Best animal attractions

Australia Zoo Sunshine Coast, QLD

The legacy of Australian icon Steve Irwin, this zoo’s jaw-dropping attractions and commendable efforts in wildlife conservation have earned it the crown as your favourite animal attraction for a second year running. Along with its incredible exhibits, the Zoo Keeper for a Day program is a must, allowing the kids to get hands-on and behind the scenes, as is the daily show in the Crocoseum. And the whole family will love getting up close with the zoo’s furry and fearsome residents on special encounters with lemurs, meerkats and even a two-tonne rhino. australiazoo.com.au

Taronga Zoo Sydney, NSW

Adorable tree kangaroos, majestic sun bears and cheeky chimpanzees are just a few of more than 350 species that call Taronga Zoo home. An easy 12 minutes from the Sydney CBD by ferry, check out the zoo’s sky-high Wild Ropes for extra thrills. With its suspension bridges, climbing walls, flying foxes and incredible harbour views it’s bound to be a hit with little adventurers. Or make a weekend out of it at Roar and Snore, the zoo’s ultimate safari tent sleepover, where you’ll also enjoy animal encounters and keeper talks. taronga.org.au

Melbourne Zoo Melbourne, VIC

It’s Melbourne’s world of wildlife, and here animal lovers can enjoy free keeper talks on lions, tigers and more. Check the schedule to see which talks are scheduled on the day of your visit, and add them to your itinerary, along with visits to see creatures of all shapes and sizes from elephants to the fluttering beauties in the Butterfly House. The Keeper Kids indoor playspace is perfect for aspiring vets, as they’ll be immersed in role-play activities with some insight into the roles of animal care and conservation workers. zoo.org.au

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

Currumbin, QLD

SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium

Melbourne, VIC

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

Sydney, NSW

Taronga Zoo Western Plains

Dubbo, NSW

SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast

Mooloolaba, QLD

National Zoo & Aquarium

Canberra, ACT

Werribee Open Range Zoo

Werribee, VIC Perth Zoo South Perth, WA

Highly commended

Australian Reptile Park, Healesville Sanctuary