Adelaide Zoo

Adelaide Zoo is a zoological garden in Adelaide, South Australia. Established in 1883, it is Australia's second oldest zoo and occupies land near the River Torrens. The zoo is home to a significant collection of native and exotic animals. It is particularly noted for its giant panda conservation program, which has historically been a distinguishing feature among Australian zoos. The facility operates as a conservation and education institution within the Adelaide parklands precinct. Daily 09:30–17:00. Open every day of the year, including Christmas and public holidays; there are no scheduled closure days. The Walk-through Rainforest & Wetlands Aviary is currently closed.

Adelaide Zoo covers eight landscaped hectares and houses more than 2,400 animals from about 200 species. Keeper talks and feeds are scheduled through the day, while the Reptile House, Nocturnal House, Envirodome and some aviaries close before the 17:00 main gate. Wisteria Restaurant, Fig Tree Café, the shop, picnic lawns, playground and accessible drinking fountains support a longer family visit. The signed map identifies the only staircase and alternative step-free routes. Standard adult admission is AUD 49.50. Open every day of the year, including Christmas and public holidays; there are no scheduled closure days. The Walk-through Rainforest & Wetlands Aviary is currently closed.

A thorough visit to Adelaide Zoo typically requires several hours. Visitors with strong interest in conservation programs, individual species, or photography should allocate additional time. Families with young children may need to pace their visit with rest breaks. The zoo's terrain includes some sloping paths that affect walking speed. Seasonal conditions influence comfort and pacing. Visitors should assess their own stamina and interests when planning duration. No. Base adult general admission (age 15+): AUD 49.50 for a date-specific entry ticket.

Open daily 09:30-17:00 every day of the year, including Christmas Day and public holidays. Individual houses and aviaries close earlier, generally 16:30 or 16:45. A half day covers the principal habitats and several keeper talks; a full day allows the presentation schedule, playground, cafes and more than 200 species without rushing. Yes. Daily 09:30–17:00. Use Stop 2 Frome Road, directly beside Adelaide Zoo. Adelaide Metro routes 271, 273 and free City Connector route 98A serve the south-west-side stop. Pathways and viewing areas are step-free unless marked; a signposted alternative route is provided where necessary.

Adult admission is AUD 49.50, concession AUD 36 and child age 4-14 AUD 27. Children under four enter free. During August 2026, the zoo's official promotion gives free admission to children up to age 14 with the required ticket. Free public places still contain independently priced businesses and activities. Base adult general admission (age 15+): AUD 49.50 for a date-specific entry ticket. Pathways and viewing areas are step-free unless marked; a signposted alternative route is provided where necessary. Accessible toilets are located at Nature’s Playground, the Rotunda and the Envirodome.

Enter from Frome Road or Plane Tree Drive beside Adelaide Botanic Garden. Buses 271 and 273 stop on Frome Road directly outside, and the free City Connector also serves Stop 2. Popeye boats connect Elder Park with the zoo landing. Yes. Use Stop 2 Frome Road, directly beside Adelaide Zoo. Adelaide Metro routes 271, 273 and free City Connector route 98A serve the south-west-side stop. Accessible toilets are located at Nature’s Playground, the Rotunda and the Envirodome. The Nature’s Playground accessible toilet has a full-body ceiling hoist. Wisteria Restaurant and Fig Tree Café are wheelchair accessible and provide seating and highchairs.

Signed step-free routes reach all zoo areas; paths are concrete, asphalt, paving or compacted fine gravel. Accessible toilets, accessible dining, seating, drinking fountains, communication boards, wheelchair hire for AUD 5 and nearby accessible parking are available. The zoo opens every day from 09:30 to 17:00, including Christmas Day and public holidays. Standard adult admission is AUD 49.50. No. Pathways and viewing areas are step-free unless marked; a signposted alternative route is provided where necessary. The Nature’s Playground accessible toilet has a full-body ceiling hoist. Wisteria Restaurant and Fig Tree Café are wheelchair accessible and provide seating and highchairs.

Personal photography is practical from the signed visitor paths, provided equipment does not cross barriers, disturb animals or block wheelchair routes. Flash and intrusive lighting should not be used around animals, nocturnal exhibits or presentations. Keeper directions take priority at close encounters. Phones and handheld cameras suit the public route; tripods, staged portraits and commercial filming require prior approval because they can interfere with visitors and animal care. Wisteria Restaurant and Fig Tree Café are wheelchair accessible and provide seating and highchairs. Accessible parking spaces are available on Plane Tree Drive near the main entrance.