Melbourne Aquarium, Public aquarium in central Melbourne, Australia.
Melbourne Aquarium is a multi-level building housing sharks, rays, penguins, and thousands of other marine animals in specially temperature-controlled tanks. The facility sits along the Yarra River and displays creatures from different ocean environments in dedicated sections.
Designed by Peddle Thorp architects to resemble a ship, the building opened in 2000 after two years of construction on its riverside site. Its location along the Yarra River connects it to Melbourne's maritime heritage.
The building recognizes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the traditional stewards of the land and waters where these marine creatures originate. This acknowledgment shapes how the facility presents its collections and their natural origins.
It is best to buy tickets online ahead of your visit and arrive early to avoid crowds. Plan to spend around two to three hours exploring the different sections at your own pace.
The main oceanarium holds about two million liters of water and lets you walk through a transparent tunnel while large sharks swim directly above you. This tunnel walkway is often the moment visitors remember most vividly.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
