Roavina

Family attraction · Melbourne

Melbourne Zoo

Melbourne Zoological Gardens

Reviewed by Elena Voss · Roavina Travel Editor

Photograph

A photograph of Melbourne Zoo
Photograph · Commander Keane · CC BY-SA 3.0
Today
Open today, 09:00 – 17:00
Visit duration
1 hr 30 min
Accessibility
Step-free
Price
A$0.00 per person
Standing
Must see · Heritage site
Rank
Rank 15 of 12,435

Place details and sources

It was established in 1862. It carries the listed on the Victorian Heritage Register heritage designation. It is run by Zoos Victoria.

Official website
www.zoo.org.au Wikidata · Checked 2026-09-09
Address
Elliott Avenue, 1 OpenStreetMap · Checked 2026-09-09
Admission fee
Payable OpenStreetMap · Checked 2026-09-09
Short name
Melbourne Zoo OpenStreetMap · Checked 2026-09-09
Established
1862 Wikidata · Checked 2026-09-09
Heritage designation
listed on the Victorian Heritage Register Wikidata · Checked 2026-09-09
Operator
Zoos Victoria Wikidata · Checked 2026-09-09
Wikipedia article
Melbourne Zoo Wikipedia · Checked 2026-09-09

About Melbourne Zoo

Melbourne Zoo is a zoological park situated in the city of Melbourne, Victoria. Established in 1862, it holds distinction as Australia's oldest zoo and one of the world's oldest. The facility occupies extensive parkland within Royal Park, north of the central business district. It operates as a not-for-profit conservation organisation focused on wildlife preservation, education, and public engagement. The zoo participates in international breeding programs for threatened species and maintains diverse habitats representing ecosystems from across Australia and globally. Open daily 09:00-17:00; animal operations, severe weather and special events can alter individual exhibits. Step-free entrances or public approaches, lifts where required, and accessible toilets serve principal visitor areas. Open daily 09:00-17:00; animal operations, severe weather and special events can alter individual exhibits. Adult admission is around AUD 53; children under 16 enter free on weekends, Victorian public holidays and school holidays. Step-free entrances or public approaches, lifts where required, and accessible toilets serve principal visitor areas. Upfield train to Royal Park station or tram 58 to Melbourne Zoo. Yes. Events, maintenance, weather and security can change ordinary access. No. Special tours, exhibitions and activities use separate tickets. Open daily 09:00-17:00; animal operations, severe weather and special events can alter individual exhibits. Adult admission is around AUD 53; children under 16 enter free on

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

What's inside

The zoo presents animal exhibits organised across bioclimatic zones including Australian bush, Asian rainforest, African savanna, and orangutan sanctuary. Notable inhabitants include native Australian wildlife such as kangaroos, koalas, and platypus alongside international species including elephants, tigers, gorillas, and butterflies in a dedicated enclosure. The Trail of the Elephants and Lion Gorge represent major exhibit investments. Interpretive signage, keeper presentations, and immersive habitat design constitute visitor experiences. Botanical collections complement animal displays. Dining outlets, picnic areas, and children's playgrounds support extended visits. Conservation messaging integrates throughout the visitor journey. Adult admission is around AUD 53; children under 16 enter free on weekends, Victorian public holidays and school holidays. Upfield train to Royal Park station or tram 58 to Melbourne Zoo.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

How long to spend

Visitor duration varies substantially based on individual interests, physical capacity, and seasonal conditions. Comprehensive exploration encompassing all major exhibits, keeper talks, and rest periods typically requires a full day. Families with young children may progress more slowly due to playground engagement and reduced walking pace. Repeat visitors often focus on preferred sections rather than complete circuits. The expansive grounds necessitate considerable walking; comfortable footwear and realistic pacing improve experience quality. Photography enthusiasts and those attending scheduled presentations should allocate additional time beyond casual touring estimates. Step-free entrances or public approaches, lifts where required, and accessible toilets serve principal visitor areas.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Season and crowds

Open daily 09:00-17:00; animal operations, severe weather and special events can alter individual exhibits. Dated closures, ceremonies, performances, weather or security notices from the operator take priority over ordinary hours. Arrive early enough to complete the public route before final admission. Follow staff directions on arrival.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Tickets

Adult admission is around AUD 53; children under 16 enter free on weekends, Victorian public holidays and school holidays. The base amount and currency follow the operator tariff; premium products and separate institutions remain excluded unless named. Yes. Events, maintenance, weather and security can change ordinary access.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Getting there

Upfield train to Royal Park station or tram 58 to Melbourne Zoo. Use the named entrance and station because security, separate exits and large complexes can change the practical route. Allow extra time for screening and the final walk. Follow staff directions on arrival. Follow staff directions on arrival.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

What to watch out for

Step-free entrances or public approaches, lifts where required, and accessible toilets serve principal visitor areas. Open daily 09:00-17:00; animal operations, severe weather and special events can alter individual exhibits. Adult admission is around AUD 53; children under 16 enter free on weekends, Victorian public holidays and school holidays. Step-free entrances or public approaches, lifts where required, and accessible toilets serve principal visitor areas. Historic surfaces, crowds and security remain relevant.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Photography

Photography for personal use is generally accommodated throughout Melbourne Zoo. Animal exhibits present variable conditions for image capture including distance, barrier interference, lighting contrasts between shaded habitats and open areas, and animal movement. Flash photography may disturb sensitive species; signage indicates restrictions. Commercial, promotional, or professional photography typically requires advance arrangement and possible permitting. Drone operation is prohibited. Visitors should respect other guests' viewing opportunities when positioning for photographs. Tripod and monopod use may encounter practical constraints in crowded conditions. Adult admission is around AUD 53; children under 16 enter free on weekends, Victorian public holidays and school holidays.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Common questions

What are the regular hours or current access terms?

Open daily 09:00-17:00; animal operations, severe weather and special events can alter individual exhibits.

What is base admission?

Adult admission is around AUD 53; children under 16 enter free on weekends, Victorian public holidays and school holidays.

Is the complete route step-free?

Step-free entrances or public approaches, lifts where required, and accessible toilets serve principal visitor areas.

Which public transport is named?

Upfield train to Royal Park station or tram 58 to Melbourne Zoo.

Can operations alter access?

Yes. Events, maintenance, weather and security can change ordinary access.

Are premium products included?

No. Special tours, exhibitions and activities use separate tickets.

Where it is

Nearby

Within 36 min on foot
  • Queen Victoria Market 45 min
    32 min walk

    Queen Victoria Market

    • Must see · Heritage site
    • Market
  • Old Melbourne Gaol 45 min
    36 min walk

    Old Melbourne Gaol

    • Must see · Heritage site
    • Historic monument
  • Melbourne Museum 1 hr 30 min
    34 min walk

    Melbourne Museum

    • Must see
    • Museum

Last updated:

Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, Wikidata ·