The top zoos & aquariums in Australia

Taronga Zoo is a real treat for those searching for the classic zoo experience. Overlooking the iconic harbour, this place is popular for good reason. It has the big ticket animal exhibits, incredible views, and entertaining shows like The Seals for Wild and Free Flight Birds presentations.

The biggest drawcard is the location. While there’s plenty of parking, it’s only a short ferry ride from Circular Quay and seeing the sights as you cruise over is all part of the experience. To get the best bang for your buck, grab combo tickets that include your return ferry and zoo entry.

Sydney Zoo has been designed for a hassle-free family day out. It has been built with accessibility in mind. There are zero hills or steps, making it wheelchair and pram-friendly, so all visitors can take in the animals and enjoy a fun-filled experience.

The only combined zoo and aquarium in Sydney, you’ll find over 4,000 animals from around the globe. It even features the world’s largest Reptile and Nocturnal House, making it the one-stop shop for those looking to cover as many animals as possible. Throw in the free parking, cultural shows and daily keeper talks included with your general admission tickets, and you’ve got a winner.

Symbio Wildlife Park is the ideal zoo for those looking to avoid the crowds. Located just south of Sydney, it tends to fly under the radar - perfect for a laid-back day introducing the kids to a bunch of Aussie animals.

From cuddling up to a koala and patting the kangaroos to the farmyard feeds, animal lovers will be right in their element with interactive encounters sprinkled all around. There’s also a Splash Park, which is included with the entry tickets, so don't forget to pack cozzies if it's a warm day.

Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounter Aquarium in Port Stephens will get you up and close and personal with marine life. Not your average aquarium, you can dip your feet in and get amongst the action as you pet, feed and say hello to the resident sharks and rays.

It won’t cost you anything extra to feed the animals, with the shark food included in your ticket. Just make sure to pack a towel with some reef-friendly sunscreen. It’s also handy to wear shorts and a shirt, so you can avoid your clothes getting wet in the lagoon.

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary nails that sweet spot between fun and learning. From koala selfies and an exciting mix of live animals shows to a behind-the-scenes look into one of the world's busiest wildlife hospitals, there’s plenty happening here.

Spread across 27 hectares, the best way to get around is the hop on and off mini train. Running all day, it has four stops, making it easier to tick off everything with the kids in toe. Oh, and the general admission tickets include 10% off any food and drinks or retail purchases in-park – talk about value!

The Wildlife Habitat in Port Douglas is the perfect family day if you’re after a slower pace that still delights all ages. The sweetest part? Kiddies three and under can get in, free of charge. All about those chilled Tropical North Queensland vibes, this eco-certified sanctuary highlights natural world – with five authentic habitats to explore and plenty of wildlife to encounter along the way.

Whether you’re itching to see some apex predators or admire the rare species that live in the park, there’s something for all members of the clan with croc feedings, keeper talks and animals photos included in your ticket.

Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary lets you come face-to-face with species that no longer exist anywhere else, like the Tasmanian devil, pademelon and bettong and the eastern quoll. Cosy in size, but big in heart, this sanctuary is all about conservation, with initiatives like a 24/7 wildlife rescue service and a onsite wildlife hospital.

For the curious members of the clan, you can catch a glimpse into the hospital by checking it out from the viewing deck. There's also shows and a wildlife tour (running four times a day at 10am, 11:30am, 1:30pm and 3:30pm), which are all included in your ticket. Heads up, the roos roam around freely, so make sure to grab the free bag of food to feed them.

The Aquarium of Western Australia is a must for anyone who has dreamed of life under the sea. The largest single aquarium in the country, it is jampacked with a long-list of native and exotic marine animals spread over five different exhibits, including turtles, sea dragons, fish, sharks and more.

Perfect for some sensory play, the immersive discovery touch pool is a great spot for the kids to play around. Afterwards, you can take a spin on the carousel ride through an underwater tunnel, where sharks and stingrays swim above. To add further value, tickets also include free story time and a guided tour too.