A zoo doesn’t just have a lot of animals to show to visitors. It has a lot to teach to people of all ages, such as different species of zoological creatures and their natural habitats. Meanwhile, the Melbourne Zoo offers you something more than that. It is a zoology park located close to the city centre and provides a perfect environment to have a fun day out with friends and family and learn a lot about more than 300 species of animals from around the world.
You need to know a lot about this wonderful attraction for locals and tourists, including the top reasons to visit, tickets, animal species, and facilities. This article will also discuss how you can plan your day at the Zoo and have a memorable time. So, read it till the end to get some useful information.
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Facts to Learn Before Visiting the Melbourne Zoo
It is the oldest Zoo in Australia, opening its doors to the public in 1862. It is located just north of the city centre and covers an area of 11 hectares. The Zoo is home to more than 300 species of animals, making it a perfect place for a day out with your family or friends.
Types of Animal Species
Some of the most popular animal residents include lions, tigers, giraffes, elephants, kangaroos, and koalas. You can also find many other interesting species, such as little penguins, red pandas, and snow leopards. Several endangered species are also protected at the Zoo, such as the Tasmanian devil and the orange-bellied parrot.
Cost of Admission
The cost of Melbourne Zoo tickets varies for people of different age groups. Meanwhile, members get free entry. Admission is free for children under the age of four, while there are specific days when kids ages 4-15 can also visit for free. For adults, it costs $40.00, and for concession holders, the cost is $30.00. Seniors get an entry for $36.00. The ticket price also includes a free return visit within 14 days.
Available Facilities
There are several facilities available for visitors at the Zoo, such as a café, a restaurant, a gift shop, and an ATM. The Zoo also has a picnic area where you can enjoy your lunch with a view of the animals. There is also a playground for children, a car park, and a coach park.
Timings
The Melbourne Zoo is open every day of the year from 09:00 to 17:00. The last entry is at 16:00, and the gates close at 17:00. It is easily accessible by public transport, with a number of tram and bus routes nearby. The closest train station is Flinders Street, about a 20-minute walk from the Zoo. You can also drive to the Zoo as plenty of on-site parking is available.
The Melbourne Zoo Membership
As a member, you receive free entry to the Zoo for 12 months and invitations to exclusive members-only events. You will also be helping to care for many endangered species and fight wildlife extinction. An adult can become a member for a year by paying $120.00, and it’s free for kids under 16. A senior citizen can get the membership for $108.00, while the concession holders only have to pay $90.00.
Top Reasons to Visit Melbourne Zoo
There are many reasons why you should visit this wonderful Zoo in Melbourne, but here are our top five:
- To learn about different animals and their natural habitats of more than 300 species
- To see some of the most popular animals up close, such as lions, tigers, giraffes, and elephants
- To support the Zoo’s conservation efforts for endangered species
- To enjoy a day out with family or friends in a beautiful setting
- Because it is just 4 km away from the city centre and you can travel there easily by any means of transport
How to Plan Your Day at the Zoo?
If you’re planning to visit this Zoo, here are some tips to help you make the most of your day:
- Arrive early to avoid the crowds and heat of the day
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking
- Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water bottle to stay hydrated
- Plan your route and map out which animals you want to see
- Take advantage of the free return visit within 14 days
- Purchase your Melbourne Zoo tickets online in advance to save time
- Check the Zoo’s website for special events taking place during your visit.
What to Expect at the Zoo?
We have broken down the zones you should and will be visiting on your day at the Zoo. We suggest you use a map to navigate the park and get close to the maximum animal species.
Lion Gorge
As you enter the Zoo from the Rail gate, among the first animal you should see is the king of the jungle – the lion. You will also find other animals in this area, such as tigers, red pandas, and meerkats.
The Elephant Trail
The Elephant Trail is home to the Asian elephant, and it allows you to learn about and explore the habitat of this endangered animal. You will be offered free guided tours of the trial by volunteers.
The Butterfly House
It is a must-see for all visitors to Melbourne Zoo. Here you can see and learn about several butterfly species through interactive displays and exhibitions. You will also find a café and a gift shop in this area.
The Wild Sea
The Wild Sea is home to various fish, reptiles, and amphibians from the Victorian coast. You can also learn about the Zoo’s conservation efforts to save threatened fish species.
Growing Wild
Your visit to the Melbourne Zoo might be incomplete if you didn’t visit Growing Wild, especially when you have kids with you. That is because the area is designed for kids ages 3-8. They’ll enjoy going face-to-face with harmless insects, reptiles, and birds like Brush Turkeys.
These are some important details about the Zoo you should know about before a plan to visit it. We hope we have provided enough information to guide you about one of Melbourne’s favourite tourist attractions. Plan your day with family and friends, and make it memorable among thousands of wild animals and their habitats.
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