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Adelaide Zoo: A City Oasis of Wildlife

Discover wildlife conservation in the heart of Adelaide at the historic Adelaide Zoo, home to over 250 animal species and lush botanic surrounds.

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Located in the heart of Adelaide, the Adelaide Zoo is Australia's second oldest zoo, offering a captivating experience with over 2,500 animals from 250 species. From Giant Pandas to Sumatran tigers, the zoo combines wildlife conservation with botanical beauty.

A brief summary to Adelaide Zoo

Local tips

  • Arrive early to make the most of your visit and avoid crowds, especially during weekends and school holidays.
  • Check the daily schedule for keeper talks and animal feeding times to enhance your experience.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy in the zoo's shady spots, or grab a bite at one of the on-site cafes.
  • Consider purchasing a Zoos SA membership for unlimited visits to Adelaide Zoo and Monarto Safari Park.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Rundle Mall, Adelaide's central shopping district, head north on King William Street. Turn left onto North Terrace and continue east. Cross Frome Road, and you'll find the Adelaide Zoo entrance on your right, approximately a 15-minute walk.

  • Public Transport

    From Adelaide Railway Station or Currie Street, take bus 271 or 273 directly to the Adelaide Zoo entrance. Alight at Stop 2 Frome Rd - South West side, which is directly outside the zoo. A single trip bus fare is around $5.

  • Taxi

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Adelaide. A taxi from the Adelaide city center to the zoo takes approximately 5 minutes and costs between $11 and $14. Ask your driver to take you to the main entrance on Frome Road.

  • Driving

    From the city center, follow Frome Road north. Limited metered parking is available on Plane Tree Drive, War Memorial Drive, and Frome Road. Parking is managed by the Adelaide Botanic Gardens and Adelaide City Council. Wilson Parking on Frome Road (next to the old Royal Adelaide Hospital site) offers a special $7 flat rate all-day parking on weekends. Alternatively, UPark Frome Street is about a 10-minute walk away, with hourly rates starting at $5. All-day parking on Plane Tree Drive costs $10. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially during peak times.

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Discover more about Adelaide Zoo

Adelaide Zoo, opened in 1883, is a zoological garden located in the parklands north of Adelaide's city center. Spanning 8 hectares (20 acres), the zoo is home to over 2,500 animals representing 250 species of native and exotic mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish. It is operated by the Royal Zoological Society of South Australia, a non-profit conservation organization. The zoo is renowned for its conservation efforts, participating in regional and global breeding programs to protect endangered species. Visitors can explore diverse exhibits, including the Giant Panda exhibit, Immersion South East Asian Rainforest, and the Australian Rainforest Wetlands aviary. The zoo also features a Reptile House and a Nocturnal House, showcasing a variety of unique species. Adelaide Zoo has a rich history, retaining many of its original buildings and garden designs. The original gates, built in 1883, and Minchin House, the former director's residence, are notable landmarks. The zoo has evolved over the years, with new exhibits and facilities enhancing the visitor experience. Today, Adelaide Zoo is a leader in conservation, education, and connecting people with nature. It offers a range of experiences, including keeper talks, animal encounters, and interactive exhibits. The zoo is committed to providing an accessible and inclusive environment for all visitors. In January 2025, Adelaide Zoo welcomed a new Giant Panda duo, Xing Qiu and Yi Lan, replacing Wang Wang and Funi. These pandas have quickly become a major attraction, drawing visitors from around the world.

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