Melbourne Zoo Events

Last updated February 2026

Melbourne Zoo is located in Royal Park at Parkville, approximately 4 kilometres north of the Melbourne CBD, and is the oldest zoo in Australia, having opened in 1862. The zoo covers around 22 hectares and houses more than 300 species across themed precincts including the Trail of the Elephants, Gorilla Rainforest, Lion Gorge, and a dedicated children's zoo. Public transport access via tram from the city is straightforward, making it one of the more accessible major family attractions in Melbourne without requiring a car. The zoo is operated by Zoos Victoria, and a single membership covers access to Healesville Sanctuary and Werribee Open Range Zoo as well. It is one of the most visited paid attractions in Victoria each year. **What to Bring** A pram or stroller handles most sealed paths comfortably. Sunscreen, hats, and a packed lunch are all practical — outside food is permitted and most families bring their own given the volume of ground covered. Comfortable walking shoes are advisable for a full day. **Best Age Range** The zoo works well for children from infancy through to the early teens. The children's zoo and farmyard are particularly strong for ages 2–6, while the larger animal precincts — elephants, gorillas, lions — engage older children most effectively. Keeper talks and feeding sessions add structured content throughout the day. **Good to Know** The zoo is large enough that most families do not cover every precinct in a single visit. Checking the keeper talk schedule at entry and building the day around those sessions is worth the five minutes it takes. Free tram routes serve the zoo entrance directly from Swanston Street in the CBD. **Nearby** Royal Park is immediately adjacent and has a free playground and open green space that works well for a picnic after the zoo. The Parkville and Carlton areas have cafés and dining within a short tram or walk from the zoo exit. **Tips From Other Parents** Arriving at opening and heading directly to the Trail of the Elephants or Gorilla Rainforest before the crowd settles in the central precincts is the most effective strategy for avoiding congestion at the popular sections. The children's zoo section near the exit is worth leaving time for, particularly for under-5s.