Dinosaurs Come Alive Tonight at Brookfield Zoo's Dinos After Dark

Forget the ordinary Saturday night—tonight, Brookfield Zoo Chicago is turning back the clock about 65 million years.

Dinos After Dark returns Saturday, July 11, from 6 to 9 p.m., transforming the Zoo into a prehistoric playground where roaring dinosaurs, nighttime animal encounters, live music, and unlimited rides create one unforgettable summer evening.

Whether you're bringing little dinosaur fans, planning a family adventure, or just looking for something different to do after sunset, this after-hours event has something around every corner.

Roars, Rides, and Real Animals

The evening features life-sized dinosaurs throughout the Zoo, including a roaming T. rex that's always ready for photos.

Guests can also join Dino Don on guided tours through the dinosaur exhibits, where prehistoric creatures meet modern conservation in a fun and educational experience.

And because it's still the Zoo, visitors can stop by special Zoo Chats to learn about some of the real stars of Brookfield—from lions and sea lions to spider monkeys, camels, emus, and even tamanduas.

Become a Dinosaur Ranger

One of the biggest attractions is the Dinosaurs Wild: Dinosaur Ranger Academy, where families can meet a baby dinosaur after the interactive show.

Kids can also explore the Dino Fun Zone, complete with:

Fossil dig pit
Dinosaur scavenger hunt
Interactive games
Plenty of hands-on prehistoric fun
Unlimited Rides Included

Need a break from chasing dinosaurs?

Every ticket includes unlimited rides on the Zoo's Carousel and Ferris Wheel, making this one of the best entertainment values of the summer.

Dance with the Dinosaurs

The fun continues with live music from The Student Body during the Dino Dance Party, where families can dance the night away under the summer sky.

For an extra sweet ending, guests can purchase the Milk & Cookies add-on featuring two fresh cookies and a cold glass of milk.

Don't Miss These Highlights

Some of tonight's featured events include:

6:15 p.m. – Emu Chat
6:30 p.m. – Roaming T. rex photos
6:30 p.m. – Lion Chat
6:45 p.m. – Sea Lion & Seal Chat
7:00 p.m. – Dinosaur Ranger Academy
7:00 p.m. – Dino Don Tour
7:00 p.m. – Spider Monkey Chat
7:30 p.m. – Tamandua Chat
8:00 p.m. – Camel Chat

Know Before You Go

Admission is $29.95 for adults and $24.95 for children, while Zoo members receive discounted pricing. Parking at Main Gate is free.

Guests are even encouraged to wear pajamas, adding to the cozy nighttime atmosphere as dinosaurs roam through the Zoo after dark.

Whether you're posing with a towering T. rex, digging for fossils, riding the Ferris wheel at sunset, or discovering amazing animals during special keeper chats, Dinos After Dark offers a unique summer adventure that's equal parts excitement, education, and family fun.

Get your tickets here.

Thank you to the Dino Sponsors of Rainbow Cone and Coors Light.