Melbourne Zoo Tickets: Melbourne Zoo is one of Australia’s most iconic wildlife destinations, located in Parkville, Melbourne, just 4 km north of the city center. Opened in 1862, the zoo spans 22 hectares and is home to over 5,000 animals from around the world. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or planning a family outing, visiting Melbourne Zoo is a must-do experience. Here’s everything you need to know about Melbourne Zoo tickets, pricing, membership options, and tips for your visit.
Melbourne Zoo tickets and visit details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Elliott Ave, Parkville VIC 3052, Melbourne, Australia |
| Area | 22 hectares |
| Opening Hours | Daily: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Number of Animals | 5,120 |
| Number of Species | 250 |
| Ticket Purchase | Online (recommended) / At the gate |
| Payment Methods | Credit/Debit cards, NFC mobile payments (no cash) |
Melbourne Zoo Overview
Melbourne Zoo is part of Zoos Victoria and is renowned for its rich collection of native and exotic species. Key highlights include:
- Total Animals: 5,120
- Number of Species: 250
- Notable Animals: Dokkoon (Giant Anteater), Mek Kapah (Orangutan), Hutan (Gorilla), Kanzi (Chimpanzee), Num-Oi (Tiger)
- Special Exhibits: African Savannah, Trail of the Elephants, Orangutan Sanctuary
The zoo offers an educational and immersive wildlife experience suitable for all ages.
Melbourne Zoo Ticket Information
You can buy tickets online in advance or at the zoo entrance. Purchasing tickets online is recommended to avoid long queues, especially during weekends, holidays, and school breaks.
- Online Tickets: Fast entry, skip-the-line benefits, and occasional online discounts.
- At-Gate Tickets: Available, but lines may be long during peak days.
Payment Methods: Melbourne Zoo accepts credit/debit cards and NFC mobile payments. Cash is generally not accepted.
Melbourne Zoo Ticket Prices
Melbourne Zoo offers a range of tickets for adults, children, seniors, and concession holders.
| Ticket Type | Weekday Price | Weekend/Holiday Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult (16+) | $54.50 | $54.50 | Unlimited access |
| Child (4–15 yrs) | $28.50 | Free* | Free on weekends & public holidays |
| Child (0–3 yrs) | Free | Free | – |
| Concession | $41.00 | $41.00 | Full-time students, healthcare card, disability card |
| Senior | $49.00 | $49.00 | Australian Seniors Card holders |
*Free entry for children on Victorian school holidays and public holidays.
Melbourne Zoo Membership Options
For those planning multiple visits, membership is highly recommended. Memberships include access to all Zoos Victoria sites (Melbourne Zoo, Healesville Sanctuary, Werribee Open Range Zoo, and Kyabram Fauna Park).
| Membership Type | Price (Annual) | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | $149 | Unlimited zoo entry, discounts, pre-sale events |
| Child | $28.50 | Access to all four zoos, free upgrade with adult membership |
| Concession | $112 | Same as adult membership plus partner discounts |
| Senior | $134 | Full benefits for seniors including partner discounts |
Memberships are ideal for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and frequent visitors. You can also upgrade single-day tickets to a membership within 14 days of your visit.
Booking Melbourne Zoo tickets online and offline
Online Booking:
- Visit the official Melbourne Zoo or Zoos Victoria website.
- Select the date, ticket type (Adult, Child, Concession, Senior).
- Make payment via credit/debit card or NFC mobile payment.
- Receive digital tickets via email or download from your account.
Offline Booking (At the Gate):
- Visit Melbourne Zoo entrance at Royal Park, Parkville.
- Choose your ticket type at the ticket counter.
- Pay via card or accepted payment method (cash may not be accepted).
- Collect your ticket and enter the zoo.
Tip: Online booking is recommended to skip queues, especially on weekends and holidays.
Opening Hours
Melbourne Zoo is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
| Day | Opening Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Thursday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Friday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Saturday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Sunday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Tip: Check the zoo’s official website for special closure dates such as private events.
How to Reach Melbourne Zoo
By Car
- Melbourne Zoo is minutes from the city center and 20 minutes from Melbourne Airport.
- Parking: $2 for a 5-hour ticket, managed by Melbourne City Council.
- Accessibility: Disabled parking bays available with a valid permit.
By Public Transport
- Tram: Route 58 stops directly outside the zoo (Stop 26).
- Train: Upfield line stops at Royal Park Station, near the zoo entrance.
- Bus: Route 505 from Moonee Ponds to Melbourne University stops outside the zoo.
Tips for Regional Visitors
- Use V/Line Family Traveller tickets for trains from regional Victoria (up to 2 children free per adult).
Melbourne Zoo – Attractions & Highlights
- Australian Bush – See kangaroos, koalas, wombats, and emus in naturalistic habitats.
- Trail of the Elephants – Explore the Asian rainforest habitat and watch elephants up close.
- Lion Gorge – Experience African lions in a spacious, rocky enclosure.
- Butterfly House – Walk through a tropical greenhouse full of colorful butterflies.
- Gorilla Rainforest – Observe gorillas, orangutans, and other rainforest species.
- Reptile House – Discover snakes, lizards, and crocodiles native to Australia and beyond.
- Australian Wetlands – Home to platypuses, water birds, and native fish.
- Wild Sea Life – Encounter seals, penguins, and other aquatic animals.
- Keeper Talks & Animal Feeding Sessions – Learn from experts about animal behaviors and conservation efforts.
- Children’s Zoo & Play Areas – Interactive spaces for kids to explore and engage with animals.
- Photography Spots – Scenic viewpoints for capturing memorable wildlife experiences.
- Events & Seasonal Shows – Special exhibitions, night tours, and seasonal events for families.
Animals at Melbourne Zoo:
| Category | Animals |
|---|---|
| Mammals | Kangaroos, Koalas, Wombats, Gorillas, Orangutans, Lions, Elephants |
| Birds | Emus, Water Birds, Exotic Birds, Penguins |
| Reptiles | Snakes, Lizards, Crocodiles |
| Amphibians | Frogs, Toads |
| Insects & Butterflies | Butterflies, Exotic Insects |
| Aquatic Animals | Platypus, Native Fish, Seals |
Tips for Visiting Melbourne Zoo
- Arrive early, especially if tickets are not pre-purchased.
- Visit weekdays to avoid crowds.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and carry water, sunscreen, and hats.
- Plan your visit around animal feeding times and shows for the best experience.
Do’s and Don’ts at Melbourne Zoo
| Do’s | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Follow zoo maps and signage | Feed the animals |
| Respect animals’ spaces | Smoke outside designated areas |
| Dispose of trash properly | Litter |
| Use cameras for personal use | Use drones or professional cameras |
| Stay with your group | Disturb wildlife |
FAQs
What are the Melbourne Zoo opening hours?
- The zoo is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
How can I buy tickets for Melbourne Zoo?
- Tickets can be purchased online (recommended to skip queues) or at the gate upon arrival.
What are the ticket prices?
- Adult: From $54.50
- Child (4–15 years): $28.50 weekdays, FREE on weekends & public holidays
- Child (0–3 years): FREE
- Concession: From $41.00
- Senior: From $49.00
Can I use my membership to enter the zoo?
- Yes, membership provides unlimited access to Melbourne Zoo and other affiliated zoos, along with discounts and exclusive events.
Is parking available at Melbourne Zoo?
- Yes, paid parking is available at $2 for a 5-hour ticket, managed by Melbourne City Council.
What payment methods are accepted?
- Credit/debit cards and NFC mobile payments. Cash is not accepted.
Are there any accessibility facilities?
- Yes, Melbourne Zoo provides wheelchair assistance, accessible viewing platforms, and restrooms.
When is the best time to visit?
- Weekdays are ideal to avoid crowds. Arrive early to enjoy animal feeding sessions and popular exhibits.
Are there any prohibited items at the zoo?
- Yes, items like drones, professional cameras, outside food and beverages, smoking outside designated areas, and pets are not allowed.
Can I upgrade my ticket to a membership?
- Yes, you can upgrade within 14 days of your visit, and the cost of your ticket will be deducted from the membership fee.
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