Other moms had talked up the Brookfield Zoo in Brookfield, Illinois to me, so I was expecting to be wowed the first time I went there. I was not disappointed!

My husband, son, and I had planned to meet up with my sister-in-law, her mom, and her two young girls. The kids were a little grumpy but thankfully, it was easy to get tickets, use the bathroom, and get into the zoo quickly.

As we walked through the tree-lined paths and viewing areas, we passed many families. I instantly felt comfortable having my young son there and that if he was fussy (as he often is), we wouldn't disturb anyone, or we would at least be in good company. We fitted right in with the mom carting around five young children, three who were in a stroller.

We enjoyed strolling and catching up as we passed the zebras and African animals on our way to see the educational Ice Age Giants display in the back. My nieces loved seeing all the now-extinct creatures! My infant son stared and drooled, but seemed less than impressed.

Next, we got to see the amazing indoor monkey exhibit, which was a nice, cool relief from the summer heat. I wore my son in my Moby wrap through the exhibit, exchanging smiles with a couple who were doing the same. We enjoyed watching the monkeys swing and play to their heart's content.

Then, we went to see the bears. We opted for the indoor viewing area, and my son loved watching the black bear bathe himself.

I was thrilled my son was awake when we got to the Big Cats so that he could see the tiger walking around. I was glad the lion didn't start roaring, as he sometimes does, and I thought he might scare my son.

When I needed to nurse, I was relieved to find a sitting area off the beaten track. Soon, my son needed a diaper change, and it was easy to find a bathroom with a changing station.

After a few hours, we were hungry and thirsty, so we grabbed some tacos. I had worked up an appetite and let me tell you, I wolfed down those chicken tinga tacos in a second.

On the way home, the kids were all so tired out that they slept soundly, making me one happy mom! In the peace of the evening I opened my KidFriendlyVenues app and gave Brookfield Zoo a five star rating.

Melissa Y