Nestled in Parkville, Victoria, and located just 4.3 km from the Melbourne Central Business District (CBD), the Melbourne Zoo is among the most widely visited zoos in Australia. This zoo offers an immersive experience through its stunning landscapes and well-planned habitats, which enable visitors to interact with a wide range of fascinating wildlife. The zoo is spread over 22 hectares of land, which provides visitors with a wide variety of wildlife experiences and conservation programs. The Melbourne Zoo has developed into a vibrant sanctuary for more than 250 species, allowing visitors to view such a broad range of animal kingdoms in a single visit to the zoo. Being one of the most renowned and historic zoological parks in Australia, this zoo is growing into a flourishing sanctuary for a unique and informative experience for people of all ages.
The Melbourne Zoo was founded in 1862 by the Royal Zoological Society of Victoria. The initial goal of the zoo was to take care of and observe the wonders of the animal kingdom. In its early years, it focused on exhibiting local Australian species. The zoo has expanded over time, including a wider variety of species and contributing to conservation efforts and public education. The Melbourne Zoo is now a hub for research, education, and the promotion of wildlife conservation, along with serving as a popular tourist destination. Melbourne Zoo has served as an example of its constant dedication to animal conservation, education, and protecting the planet’s amazing wildlife.
| Address | Melbourne Zoo, Elliott Ave, Parkville VIC 3052, Australia |
|---|---|
| Website | https://www.zoo.org.au/melbourne |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/PgcLYuFr144a2eqY7 |
| How To Reach |
By Car: If you travel via Royal Parade, you will reach Melbourne Zoo in around 15 minutes from Melbourne CBD. By Bus: To reach the Melbourne Zoo, you can take the following bus lines 250, 504, and 505. For Bus Route 505, Melbourne Zoo is the final destination, which runs from Moonee Ponds to Melbourne University. By Tram: To get to the Melbourne Zoo, take the 58 tram route, which travels via William Street in the city centre and has a stop at Stop 26, which directly lands you outside the Melbourne Zoo in around 6 minutes. By Train: To travel to the Melbourne Zoo, take the daily train that departs from Flinders Street Station on the Upfield line and stops at Royal Park Station. |
| Opening Hours |
Monday: 9 AM–5 PM Tuesday: 9 AM–5 PM Wednesday: 9 AM–5 PM Thursday: 9 AM–5 PM Friday: 9 AM–5 PM Saturday: 9 AM–5 PM Sunday: 9 AM–5 PM |
| Tickets | https://www.zoo.org.au/melbourne/whats-on/events/entry/ |
Ticket Information
| Category | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Single Entry | Become A Zoo Member | ||
| Monthly | Yearly | ||
| Adults | $46 | $11.50 | $138 |
| Children (4 - 15) | $23 (Free on Weekends) | Free | Free |
| Children (0 - 3) | FREE | FREE | FREE |
| Concession** | $34.50 | $8.50 | $102 |
| Seniors** | $41.50 | $41.50 | $126 |
Facilities
| Visitors | ||
|---|---|---|
| Parking | $2 (5 hours) | - |
| Single Stroller Hire | $20 (Members) | $17 (Non-Members) |
| Double Stroller Hire | $35 (Members) | $29.75 (Non-Members) |
| Large Locker storage | $10(4 hours) | 3 (per hour thereafter) |
| Medium Locker storage | $7 (4 hours) | $2 (per hour thereafter) |
| Small Locker storage | $5 (4 hours) | $1 (per hour thereafter) |
Melbourne Zoo Experiences You Cannot Miss
Melbourne Zoo provides visitors with a range of amazing experiences and unforgettable encounters with the immense animal kingdom. Get ready for a unique experience that reveals the most amazing and significant things about this dynamic zoo. From close-up interactions with endangered species to immersive displays, this palace has it all.
Take a leisurely stroll that promises an enjoyable walking experience, or indulge in an even greater level of excitement with their premium encounters, which come at a slightly higher cost. You can also witness the zoo’s overnight experience, which offers an exciting way for adventure seekers to explore a nighttime environment.
1. Kangaroo Experience
Discover the extraordinary adventure with our exclusive kangaroo encounter, where the expert keepers will guide you through the captivating world of these iconic Australian creatures. As you explore the kangaroo exhibits, you will get a chance to develop a relationship with these amazing animals, making lifelong memories. The keepers make sure that every interaction is unique so that each kangaroo’s unique personality may be highlighted.
| Timing | 11:15 am (arrive 5 minutes early) |
|---|---|
| Ticket Price | $39.00 (excludes zoo entry) $35.00 (zoo Members) |
| Duration | 15 Minutes |
| Group Size | 10 people |
| Availability | Everyday |
| Minimum Age | 5 years |
2. Giraffes Experience
Experience a remarkable journey at Giraffe Lookout by joining the committed Ungulate keepers for a unique behind-the-scenes experience. Explore the amazing world of Nakuru and Klintun, the two beautiful giraffes, and build a close relationship with these amazing animals. This exclusive experience, guided by keepers, will reveal Nakuru and Klintun’s distinct personalities. Enjoy the pleasure of seeing these elegant giraffes and learn about professional care. Get ready for an unparalleled experience where every visit guarantees a unique and remarkable bond with these amazing animals.
| Timing | 11:25 am (arrive 5 minutes early) |
|---|---|
| Ticket Price | $91.00 (excludes zoo entry) $82.00 (Zoo Members) |
| Duration | 25 Minutes |
| Group Size | 8 people |
| Availability | Everyday |
| Minimum Age | 5 years |
3. Tiger Experience
Experience a unique adventure at Melbourne Zoo with the passionate and committed keepers as you experience the critically endangered Sumatran Tigers. This amazing encounter gives you unique access to regions usually available to zookeepers, giving you a unique look into the lives of these magnificent animals. Discover the crucial conservation initiatives put forward to protect Sumatran tigers. Come together to spread awareness about the critical need to preserve and conserve the declining number of Sumatran tigers in their natural habitat since three tiger species have already gone extinct.
| Timing | 9:15 am (arrive 5 minutes early) |
|---|---|
| Ticket Price | $91.00 (excludes zoo entry) $82.00 (Zoo Members) |
| Duration | 25 Minutes |
| Group Size | 8 people |
| Availability | Everyday |
| Minimum Age | 10 years |
4. Gorillas Experience
Enjoy an incredible journey into the heart of the amazing world of Melbourne Zoo with our special encounter, which includes the critically endangered Western Lowland Gorillas. As the guide reveals the mysteries of gorilla life, you will be able to fully immerse yourself in every detail of their complicated community. Explore behind the scenes for an unforgettable opportunity to feed these amazing creatures delicious food, enhancing their day in the process of feeding. Be a part of this incredible journey that contributes to preserving the variety of our planet’s priceless species.
| Timing | 12:00 pm (arrive 5 minutes early) |
|---|---|
| Ticket Price | $91.00 (excludes zoo entry) $82.00 (Zoo Members) |
| Duration | 25 Minutes |
| Group Size | 8 people |
| Availability | Everyday |
| Minimum Age | 8 years |
5. Meerkat Experience
Engage yourself in the fascinating world of meerkats to enhance your visit to Melbourne Zoo. Explore the fascinating world of these curious animals, where you may engage with them and develop a stronger bond with them. Learn the insider secrets of meerkat life as the keepers share insights into their behaviour, habits, and various enriching strategies. Experience a behind-the-scenes look that guarantees uniqueness and lets each meerkat show its distinct personality. Explore the creative techniques used to maintain the health and promote the natural habits of these creatures.
| Timing | 12:20 pm (arrive 5 minutes early) |
|---|---|
| Ticket Price | $91.00 (excludes zoo entry) $82.00 (Zoo Members) |
| Duration | 25 Minutes |
| Group Size | 6 people |
| Availability | Everyday |
| Minimum Age | 5 years |
6. Orangutan Experience
Visit Melbourne Zoo to go on a unique experience and see the amazing and highly endangered great apes. Under the guidance of the committed keepers, you will be given a unique entry to areas usually reserved for zoo employees. Witness fascinating training sessions involving either siamangs or orangutans, then go up to the roof of the Orangutan Sanctuary for an opportunity of a lifetime to provide enrichment for these amazing animals. Find out more about the environmental problems they face, such as the potential loss of habitat due to unsustainable palm oil farming.
| Timing | 9:15 am (arrive 5 minutes early) |
|---|---|
| Ticket Price | $91.00 (excludes zoo entry) $82.00 (Zoo Members) |
| Duration | 25 Minutes |
| Group Size | 8 people |
| Availability | Everyday |
| Minimum Age | 8 years |
7. Otter Experience
Immerse yourself in the thrill as you witness the otters’ playful and intelligent personalities during their daily training session. Join the Wild Sea keepers behind the scenes for an exclusive otter encounter and set out on an amazing journey. Take part in a fun fishy scatter feed and interact with these adorable creatures. The experience doesn’t end there; you can also learn about the various methods used to act, support, and prevent the extinction of marine mammals and birds. Explore the world of marine life, and along with this, build priceless memories.
| Timing | 10:35 am (arrive 5 minutes early) |
|---|---|
| Ticket Price | $91.00 (excludes zoo entry) $82.00 (Zoo Members) |
| Duration | 20 Minutes |
| Group Size | 4 people |
| Availability | Everyday |
| Minimum Age | 10 years |
8. Reptile House Experience
Take a unique behind-the-scenes tour of our reptile house with the host and hardworking reptile keepers, and start an amazing adventure together. Gain personal knowledge of the habitats and behaviours of snakes, tortoises, and lizards by immersing yourself in their fascinating world. Take part in the routine care of these amazing animals. Discover the critical role keepers play in protecting endangered species like the Southern Corroboree Frog and the Grassland Earless Dragon. Every visit promises to be an unforgettable experience that showcases the unique qualities of each animal.
| Timing | 10:30 am (arrive 5 minutes early) |
|---|---|
| Ticket Price | $49.00 (excludes zoo entry) $44.10 (Zoo Members) |
| Duration | 35 Minutes |
| Group Size | 6 people |
| Availability | Everyday |
| Minimum Age | 10 years |
9. Macaw experience
Visit our unique bird experience and take a captivating tour into the fascinating world of our Blue and Gold Macaws. During training sessions, our colourful Macaws will amaze you with their amazing free-flight skills. Take a minute to wonder at the skies. Along with various fascinating kinds of Amazonian parrots like Green-Winged Macaws, Heinz, and Ruby, your experience is immense. This is an exclusive opportunity for bird lovers to see the extraordinary intelligence and skill of these amazing creatures.
| Timing | 10:30 am (arrive 5 minutes early) |
|---|---|
| Ticket Price | $49.00 (excludes zoo entry) $44.00 (Zoo Members) |
| Duration | 20 Minutes |
| Group Size | 4 people |
| Availability | Thursday to Sunday |
| Minimum Age | 8 years |
10. Lemur Experience
Visit our knowledgeable keepers as they lead you on an amazing journey through a fascinating lemur walkthrough. Explore the techniques used to preserve the physical and emotional health of the cherished Lemur males during an engaging event. The experienced caretakers will show a variety of enrichment methods aimed at improving their well-being and encouraging their natural habits. Explore the fascinating world of lemurs and take advantage of the unique opportunity to interact with these amazing animals and learn more about their fascinating lifestyles.
| Timing | 3:00 pm (arrive 5 minutes early) |
|---|---|
| Ticket Price | $59.00 (excludes zoo entry) $53.00 (Zoo Members) |
| Duration | 15 Minutes |
| Group Size | 8 people |
| Availability | Everyday |
| Minimum Age | 8 years |
11. Seal Experience
Enhance your experience at the Melbourne Zoo by having a memorable interaction with our adorable seals. Enjoy a unique experience as the knowledgeable staff takes you through the exhibit, providing a unique chance to interact closely with these wonderful animals. Enjoy the uniqueness of every behind-the-scenes interaction, as the caretakers put the seals’ health first and then give them the freedom to express who they are. Don’t miss the opportunity to spend time making lifelong memories at the Melbourne Zoo with these lively and sensitive creatures.
| Timing | 3:00 pm (arrive 5 minutes early) |
|---|---|
| Ticket Price | $49.00 (excludes zoo entry) $44.10 (Zoo Members) |
| Duration | 15 Minutes |
| Group Size | 8 people |
| Availability | Friday to Monday |
| Minimum Age | 12 years |
12. Elephant Bull Experience
Start your adventure early and enter the zoo through the main gate. This will give you a unique chance to see the daily training sessions and the Elephant Barn. Enjoy the wonder as these amazing animals participate in educational activities that the keepers have carefully chosen. Explore the complex dynamics of the constantly shifting behaviour of a group of elephants, including the adaptation of our newest bull, Luk Chai, and the arrangements for the elephants’ upcoming transfer to Werribee Open Range Zoo. This personal experience offers a unique and unforgettable relationship with these amazing animals, perfect for those who have a strong affection for elephants.
| Timing | 8:00 am (arrive 5 minutes early) |
|---|---|
| Ticket Price | $199.00 (excludes zoo entry) $179.00 (Zoo Members) |
| Duration | 35 Minutes |
| Group Size | 8 people |
| Availability | Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday |
| Minimum Age | 6 years |
13. Elephant, Keepers and Calves Experience
Join the keepers for a unique and limited journey during the behind-the-scenes experience. Enjoy the daily rituals and observe how training programmes for elephants have changed to meet the specific demands of each animal. Discover the unique characteristics of our elephants, as well as experience the dynamic changes caused by last year’s calves, Aiyara, Roi-Yim, and Kati. These unique interactions provide each animal with the opportunity to shine. Engaging in this experience allows you to directly support conservation efforts to protect these sentient animals.
| Timing | 9:00 am (arrive 5 minutes early) |
|---|---|
| Ticket Price | $249.00 (excludes zoo entry) $224.00 (Zoo Members) |
| Duration | 45 Minutes |
| Group Size | 4 people |
| Availability | Tuesday and Saturday |
| Minimum Age | 10 years |
14. Wild Tales - Elephants
With one of our experienced guides, travel on an exciting journey through the hidden paths of Melbourne Zoo’s Trail of the Elephants. This unique walking tour provides a detailed look at the fascinating past and dynamic social relationships of the elephant group. Start your journey at the iconic elephant display, where the amazing story of Ranee, the first elephant to live at the Melbourne Zoo, is narrated. Visit the zoo for a unique chance to combine education, conservation, and a deep admiration for the amazing elephants that call Melbourne Zoo home.
| Timing | 12:40 pm (arrive 5 minutes early) |
|---|---|
| Ticket Price | $49.00 (excludes zoo entry) $44.00 (Zoo members) |
| Duration | 45 Minutes |
| Group Size | 8 people |
| Availability | Everyday |
| Minimum Age | 6 years |
15. Australian Wildlife Experience
Start on a thrilling early-morning journey to Melbourne Zoo, where you’ll get exclusive access to the wonders of Australian wildlife before opening hours. Watch the lovely koalas, Karri and Waru, wake up, and welcome the sunrise as you start your day. Experience a unique behind-the-scenes view at the kangaroo exhibit, where you can get to know the loving group of kangaroos and their committed caretakers. Discover the fascinating Tamar and Swamp Wallaby species in their native environments. Experience the peacefulness of the early morning and make ever-lasting memories with Melbourne Zoo’s unique morning event.
| Timing | 7:55 am (arrive 5 minutes early) |
|---|---|
| Ticket Price | $93.00 (excludes zoo entry) $83.00 (Zoo members) |
| Duration | 45 Minutes |
| Group Size | 10 people |
| Availability | Everyday |
| Minimum Age | 5 years |
16. Night Safari
Join the amazing overnight journey at the Melbourne Zoo to get completely engaged in the uniquely riveting experience of the Zoo Night Safari. As soon as you arrive, enjoy delicious drinks and some snacks to set the mood for a memorable evening. The excitement gets doubled when you join the nighttime walking of the zoo, which reveals the fascinating hidden mysteries of fascinating creatures like kangaroos, koalas, and Tasmanian devils. Some nighttime safari adventures offer unique opportunities for close interactions with specific species. This can include feeding sessions or behind-the-scenes glimpses into the zoo’s animals’ daily care routines.
| Timing | 6 pm - 9 am |
|---|---|
| Ticket Price | $279 without membership $251 with Membership |
| Duration | Overnight |
| Group Size | 26 members |
| Availability | Friday, Saturday, and Sunday |
| Minimum Age | 8 years |
17. Roar 'n' Snore Overnight Camp
Experience a unique Roar ‘n’ Snore camping adventure at Melbourne Zoo. Take your loved ones on a memorable journey and treat them to a special overnight stay at the Melbourne Zoo. Start your evening with a delicious dinner, making timeless memories in the fascinating atmosphere of the Zoo after dark. You might see wildlife that is adapted to surviving in low light, such as bats, owls, night-active primates, and other species. Enjoy captivating stories of wild creatures from the hosts who are laying the foundation for an amazing evening in your tent filled with the mesmerising noises of the wildlife kingdom.
| Timing | 11:15 am (arrive 5 minutes early) |
|---|---|
| Ticket Price | Adults: $292 $325 (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays) Children (5 - 12): $204 (5 - 12 ) $ 228 (Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays) |
| Duration | Overnight |
| Group Size | 20 people |
| Availability | Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday (excluding June, July, and August) |
| Minimum Age | 5 years |
Places to Eat At Melbourne Zoo
As you begin your adventurous trip through the animal kingdom, remember to fill up and refresh at one of the wonderful dining spots. Visit one of the Zoo’s cafes or kiosks for a delicious meal or to get snacks or special treats. Here are some of the best places to eat at the Melbourne Zoo that will satisfy your deepest desires.
1. Lakeside Sushi
Experience a unique Roar ‘n’ Snore camping adventure at Melbourne Zoo. Take your loved ones on a memorable journey and treat them to a special overnight stay at the Melbourne Zoo. Start your evening with a delicious dinner, making timeless memories in the fascinating atmosphere of the Zoo after dark. You might see wildlife that is adapted to surviving in low light, such as bats, owls, night-active primates, and other species. Enjoy captivating stories of wild creatures from the hosts who are laying the foundation for an amazing evening in your tent filled with the mesmerising noises of the wildlife kingdom.
| Name | Lakeside Sushi |
|---|---|
| Address | 0 Elliott Ave, Parkville VIC 3052 |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/LJWJXfKdwGRcjiHc6 |
| Timing |
Monday: 10 am–3:30 pm Tuesday: 10 am–3:30 pm Wednesday: 10 am–3:30 pm Thursday: 10 am–3:30 pm Friday: 10 am–3:30 pm Monday: 10 am–3:30 pm Saturday: 10 am–3:30 pm Sunday: 10 am–3:30 pm |
| Good For | Hand rolls | Salad | Ice cream | Schweppes soft drinks |
| Nearby Accommodations | The Parkmore Hotel | Park Squire Motor Inn & Serviced Apartments | Parkville Motel |
2. Giraffe Lookout Cafe
At Giraffe Lookout Cafe, you may experience a variety of refreshing drinks to relieve your thirst, as well as delicious sweets such as baked muffins, cookies, slices, and ice cream. The cafe also provides customers with vegan and low-gluten options to create a delicious eating experience. Whether you want something sweet or savoury, Giraffe Lookout Cafe has it all in one place. So come and enjoy a delicious meal while admiring the views at Melbourne Zoo.
| Name | Giraffe Lookout Cafe |
|---|---|
| Address | 3052 Victoria, Parkville, Elliott Ave |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/j5cF3FdPnwvjk6ZU7 |
| Timing |
Monday: 9 am – 5 pm Tuesday: 9 am – 5 pm Wednesday: 9 am – 5 pm Thursday: 9 am – 5 pm Friday: 9 am – 5 pm Saturday: 9 am – 5 pm Sunday: 9 am – 5 pm |
| Good For | Coffee | Cold beverages | Sweet and savoury snacks |
| Nearby Accommodations | Quest Flemington Central | The Parkmore Hotel | Mercure North Melbourne |
3. Meerkat Cafe
Visit the Meerkat Cafe, which emphasises outstanding vegetarian meals and pleasant beverages. The cafe offers customers a variety of delicious foods, such as tarts, croissants, muffins, slices, and cookies. The meals also include fresh salads and several kinds of ice cream that will satisfy everyone’s cravings. Don’t miss out on the freshest summer juices at Meerkat Café! And to make things easier for you, the cafe provides you with the opportunity to be at a cashless cafe. So come in and try one of the best meals in the heart of the zoo.
| Name | Meerkat Cafe |
|---|---|
| Address | 0 Elliott Ave, Parkville VIC 3052 |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/4jqSPzpwcaMXHL3M8 |
| Timing |
Monday: 9 am – 5 pm Tuesday: 9 am – 5 pm Wednesday: 9 am – 5 pm Thursday: 9 am – 5 pm Friday: 9 am – 5 pm Saturday: 9 am – 5 pm Sunday: 9 am – 5 pm |
| Good For | Assorted tarts | Filled or plain croissants | Cookies | Freshly made salads |
| Nearby Accommodations | Park Squire Motor Inn & Serviced Apartments | Naughtons Hotel | The Larwill Studio Melbourne - Art Series |
4. Macaw Takeaway
Macaw Takeaway serves excellent meals, which include a variety of hot cuisines ideal for satisfying your hunger. The cafe offers summertime grab-and-go salads, sandwiches, wraps, fruit salads, and yoghurt pots that are perfect for a quick and healthy snack. Refresh your thirst with the wide variety of ice creams, soft drinks, juices, and candy, or get some food to eat while exploring the zoo. The latest changes to the menu include crispy barramundi, chicken burgers, and kid-friendly alternatives, so stop by and have a satisfying lunch at Macaw Takeaway.
| Name | Macaw Takeaway |
|---|---|
| Address | 0 Elliott Ave, Parkville VIC 3052 |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/c9qRUG2xHW3Rny8T7 |
| Timing |
Monday: 10 am – 4 pm Tuesday: 10 am – 4 pm Wednesday: 10 am – 4 pm Thursday: 10 am – 4 pm Friday: 10 am – 4 pm Saturday: 10 am – 4 pm Sunday: 10 am – 4 pm |
| Good For | Sandwiches | Wraps | Fruit salad | Yoghurt pots |
| Nearby Accommodations | The Parkmore Hotel | Parkville Place Serviced Apartments | Parkville Motel |
Final Considerations
The Melbourne Zoo, one of the most popular zoos in Melbourne, highlights the city’s dedication to the conservation of wildlife, education, and biodiversity improvement. The zoo not only provides a thrilling experience for visitors but also plays an important role in raising awareness about the significance of maintaining endangered species and habitats. Visiting Melbourne Zoo has become a pleasure for people of all ages who love animals since it strengthens the relationship between humans and wildlife, developing a greater understanding and respect for the natural world. Melbourne Zoo has worked together to protect animals and their environments, leaving a legacy of conservation and respect for future generations.