If you love zoos little can put a damper on your visit except for two things, a long drive with a lot of traffic and crowds that are too big. Luckily, there are other options for zoos in Illinois without going to Chicago.

If a cold beer and a zoo tickle your fancy I've found the perfect event for you.

WHERE???

Randall Oaks Zoo, dubbed "a perfect little interactive zoo for a day trip', is waiting for you to visit in West Dundee, Illinois. The best part is it's affordable at $4.25 for residents and $5 for non. Kids under 1 and those with a military ID are free.

(That's not the cost for this specific event, by the way.)

Google Street View
Google Street View
loading...

This does look like the perfect day trip. It could make a great overnight trip if you're wanting to indulge in brews without worrying about driving. There are plenty of hotels near Randall Oaks Zoo.

BREW AT THE ZOO

"Brew at the Zoo" is coming in July and, though the event page is vague, here is what is being promoted as part of the experience.

Raffles and a photo booth.

Randall Oaks Zoo via Facebook
Randall Oaks Zoo via Facebook
loading...

A silent auction.

Randall Oaks Zoo via Facebook
Randall Oaks Zoo via Facebook
loading...

Lawn games like giant Jenga and bags (cornhole).

Randall Oaks Zoo via Facebook
Randall Oaks Zoo via Facebook
loading...

Live music.

Randall Oaks Zoo via Facebook
Randall Oaks Zoo via Facebook
loading...

Adult beverages and food trucks.

Randall Oaks Zoo via Facebook
Randall Oaks Zoo via Facebook
loading...

And, of course, zoo tours.

Randall Oaks Zoo via Facebook
Randall Oaks Zoo via Facebook
loading...

Brews at the Zoo is Saturday, July 16, from 5-9 pm at Randall Oaks Zoo, 1180 N Randall Road, West Dundee, Illinois.

Tickets for this event at $30 for adults (must be 21+) and $15 for designated drivers.

20 of the Best Day Trips to Take From Illinois

12 Amazing Illinois Day Trips to Take Each Month in 2022

Tiny Illinois Town is in Guinness Book of World Records 12 Times

One very small Illinois town has built themselves into a giant across the globe and I'll bet you didn't even know. Neither did I. A whole lotta wow going on.

More From Rockford's New Country Q98.5