Looking for a fun family trip in Brisbane? Look no further! Brisbane offers some of the best aquariums and zoos just a short drive away, making for an unforgettable experience. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the top destinations for both wildlife enthusiasts and families seeking a fun vacation. Get ready to immerse yourself in the enchanting depths of underwater ecosystems at renowned aquariums, where diverse marine life comes to life in meticulously recreated habitats. Or step into top-notch zoos and witness exotic creatures up close, creating moments of wonder for visitors of all ages. Whether you seek educational insights, a family-friendly escape, or a day filled with fun, Brisbane’s aquariums and zoos stand ready to offer an exciting and immersive adventure. Join us as we explore the magic of these extraordinary zoos and aquariums near Brisbane.
1. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
The Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for animal enthusiasts and nature lovers, located a 1 hour and 30-minute drive from Brisbane. It provides an extraordinary opportunity to come up close with Australia’s most fascinating creatures, and not just observe them from afar. In addition to being a wildlife haven, it is also a treasure trove of indigenous Australian culture and history, providing valuable insights into the country’s heritage.
If you’re looking for adventure, you can take on the thrilling treetop rope courses and wildlife obstacle challenges. The sanctuary is surrounded by lush greenery and scenic landscapes, offering a delightful escape where you can enjoy Brisbane’s beautiful weather. Whether you’re interested in wildlife, history, or adventure, the sanctuary offers diverse elements that come together to deliver a memorable and enriching experience for visitors of all ages.
Highlights- Explore a variety of wildlife encounters, from Free Flight Bird Shows and Koala Experiences to Capybara and Cotton-top Tamarin Encounters. Dare to embark on a Segway Safari or take on the TreeTop Challenge for a memorable adventure.
| Name | Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary |
|---|---|
| Website | https://currumbinsanctuary.com.au/ |
| Address | 28 Tomewin St, Currumbin QLD 4223, Australia |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/vYJxN9AcLFy1N4uS8 |
| Distance From CBD | 96.7 km |
| How To Reach |
By Car: To reach Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, travel via M1 from Brisbane CBD. You will reach your destination in around 1 hour 30 min. By Train and Bus: To reach Currumbin from Brisbane, take the AIRP train at Central Station for Varsity Lakes Station, then transfer to the 760 bus to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary station. |
| Opening Hours |
Monday 9am–4pm Tuesday 9am–4pm Wednesday 9am–4pm Thursday 9am–4pm Friday 9am–4pm Saturday 9am–4pm Sunday 9am–4pm |
| Contact Number | +61 7 5534 1266 |
| Entry Fees | https://currumbinsanctuary.com.au/tickets-and-encounters/day-pass |
2. SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium
The next we have on our list of best aquariums and zoos in Brisbane is the SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium, where you can discover the beautiful marine world. Ranked among the top-tier destinations, this aquarium invites you to immerse yourself in the wonders of the ocean. Here you can explore captivating exhibits that showcase the vibrant diversity of marine life, from schools of dazzling fish to enchanting underwater ecosystems. Each display provides a breathtaking glimpse into the beauty of our seas, creating a truly mesmerizing experience for visitors.
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With engaging hands-on activities like Coral Play and the captivating Ocean Tunnel, this interactive and informative aquarium offers more than just observation. A strong bond and respect for the incredible life beneath the seas are fostered by this voyage. SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium offers an incredible blend of thrill and discovery, perfect for families, single travelers, and marine enthusiasts alike. The SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium offers an amazing mix of excitement and discovery, making it ideal for families, solo travelers, and marine lovers alike.
Highlights- Encounter the aquatic wonders with behind-the-scenes tours, adorable penguin encounters, and thrilling activities like Shark Dive Xtreme. Spend a night with sharks for a unique experience. Explore exhibits with Little Blue Penguins, Seal Island, the Tidal Touchpool, Ocean Tunnel, and Coral Play.
| Name | SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium |
|---|---|
| Website | https://www.visitsealife.com/ |
| Address | Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba QLD 4557, Australia |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/mSD2JS1dHWzsEWPF8 |
| Distance From CBD | 110 km |
| How To Reach |
By Car: To reach SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium, travel via M1 from Brisbane CBD. You will reach your destination in around 1 hour and 20 min. By Bus: Catch the bus lines 600, 611, and 615 to reach SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium. |
| Opening Hours |
Monday 9am–3pm Tuesday 9am–3pm Wednesday 9am–3pm Thursday 9am–3pm Friday 9am–3pm Saturday 9am–3pm Sunday 9am–3pm |
| Contact Number | +61 7 5458 6226 |
| Entry Fees | https://www.visitsealife.com/sunshine-coast/tickets-passes/ |
3. Australia Zoo
Explore the wonders of Australia Zoo, a standout attraction among Brisbane’s best aquariums and zoos. Home to over 1200 animals, this iconic destination provides an intimate encounter with a diverse array of creatures, from cuddly koalas to majestic big cats. The world-famous Crocoseum steals the spotlight, hosting the thrilling Wildlife Warrior Show, a mesmerizing tribute to Steve Irwin’s conservation legacy. This captivating spectacle seamlessly blends entertainment with education, offering a unique and enlightening experience for visitors of all ages.
The adventure continues with the introduction of the new Africa exhibit, where guests can witness massive saltwater crocs making breathtaking leaps from the water’s edge. The exhibit transports visitors to a different continent, immersing them in the varied habitats and wildlife of Africa. Australia Zoo promises an unforgettable expedition into the heart of the animal kingdom, featuring captivating animal encounters, exhilarating shows, and immersive exhibits. Visitors depart with cherished memories and a deepened appreciation for the wonders of nature.
Highlights- Unforgettable Animal Encounters, Exclusive Zoo Keeper for a Day Experience, Thrilling Habitats and Attractions, Inspiring Conservation Shows, Captivating Wildlife Photos, Guided Tours, and Unique Gift Ideas.
| Name | Australia Zoo |
|---|---|
| Website | https://www.australiazoo.com.au/ |
| Address | 1638 Steve Irwin Way, Beerwah QLD 4519, Australia |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/PpoKxSeU8WWNAAUD6 |
| Distance From CBD | 87 km |
| How To Reach |
By Car: Travel via M1 to reach Australia Zoo from Brisbane CBD. You will reach your destination in approximately 1 hour and 8 minutes. By Bus: You can catch bus line 649 to reach Australia Zoo from Brisbane CBD. |
| Opening Hours |
Monday 9am–5pm Tuesday 9am–5pm Wednesday 9am–5pm Thursday 9am–5pm Friday 9am–5pm Saturday 9am–5pm Sunday 9am–5pm |
| Contact Number | +61 7 5436 2000 |
| Entry Fees | https://onlinesales.centaman.net/AustraliaZoo/BuyTickets/tabid/56/Default.aspx |
4. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
If you’re looking for a unique experience in Brisbane, the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is a standout among the city’s best aquariums and zoos. Located along the beautiful Brisbane River, this sanctuary provides an immersive and family-friendly experience that showcases Australia’s rich tapestry of natural wonders. At the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, you can get up close and personal with adorable koalas and even snap a photo with them for a lasting memory. But it’s not just about koalas – the sanctuary houses all kinds of Australian wildlife to check out. You can get hands-on with kangaroos and be amazed by the vibrant parrots and majestic birds of prey in cool exhibits.
Additionally, you can also learn about wildlife conservation, making Lone Pine a great place for families and wildlife fans who want a mix of fun and learning. Whether you’re delighting in close encounters with koalas, enjoying interactive moments with kangaroos, or gaining insights into wildlife conservation, the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary offers something for everyone. It’s a must-visit destination that provides opportunities for hands-on wildlife engagement and educational discovery.
Highlights- Discover 70 native Australian species, from dingoes to platypus. Check out the Saltwater Crocodile exhibit and the 360-degree underwater dome. Enjoy daily shows like Wild Lorikeet Feeding, Koala Encounter, Sheep Dog Show, and Free Flight Raptor.
| Name | Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary |
|---|---|
| Website | https://lonepinekoalasanctuary.com/ |
| Address | 708 Jesmond Rd, Fig Tree Pocket QLD 4069, Australia |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/yjbBo3yyNb5Ve1Ki7 |
| Distance From CBD | 14.7 km |
| How To Reach |
By Car: To reach Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary from Brisbane CBD, travel via M5. You will reach your destination in approximately 20 minutes. By Bus: To reach Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, catch bus line 445. |
| Opening Hours |
Monday 9am–5pm Tuesday 9am–5pm Wednesday 9am–5pm Thursday 9am–5pm Friday 9am–5pm Saturday 9am–5pm Sunday 9am–5pm |
| Contact Number | +61 7 3378 1366 |
| Entry Fees | https://ecom.roller.app/lonepinekoalasanctuary/newprogressivecheckout/en/home |
5. Sea World Marine Park
Sea World Marine Park is another standout attraction among Brisbane’s premier aquariums and zoos. Situated in a picturesque setting, Sea World Marine Park offers an immersive blend of entertainment and education designed for families and marine enthusiasts. The live shows at Sea World Marine Park showcase the incredible talents of acrobatic dolphins and majestic sea lions, offering more than just entertainment. These performances serve as a platform to emphasize the crucial message of marine conservation, providing audiences with valuable insights into the complex and fascinating marine world.
Sea World is known for its awesome aquariums that take you on a cool journey through colorful coral reefs and underwater tunnels. If you are going with your kids these exhibits show off a bunch of different marine animals and make learning about the ocean super fun. The best part is that Sea World is all about keeping marine life safe and healthy. So, when families visit, they not only have a blast enjoying the wonders of the ocean but also understand why it’s crucial to take care of our seas. Sea World is a must-visit spot that makes learning about marine life easy and cares about keeping our oceans in good shape.
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Highlights- Experience thrilling rides, up-close marine encounters, and educational shows at Sea World. Dive into interactive exhibits, enjoy family-friendly attractions, and savor delicious dining with scenic views. Find family-friendly attractions for all ages.
| Name | Sea World |
|---|---|
| Website | https://seaworld.com.au/ |
| Address | Seaworld Dr, Main Beach QLD 4217, Australia |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/8knCSfjwZb6WLQiE6 |
| Distance From CBD | 77.5 km |
| How To Reach |
By Car: Travel via M1 to reach Sea World Marine Park from Brisbane CBD and you will reach your destination in around 1 hour. By Bus: You can also take the bus line 704 to reach Sea World Marine Park. |
| Opening Hours |
Monday 9:30am–5pm Tuesday 9:30am–5pm Wednesday 9:30am–5pm Thursday 9:30am–5pm Friday 9:30am–5pm Saturday 9:30am–5pm Sunday 9:30am–5pm |
| Contact Number | +61 133386 |
| Entry Fees | Sea World Tickets |
6. Darling Downs Zoo
Discover the charm of Darling Downs Zoo, a notable addition to the list of Brisbane’s best aquariums and zoos, though situated just a scenic drive away from the city. This zoo, which is tucked away in the lovely Darling Downs, provides a unique and engaging animal experience. Visitors can have up-close encounters with a variety of native and exotic species, from amusing lemurs to majestic big cats, producing an engaging blend of entertainment and education in a family-friendly setting.
Even though it’s beyond Brisbane’s local borders, Darling Downs Zoo is a hidden gem that enhances the city’s colorful natural attractions. For those looking for a distinctive and educational zoological experience, the zoo’s dedication to animal welfare along with its picturesque settings make it a great outing. Although it is outside of the busy city borders, Darling Downs Zoo offers animal lovers a delightful and varied experience by bringing a unique flavor to the wider range of Brisbane’s top aquariums and zoos.
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| Name | Darling Downs Zoo |
|---|---|
| Website | https://darlingdownszoo.com.au/ |
| Address | 21 Baines Rd, Pilton QLD 4361, Australia |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/wJvrPK2BKGHafbfH9 |
| Distance From CBD | 146.1 km |
| How To Reach | By Car: Travel via Warrego Hwy/A2 and Gatton Clifton Rd to reach Darling Downs Zoo from Brisbane CBD, and you will reach your destination in approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes. |
| Opening Hours |
Monday 9am–4pm Tuesday 9am–4pm Wednesday 9am–4pm Thursday 9am–4pm Friday 9am–4pm Saturday 9am–4pm Sunday 9am–4pm |
| Contact Number | +61 7 4696 4107 |
| Entry Fees | https://tickets.darlingdownszoo.com.au/ |
