About this city
Brookfield is a charming, tree-lined residential village situated approximately 13 miles west of downtown Chicago in Cook County, Illinois. Incorporated in 1893 and heavily shaped by the expansion of the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad, the village seamlessly transitioned from early prairie farmland into a highly desirable suburban community. It is internationally recognized as the home of the world-renowned Brookfield Zoo, which has served as the cultural and ecological anchor of the area since the early 20th century.
Location & Administrative
County
Cook
Time Zone
CST
State Code
IL
Transportation & Accessibility
Nearest Airports
MDWORD
Rail Systems
Metra (Chicago Commuter Rail)
Train Stations
Brookfield StationHollywood StationCongress Park Station
Getting Around
WalkableCar Required
Weather & Timing
Best Months
MayJunSepOct
Average Temperature
Peak Season
Late SpringSummer Vacation Season
Off Season
Deep Freeze Season
Economics & Local Vibe
Population
City proper 19.0K
Sales Tax
10%
Key Industries
Tourism and ConservationRetail and Local Services
Practical Tourism Metadata
Suggested stay: 1 day
Spend a full day exploring the expansive habitats at the world-class Brookfield Zoo, paddle or hike along the scenic Salt Creek Trail system, and enjoy old-school suburban hospitality downtown.
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