaled 2 adults & 4 kids (4 yr old, 2 yr old, 1 yr old, & 2 mo old). The littlest kids did great, the older kids loved the animals, and the adults had a great time!

We walked & walked & walked. We shared a double stroller for the youngest 2 and the rest of us walked. The exhibits were fantastic & the crowds were small so we really felt like we could see almost everything we wanted to!

One of my favorite stops was to see the PENGUINS:

We also saw camels, kangaroos, and cuties:

The lounging zebra was a hit:

The weather was fabulous--cool breezes, nice sunshine--we alternated from jackets to short sleeves & back again. I believe a zoo can be enjoyed SO MUCH BETTER when you are walking around in cooler temps!

And of course--the giraffes were a must-see! These tall animals just amaze me with their graceful movements & big gorgeous eyes.

J loved all of the exhibits, perhaps especially the underwater exhibits to watch the fish, seals, sea lions, and dolphins swimming around. He was especially entertained by the seals who swam super close to the glass every time they came around the tank. He laughed & squealed with delight--it was hilarious!
Baby N did great--he spent time in a stroller, a sling, and a bjorn carrier--so he enjoyed the sights from various vantage points.

The day included lots of animals*, lots of walking, a picnic lunch, and some playground time...I can't think of a better way to spend a fall day!

*We were disappointed to find out that the lion & elephant exhibits were closed. We did not feel the need to stop by the monkeys since we had one walking around with us anyway. Just kidding...we'll see them next time.