A Tropical Escape Just Opened at Brookfield Zoo

BLK Chicago Explores

Explore the rainforest vibes without ever leaving Chicago. Brookfield Zoo has just opened the James & Elizabeth Bramsen Tropical Forests.

This new space is one of the largest outdoor habitats for primates in the entire U.S., stretching across 125,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor environments. Imagine walking through lush, state-of-the-art spaces where gorillas, orangutans, and monkeys climb, swing, and roam like they would in the wild.

Inside, Tropic World has distinct sections for South America, Asia, and Africa, and each alive with different monkey species. Outside, you’ll find the Gorilla Forest, where the zoo’s family troop is led by silverback Jontu, along with his mates, daughters, and the youngest, Ali, who’s only six years old. There’s also a bachelor troop featuring silverbacks Shango and Barney, holding down their own side of the forest.

The Bramsen Tropical Forests includes:

• Christopher Family Orangutan Forest – giving orangutans more room to climb high and stay active.
• Getz Family Treetop Terrace & Overlook – a spot where you can look out across the habitat like you’re in the canopy.
• Keller Family Conservation Trail – perfect for wandering through and catching a glimpse of the animals in motion.
• Northern Trust Pollinator Garden – a beautiful reminder that even the smallest creatures keep our ecosystems thriving.

It really feels like the zoo went all out to design a space that’s just as beautiful as it is deeply connected to conservation and animal well-being.

Now, if you’re thinking about when to check it out, there’s the perfect chance coming up:

Zoo Uncorked: Wines & Vines

Who: Brookfield Zoo Chicago – Zoo Uncorked: Wines & Vines (21+ event)
What: An evening of fine wines, cocktails, and light bites while exploring the brand-new James & Elizabeth Bramsen Tropical Forests
When: Saturday, August 23 • 6–9 p.m.
Where: Brookfield Zoo Chicago (free parking included with ticket)
Tickets: $40; $70; $105