Melbourne Zoo

Melbourne Zoo, officially the Royal Melbourne Zoological Gardens, is a major zoological park located in Royal Park, Parkville, about 4 km north of central Melbourne, Victoria. Established in 1862, it is Australia's oldest zoo and houses more than 5,000 animals representing over 300 species. Notable for its landscaped botanical setting, immersive habitats such as the Trail of the Elephants and Gorilla Rainforest, and strong conservation and breeding programs.

Visitors can explore a 22-hectare landscaped site with open-range and immersive enclosures set among gardens and heritage buildings. Expect to see Australian natives, African and Asian animals, primates, big cats, reptiles and birds across themed precincts including Trail of the Elephants, Gorilla Rainforest, Lion Gorge and Australian Bush. The zoo offers keeper talks, feeding presentations, walking trails, picnic lawns, cafes and play spaces in a parkland environment.

Opened on 6 October 1862, Melbourne Zoo is Australia's oldest zoo. It was initially established by the Acclimatisation Society of Victoria on a site in Richmond Park before moving to its current 22-hectare location in Royal Park in 1862. It has developed from a 19th-century menagerie into a modern zoological garden focused on conservation, research and education, now operated by Zoos Victoria.

A major public institution within heritage-listed Royal Park, the zoo is significant for community recreation, education and wildlife conservation in Victoria. Its landscaped gardens, historic structures and long-running conservation and breeding programs contribute to its cultural and social value for Melbourne residents and visitors.