Melbourne Zoo, Zoological park in Parkville, Melbourne, Australia.
Melbourne Zoo is a zoological park in Parkville, Melbourne, Australia, showcasing animals from every continent in themed enclosures. The grounds cover 22 hectares and house over 300 species in habitats that recreate tropical forests, Australian bushland, and open savannahs.
The park opened its gates on 6 October 1862, making it the oldest zoo in Australia. Over the decades, heritage buildings such as the butterfly glasshouse and the Victorian-style lion house have been placed under protection.
The Trail of the Elephants showcases Asian wildlife in settings with pools and bamboo groves, while Chimpanzee Hill recreates a natural habitat with climbing structures. Visitors see how the animals live and move in groups, showing the connection between behaviour and environment.
Access is via Royal Park station on the Upfield line or tram routes 58 and 19, both stopping at the entrance. The grounds are open daily and offer wheelchair-friendly paths along with toilets and baby change facilities in all major areas.
The heritage carousel from 1886 still turns near the main entrance and carries hand-painted wooden animals from the Victorian era. Children up to 15 years old enter for free, making it a place families can visit regularly.
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