Visiting Sydney Animal Parks

Family Activities in Sydney: Taronga Zoo, Sydney Aquarium and others

Feb 17, 2008

Visitors don't need to head outback to experience Australian wildlife. There are many family-friendly Sydney attractions featuring Australian animals close to the city.

Visitors to Australia love to experience its unique flora and fauna. Australian native species are recognisable the world over - particularly the cuddly marsupials and amazing tropical fish. If a visit to Australia only allows time to take in the city of Sydney, there are still many opportunities to get close to Australian animals at zoos, aquariums and animal parks.

Taronga Zoo

Situated on prime real estate on the northern side of Sydney Harbour, it is no wonder Forbes Traveler ranks Taronga among the world’s best zoos. Officially opened on its current site in 1916, the zoo houses animals from all over the world, including many endangered species and prides itself on its strong education and conservation programs.

Only a twelve minute ferry-ride from Circular Quay, Taronga Zoo is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. A Zoopass can be purchased which includes ferry, zoo entry plus the Sky Safari cable car and bus from the ferry wharf to the zoo entry. Matilda Cruises also offer a harbour cruise including zoo entry. Open daily from 9am to 5pm, Taronga Zoo also offers special tours such as up-close animal encounters and overnight stays. Admission is $37 for adults, $18 for children.

Sydney Aquarium

Sydney Aquarium is an excellent day out for families, especially when rain restricts outdoor activities. Popular exhibits include seals, fairy penguins and large underwater tunnels for viewing ocean fish, sharks and stingrays. A multitude of tanks show off Australian aquatic life, particularly the colourful tropical varieties from the Great Barrier Reef. Children will enjoy spotting familiar species from Disney’s Finding Nemo and experiencing sea life hands on in the interactive touch pools.

Just minutes from the CBD, the Aquarium is accessible by ferry (from Circular Quay), bus (Sydney Explorer Stop 22), train (Town Hall station) and monorail (Darling Park).

Sydney Wildlife World

Sydney Wildlife World opened next door to the Aquarium in 2006. Also indoors and air-conditioned, Wildlife World focuses exclusively on Australian flora and fauna. Visitors can follow a storyline that encompasses conservation, the aboriginal Dreamtime, animal diversity and adaptation.

Wildlife World shares opening hours with the Sydney Aquarium of 9am – 10pm daily, closing at 6pm on Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve. Tickets can be purchased for individual venues, double passes for both attractions or triple passes including Sydney Tower. Individual admission to each exhibit is $28.50 per adult, $14.50 per child, with 10% discount available when purchasing online.

Oceanworld

A 30-minute ferry-ride from Circular Quay (15 minutes by Jetcat), Oceanworld Manly offers an overview of Australian marine life, with the addition of reptiles and spiders. There is a shark dive for the more intrepid visitor, with no dive experience necessary.

Located walking distance from Manly Beach and the restaurants of Manly Corso, Oceanworld makes a great day out away from the CBD. Open daily from 10am to 5.30pm. Closed Christmas Day. Admission is $17.95 for adults, $9.50 for children. After 3.30pm the prices are discounted by 15%.

Suburban Animal Parks

A family-run koala sanctuary featuring all kinds of Australian wildlife. Visitors can watch koalas being fed, as well as having photos taken cuddling these popular animals. Approximately 30 minutes by car from the city centre, the Koala Park is accessible by train to Pennant Hills Station and then Glenorie Bus routes 651 to 655. Open 9am to 5pm daily, closed Christmas Day. Admission is $19 per adult, $9 per child.

Fairfield City Farm is a 580 acre farm-based attraction which showcases the experiences of Australian farming life. 45 minutes from the city, the farm is open every day from 9am to 4.30pm except Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year's Day and Good Friday. Take the train to Fairfield station and then the 827 Westbus. Admission costs $10.00 per adult, and $6 per child, so well worth taking the time to get there.

When visiting Australian zoos and animal parks, check feeding and show times prior to visiting or on arrival to make best use of time at the park. Take plenty of water and snacks, particularly when travelling in the summer months. Most parks have concession prices for families, making them a great day out with kids.

The copyright of the article Visiting Sydney Animal Parks in Australia Travel is owned by Susan Whelan. Permission to republish Visiting Sydney Animal Parks in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.