Whether you’re a bird or animal lover, Melbourne Zoo is a place that you must visit. It is one of the best places to visit in Melbourne. With many different options available in the zoo, you won’t be bored. The zoo has animals from all around the world including elephants, lions, zebras, tigers and camels. There are many conservation programs that help endangered species with this amazing place! I would suggest you check out all the programs that are offered at this place.
In the Melbourne Zoo, you can enjoy the amazing zoo animal shows, like the Gorilla Keeper Talk and Penguin Keeper Talk, or get up close to Kangaroos and Koalas. Or visit their Butterfly House, where you can see some of the biggest butterflies alive. There are so many ways to explore Melbourne Zoo and have fun with your family or friends. Melbourne zoo is a great place to go if you have younger children, or even older kids looking for somewhere fun to spend an afternoon. If you are wondering what the best activities in the zoo are, then read on.
History of the Melbourne Zoo
The history of Melbourne Zoo is a long one, and it’s been a wild ride. It all started in 1857 when the Zoological Society of Victoria was formed with the aim of introducing animals and plants from overseas. The first first collections of animals of the Zoological Society of Victoria were housed in Richmond Paddock. In 1861 the organization changed its name to the “Acclimatization Society of Victoria”. A year later, they opened a new Melbourne Zoo in Royal Park on 55-acre of land donated by the City of Melbourne. Thus the Melbourne Zoo came into being.
The Melbourne Zoo is divided into four main sections: the Australian Domain, Asian Domain, African Domain and Oceanic Domain. Each section contains its own unique animal species and habitats. The Australian Domain houses native animals such as kangaroos and koalas, while the Asian Domain features native Chinese species like tigers, pandas and giant panda bears. The African Domain features lions, elephants and giraffes while the Oceanic Domain houses sea creatures such as whale sharks and dolphins.
Things To Do in Melbourne Zoo
Learn About the Animals
There are plenty of things to do in Melbourne Zoo! For starters, you can learn all about the amazing animals that call the zoo home. There are also plenty of fun activities and events for the whole family to enjoy. Melbourne Zoo is also home to a number of unique and endangered animals. You can learn all about these amazing creatures and see them up close.
This is a great opportunity to see some of the world’s rarest animals and to learn about the work the zoo is doing to protect them. Also, you can learn more about your favorite animals from their keepers. Here are the Keeper Talk timings:
- Baboons Keeper Talk – 10:40 am
- Giant Tortoises Keeper Talk – 11:40 am
- Gorillas Keeper Talk – 10:45 am
- Elephants Keeper Talk – 11:00 am
- Koalas Keeper Talk – 11:00 am
- Giraffe Keeper Talk – 11:30 am
- Snow Leopard Keeper Talk – 11:45 am
- Orangutans Keeper Talk – 12:00 pm
- Lions Keeper Talk – 12:30 pm
- Meerkats Keeper Talk – 1:15 pm
- Elephants Keeper Talk – 2:00 pm
- Tigers Keeper Talk – 3:30 pm
- Penguins Keeper Talk – 3:45 pm
- Pygmy Hippo Keeper Talk – 4:00 pm
Explore the Little Penguin
One of the best things to do in Melbourne Zoo is to visit the popular penguin beach, Little Penguin. Here you can see penguins up close and learn all about these amazing birds. You can also feed the penguins, which is always a hit with the kids!
Follow the recommended itineraries
If you are confused about what and what not to do in Melbourne Zoo, the best decision will be to follow the recommended itineraries. There are three itineraries available on their site, namely- Adventure Map, Discovery Map, and Epic Map. Each itinerary runs through different trails and different areas of the zoo. So, choose your itinerary wisely!
Take part in the Roar ‘n’ Snore overnight camp
Have you ever stayed at a zoo overnight? If not then this is your chance. Roar ‘n’ Snore overnight camp in Melbourne Zoo takes place in the Historic Elephant Exhibit which has been renovated to a comfortable camping ground. They will provide you with a private tent to sleep so that you get to meet the animals up-close.
Arrange a Picnic
At the Melbourne Zoo, you can hire a section of the pavilion or lawn space. Pavilions can manage upto 50 people and Lawns can manage upto 150 people. You can also arrange some tasty take-away lunch packs for group eating. You will get biodegradable lunch boxes that include a sandwich or baguette, a small salad and nuts (in the adult packs), a Zoo Bakery treat, a piece of fruit and a drink. You can pre-order the lunch packs and collect them from the Zoo Bakery.
How to Reach the Melbourne Zoo
If you’re coming from out of town, the best way to reach the zoo is by car. Melbourne Zoo is about a 30-minute drive from the Melbourne CBD. There are several parking options available, including paid and free parking. If you’re coming from the city center, Melbourne Zoo is just a short drive or tram ride from the city center.
If you’re driving, the best way to reach the zoo is via Parkville Avenue. Once you’re in Royal Park, follow the signs to the Melbourne Zoo car park. Parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and there is a charge of $8 per day.
If you’re taking public transport to the Melbourne Zoo, the best option is to take the tram. Trams run regularly from the city center to Royal Park, and the journey takes just over 20 minutes.
You can also take the train to Melbourne Zoo. The zoo has its own train station, which is located on the Upfield line. The journey from the city center takes about 20 minutes.
Opening Hours of the Melbourne Zoo
Melbourne Zoo is open every day of the year from 9:00am to 5:00pm. Last entry is at 4:00pm.
Entry Fees of the Melbourne Zoo
- Adults (16 years and over): $42
- Children (4-15 years): $21
- Concession card holders: $31.50
- Child Concession card holders (4-15 years): $5
- Senior: $38
- Family (2 adults + 2 children: $105
- Children under 4 years old: free
There are also a number of annual passes available, which offer unlimited entry to the zoo for 12 months.
Best Time to Visit the Melbourne Zoo
The Melbourne Zoo is open all year round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months (December to February). This is when the weather is at its best and the animals are most active. If you’re visiting during the winter months (June to August), you’ll still be able to see the animals, but they’ll be less active due to the cold weather.
Where To Eat in Melbourne Zoo
One of the best parts about Melbourne Zoo is that there are plenty of options for food and drink. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a sit-down meal, there’s something for everyone. With a variety of restaurants and cafes to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to eat. Here are some of the best places to eat at Melbourne Zoo:
Lakeside Café
The Lakeside Café is a great place to take a breath of fresh air with the kids, dine-in or enjoy the alfresco dining overlooking the Japanese lake. You can choose from a wide range of savory and sweet options.
Giraffe Lookout Café
The Giraffe Lookout Café features a selection of gourmet burgers, kid’s hot dogs, loaded fries, deli items and salads.
Zoo Bakery
You can enjoy a range of sweet and savory bakery goods, some baked items right here on site.
The Zoo Bakery is the perfect spot for a quick bite.
Meerkat Café
You can find some new plant-based vegetarian food at the Meerkat Café. You can also taste some delicious coffee, sandwiches & snacks.
Macaw Takeaway
At the Macaw Takeaway you will find everything between MSC fish & chips to crumbed prawns.
Macaw Pizza
Are you a pizza-lover? If yes, then you should head to Macaw Pizza for pizza & scoop ice-cream.
Wild Dogs
Here you can enjoy a barista made coffee, baked sweet and savory goods, hot chips, sandwiches, cold drinks and ice-creams. It remains open during peak periods and public holidays.
Must Know Tips to Visit the Melbourne Zoo
- Visiting the Melbourne zoo is free on school holidays. But it remains crowded during those days.
- You can have a picnic in the park and feed the animals. Designated places are available for picnics.
- Don’t forget your camera! Take lots of pictures of all the different animals, because they’re all so cute.
- If you want to have the best experience, follow one of their recommended itineraries.
- Book tickets online to avoid standing in long queues.
Why To Visit the Melbourne Zoo
One of the main reasons to visit the Melbourne Zoo is to see the unique Australian animals that you can’t find anywhere else in the world. The zoo is home to koalas, kangaroos, wombats, echidnas, and many other unique animals. You can also learn about the ecology and conservation of these animals at the zoo.
Another reason to visit the Melbourne Zoo is for the educational opportunities. The zoo offers a variety of educational programs for both children and adults. These programs focus on the conservation of the animals at the zoo, as well as the ecology of the zoo itself.
The Melbourne Zoo is also a great place to take the family for a day out. There are a number of activities for children of all ages. The zoo also has a number of restaurants and cafes, so you can grab a bite to eat after a day of exploring.
So, if you’re looking for a unique experience that will educate and entertain the whole family, be sure to add the Melbourne Zoo to your list of places to visit!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to look around Melbourne Zoo?
If you want to check out all the wonderful wildlife Melbourne Zoo has to offer, you will need around 4-5 hours.
How can I get a free entry to the Melbourne Zoo?
You can get a free entry to the Melbourne Zoo by visiting it on school holidays.
Is entry to the Melbourne Zoo free for children?
Entry to the Melbourne Zoo is completely free for children under four years. For children aged between 4-15 years, entry to the zoo requires a fee. But they can visit it for free during weekends, Victorian public holidays and Victorian Government school holidays.
How many animals are there at the Melbourne Zoo?
The Melbourne Zoo contains more than 320 animal species from Australia and around the globe. There are around 5000 animals in total.