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Immersive Ecoregions Zone

The innovative animal habitats and spaces in this zone
transport guests to distant landscapes to experience animals
as part of an ecosystem. Habitats that replicate 14 global
ecoregions fill this expansive 85-acre zone on the Zoo’s
west side—each anchored by one or more key animal
species residing in a naturalistic landscape that ecologically
and geographically simulates their home environment.
By highlighting some of the world’s most biodiverse regions
and their wildlife, we will inspire conservation awareness
and action in our guests.
Tropical Forests & Gorilla Conservation Center
(completion in 2025)
From its inception as the largest indoor zoo exhibit in 1984,
Tropic World has captivated millions of guests with
the wonders of the rain forest ecosystems of Africa, Asia,
and South America, and inspired concern about their
conservation. Tropical Forests, a $66 million expansion A view from the south elevation of the new Gorilla Conservation Center
of Tropic World, adds a sprawling 125,000 square feet of
outdoor space, making it one of the largest outdoor habitats
for primates in any accredited U.S. zoo.
Four new outdoor areas are being meticulously crafted
to simulate the natural homes of orangutans, monkeys,
and two gorilla troops—a family group, and a bachelor
group consisting of adult and adolescent males. Drawing
from the latest scientific research, experts designed
habitats that provide for the animals’ social needs and
natural behaviors and promote their health and wellness.
The dynamic environments include running-water features,
climbing structures, grasses, vines, and nearly 75 new trees,
giving animals a plethora of choices in how they use
their habitat.
Guests can choose from a variety of exciting perspec-
tives—including many up-close viewing opportunities—
from which to witness the intricacies of the primates’ daily
lives. For example, picture yourself coming face-to-face
with a majestic silverback gorilla, separated only by a pane
of glass, or watching playful monkeys swinging on vines
overhead or foraging for food in the grass below. Get ready
to be awed and moved by these magnificent animals and
inspired to partner with us to protect them. A terrace overlooking one of Tropical Forests’ outdoor Gorilla Forests
The Gorilla Conservation Center will be a hub of conser-
vation education and home of Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s
King Conservation Leadership Academy—a suite of free,
out-of-school, STEM learning opportunities for children,
teenagers, families, and adults. Here, guests and students
alike engage in educational programs aimed at fostering
a deeper understanding of wildlife conservation and
environmental stewardship.
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