Taronga Zoo

First opened in 1881 in the grounds of Moore Park, south of Centennial Park, before being relocated to Bradley’s Head, Mosman, in 1916, Taronga contains all the usual suspects of the zoological world. It also has the huge added attraction of perhaps the best location and views of any city zoo in the world. You will almost certainly need a full day to explore the various exhibits on offer and there are plenty of events staged throughout the day to keep both adults and children entertained. The best of these is the Free Flight Bird Show, which is staged twice daily in an open-air arena overlooking the city. If you are especially interested in wildlife it pays to check out the dynamic programme of specialist public tours on offer. The Night Zoo tour after hours is especially popular. Taronga is built on a hill and the general recommendation is to go up to the main entrance then work your way back down to the lower gate. Or for a small additional charge on entry you can take a scenic gondola ride to the main gate.