Plan Your Visit to Melbourne Zoo | Opening Info & Tips, Book Now

To protect both animals and visitors, Melbourne Zoo enforces a set of important rules.

- Feeding the animals is prohibited to maintain their health and natural behaviors.

- Visitors are requested to stay on designated paths and avoid loud noises that might disturb the wildlife.

- Smoking is restricted to specific outdoor areas.

- Pets, apart from service animals, are not permitted within the zoo grounds.

Melbourne Zoo is committed to inclusivity and caters to visitors with varying mobility and communication needs.

- Wheelchair hire services are available, along with accessible entrances and pathways designed to accommodate all guests.

- The zoo offers visitor information in multiple languages, including Arabic, Mandarin, and Spanish, to assist international tourists.

- Assistance dogs are welcome, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the experience widely.

The zoo features several dining options to satisfy different tastes during your visit.

- Lakeside Café:

Hours: 10:00am - 3:00pm

Set beside the zoo’s gardens, Lakeside Café showcases Melbourne’s food culture with menus inspired by local produce and global flavours. Drop in for breakfast or lunch and try the signature Coffee for Wildlife—a locally loved brew that also contributes to wildlife conservation. Expect freshly prepared bakery items, family-friendly meals, lighter plates, and kids’ options made with seasonal ingredients.

- Macaw Takeaway:

Hours: 11:00am - 3:00pm

Perfect when you’re on the move, Macaw Takeaway offers a fast, satisfying selection. Choose from hot meals, house-made salads, baguettes and sandwiches, fruit cups, yoghurt pots, and a range of sweet treats.

- Sushi Sushi:

Hours: 11:00am - 2:30pm

Australia’s well-known sushi brand serves freshly prepared, Japanese-inspired dishes made daily. Expect premium ingredients, classic favourites, and convenient options using a mix of authentic flavours and locally sourced produce.

- Ben & Jerry’s:

Limited hours: 11:00am - 4:00pm, weather permitting

Take a break with one of Ben & Jerry’s famous ice creams. Choose from a rotating selection of 12 or more scoop flavours, including crowd favourites, plus indulgent sundaes and milkshakes.

- Meerkat Café:

Hours: 8:45am - 5:00pm

Ideal for a quick and wholesome stop, Meerkat Café focuses on fresh, grab-and-go fare. Enjoy salads, sandwiches, warm bakery items, and the zoo’s Coffee for Wildlife espresso - available throughout the day.

- Giraffe Lookout Café – Daniel’s Donuts

Hours: 9:15am - 3:30pm (open during peak periods, public and school holidays)

Treat yourself to Daniel’s Donuts, a Melbourne favourite since 2016. The menu features more than ten donut flavours, with gluten-free and vegan choices available - perfect for a sweet pause with views of the surrounding habitat.

Visitors looking to take a memory home can explore the Melbourne Zoo gift shops located within the venue. These souvenir stores carry a range of merchandise including animal-themed gifts, educational books, toys, and apparel.

The varied selection caters to all ages and preferences, making it easy to find a meaningful keepsake or gift. Purchases help support the zoo’s conservation programs, allowing guests to contribute to wildlife preservation efforts.

Budget Friendly: ibis Budget Melbourne CBD, Space Hotel

Mid-Range: Little National Hotel, The Jazz Corner Hotel

Luxury: The Westin Melbourne, Grand Hyatt Melbourne

After visiting Melbourne Zoo, guests may wish to explore other notable sites nearby.

- The Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens provide rich historical and architectural interest.

- For art enthusiasts, the Melbourne Museum showcases natural and cultural exhibits.

- Additionally, the Queen Victoria Market offers a vibrant shopping experience featuring fresh produce and local crafts.