Darling Downs Zoo: A Wildlife Adventure
Discover a world of wildlife in Queensland's Darling Downs. Home to over 500 animals from around the globe, perfect for a family day out.
Nestled in Pilton, Queensland, Darling Downs Zoo offers an immersive wildlife experience with a diverse collection of animals from around the globe. It's a perfect family day out, showcasing everything from African lions to Sumatran tigers in naturalistic habitats.
A brief summary to Darling Downs Zoo
- 21 Baines Rd, Pilton, Queensland, 4361, AU
- +61746964107
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions in Pilton can differ from Brisbane. Bring sun protection and water.
- Consider booking an animal encounter for a more personal experience. Encounters have limited spots and may have age restrictions.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking. Some paths have gravel or uneven terrain.
- Arrive early to make the most of your day. Last admissions are at 3pm.
- Note that GPS devices may lead you astray. Follow the brown Main Roads tourism directional signs from the New England Highway.
Getting There
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Driving
Darling Downs Zoo is located at 21 Baines Rd, Pilton, approximately midway between Toowoomba and Warwick. From either city, take the New England Highway and watch for the clearly indicated brown Main Roads tourism directional signs. Turn onto Baines Road; the zoo is 5 kilometers along this road. Free parking is available on-site.
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Public Transport
While there's no direct public transport to the zoo's entrance, you can take a bus from Toowoomba to Nobby. From Nobby, a taxi to the zoo will cost approximately $60-$95 and take about 10 minutes. Alternatively, from Brisbane, take a train to Helidon and then a taxi to the zoo, which will cost $230 - $750.
Discover more about Darling Downs Zoo
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Toowoomba & Darling Downs Family History
36.8 km
Discover the poignant stories of the past at Toowoomba & Darling Downs Family History, a serene cemetery steeped in local heritage.
Darling Downs Tourism
42.6 km
Experience the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Darling Downs, Australia's hidden gem for adventurous travelers and food lovers alike.
Lions Scenic View Rest Area
42.8 km
Discover the stunning natural beauty and panoramic views at Lions Scenic View Rest Area in Mount Kynoch, Queensland, an unmissable scenic spot for travelers.
Cunninghams Crest Lookout
49.6 km
Discover the stunning Cunninghams Crest Lookout in Queensland, where breathtaking views and nature's beauty await every visitor.
Ipswich General Cemetery
78.4 km
Explore Ipswich General Cemetery, a historic Queensland burial ground with stories etched in stone, reflecting the city's rich heritage.
Beaury Creek
78.9 km
Explore the serene beauty of Beaury Creek in New South Wales, where nature and adventure await amidst stunning landscapes.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mary Poppins House
16.0 km
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Warraba Sunflowers
21.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Warraba Sunflowers in Cambooya, Queensland - a vibrant destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Glengallan Homestead & Heritage Centre
23.6 km
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Gormans Gap Trail Viewing Platform
28.4 km
Discover the stunning vistas of the Main Range from the Gormans Gap Trail Viewing Platform, a must-visit destination in Queensland's natural beauty.
Archer's Slide
28.7 km
Discover the thrilling Archer's Slide in Preston, Queensland—a perfect family-friendly destination for adventure and natural beauty.
Glen Lomond Park
31.3 km
Explore Glen Lomond Park in Middle Ridge, a serene escape with lush landscapes, picnic spots, and scenic walking trails for all nature lovers.
UniSQ Japanese Garden QLD
33.6 km
Discover tranquility and cultural beauty at the UniSQ Japanese Garden in Toowoomba, a serene park perfect for relaxation and reflection.
Main Range National Park, Goomburra Section
33.8 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and tranquil beauty of Main Range National Park, Goomburra Section, a true natural escape in Queensland.
Toowoomba Live Steamers Inc.
33.9 km
Experience the magic of miniature steam trains at Toowoomba Live Steamers Inc., a delightful family-friendly attraction in Queensland.
Drayton Harbour Lookout
34.3 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Queensland's natural beauty at Drayton Harbour Lookout, a serene escape from the city in Drayton.
Table Top / Meewah
34.5 km
Experience the breathtaking views and serene trails of Table Top Mountain in Rangeville, Queensland – a perfect outdoor adventure awaits.
Tobruk Drive Lookout
34.7 km
Explore the stunning views and rich history at Tobruk Drive Lookout, an essential destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts in Queensland.
DownsSteam Tourist Railway & Museum
34.8 km
Discover the charm of historic rail travel at DownsSteam Tourist Railway & Museum, a delightful destination for history buffs and families alike.
Picnic Point Parklands
34.9 km
Experience the tranquility and stunning views of Picnic Point Parklands, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and tourists in Queensland.
The Big Sunflower
35.0 km
A towering tribute in the Garden City, The Big Sunflower celebrates Toowoomba's community, education, and local hero, Ian Orford.
Essential places to dine
Kingfishers Cafe Restaurant
33.5 km
Discover the delightful flavors of Kingfishers Cafe in Kearneys Spring - your go-to spot for breakfast and freshly brewed coffee.
The Southern Hotel Toowoomba
34.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at The Southern Hotel Toowoomba - where delicious food meets friendly service in Kearneys Spring.
Bluebird Kitchen and Smokehouse
36.2 km
Experience the unique flavors of Bluebird Kitchen and Smokehouse in Warwick - where every breakfast is a creative delight.
Rupert's Bar & Grill
36.3 km
Experience mouthwatering steaks and vibrant ambiance at Rupert's Bar & Grill in Warwick, Queensland - A must-visit for food lovers.
The Other Bird
36.7 km
Experience delightful flavors at The Other Bird in East Toowoomba – your go-to spot for fresh local cuisine and specialty coffee.
Falvey's Stock Hotel
36.8 km
Discover authentic Australian cuisine at Falvey's Stock Hotel in Harristown - where traditional pub charm meets modern dining.
Vista Restaurant at Comfort Inn Grammar View
37.0 km
Experience exceptional dining at Vista Restaurant in Toowoomba – where local flavors meet cozy ambiance.
Zack's
37.1 km
Discover delightful dishes at Zack's in Toowoomba - where family-friendly dining meets local flavors in a vibrant atmosphere.
Cafe Valetta
37.1 km
Experience delightful breakfasts and lunches at Cafe Valetta in East Toowoomba - where every bite tells a story.
Encores at the Empire
37.2 km
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Host. Dining + Wine Bar
37.2 km
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Piccolo Papà
37.3 km
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Sofra
37.4 km
Discover authentic Turkish flavors at Sofra in Toowoomba - where every dish tells a story.
Stonegrill Dining
37.4 km
Discover the unique dining experience at Stonegrill Dining in Toowoomba City where you can cook your own meals on volcanic stones.
La Pizzaiola
37.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Pizzaiola in Toowoomba - where every pizza tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Toowoomba Plaza
33.8 km
Discover Toowoomba Plaza: Your ultimate shopping destination in Queensland with diverse stores, delicious dining, and family-friendly entertainment.
The Makers Market
33.9 km
Explore a charming gift shop in Toowoomba City, featuring unique handmade treasures from local artisans, perfect for souvenirs or special gifts.
Anzac Avenue Shop (A Lifeline Darling Downs Op-Shop)
34.9 km
Explore Anzac Avenue Shop, a treasure trove of pre-loved items in Drayton, supporting community services through Lifeline Darling Downs.
Range Antiques
35.8 km
Explore a treasure trove of history at Range Antiques in East Toowoomba - where every item tells a story.
Rose City Shoppingworld
35.9 km
Explore Rose City Shoppingworld in Warwick, Queensland – a vibrant shopping destination with diverse stores and delightful dining options.
The Range Boutique Shop (A Lifeline Darling Downs Op-Shop)
36.0 km
Explore The Range Boutique Shop for unique thrift treasures while supporting Lifeline Darling Downs in East Toowoomba, Queensland.
Never Ending Stories Bookshop (A Lifeline Darling Downs Op-Shop)
36.0 km
Discover a hidden gem in East Toowoomba at Never Ending Stories Bookshop, a unique used book store supporting Lifeline Darling Downs.
Hannas
36.9 km
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Magnolia Toowoomba
37.3 km
Explore Magnolia Toowoomba for unique gifts, stylish fashion, and exquisite homewares that capture the essence of Toowoomba.
Belle Fleur Store
37.3 km
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Little Chiefs Boutique
37.3 km
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Grand Central Shopping Centre
37.4 km
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Smoke & Mirrors Boutique
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Herries Street Superstore (A Lifeline Darling Downs Op-Shop)
37.6 km
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Sunday Merchant Toowoomba
37.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rudd's Pub
12.3 km
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Sandy Creek Pub
33.2 km
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Downs Hotel
34.1 km
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Federal Hotel
36.3 km
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The Rock
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uva wine bar
37.3 km
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Santé Cocktail Bar
37.3 km
Santé Cocktail Bar in Toowoomba: Where exquisite cocktails meet a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
Bodega
37.3 km
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Tailgate Sports Bar
37.3 km
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Tapestry Bar at Fitzy’s
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Tatts Hotel
37.4 km
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Cork & Lever
37.4 km
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Bone Idol Brewery
37.5 km
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Dream Cafe & Bar
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The Vault On Ruthven
37.6 km
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