As zoos go, this is one of the goodies. Not only is Melbourne Zoo (zoo.org.au; from $55/29) compact, well laid out, well connected to public transport and a smash hit with kids, its environmental credentials are first-rate (it was one of the first zoos in the world to be certified "carbon neutral" and it's actively committed to fighting wildlife extinction). Accessibility is excellent, too.
Established in 1862, the zoo remains one of the city’s most popular attractions, set in prettily landscaped gardens, with enclosures aiming to simulate the animals’ natural habitats and give them the option to hide if they want to (the gorillas and tigers are particularly good at playing hard to get).
There’s a large collection of native animals in natural bush settings, a platypus aquarium, fur seals, plenty of reptiles and an entire faux–Southeast Asian jungle village built around the elephant enclosures. In some cases walkways pass through the enclosures: you can stroll through some of the aviaries and enter a tropical hothouse filled with colorful butterflies. See if you can pass through Lemur Island without an internal soundtrack of "I like to move it, move it" turning over in your mind.
The penguin and seal enclosures are particularly good, offering underwater views as the cute critters torpedo past.
You'll want to allocate at least half a day to justify the hefty admission charge (prices are slightly cheaper online). Children aged under four get in for free, and under 16s are free on the weekends. Check the website for up-close animal experiences.
