Nature & natural history museums in Australia

The Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria is a significant botanical institution that spans across two locations - Melbourne and Cranbourne. The Melbourne Gardens, founded in 1846, sprawls across 38 hectares of land, showcasing nearly 50,000 individual plants from 8,500 different species. On the other hand, the Cranbourne Gardens, established in 1970, is a 363-hectare site dedicated to Australian plants, featuring native bushland, heathlands, wetlands, and woodlands.

Werribee Open Range Zoo, located about 32 kilometres south-west of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, is an African themed zoo. It is part of the Zoological Parks and Gardens Board or Zoos Victoria, which also includes Melbourne Zoo and Healesville Sanctuary. This gives visitors a chance to experience a variety of wildlife in one location.

Paronella Park, a heritage-listed tourist attraction, is situated in Mena Creek, Queensland, Australia, approximately 120 kilometres south of Cairns. The park was designed and constructed between 1929 and 1935 by José Paronella, a Spanish immigrant. This unique location offers visitors a glimpse into the past and the vision of its creator.

The Koala Park Sanctuary is a privately owned wildlife park situated in West Pennant Hills, a northern suburb of Sydney. The park is known for its collection of koalas and other Australian animals and is set in a rainforest-like area. It exists to showcase Australian native animals and birds and educate the public about them. The park receives about 400,000 guests annually.

Taronga Zoo, located in the suburb of Mosman, is the largest zoo in the Australian city of Sydney. It is home to a wide variety of animals and offers a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the world's most fascinating creatures. The zoo is easily accessible and provides a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

This large aquarium houses more than 700 species of marine animals. It is divided into 14 different habitat zones. One of the most popular zones is surely the Dugong Island. Hear one of the talks to learn more about this animal. Sea Life is housed in the same complex as WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo and Mad

Symbio Wildlife Park is a privately owned, medium-sized zoo situated in Helensburgh, New South Wales. It is located south of Sydney and is in close proximity to the City of Wollongong. This makes it a convenient destination for tourists visiting these areas.

The Australian Reptile Park is a unique attraction located in Somersby, New South Wales, Australia. It is situated approximately 60 km northwest of Sydney in the Central Coast region. This amusement park and reptile center offers a unique experience for visitors, providing them with the opportunity to get up close and personal with a variety of reptiles.

The City Botanic Gardens, located in Brisbane, Australia, is one of the city's primary green spaces. It spans an impressive area of nearly 18 hectares, providing a lush, green oasis amidst the towering skyscrapers of the city's business district. The gardens are a testament to the city's commitment to preserving and promoting its natural environment.

The Aquarium of Western Australia (AQWA) is a privately owned establishment situated in Hillarys, Western Australia. It is located approximately 20 km north-west of Perth City, making it easily accessible for tourists and locals alike.

In the 1980s, Melbourne Zoo pioneered the concept of 'bioclimatic zones'. This innovative approach involves grouping animals that share a common habitat in the wild together in captivity. This not only enhances the wellbeing of the animals but also provides visitors with a more authentic and educational experience.

The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, located in the Brisbane suburb of Fig Tree Pocket in Queensland, Australia, is an 18-hectare sanctuary dedicated to koalas. Established in 1927, it holds the distinction of being the oldest and largest sanctuary of its kind in the world.

The Australia Zoo is a zoological garden situated in Queensland, Australia. It is approximately 70 km north of Brisbane, in the vicinity of Beerwah and Glass House Mountains. This location makes it a convenient destination for tourists visiting the region, offering a unique opportunity to explore Australia's diverse wildlife.

Phillip Island Nature Park spans over 1805 hectares, encompassing several distinct areas. These include Pyramid Rock, Rhyll Inlet, Seal Rocks, and Cape Woolamai. Each of these areas offers unique viewing and attraction spots, providing visitors with a diverse range of experiences and sights to explore.

Adelaide Zoo, situated in the city of Adelaide in South Australia, is a recognized member of both the Zoo and Aquarium Association Australasia (ZAA) and the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA). These memberships underline the zoo's commitment to animal welfare and conservation, ensuring that visitors can expect a high standard of care for the animals.

The Queensland Museum, located in Brisbane, is the state museum of Queensland. It is dedicated to showcasing natural history, cultural heritage, science, and human achievement. Visitors can expect to explore a wide range of exhibits that delve into these diverse areas, providing a comprehensive understanding of Queensland's rich history and culture.

The North Coast Regional Botanic Garden, located in Coffs Harbour, is a 20-hectare oasis that offers a blend of natural coastal forests, beautifully planted gardens, discovery walks, and picnic areas. This makes it an ideal location for nature lovers, families, and anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful day in a beautiful setting.

The Melbourne Museum, the largest museum in the southern hemisphere, is situated in the Carlton Gardens, a public park in Melbourne. It shares this location with the Royal Exhibition Building, a structure that is over a century old. This location provides a unique blend of natural beauty and historical architecture, making it an interesting place to visit.

The Australian Museum in Sydney, established in 1827, is the oldest museum in Australia. It primarily focuses on natural history and anthropology, housing extensive collections in zoology (vertebrates and invertebrates), mineralogy, paleontology, and anthropology. This museum offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore Australia's rich natural and cultural heritage.

Perth Zoo, located in South Perth, Western Australia, is a combination of a zoo and botanical garden that spans over 17 hectares. It is home to a diverse range of animals and plants, making it a unique destination for tourists who are interested in wildlife and nature.

The Territory Wildlife Park is a vast zoo located in Berry Springs, in the Northern Territory of Australia. Covering an impressive 400 hectares, the park is situated on the Cox Peninsula, near the city of Darwin. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the region, offering them a chance to explore the diverse wildlife of Australia in a single location.

Ballarat Wildlife Park, located in Ballarat, Australia, is an interactive wildlife park that was established by Greg Parker in 1987. This park offers a unique opportunity for visitors to interact with a variety of wildlife species in a natural setting.

Mogo Wildlife Park is a privately owned zoo located in Mogo, a town on the south coast of New South Wales, Australia. This small zoo is known for its focus on exotic species, unlike most small Australian zoos. It is a member of the Zoo and Aquarium Association and has been successful in breeding programs for endangered species.

Australia Walkabout Wildlife Park is a sanctuary for wildlife located in Calga, New South Wales, Australia. This park provides a safe haven for a variety of native Australian birds, mammals, and reptiles, as well as farm animals.

The Aquarium of Western Australia (AQWA) is a privately owned establishment located in Hillarys, approximately 20 km north-west of Perth City. It is a popular destination for both tourists and locals. AQWA was Australia's largest aquarium when it opened and still boasts the country's largest single aquarium and underwater tunnel, the 3 million litre Shipwreck Coast exhibit.

Caversham Wildlife Park is situated in the heart of Whiteman Park in Western Australia. This location offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the diverse wildlife of Australia in a single location. The park is easily accessible and provides a great day out for families, nature enthusiasts, and tourists alike.

Have you ever fed kangaroos or touched a koala? No? This is a chance for you! Do not miss this unforgettable experience!

Wild Life Sydney Zoo, previously known as Sydney Wildlife World, is a wildlife park situated in the Darling Harbour precinct. This location is on the western edge of Sydney's central business district in Australia. The zoo offers a unique experience of Australian wildlife within the heart of the city.

The South Australian Museum, founded in 1856, is a significant cultural institution located in Adelaide, South Australia. It is situated in the city's cultural district on North Terrace, making it easily accessible for visitors. The museum's rich history and central location make it a notable point of interest for tourists exploring Adelaide.

Reef HQ, located in Townsville, Queensland, Australia, holds the distinction of being the world's largest living coral reef aquarium. This impressive facility was built as a Bicentennial Commemorative project and is a part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA). It is home to a diverse range of marine life, including 130 coral species and 120 fish species, along with hundreds of species of sea stars, sea urchins, sea cucumbers, brittle stars, feather stars, snails, worms, and sponges.

The National Dinosaur Museum, located in Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, is Australia's largest permanent display of prehistoric specimens. This makes it a significant destination for those interested in prehistoric life and the evolution of dinosaurs.

Scitech, located in West Perth, Western Australia, is a not-for-profit organization that operates as the Scitech Science Centre. This interactive science museum includes a planetarium, making it a unique destination for those interested in science and space exploration. The museum is permanent, meaning it's open year-round for visitors.

Featherdale Wildlife Park is a renowned Australian zoo situated in Doonside, a suburb of Sydney in New South Wales. The park was inaugurated in 1972 and spans across an area of approximately 3.3 hectares. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the diverse wildlife of Australia in a spacious and natural environment.

One of the most popular attractions at the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is the feeding of large flocks of free-flying wild rainbow lorikeets. These vibrant birds come to the sanctuary to feast on a special mixture prepared by the sanctuary staff. This unique experience allows visitors to get up close and personal with these beautiful creatures.

The Joseph Banks Native Plants Reserve is a unique garden in Sydney that specializes in Australian native plants. Established in 1970, the garden is a tribute to Joseph Banks, a naturalist and patron of the sciences who collected many botanical specimens around Botany Bay. The garden covers an area of 2.2 hectares and features 4 kilometers of sealed paths, making it a great place for a leisurely stroll while enjoying the beauty of native Australian flora.

The Alice Springs Desert Park is a unique combination of an environmental education facility and a wildlife park, located in Alice Springs in the Northern Territory of Australia. It offers a unique opportunity to learn about and experience the diverse desert environments of central Australia, with a focus on the native animals and plants that inhabit these areas.

The Billabong Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary located in Nome, 17 kilometres south of Townsville, North Queensland, Australia. It spans across an area of 11 hectares, providing a vast space for the animals to roam freely.

Symbio Wildlife Park is a privately owned, medium-sized zoo situated in Helensburgh, New South Wales. It is conveniently located south of Sydney and is in close proximity to the City of Wollongong. This makes it an accessible destination for tourists visiting these areas.

Cairns Aquarium houses over 15,000 animals across 10 different ecosystems. This diversity allows visitors to experience a wide range of marine and terrestrial life, from colorful tropical fish to unique reptiles. The ecosystems are carefully designed to mimic the natural habitats of the animals, providing an authentic and educational experience.

Flying High Bird Sanctuary, located in Apple Tree Creek, Queensland, is recognized as the largest free-flight aviary in Australia. It is home to over 2000 birds, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to walk around inside the aviary and observe the birds in their natural habitat.

Halls Gap Zoo, located approximately 7 kilometres from Halls Gap in Victoria, Australia, is a sprawling 53-acre zoo that offers stunning views of the Grampians National Park. This location not only provides a unique setting for the zoo but also adds to the overall visitor experience.

Hunter Valley Wildlife Park, previously known as Hunter Valley Zoo, is situated in the beautiful region of Nulkaba, New South Wales, Australia. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse wildlife of Australia and beyond.

Taronga Western Plains Zoo, often referred to as Dubbo Zoo, is a large-scale zoo located near Dubbo, in New South Wales, Australia. The zoo first opened its doors to the public on the 28th of February, 1977. It was established with the aim of providing more living and breeding space for large animals such as elephants and antelopes, which required more space than was available at the Sydney site.

Ocean Park Aquarium is a privately owned oceanarium that is situated about 10 km south of Denham in the Shark Bay area of Western Australia. This location is a significant attraction for tourists in the region, offering a unique opportunity to explore the marine life of the area.

Tasmania Zoo, situated in Launceston, Tasmania, is renowned for housing the state's largest collection of native and exotic animals. The zoo, which spans over 900 acres of old growth native bushland, is a fully accredited member of the Zoo and Aquarium Association. It works closely with all Australasian zoos and is actively involved in various species management programs.

Ranger Red's Zoo & Conservation Park, previously known as Peel Zoo, is a wildlife sanctuary situated on the banks of the Murray River in Pinjarra, Western Australia. This location offers a unique setting for visitors to experience and appreciate the diverse wildlife. The park is easily accessible and provides a serene environment for a day out with family or friends.

Hartley's Crocodile Adventures is a wildlife sanctuary and ecotourism park that spans 10 hectares (25 acres). It is conveniently located between Cairns and Port Douglas in Wangetti, Far North Queensland, Australia. This location makes it an accessible destination for tourists who are exploring the region.

Snakes Downunder Reptile Park and Zoo is a unique destination located in Childers, Queensland, Australia. This zoo is home to a variety of Australian reptiles, amphibians, and marsupials, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about and interact with these creatures.

The Wollongong Botanic Garden is a beautiful location situated in the suburb of Keiraville, at the foot of Mount Keira in New South Wales, Australia. This garden is a part of the local botanical gardens of the Illawarra and was established in 1964. It offers a serene environment for visitors to enjoy the beauty of nature.

Rainforestation Nature Park is a popular tourist destination located near Kuranda in Far North Queensland, Australia. The park is set on a vast 100-acre land, nestled in the heart of a World Heritage-listed rainforest. This unique setting offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region.

The Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens, previously known as the Rosser Park Regional Botanic Gardens, are situated on Ashmore Road in Benowa, Gold Coast, Australia. This location is easily accessible and offers a serene environment for visitors to explore and enjoy the diverse plant life.

Darling Downs Zoo is a popular destination for animal lovers, located in the scenic town of Pilton, Queensland, Australia. It offers a unique opportunity to see a variety of animals from different geographical regions, making it a diverse and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Oakvale Wildlife Park, located in Salt Ash in the Port Stephens region of New South Wales, Australia, was established by the Sansom family. This wildlife park is a great place to experience the diverse wildlife of Australia, offering visitors a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with a variety of animals.

Billabong Zoo, located in Port Macquarie, New South Wales, Australia, is a 10-acre wildlife park and koala breeding centre. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to get up close and personal with a variety of Australian and exotic animals. The park is not only a popular tourist destination but also plays a crucial role in the breeding of koalas.

Gorge Wildlife Park is situated in Cudlee Creek, in the Australian state of South Australia. The park primarily focuses on showcasing native fauna, but visitors can also spot some exotic species. This blend of local and foreign wildlife offers a unique experience for all visitors.

The Olive Pink Botanic Garden, located in Alice Springs in the Northern Territory of Australia, spans across 16 hectares (40 acres). The garden specializes in plants that are native to the arid central Australian region. This makes it a unique destination for those interested in botany and the specific flora of this part of Australia.

Shoalhaven Zoo, previously known as Nowra Animal Park, is a popular animal park located on the South Coast of New South Wales, Australia. This location offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the diverse wildlife of Australia in a beautiful coastal setting.

Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary is a wildlife reserve situated in the suburb of Mylor, South Australia. It is approximately 17 kilometres south-east of Adelaide, the state capital. The sanctuary was established with the aim of conserving endangered Australian wildlife and offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience Australia's native fauna in their natural habitat.

The Australian Inland Botanic Gardens (AIBG) is a vast botanical garden and arboretum spanning 152 hectares. It is situated in the regions of The Mallee and Sunraysia in New South Wales, Australia. The garden is unique in its focus, with half of its area dedicated to the cultivation and preservation of Australian flora.

Observe free flying birds, feed them and take amazing photographs. You will get in direct contact with 50 species. Your kids will love it!

This collection of gemstone so typical for Australia has won many awards. Interesting exhibition about its origin.

Crocodylus Park is a unique zoo located in the scenic Knuckey Lagoon, Northern Territory, Australia. This location offers visitors a chance to experience the diverse wildlife of Australia in a safe and controlled environment.

The museum showcases nearly 2000 specimens from the internationally acclaimed Somerville Collection. This collection is a mix of fossil and mineral specimens, with approximately one third being fossils and two-thirds being minerals. It features some of the finest and rarest examples of minerals from around the world and scientifically significant fossils from Australia.

Rockhampton Zoo is situated within the beautiful grounds of the Rockhampton Botanic Gardens in the suburb of The Range. This location provides a serene and natural environment for the animals and a picturesque setting for visitors. The zoo is easily accessible and offers a unique combination of natural beauty and wildlife.

Alexandra Park Zoo is a quaint zoo situated in Bundaberg West, Queensland, Australia. Despite its small size, it offers a unique experience for visitors with its diverse range of animal species.

Birdland Animal Park is a wildlife park that is situated on the South Coast of New South Wales, Australia. This location offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the diverse wildlife of Australia in a natural setting.

The Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum is open to the public daily from April to October. From November to March, the museum is open six days a week, with Sundays being the only day it is closed.

Sydney Zoo is situated in Bungarribee, nestled within the Western Sydney Parklands. It is approximately 38 kilometres west of the Sydney central business district. This location makes it easily accessible for both local and international visitors.

The TYTO Regional Art Gallery is a significant cultural institution located in Ingham, Queensland, within the Hinchinbrook Shire. It offers a platform for local and traveling exhibitions, contributing to the vibrant art scene in the region.

Loudoun House, located at 16 O'Callaghan Street in Irvinebank, Queensland, Australia, is a heritage-listed detached house. The house was constructed between 1883 and 1884, making it a significant historical site. It is now operated as the Loudoun House Museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.

The Rathdowney Information Centre and Historical Museum is a significant site for visitors interested in the natural and cultural heritage of the region. The centre provides information on the natural heritage, indigenous heritage, and the history of white settlement from the time of the first pioneers to the present day. It's a great place to learn about the history and culture of Rathdowney and its surrounding areas.

Stangate House and Garden is a significant historical site located in Aldgate, South Australia. As a heritage-listed property, it offers visitors a glimpse into the past, showcasing architectural and horticultural elements that have been preserved over the years. The house and garden are a testament to the rich history of the region and provide a unique opportunity for tourists to immerse themselves in the local culture and history.

The Age of Fishes Museum, located in Canowindra, New South Wales, Australia, is a unique destination for those interested in paleontology and natural history. It is one of only two fish fossil museums in the world, making it a rare and valuable resource for scientific study. The museum is also recognized as a National Heritage site, a testament to its international scientific significance.

The Burrendong Botanic Garden and Arboretum is a vast 167-hectare botanical garden and arboretum situated near Mumbil, in New South Wales, Australia. It is a member of the Botanic Gardens Conservation International and is internationally recognized with the code BURR. The garden is located 25 km from Wellington in the central western part of NSW and adjacent to the shores of Lake Burrendong.