National Zoo & Aquarium
Canberra's zoo and aquarium with big cats and marine life, rated 4.6 across more than 5,500 reviews.
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Why it's worth checking out
The National Zoo & Aquarium, on Lady Denman Drive at Weston in Canberra, combines a zoo and an aquarium in one engaging destination. Home to an impressive array of animals — including big cats like lions and tigers, along with a wide variety of other species and a substantial aquarium — it's one of the capital's most popular family attractions.
The appeal is that combination of close-up animal encounters and the breadth of a zoo-and-aquarium under one roof, with the chance to see everything from majestic predators to colourful marine life. It also offers a range of behind-the-scenes and interactive experiences, making for a genuinely memorable day out for families and animal lovers alike.
With a 4.6 rating from more than 5,500 reviews, it's a much-loved destination. Admission, opening hours, animal encounters and any special experiences vary, and it's a sizeable site that takes time to explore, so it's worth checking current details and considering booking ahead before you go — and allowing a good few hours, especially if you're visiting with kids or keen to do one of the interactive encounters.
Reviewed by Iyan B.
Good to know
- The venue spans 25 acres, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
- Picnic areas are available on site.
- Zookeeper talks are offered regularly as part of the experience.
Best for
Practical details
Opening hours
Closed- MondayToday
- 09:30 – 17:00
- Tuesday
- 09:30 – 17:00
- Wednesday
- 09:30 – 17:00
- Thursday
- 09:30 – 17:00
- Friday
- 09:30 – 17:00
- Saturday
- 09:30 – 17:00
- Sunday
- 09:30 – 17:00
Spot Score
- Reputation
- 84
- Popularity
- 100
- Information quality
- 30
- Category fit
- 70
- Freshness
- 30
Our independent editorial score — not a user rating.
Frequently asked questions
What animals can I see?+
The zoo features both exotic and native Australian animals across its 25-acre grounds.
Are there educational activities?+
Yes, zookeeper talks are offered regularly throughout the day.
Can I bring a picnic?+
Yes, picnic areas are available on site for visitors to use.
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