Melbourne Zoo

Built in 1862, this is the oldest zoo in the country, and makes a great day out if you've got kids. There are some 3,000 animals here, including the ever-popular kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, koalas, wombats, and platypuses. Rather than being locked in cages, most animals are in almost natural surroundings or well-tended gardens. Don't miss the butterfly house, with its thousands of colorful occupants flying around; the free-flight aviary; the lowland gorilla exhibit; and the treetop orangutan exhibit. A new development, due to open in 2009 to replace the old 1939 seal pool, will be home to Australian fur seals, Australian Little Penguins, and other marine life. Allow at least 90 minutes if you just want to see the Australian natives, and around 4 hours for the entire zoo.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.