Healesville Sanctuary is one of three zoos managed by Zoos Victoria, and it’s dedicated entirely to Australian wildlife. This makes it a fantastic spot to take international visitors, as well as a unique opportunity for kids to learn about their native environment in a hands-on and engaging way.
Visiting Healesville Sanctuary
Healesville Sanctuary is the smallest of Zoos Victoria’s three zoos, which means it’s easy to navigate and explore. On average, it takes about 2.5-3 hours to see everything if you skip the presentations or shows. However, to fully enjoy the sanctuary’s offerings, it’s worth planning for a longer visit.
With multiple play spaces, interactive exhibits, and hidden gems, you’ll want to take your time soaking it all in.
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One of the sanctuary’s standout features is its serene bushland setting, which creates a calm and immersive environment for visitors.
Healesville Sanctuary Family Highlights
Kangaroo Country: Part of the Iconic Australia precinct, this exhibit showcases some of Australia’s most beloved animals. It’s an excellent way to get up close to kangaroos and learn more about their habitat.
Carved Wooden Sculptures: Dotted throughout the sanctuary, these sculptures highlight Indigenous culture and add a rich, artistic touch to your visit.
Nature Play Areas
Healesville Sanctuary has fantastic outdoor play spaces for kids of all ages. The main nature play area near the Pavilion Café and Reptile House is a hit with families, featuring water play, sand play, an enchanted forest, cubbies, and even musical elements.
Older kids will love the rope climb, while parents can relax in the shaded picnic area.
Creek Play All Day at Healesville Sanctuary
Kids will love the specially designed Poorneet zone, featuring shallow pebble pools perfect for little ones under five.
Meanwhile, the Iuk zone offers an interactive experience inspired by Wurundjeri seasons, where everyone—from toddlers to teens—can enjoy paddling like platypuses in the same waters that these elusive creatures call home.
The creek’s natural beauty isn’t just playful but also meditative, giving visitors a chance to pause and connect with the land’s serene rhythms.
To make the most of your day, don’t forget sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water. And when the sun gets too warm, cool off under the sprinklers at the Spirits of the Sky Arena or Koala Picnic Lawn.
Pick up a sweet treat from Ben & Jerry’s Scoop Hub, or simply relax in the refreshing shade of Healesville’s iconic eucalyptus trees.
The summer heat also brings out the best of the sanctuary’s wildlife. Spot Tasmanian Devils stretched out in the sun, koalas napping under water misting systems, and Red Kangaroos lazing about in the shade.
Reptile fans won’t want to miss the Lace Monitors basking in their outdoor habitat—proof that the sanctuary thrives in every season.
With free entry for children under 16 on weekends, public holidays, and school holidays, Healesville Sanctuary is the perfect destination for an unforgettable summer day out with the family.
Australian Wildlife Health Centre at Healesville Sanctuary
This working lab and hospital lets visitors peek into the behind-the-scenes care for native animals.
Through glass windows and informative displays, kids and adults alike can learn about the vital work of the veterinary team.
Future Vets
Inside the Australian Wildlife Health Centre is an indoor play area ‘Future Vets’ where kids can role-play being a vet. It’s cute but pretty small compared to Ranger Kids at Werribee Zoo and Keeper Kids at Melbourne Zoo.
HOT Tips for Visiting Healesville Sanctuary:
- Kids under 16 visit free on weekends, Victorian public holidays, and Victorian school holidays.
- Plan for at least 2-3 hours, but more if you want to enjoy play areas and shows.
- The Spirits of the Sky show is a must-see and highlights Australia’s magnificent birds of prey.
- Free parking is available on-site.
- Most attractions are outdoors, so wet weather might dampen your experience. Aim for a sunny day.
- The sanctuary is pram-friendly, and kids can safely roam in many areas.
- Bring a gold coin to buy birdseed for feeding parrots in the aviary. Other close-up animal experiences start at $15+.
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Click here for more things to do in Melbourne’s zoos with under 5s
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