The National Zoo & Aquarium puts a zoo and an aquarium on the same site in Canberra. The AdventureLand Playground gives children a break between enclosures, and a Social Story is available to help children prepare for the visit.
Food is flexible. You can bring your own and use the picnic and barbecue facilities, or eat at the Rhino Bistro or Jungle Vines Cafe; the Meerkat Snack Shack opens only at peak times.
The trade-off is the ground underfoot. Prams and strollers are allowed, and the Aquarium is fully accessible, but some areas of the zoo grounds have difficult access because of slopes or gravel paths. Leave the bikes and scooters at home too, including toddler three-wheelers: they aren’t allowed inside.
Tickets are not refunded, but if it rains or the forecast is over 34 degrees, the zoo offers a free return visit, subject to conditions.
Family FAQ
How much does National Zoo & Aquarium cost?
A two-day ticket gives you two visits on one ticket.
Can you bring a stroller to National Zoo & Aquarium?
Prams and strollers are allowed in the zoo; some areas of the grounds have slopes or gravel paths.
Can you bring your own food to National Zoo & Aquarium?
You can bring your own food and use the picnic and BBQ facilities.
Is there parking at National Zoo & Aquarium?
Parking is free, with accessible spaces near each entry, including the main entrance and the Rhino Bistro entry.
