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.
Location: City of Melbourne
Official opening: January 2000
Address: King Street
Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 10:00-17:30; Saturday-Sunday 09:30-18:00
Email: info@melbourneaquarium.com.au
Website: https://visitsealife.com/melbourne
GPS coordinates: -37.82083,144.95778
Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:01
Melbourne combines historic heritage and nature across several notable sites. The Queen Victoria Market, established in 1878, spans seven hectares and offers fresh products and local crafts. The Royal Botanic Gardens have housed over 8,500 plant species on 36 hectares since 1846. Flinders Street Station, built in 1910, marks the city center with its French architecture and green dome. Federation Square covers 3.2 hectares and hosts the Arts Centre, NGV Gallery, and restaurants. The surrounds of Melbourne provide various destinations. The Great Ocean Road stretches 243 kilometers between Torquay and Allansford, along limestone cliffs and rock formations of the Twelve Apostles. St Kilda is popular for its beach, pier, and Luna Park, an amusement park dating back to 1912. Phillip Island is a 100 km² natural reserve where penguins return to the coast each evening, and the island also hosts seal colonies. The Melbourne Museum displays natural history collections and Aboriginal culture, while the Eureka Tower offers views of the city from 297 meters high.
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