Adelaide Zoo (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Adelaide Zoo?
What makes it 95% Kids-Friendly: Children up to 12 can roam Nature’s Playground, join Junior Keeper, watch daily feeds and see pandas; flat paths, toilets and shade make a stress-free full-day visit.
Positives:
- Family-friendly facilities: Playground, picnic spots, and pram-friendly paths keep everyone comfortable.
- Interactive experiences: Hands-on feeds and keeper talks engage kids and spark curiosity.
Challenges:
- Weather sensitivity: Most paths are outdoors—plan indoor stops during hot or rainy periods.
- Experience booking: Paid encounters like giraffe and penguin feeds often sell out; reserve early.
What is Adelaide Zoo?
- A heritage zoological park in North Adelaide, established in 1883 and set within eight hectares of landscaped riverbank gardens
- A conservation-focused wildlife sanctuary housing over 2,500 animals spanning more than 250 species, from native koalas and kangaroos to giant pandas and Sumatran tigers
- A heritage-listed precinct featuring architect-designed enclosures and curated plantings that replicate natural habitats and support ecological research
What is so special about Adelaide Zoo for with kids?
- Interactive keeper presentations and animal feeds
- Nature’s Playground for child-led play
- Short, guided giraffe and penguin encounters
- Indoor Nocturnal House offers cool shade
- Pram-friendly paths, picnic lawns, and cafés
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for main exhibits, a play break, and a short animal encounter without rushing young kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Adelaide Zoo
Keeper Presentations:
Watch timed animal feedings and meet zookeepers up close.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early and stand near the front rail for best views.
Nature’s Playground:
Climb, splash in the creek bed, and explore themed play equipment.
Tip: Plan this midway through your visit to let kids burn energy before lunch.
Giraffe Feed:
Hand-feed giraffes with celery and carrots in a short guided session.
Tip: Book the 11:30 am slot online in advance to fit around other feeds.
Penguins In Person:
Feed Little Penguins and receive a professional photo keepsake.
Tip: Available Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun at 9:45 am—reserve tickets early.
Nocturnal House:
Peek at night-active animals in a dimly lit indoor habitat.
Tip: Visit during midday heat to cool off and avoid crowds later.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Adelaide Zoo
- Follow the daily schedule: Pick up a showtimes map at entry or use the app to plan feed presentations.
- Pack snacks: Bring easy snacks to avoid café queues and keep energy up between meals.
Reviews of Adelaide Zoo
James Mccloy
Visited on a mild Friday mid November. Excellent facilities, food and refreshments. But vitally the care of the animals and enclosures was exceptional. Easy access throughout and enough to see to fill a six hour gentle meander. Let alone the colony of Flying Fixes right out front!
W Mitchell
Had a work function after hours with a giraffe feeding experience included. Was an amazing experience. Not just the giraffe feeding but the entire function was great. Food was amazing, well presented and tasty. (My partner is a chef, so I can be picky). Staff were all amazing, remembering people's drink orders and very personable. Well trained and friendly.
Conny Van Balen
My granddaughter and I enjoyed our visit to the zoo. It’s been over ten years since I’ve been and I was pleasantly surprised by the changes to the design. There is a great adventure type playground which my granddaughter explored enthusiastically. We also loved the overhead animal runs giving some of the tree dwelling creatures more freedom.
Vangelis Yap
The car park for zoo allow to park maximum 4 hours. It is not long enough, but understand is a control of the flow of tourists, ensure all visitors got chance to go in and not crowded of people, so that visitors feel comfortable during the visit. The admission fee is quite high, but reasonable. Most native animals can find in the zoo. A bonus to the trip, 2 Panda is found inside the zoo, and we wi...
Darshini
Absolutely wonderful, so many animal experiences to do and I got to feed a cute hippo. Loved it. I will definitely visit again when I go to Adelaide. The cafe has respectable vegetarian and vegan options and there's a water fountain close to the kangaroos. People are so friendly and nice. This is a zoo I'd actually donate to. Very close to the city and walkable distance too
When is the best time to visit Adelaide Zoo (Adelaide, Australia)?
In summer (Oct–Mar), wear sun hats, apply sunscreen, and refill water bottles at fountains. Holders of day tickets can stay for free Zoo Nights after 5 pm to see crepuscular animals.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Zoo entry (2 adults + 1 child 4–15 + 1 child < 4) | AUD 122 |
| Lunch at café | AUD 60 |
| Stroller hire (Zoobaru) | AUD 19 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 201 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Adelaide Zoo
Address: Plane Tree Dr, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia
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Looking for other Things to Do besides Adelaide Zoo (Adelaide)?
About Adelaide Zoo
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+61 8 8267 3255Explore Popular Things to Do
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