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1 – Last call! The Sydney Royal Easter Show

If you haven’t taken the kids to the Sydney Royal Easter Show yet – well, you’re really missing out! This year you can walk through the actual Big Brother House, do the animal walk to see chickens, sheep, horses and feed and pet all the animals in the Farmyard Nursery (get a photo of the kids holding a baby lamb there!).

Then go watch impossibly muscled up men at the wood chopping arena – where else can you see it, after all?!  Eat your fill of the most incredible array of (absolutely delicious) show food, watch the street parade, check out the crafts where you’ll find incredible cakes, pet all kinds of dogs (maybe not the cats!), visit the Lifestyle Pavilion to have scones with the CWA ladies, sit atop a Police motorcycle, get a free RAT test from the NSW Gov stand and lay in a row of massage chairs. Aaah!

Then maybe stray to the different ride carnivals, ride the big wheel, buy copious amounts of showbags (Bertie Beetle bags are the cheapest at $3 but the big name bags such as Sonic, Paw Patrol & CoComelon are in the $20’s) and finish off the day with some Didgeridoo Fireworks! Phew!

Don’t forget to buy tickets online before you go as they do sell out. Public transport is included in your ticket, or if you’re driving be sure to book first – P1 is your closest Sydney Olympic Park Easter Show parking station choice.

NSW Government Discover NSW & Parents NSW Vouchers may be used when purchasing Carnival Fun Pass Credits via the Carnival Fun Pass App but not entry tickets into the show

Suitable for: all ages
How much: Standard $41, Concession $31, Kids Day Tuesday $12,  Buy tickets at Ticketmaster here
Where: Sydney Olympic Park
When: Ends Easter Tuesday, 19/04/2022
More info at the official website here

Don’t miss another of our Australian family YouTube videos! Subscribe to our YouTube Channel here 

2 – Sydney Tower Eye Sydney’s Highest 80s Arcade event

It’s time to party like it’s 1981 – a time when perms were socially acceptable, as were bubble gum jeans and enormous hoop earrings. Yes, that was me – and not that much has changed! Take a ride up the Sydney Tower where you will find it has been transformed into an 80s video arcade for the holidays! You get to play on 80’s arcade games to your heart’s content – what’s not to love? No coins required, because it’s included in your general entrance ticket. If ever you needed an excuse to visit the Sydney Tower Eye, then this is it! Table Top Pac Man, Space Invaders, Donkey Kong, Upright pin ball machines, twin car racers, twin motor bikes, dance video games and heaps more are all there for the playing.

Checking out the amazing 360 degree views of Sydney city and beyond from the massive windows is pretty cool too.

There’s even an over 18’s night time bar sessions – how fun that would be (I can dream)!

Grab your 80’s fluro (okay, so you don’t need to go QUITE as over the top as we did at the media event) and get UP there!

Suitable for: school age children to (tragic 80’s!) adults
How much: Family daytime access inc. 80s game play: Adults $31.50, Child $23 (ages 3-15yrs), Student or Senior $24, Children under 3 are free
Night-time bar event for over 18s inc. 80s game play: Standard Entry: $55 and Premium Entry $65 which includes a cocktail, hotdog, icecream and glow accessories (Wow!)  Book online at the official website
Where: Sydney Tower Eye, Sydney CBD
When:
Daytime: 1st to the 30th April 2022 (stay as long as you like!)
Night-time: April 8, 9, 22, 23, 29, 30 (two sessions, 6pm and 9pm)
More info at the official website here

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3 – Sydney Raging Waters are open during April holidays!

Sydney Raging Waters is awesome fun, and you may not realise that they are still open these April school holidays! We had the best time when we were invited there earlier this year so I just couldn’t leave it out of our list when they invited us back again these holidays. There’s a special discount on right now too, which is buy one single ticket and get one half price – too good to miss!

Sydney Raging Waters is such a fantastic day out for the whole family. Take my advice and book a VIP Cabana so you have a cosy base to leave your gear in and order food from too. (I love that lazy factor!)

Ride the thrilling water slides (there are just so many of them!) for big kids, teenagers and parents or the scaled down version for the little kids. There’s water play areas for the non-swimmers, tiny tots and toddlers too. Catch some waves in the massive but gentle wave pool beach as lifeguards keep an eye out, or just go for a never ending floating ring circuit on the Dinosaur Lagoon. (Possibly the most relaxing heated pool activity ever!)

You can use your NSW vouchers to buy normal priced tickets here

Suitable for: all ages
How much: Save $10 by purchasing tickets online. Current offer buy one ticket get one at half price.
Adult $49.99 online (2 for $74.99 – can’t use NSW vouchers on this offer), Kids/Seniors (over 60yrs) $44.99 online  Buy tickets at the official website here
Parking: $10 per car
Where: Blacktown
When: Saturday 9th April to Sunday 24th April
More info at the official website here

Don’t miss another of our Australian family YouTube videos! Subscribe to our YouTube Channel here 

4 – Sydney Aquarium & Sydney Zoo Peppa Pig event

Invited and we couldn’t make it to this one too, but we’ve seen the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo pics for this event and can’t imagine any toddler, preschooler or kindergarten Peppa fan wouldn’t want to get to this event in a hurry!!

Even if they’re not keen on Peppa (as if!), it’s the Sydney Aquarium and Zoo, which are epic Sydney School Holidays ideas anyhow. We never, ever get tired of visiting Sydney Aquarium!

Join Peppa Pig on an interactive adventure at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium & WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo from the 1st – 30th April 2022!

Suitable for: small children
How much: Adults $58, Child $41 (ages 3-15yrs) Children under 3 are free, for two attractions – so BOTH the Aquarium and Zoo  Buy tickets at the official website
Where: Sydney Aquarium, Darling Harbour
When: 1st to the 30th April 2022
More info at the official website here

5 – Disney+ Drive In at Openair Cinemas

Throw up the hatchback, pull out the fairy lights and cushions and sit back in your car for a Disney classic movie at the Openair Cinema’s Drive In. I don’t remember Drive ins ever being as fun as this one, with roller skating snack delivery waiters and a huge light-up mickey ears installation to take your own super-cool Instagram shots beneath. Don’t worry if you don’t have a car – couples can snuggle down in the red bean bags of the Doordash “The Park” and watch the show with their very own volume-controlled radio! Order your dinner with Doordash for a 30% discount and have it delivered to you without even lifting a finger thanks to QR codes. Supermarkets and cooking are soooo last school hols!

Drive In patrons (and mums and dads) never had it so good.

Suitable for: all ages
How much: Check website for next year
Where: Commbank Stadium, Parramatta
When: Ends Easter Sunday
More info at the official website here

Don’t miss another of our Australian family YouTube videos! Subscribe to our YouTube Channel here 

Need more ideas? Check out our Australian school holidays movie reviews here

Have you attended any of these activities, or do you plan to go? Tell me, or ask your questions in the comments below…

All information is correct as at April 2022 – please check the official websites as linked above for relevant, up to date information and prices.

We were hosted or invited guests to all of the above activities and speak from experience or trusted sources. As always, all opinions remain firmly my own.

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The Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is a must-see when visiting Canberra. It’s full of native wildlife, has a great adventure playground and plays host to numerous beautiful Canberra bushwalks.

One of the top-ten things to do in Canberra

An incredibly beautiful corner of Australia, the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is nestled in a valley surrounded by the stunning Tidbinbilla ranges. Huge, eucalypt-covered mountains contain a vast array of Australian native flora and fauna. All yours to see and explore via a network of well-maintained mountain and valley trails.

Access within Tidbinbilla is simple via a central “Ring Road” with several carparks branching off it. These areas often have attached picnic table areas and public toilets.

It’s almost impossible to visit Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve and NOT see Australian wildlife here. On the open plains which the ring road passes through, Kangaroos graze and rest in groups. Rare Rock Wallabies have a special habitat too, hopping about in the foothills. A koala area is a mere stroll from a nearby carpark. Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve truly is a mecca for Australian wildlife and nature lovers.

Our list of favourite things to do at Tidbinbilla

My family has been lucky enough to have visited Tidbinbilla many times over the years, Whilst I have enjoyed all of these with my kids, most of these activities will suit everyone – whether you are bushwalking alone, as a couple, with friends or family. Whether you live in Canberra and have an annual pass, or are visiting Canberra and visiting just for the day. In no particular order, here are my Tidbinbilla highlights for visitors:

Go on a Canberra picnic with kangaroos

There are several picnic areas scattered around Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve where you can sit and picnic whilst watching wild kangaroos graze nearby. There is no wild animal feeding at Tidbinbilla to keep both animals and humans safe in the reserve.

A couple of these picnic areas you will come across almost immediately upon entering the reserve are Dalsetta on the right, and Flints on the left (all marked on the free Tidbinbilla map available from the front entrance). They are also trail setting-off points.

(It’s also very possible to spot kangaroos around the Visitors Centre before even entering the park if you’re super-short on time!)

Do the wheelchair accessible Koala Path walk

For a sure-thing sighting of koalas, go for a walk along the Koala Path at Eucalypt Forest. There is a Koala enclosure at the start where you can see koalas close up, and at only 700 metres, this level, wheel chair accessible loop trail is a must-do at Tidbinbilla – particularly if you love seeing koalas (and surely that’s everyone, right?!).

Do the wheel chair accessible Sanctuary walk – see Platypus and more!

Another wheel chair friendly trail loop around huge and beautiful water ponds, pools and dams is the Sanctuary. This gorgeous, level and peaceful walk incorporates hard, wide paths with long bridges spanning peaceful waterways chock-full of water birds and other native animals.

Here you’ll have the opportunity to see a lot of native wildlife that you’ll rarely get the opportunity to see anywhere else in Australia in such a natural setting, like the small but industrious Platypus. Don’t miss this one!

Take the kids to the Tidbinbilla Nature Discovery Playground

A favourite Canberra adventure playground of many Canberran parents is the Tidbinbilla Nature Discovery Playground, which is fantastic for kids of all ages. It includes a tiny tots play area, plus a big climbing frame, a huge twin slide and flying fox – all big enough for primary school aged children right up to teenagers.

There are a couple of shaded picnic tables at the top of the playground, and also large picnic grounds featuring covered areas and a toilet block just below the playground at Sheedys.

Watch our video of the Tidbinbilla Nature Discovery Playground

Watch this video to see what visiting the Tidbinbilla Nature Discovery Playground is like…

Bushwalks for beginners to advanced

A big highlight of visiting Tidbinbilla is going for a walk. From the long and difficult Gibraltar Peak hike to the gentle, flat Sanctuary stroll, there are a myriad of great walks and bushwalks at Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, all well-signposted. This includes wheel chair accessible trails to makes sure everyone can get out there to enjoy the beautiful scenery and animals.

Tidbinbilla Hanging Rock short, easy bushwalk

The Hanging Rock bushwalk trail leads you through towering gum trees to a large, rocky outcrop which local Aboriginal people once used for shelter. Only 500 metres return, Hanging Rock is a short, gentle bushwalk suitable for those who are short on time, or perhaps aren’t able to walk very far, but still want to enjoy a walk through the beautiful Tidbinbilla bushland. It also makes a great introductory family-friendly bushwalk for those with toddlers who may tire more quickly. With it’s level, short path, it’s great for little ones to run along without coming to any harm.

Tidbinbilla Cascades Loop moderate bushwalk

One of our favourite bush walks at Tidbinbilla is only 1.8km long. The Cascades Loop is classed as “moderate” in difficulty, however it is big on beauty. It takes my family about one hour to complete this trail at a very gentle pace. My kids have been hiking the Cascades Loop since my youngest was about 6 years old, so it’s definitely do-able with school-age kids.

The Cascades Loop bushwalk encircles a very small and beautiful waterfall cascade and stream. Along the way it takes you up the foothills into the eucalypts, across quaint bridges spanning bubbling streams, and passes by huge boulders set deep in ferny gullies. There is a bit of uphill walking involved including rock stairs, but you don’t need to be a super-fit hiker.

The trail is wide dirt and mostly good underfoot, with a few short rocky sections or inclines. This is also a great trail for a hot day, as there’s plenty of shade. If you’re still wanting more at the end of the Cascades loop, you continue on to the Lyrebird loop and double the distance – and the fun!

To get to the Cascades trail start, head along the Tidbinbilla Ring Road until you reach the right-hand Mountain Creek turn off. Follow the road to the carpark at the end and follow the signs.

Watch our video of the Tidbinbilla Cascades Loop bushwalk

Watch this video to see what hiking the Tidbinbilla Cascades Loop bushwalk is like…

Important info and tips

• Bring your sunscreen, hat, drinking water and walking shoes
• Drinking water & free maps are available from the Tidbinbilla Visitor Centre
• Don’t feed or pet the animals – this can be threatening to both animals and humans
• Don’t stray off the walking trails and do walk within your physical limits
• Sign the bushwalk registration book at the start of each trail (where provided)
• Be aware that there is little or no mobile phone coverage at Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve

Where is the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve?

The Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is located off Paddy’s Road/Tidbinbilla Road, approximately 40 minutes drive from Canberra’s city centre in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT).

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Sydney Aquarium & Sydney Zoo are open every day of the school holidays

If you’re looking for fun things for your family to do before the kids head back to school, take a trip to beautiful Darling Harbour and visit the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo!

The Sydney Aquarium and the Sydney Zoo are located right next door to each other at Darling Harbour, and are open every day of the NSW School Holidays. They are two of Australia’s top family attractions for a reason – there’s so much for families to see and do there! Plus now there’s even more fun with the new Aussie Animal Passport.

The Aussie Animal Passport

The new Aussie Animal Passport is a fun way to get your kids discovering and learning as they explore either (or both!) the Sydney zoo and aquarium. Be sure to pick up a passport as you enter – it’s a free bonus activity that your children are going to love.

Several Australian animals are featured on the passport, and it’s a fantastic way to learn more about each one of them. From the adorable Kangaroos to the rather more formidable (but really, just as adorable) Grey Nurse Sharks, your kids will be tearing around ticking boxes and being compelled to learn so much more about their animal favourites!

What is there to see inside the Sydney Zoo?

The WILD LIFE Sydney zoo is a popular zoo in the heart of Sydney city in Darling Harbour.

It is primarily an indoor zoo, which means that it is perfect for hot or rainy days as it is weatherproof.

WILD LIFE Sydney zoo specialises in Australian native animals, and it is here that you can see snakes, frogs, wallabies, a huge crocodile, pat a kangaroo, talk to an emu and even get a coffee on the roof top cafe surrounded by koalas!

Learn all about Australian native animals, their habitat and what you can do to help preserve it for future generations of people and animals to come.

No time to read? Watch our Aussie Animal Passport blogger event YouTube video here…

A new cutie has arrived at the Sydney Zoo!

There’s a furry new arrival in town! Dharra the 3 year old Tasmanian Devil is the newest arrival at WILD LIFE Sydney zoo. She joins resident Tassie Devil Bub in educating visitors about the plight of the Tasmanian Devil. Tassie devils are under threat due to the facial tumor disease decimating their wild numbers.

What is there to see inside the Sydney Aquarium?

The SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium is located next-door to WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, and features a huge range of Australian sea and water creatures. Inside there are lots of visually spectacular themed areas to be found which also feature education stations. These offer wonderful hands-on ways to learn all about the different sea animals.

Beautiful glass walk-through tunnels showcase stingrays, the gorgeous Pig the dugong and a huge number of colourful fish.

The shark tunnel brings you up up-close to massive grey sharks menacingly floating mere centimetres above your head!

The interactive Great Barrier Reef display is another amazing attraction housed within the aquarium, with it’s surreal glowing creatures and their twilight habitats.

There’s always someone new to meet at the aquarium –  like Plugga the rescue Green Sea Turtle who arrived in late 2020. And although the popular Penguin Expedition boat ride is temporarily closed, you can still view the penguin colony with their cute new brood of toddlers!

You can read more about the Sydney SEA LIFE aquarium in our Sydney Aquarium review here, or watch our new Sydney Aquarium video here.

Watch our exploration of the Sydney Aquarium here

Sydney Aquarium & Zoo opening hours & discount ticket prices

Visit the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo for yourself – it’s the perfect Sydney school holidays and Sydney weekend activity!

The aquarium is currently open every day throughout the NSW Summer school holidays, 2021.

Admission prices are $38.40 per adult and $28.00 per child, or combine the two attractions at $57 per adult and $40 per child, saving $37 when you combine your adult ticket. Kids under 4 are free. Booking online in advance (using the link below) is recommended to reserve your spot.

Further discount tickets are also available online to enter multiple attractions. These can include Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum – right next-door – making for a great day out!

How to get to the Sydney Aquarium & Zoo

The SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo are located in Darling Harbour in the Sydney CBD.
Catch a tourist bus to the Aquarium, a Ferry to Darling Harbour, a train to Town Hall Station or simply walk straight down from the city centre (around a 10-minute walk).
Drive and park in one of the surrounding Wilson car parks – many of which are Sydney Aquarium partners. You can get your parking ticket validated in the Sydney Aquarium gift shop. Exact car park locations are listed on the Aquarium website.

Further Aquarium & Zoo information

You can find out more Sydney Aquarium information at the official website here and WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo at the official website here.

If you enjoyed reading this article, please consider Facebook “liking” it or leave us a comment below – and thanks so much for reading!

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All information is correct as at January 2021. Check supplied website links for any price and availability changes.
Let’s go Mum were hosted guests of Sea Life Sydney Aquarium & Wild Life Zoo. All opinions remain firmly our own.

Have you ever visited Sea Life Aquarium or Wild Life Zoo? What’s your favourite animal? Tell us in the comments below!

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Santa Monica is a stunning coastal city in Southern California, USA.

Conveniently located just 25 minute’s drive from LAX and 45 minute’s from the Disneyland Resort theme parks, Santa Monica makes a great California family holiday base.

Watch our things to do in Santa Monica with kids video

Although many Californian attractions are a short drive – or Uber ride -away, there’s so much to explore in Santa Monica itself.

From surfing lessons year-round, to wandering through the elegant city boutiques and cycling along miles of beautiful beachfront bike paths, Santa Monica offers a plethora of family friendly activities.

Here are just some of our favourites things to do in Santa Monica – with kids!

Santa Monica Pier

A short walk from the city centre you’ll find the world-famous Santa Monica Pier.

This is where you’ll find family holiday entertainment galore, including an amusement park, souvenir shops and some really great restaurants.

From the neon-lit entry archway to the big wheel, the Santa Monica Pier is a highlight of any stay.

Pacific Park amusement park

Santa Monica Pier is home to the historic Pacific Park amusement park, where you’ll find plenty of old-school carnival games and rides. You can keep the kids entertained for hours at this fun fair!

Open both during the day and at night, there’s a range of rides suitable for all ages – from toddlers right up to adults.

Rides include a swinging Pirate Ship, Dodgem Cars and a roller coaster. But the ride Pacific Park is most famous for is its iconic Ferris Wheel, The Pacific Wheel.

The Santa Monica Ferris Wheel

The Pacific Wheel is the world’s only solar-powered Ferris Wheel.

Located at Pacific Fair fun park on Santa Monica Pier, this big wheel commands impressive California coastal views.

A fun ride in its own right, from the very top you are rewarded with unsurpassed vistas of both the sea and sandy beach coastline for miles in either direction.

A ride on the Pacific Wheel is an iconic must-do whilst in Santa Monica!

The end of Route 66

The Santa Monica Pier also happens to be the official end of the historic Route 66 highway which runs right across the USA.

A photo taken at the Santa Monica Pier “66 End of the Trail” sign has become a popular Instagram photo location, and is sure to impress anywhere!

Heal The Bay Aquarium

Another fun family Santa Monica Pier attraction is a visit to Heal The Bay Aquarium.

This wonderful little aquarium is located beneath the Pier, and offers valuable learning opportunities for children of all ages.

Even little ones can get involved at Heal The Bay, with their large touch-pools filled with tactile sea creatures.

There’s even the opportunity to take a behind the scenes tour and feed baby sharks. This was something everyone loves to have a turn at, and the kids can forever-more tell their friends they have fed sharks!

Watch the sunset from the end of the Santa Monica Pier

One of our most memorable moments in Santa Monica was simply watching the sun set into the ocean.

Head up to the very end of the Santa Monica Pier for the best sunset viewing spot.

We weren’t the only tourists to be drawn to the end of the Pier to watch the sunset, either – this very special experience draws quite an audience.

It’s a beautiful golden light show to round off the perfect day that doesn’t cost a cent – or a USA penny either, for that matter!

Santa Monica bike rentals

We did two really fun family bike rides in Santa Monica – and yet both were quite different!

Bike Hire at the Santa Monica Beach

Our first experience was a self-guided Santa Monica beach bike ride.

Bike hire is conveniently available directly from the Pier at Blazing Saddle Rentals.

Once we were all fitted-out to suitably-sized bikes and helmets, off we rode to Venice Beach with its eclectic hippie-style shops, murals and cafes.

Our turn-around point was the Venice Beach skateboard park where local skateboarders provided a fantastic free show of skateboarding bowl trick and skills.

The Bike Center Santa Monica

Our second bike ride the next day was a guided tour of the city of Santa Monica run out of The Bike Center Santa Monica.

This fun bike tour took us along the city streets, ocean-front park paths and through some of the richest residential areas of Santa Monica, where we got to ogle at massive mansions!

Historic buildings, geographical oddities and sweeping views were all highlights along the way, and the tour included a scrumptious visit to Sidecar Doughnuts and Coffee Shop.

Here we sampled enough delicious doughnuts  to help replace all of those calories we managed to burn off during our ride!

Hiring a bicycle is a really unique and fun way to see Santa Monica and many of its wonderful sights.

Santa Monica shopping

A visit to Santa Monica is worth it for the shopping alone. The shopping precinct offers the perfect mix of large commercial shopping malls and street shopping.

Perhaps the most well-known is the charming 3^rd Street pedestrian mall.

3^rd Street Pedestrian Mall

This pedestrian shopping precinct is an elegant shopping experience, with plenty of high-end boutique shops and stores to browse through.

As you make your way along 3^rd Street, scattered sculptures and fun installations line the way.

Wooden rocking chairs are a great way to rest those sore shopping feet, and the kids will love the climbable-sculptures and toys – there are even huge spinning top seats you can sit in!

In the evening, red hanging lanterns atmospherically light the way, making for a beautiful stroll to a great range of quality restaurants and bars to choose from for dinner.

The VOID Virtual Reality

Also on 3^rd street you’ll find the VOID.

This virtual reality experience takes VR fun to the max as you suit and mask-up to head off into the exciting VR world of your choice!

We experienced both the Star Wars and Jumanji experiences, and they were amazing fun for both adults and kids.

The VOID is a great Santa Monica activity to do, particularly for families with older kids and teenagers.

Family restaurants in Santa Monica

There are numerous excellent restaurants and cafes spread throughout the city of Santa Monica – so many you could be forgiven for spending your time simply café and restaurant hopping!

Here are a couple of our family restaurant favourites…

Gallery Food Hall, 3rd Street

We loved eating at the Gallery Food Hall.

With different eateries laid out over two levels, there’s a dish at the Gallery Food Hall to suit every food craving.

Downstairs you’ll find a fabulous lolly shop for desert – decked out with pink chandeliers!

Seaside On The Pier restaurant, Santa Monica Pier

We enjoyed a delicious lunch upstairs at the Seaside On The Pier.

This restaurant is very easy to find, as it sports a full-sized model of Arnold Schwarzenegger from Terminator 2 movie (filmed in Santa Monica) standing at its entrance!

The food is delectable, and you can’t beat the location either – it’s well worth having a meal at this excellent local restaurant.

Where to stay in Santa Monica

Whilst in Santa Monica we stayed at the stunning Shore Hotel – an elegant, environmentally conscious luxury hotel located right at the entrance to the Santa Monica Pier.

Take a look at our family suite and find out more about our stay at the Shore Hotel here.

Santa Monica really is the Californian city for all seasons. Make sure you include it in your USA family holiday itinerary for a true slice of California beach life and a whole lot of family fun!

Find out more about booking your next family holiday to Santa Monica, California at Visit California

Read all about the three exciting California destinations we visited in 2020 here!

If you enjoyed reading this article, please give it a Facebook “Like” or comment below!

This article is meant to inspire travel to California once it is safe to do to. The attractions and experiences featured in this article may be temporarily unavailable due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Please consult official travel resources and individual businesses to confirm future plans.

The Let’s Go Mum family partnered with Visit California and their supporting partners for this trip.  As always, all opinions are our own.

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Sydney Aquarium is open & taking COVID-19 safety measures

Located in the beautiful Darling Harbour precinct of Sydney close to the historic Rocks area and the Sydney CBD, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium is one of Sydney’s top family attractions.

Although Sydney is still experiencing COVID-19 restrictions, the Sydney Aquarium is currently open and taking extra measures to help keep their patrons safe.

Aquarium visitor numbers will be limited, and ticket holders will be required to book online in advance. Visitors will have their temperatures taken upon entrance. Those aged 12 and over are strongly advised to wear face coverings to help limit the risk of Coronavirus transmission.

No time to read? Watch our Sydney Aquarium YouTube video here…

What is there to see inside the Sydney Aquarium?

The Aquarium offers several themed areas housing educational stations and a huge range of Australian sea and water creatures. These include a large number of fish species, sharks, rays, penguins, a dugong and many more.

The Penguin Expedition boat ride is temporarily closed, however there are still over 13,000 beautiful creatures to visit at the aquarium, including Plugga a rescue Green Sea Turtle who arrived last month.

Upon entry, visitors follow a winding series of fascinating passage ways passing through a wide range of different aquatic exhibitions and tanks, including an interactive Great Barrier Reef display

A popular feature of the Sydney aquarium are the huge glass walk through tunnels where visitors can experience huge sharks, stingrays and even a dugong swimming above their heads!

At the end of the aquarium is an excellent gift shop and a large cafe offering many family-friendly lunch and snack choices.

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium opening hours & discount ticket prices

Visit the Sydney Aquarium for yourself – it’s the perfect Sydney school holidays and weekend activity!

The aquarium is currently open Thursday-Monday from 10am to 4pm (Last entry is 3pm).

Admission prices are $38.40 per adult and $28.00 per child. Kids under 4 are free. Booking online in advance is essential.

Discount tickets are also available online to enter multiple attractions. These can include the Sydney Wildlife Zoo and Madame Tussauds – both are located right next-door, making for a great day out!

How to get to the Sydney SeaLife Aquarium

The Aquarium is located on the Sydney City side of Darling Harbour.
Catch a tourist bus to the Aquarium, a Ferry to Darling Harbour, a train to Town Hall Station or simply walk straight down from the city centre (around a 10-minute walk).
Drive and park in one of the surrounding car parks – many of which are Sydney Aquarium partners.

Validate your parking ticket

If you are driving to the Aquarium, you can park at a parking station within a five minute walk. Validate your parking by presenting your admission ticket together with your parking ticket at the Aquarium gift shop. This will give you a significant reduction on the price of several surrounding Darling Harbour partner car parks. Car park locations are listed on the Aquarium website.

Further Aquarium information

During the COVID-19 pandemic opening hours and conditions of attractions can change quickly, so it is always advisable to double-check before you go.

You can find out more Sydney Aquarium information at the official website here.

If you enjoyed reading this article, please consider Facebook “liking” it or leave us a comment below – and thanks so much!

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All prices are correct at August 2020. Check supplied website links for any price and availability changes.
Let’s go Mum were hosted guests of Sea Life Sydney Aquarium. All opinions remain firmly our own.

Have you ever visited Sea Life Aquarium? Tell us in the comments below!

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If you’re looking for something really fun to do with the family, Taronga is always a winner. We recently spent the night at Taronga Zoo Sydney on a Roar and Snore sleepover, which makes your zoo trip even more fun!

No time to read all about it? Watch our the video of our Roar and Snore adventure!

We arrived in the evening to meet with our zoo guides who would also spend the night at the zoo. After a welcome speech, our bags were loaded onto a trailer to be delivered to our tents, while we headed off for our first walking after-hours tour.

The experience of exploring the zoo at night by torchlight was a mysterious and exciting one. The pathways are deserted from the normal to-and-fro of zoo visitors, and the air is rich with animal noises.

The kids absolutely loved touring the zoo by red-torch light (the animals are less startled by red light), discovering possums and bats in the trees, and viewing lots of different nocturnal zoo animals which become active when the sun goes down. Our friendly zoo guides were a wealth of information, telling us all about the different animals we came across. No question was too hard for them to answer!

Slowly the spectacular night lights of the opposite Sydney City centre, with its iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge were revealed as we wound our way down to our accommodation for the night – the Roar and Snore area.

Everyone was really eager to check out where they would be sleeping for the night, and we certainly weren’t disappointed. This wasn’t camping – it was glamping!

The Roar and Snore accommodation area of the zoo consisted of a gated, low-fenced area containing several elegant pavilion-style individual guest tents, a large communal lounge tent and a luxury amenities block.

Our stylish tent was directly facing Sydney Harbour! Inside we found a double bed and also two single beds. A cosy electric blanket was installed to ward off any chill, and there was an electric light and also a power board (to charge those phones and camera batteries). A zip up screen door and canvas door could be tied up to completely open the front of the tent to those incredible night-light views of the city and harbour.

We quickly settled in to our tent and then headed to the main lounge tent for some welcome nibbles and drinks – soft drinks, juices and alcoholic drinks were available. Everyone was having a chat and getting to know their fellow guests.

Some special guests dropped in at this time too – a Shingle Back lizard and Python snake were gently carried in, and we were invited to touch them and feel their smooth skins!

Then it was time to walk across the zoo to dinner, which would hosted at the onsite The View restaurant. The View restaurant is a beautiful place to dine, and features panoramic views of Sydney Harbour. We were met with a row of splendid-looking chefs, ready to serve up our delicious buffet dinner. The restaurant was a hubbub of chatter about all the animals that we had seen so far, and how much fun it was going to be to sleep inside Taronga Zoo Sydney!

After dinner, we were in for another treat – another zoo animal night tour as we made our way back to our camping site! We were loving every second of these special opportunities to see the more shy nocturnal animals in the zoo. A fishing cat stared boldly back at us. An immense crocodile widened his jaws, clearly hoping a bush turkey would fall out of an overhanging tree which held several of them. A Binturong, a kind of half cat/half bear, scooted along the tree branches, so close it felt we could reach out and touch him. We even got to enter the Tiger Trek area and peep in at the sleeping Sumatran tigers – a mother and son lay cuddled up together, completely oblivious to our oohs and ahs!

Finally it was time to head back to the Roar and Snore communal lounge tent. Here we relaxed a while to chat with our fellow guests and zoo guides about all the fascinating animals we had seen over some desert, coffee or hot chocolates.

Before bed, there was time to grab a shower at the amenities block. The amenities block central corridor featured several individual deluxe bathrooms opening off of it that would hold there own in any five-star hotel. Pure white tiles shone and chrome fittings glistened – plentiful towels were available for guest use. Yet more confirmation that this was camping in style!

As we walked back to our tent, a native possum scampered in front of us – no doubt in search of a dropped treat! We tumbled into our cosy beds, completely exhausted by the day’s events. The girls put up a convincing argument to leave the front of the tent open all night, so I let the city lights twinkle them to sleep before I crept out to let the front wall down and zip us all in. It was winter after all, and so the air was a bit chilly – but it did seem almost criminal to drop the curtain on that breath-taking view!

The next morning I awoke to the sound of nature’s alarm clock – a family of kookaburras were perched nearby, laughing their way into the new day. The sun was coming up, casting a rosy-pink hue across Sydney Harbour, and the zoo animals were beginning to stir. Seals barked, monkeys chattered and chimps squabbled over some imagined offense. It was a morning greeting unlike any other!

We quickly got dressed and made our way to the central tent for a coffee and to join our tour guides and fellow guests for a morning chat whilst watching the sun rise together. Everyone was excited for what more might come. We had already done and seen so much, and there was still breakfast and another zoo tour and animal encounters yet to come!

When everyone was ready, we walked back over the The View restaurant for breakfast, stopping on the way at the elephant area. Of all the amazing things we saw during Roar and Snore, this was the most memorable. Almost on cue, an elephant mother and baby decided to take a mud bath. What followed was a hilarious series of the baby elephant using his mother as a seat, bed, trampoline and who knows what else – the kids screamed with laughter, the adults gasped in delight. It was such a display of fun and joy that we just couldn’t help but be infected by it for the rest of the day. We practically had to be dragged away to breakfast, maybe ten minutes later.

Breakfast proved just as enjoyable as dinner had been. The View now featured gorgeous daytime views of Sydney Harbour, which was bustling with ferries and other craft. Freshly made pancakes, fruits and cereals, tea and coffee set us up nicely for the big day to come.

When everyone had finished breakfast we set off for yet another behind the scenes tour – this time we headed into the back rooms of the reptile night house, where we met their passionate zoo keeper. We spent an entertaining time viewing some incredibly cute Australian native animals, and learning some key conservation messages (keep your cats in at night, everyone! It saves hundreds of native animals in your neck of the woods!).

Next we found ourselves standing at the entrance to the seal enclosure doors – we all looked at each other excitedly – could seals be on the agenda?! Yes – they could! We were welcomed in by Taronga Zoo Sydney’s seal experts and treated to a very special seal experience. The seals showed off their skills in the pool, and some were even brought out and walked amongst us. The children could barely contain their squeals of excitment, eyes sparkling. The adults sat forward eagerly – this was such a treat! What a beautiful way to end our Roar and Snore experience.

With the whole day still ahead of us, we bid goodbye to our wonderful zoo guides – they had been with us every step of the way, and we truly appreciated all of their information, support and companionship. Then we headed off into one of our most favourite adventures – the rest of Taronga Zoo Sydney!

For more information or to purchase tickets to Taronga Zoo Sydney, go to their Taronga Zoo Sydney official website here.

All information is correct as at August 2018 – please check the Taronga Zoo Sydney supplied website link for relevant, up to date information and ticket prices.
Let’s go Mum were hosted guests at Taronga Zoo Sydney, however all opinions remain firmly our own.

Have you ever visited Taronga Zoo Sydney, or do you plan to go one day? Tell us in the comments below…

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We’ve just attended the coolest party in Sydney – literally! The Sydney Sea Life Aquarium Penguin’s have just celebrated their 1st Anniversary.

These super-cute, formally attired little fellows are stars in their own right. They are otherwise known as the Real Penguins Of Sydney – the hilarious penguin reality hit series that everyone is talking about! With over half a million views, it’s safe to say that these cool little characters have a lot to celebrate!

Sydney’s coolest party

Helping to celebrate 1 year of the fantastic Gentoo and King Penguin colony at Sydney Aquarium was a real delight.!

There were yummy snacks on offer for both humans and penguins alike, and everyone was thrilled to receive goody-bags containing all sorts of penguin toys and treats. Formal speeches were given by the Aquarium General Manager and the head of Penguin management.

A special screening of the finale of the Real Penguins Of Sydney was shown to the avid audience, resulting in lots of laughs! Then it was on to the most important part of the ceremony – the big penguin celebration cake!

This was no ordinary cake. Stacked layers of blue and red jelly decorated with fresh fish was just the thing for a colony of party-loving penguins. Add one of their extra-favourite toys – a motorised bubble-maker – to it and you’ve got a Penguin anniversary cake made in heaven! With the penguin keepers looking on affectionately, the little penguins hesitantly approached the strange object at first. But they soon broke into a full-on waddle once the bubble machine sprang into action. You couldn’t hold them back!

The Sydney penguin anniversary party – watch the video

Play the video below to see what the Sydney WildLife Aquarium penguin party was like, plus a quick look at a trip in the Penguin Experience boat ride…

Sydney Aquarium is the perfect school holidays activity

Located in the beautiful Darling Harbour in the centre of Sydney, Sea Life Aquarium is one of Sydney’s top family attractions. It offers several themed areas housing a huge range of Australian sea and water creatures. These include a large number of fish species, sharks, rays, dugongs and many more. A year ago the Penguin Expedition feature was added to their already amazing line-up, and it is now one of their most stand-out attractions.

The Penguin Expedition boat ride is included in the general admission ticket, making the Sydney Aquarium entrance fee even better value than ever. Climb aboard the penguin boat-ride to travel to “Macquarie Island”. Gently float along through the resident Gentoo and King Penguin colony. At the end of the boat ride, you can view the penguins at close-quarters thanks to specialised viewing areas. It’s all great fun, and at a chilly 4 degrees inside the Penguin Expedition, literally the coolest ride in town!

Sydney Aquarium opening hours & discount ticket prices

Visit the Sydney Aquarium for yourself – it’s the perfect Sydney school holidays activity!

The aquarium is open every day from 10am to 7pm (seasonal hours) over the summer school holidays.

Admission prices start from $42 adult and $29.50 child online. Children under 4 are given free admission. Discount tickets are also available online to enter multiple attractions. These can include the Sydney Wildlife Zoo and Madame Tussauds – both are located right next-door, making for a great day out!

How to get to the Sydney SeaLife Aquarium

The Aquarium is located on the Sydney City side of Darling Harbour.
Catch a tourist bus to the Aquarium, a Ferry to Darling Harbour, a train to Town Hall Station or simply walk straight down from the city centre (5-10 minutes walk).
Drive and park in one of the many surrounding car parks – many of which are Sydney Aquarium partners.

Validate your parking ticket

If you are driving to the Aquarium, you can park within two minutes walk. Validate your parking by presenting your admission ticket together with your parking ticket at the Aquarium gift shop. This will give you a significant reduction on the price of several surrounding Darling Harbour partner car parks. Car park locations are listed on the Aquarium website.

Further Aquarium information

You can book tickets online and find out more information  at the official website here.

All prices are correct at January 2018. Check supplied website links for any price and availability changes.
Let’s go Mum were hosted guests of Sea Life Sydney Aquarium. All opinions remain firmly our own.

Have you ever visited Sea Life Aquarium? Tell us in the comments below!

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We want to show you a fabulous new attraction which has been added to the already wonderful line-up at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium – the Penguin Expedition!

The Sydney Aquarium is a great family day out

The SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium is such a great day out for the whole family. There are so many attractions to explore! From the amazing glass tunnel walk-through tanks teeming with dugongs, sharks, rays and other stunning fish, to the South Coast Shipwreck, Jurassic Seas, Sydney Harbour and so much more. You can even watch the dugongs receive their daily lettuce snacks at the surface of their massive tank!

When it’s time for a break, you can have a bite to eat in  the cafe, or get lost in the huge gift shop!

To see all the exhibits the aquarium has to offer, be sure to give yourself plenty of time for your visit. There are just so many sea creatures to see, and fun things for the kids to do…you could easily spend all day at the Sydney Aquarium.

Without a doubt, one of the highlights of the aquarium, is the Penguin Expedition boat ride.

The Penguin Expedition boat ride

The first thing you will notice when you enter the Penguin Expedition is how cold the sealed atmosphere is – of course it needs to be freezing to keep the adorable King and Gentoo Penguin inhabitants happy! In our video, you can clearly see for yourself the moment we enter where the temperature drops – the kid’s reactions to the cold are hilarious!

The ride itself is very gentle and slow, and involves climbing in and out of a very stable boat. The boats seat eight people, and drift slowly along the canal through the penguin colony.

The ride is included in your general admission, and you are allowed to take your camera in with you to take photographs or video as long as you don’t use your flash.

We took the following video for you to see what the Penguin Ride is like for yourself!

Watch our video of the Sydney Aquarium Penguin Ride

Play the video to below to watch our Penguin Boat ride…

Watch it on YouTube here

The SEA LIFE Penguin Ride is yet another reason why the Sydney Aquarium is a must-see when visiting Sydney.

For more information on SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, you can go to their official website here.

Let’s go Mum were invited guests of the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, however all opinions remain firmly our own.

Have you ever been to the Sydney Aquarium? What is your favourite thing to see or do there? Tell us in the comments below!

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We were very lucky to be invited to check out the new open plain at the National Zoo and Aquarium.

This terrific Zoo really does go from strength-to-strength in size, species of animals to view, and of course most importantly, animal and visitor happiness!

Come with us while we take you for a super-fast look around the Canberra Zoo to see what’s great – and what’s new!

For more information about the Canberra National Zoo and Aquarium, go to the official website here.

The Let’s Go Mum family were invited guests to the National Zoo and Aquarium in Canberra. As always, all opinions are our own.

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Have you ever dreamed about waking up on an African Safari? It’s now possible right here in Australia! We recently spent a weekend at the amazing Zoofari Lodge – a luxury zoo stay package that you simply have to see to believe!

The Zoofari Lodge at Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo is an accommodation package which is all about luxury. From the moment we arrived we were treated like zoo-royalty! We checked in to Zoofari Lodge at the main Taronga Western Plains Zoo reception desk. You can arrive early and spend the whole morning at the zoo, because included with your one night Zoofari Lodge stay is two days entry to the zoo, bike hire, plus 10% discount off extra any animal encounters, the souvenir shop and café.

After we checked in, we had a spare hour to enjoy a delicious lunch at the Zoo café (10% off – order the buffalo wings – you wont regret it!) – then we were ready to start our Zoofari Lodge adventure!

To get to Zoofari Lodge, we needed to exit the main zoo entrance and re-enter the zoo via a private gate a little farther up the road. This first taste of privileged zoo access through Jurassic-Park-type electric gates had the kids bouncing in their seats with anticipation! We drove down a tree-lined private road, passing the Savannah Cabins on one side (another great Taronga Western Plains Zoo accommodation option), and swiping through one more huge electric gate. It had us wondering – just what was in here?!

Off we went again, down another private road. When we first caught sight of our accommodation for the night we had to catch our breaths – a row of African-style, ultra-smart looking tent-cross-cabin lodges. But it wasn’t just the sight of the luxury lodges that had us excited, but what they were facing. It was quite simply, amazing – an African Savannah, chock-full of exotic animals!

Our Animal-View Zoofari Lodge – The Giraffe Lodge

We quickly parked the car, eager to get to our lodge and were met by our welcoming hosts. Our bags were wheeled in a cart ahead of us as we walked a down a short path to our accommodation. From the earthen path to the rock-towers scattered along the way, it was clear that we were now entering an African safari!  As we stepped up onto the large deck of our lodge – aptly named the Giraffe Lodge – we gained full appreciation of the Zoofari Lodge view!

The Animal View Zoofari Lodges directly faced the African Savannah, a very large paddock which seemingly stretched as far as the eye could see. Recessed fencing gave the impression that there was nothing stopping the animals from wandering up onto our veranda!

Giraffes quietly strolled about, or stood laconically munching hay under high thatched-roof poles, a literal stones-throw in front of our safari accommodation. A curious Ostrich did the animal equivalent of drive-by – cruising to check us out.

Groups of Antelopes lay here and there in the grass. Even some red kangaroos were grazing. It’s all so close, you can actually lie in your king-sized bed and watch your own private African animal show – and it’s right there in front of your lodge! Yes, it’s really that amazing.

Inside Our Zoofari Lodge

The best way to see what a Zoofari Lodge is really like, is to take a walk-through with us! Here is our Zoofari Lodge – just press play on the YouTube video below.

The lodge itself, was pure luxury. African-styled, with beautiful attention to detail, the canvas walls gave it an authentic safari-feel. A king-size bed dominated the room. Strewn with decorative cushions, its screen curtains tied back, safari-style. A fold-out sofa provided a second double bed.

Little, thoughtful touches were everywhere. A pair of binoculars and hard-covered Africa book lay on a heavy wooden table, ready for animal-spotting. Stylish, lodge-style wooden lamp stands and other African-themed pieces decorated the room – even heavy, polished logs served as bed-side tables. Reverse-cycle air conditioning kept us lovely and cool in the summer heat.

The Zoofari Lodge Ensuite

The lodge ensuite was huge, with an peep-through concertina window to the room, double vanity, luxurious double-shower and huge fluffy towels. There were complimentary toiletries supplied, and we found deluxe bathrobes and slippers in a storage cupboard in the bedroom.

The children were delighted to discover a rolled-towel elephant and tiger-striped rubber-duck sitting on the side of a decadent deep double-bath. No detail was missed.

The Zoofari Lodge Outdoor Deck

The front deck was spacious and attractive, with outdoor furniture, including a long padded lounge running down one side of it. Even though the other cabins were near by, would could have been alone. We didn’t notice our neighbours in the slightest, as the decks were very private.

Zoofari Lodge Guest House

Eventually we did drag ourselves away from our lodge to explore the nearby Zoofari Lodge Guest House. In keeping with the safari theme, this stunning Guest House is an African-styled building containing a bar, lounge, and high-ceiling dining room.

There was a cosy-looking log fire in the lounge, however as it was now mid-summer we appreciated the icy-cool air conditioning! The Guest House staff inside couldn’t do enough for the guests and catered to our every need. We were truly being spoiled, and the children were made to feel very welcomed and fussed over – this was a truly luxurious family getaway.

The Guest House veranda overlooked a beautiful rock-edged saltwater swimming pool. We couldn’t resist the allure of the cool water, and had a very refreshing swim (towels are supplied at the pool) followed by some ice-cold drinks lazing on the wicker lounges. It felt like we had wandered into an Out-Of-Africa movie set!

A few fellow guests were swapping stories of their day so far. Everyone agreed that the Zoofari Lodge experience so far was outstanding. All were spellbound with their deluxe lodges, and of course that view! The fact you could watch these majestic animals resting, eating, walking and living their lives mere metres from your front deck – even your bed – was such a unique experience.

When we returned to our lodge we still had some time until we needed to get ready for dinner, so I made myself a cup of coffee and joined the children on the deck to enjoy watching the giraffes a while. Mind you, it seemed more the other way around sometimes – when we moved about they often turned their heads to look at us! We could have easily spent the whole day animal-watching.

The Zoofari Lodge African Banquet Dinner

We headed back up to the Guest House just in time for cocktail hour. Pre-dinner canapés (crocodile, anyone?!) were laid out, and wine tasting was in full-swing. Then followed the most sumptuous Afrian-inspired banquet dinner, prepared by the exclusive Zoofari Chef.

Platter after platter of indulgent fare was set before us  Each dish was deliciously sauced, sautéed and spiced – chicken, lamb, fish, vegetables, breads, salads and more. What a feast! The thoughtful staff kept the kids entertained with cocktail-animal African toys. Dessert was a melt-in-your-mouth selection – I stayed on-theme with a scrumptious African-styled syrup cake – yum! There were kid-friendly choices too, and both girls tucked into bowls of ice-cream.

Exclusive Behind-The-Scenes Zoo Tours

With your Zoofari Zoo Lodge stay you also get two amazing behind-the-scenes zoo tours accompanied by a Zoofari Guide, and including some terrific animal encounters. Here is a video of just some of the tour highlights we experienced – press play on the YouTube video below to see Lemurs, Elephants and more!

TheTwilight Zoo Tour

As if we hadn’t been entertained enough, after dinner we heaved ourselves out of our chairs (probably about a kilo heavier than when we sat down!) for a special behind-the-scenes Twilight Tour of the zoo.

Can you imagine how exciting it is to cruise around a huge zoo in the dark, discovering African animals by torch-light? This tour is pure kid-heaven. We climbed aboard the swish new purpose-built Safari tour bus – and didn’t the kids love that bus – with open sides for great views of all the animals as we cruised by.

As the sun went down, we stopped along the way to personally feed a Bongo (a type of African deer) – what a treat! Then we moved on to visit Cuddles, the last African Elephant in Australia. The guide threw her a treat bucket which she happily emptied, and then threw it right back at us! If you look closely you can see the flying bucket in this photograph below.

Time to feed the Hippos! Off we went in the bus again to watch our tour guide-come-zoo-keeper toss cabbages to Happy the Hippo and his wife (she’s definitely the boss in that household!).

Last stop was the show-stopper – it was quite dark when our guide led the way by torch-light to reveal an amazing White Rhino at very close-quarters – he was fed just a mere metre away from us! We were all quite in awe of him.

The Twilight Tour was an extra-special look at the zoo and its rare and fascinating inhabitants that the general public don’t get to see – and it’s all included in the Zoofari Lodge experience. We felt very privileged.

Finally we all headed back to our lodges to snuggle down for the night, excited to the point of exhaustion. The kids were asleep before their heads hit the pillow, and the last sound I remember hearing as I drifted off to sleep was the throaty roar of a near-by lion….

The Morning Zoo Tour

It was still dark when we arose for our next exclusive Zoofari Lodge adventure – our sunrise Morning Tour! I’d never seen the children so motivated to get up before sunrise. After last night’s Twilight Tour, we knew to expect amazing things – and we weren’t disappointed!

We all eagerly climbed aboard our now-familiar safari bus and drove just a few metres – before we pulled over again! We looked at each other in surprise, and then it was revealed – we were going to meet the very giraffes we had been watching from our lodges!

A big bucket of carrots was produced, and our tour guide called out to the giraffes. Over they mosy-ed, ever-so casually whilst the children (okay, and the adults too!) were jumping out of their skins to feed them.

Finally everyone, adults and children alike, all had a turn feeding the giraffes. What a thrill! These long, blue-tongued fellows knew the drill, and politely removed every carrot offered to them by the eager guests. We all had three or four turns feeding them each, which was ample for some wonderful family photographs.

Everyone was terribly excited to have such a long, relaxed opportunity to interact with these tall, elegant creatures. Where else could you do that? These Zoofari Lodge Tours was so much better than any extra Animal Encounter tours we had paid for at other zoos – and they were all included in our Zoofari Lodge stay.

When we ran out of carrots, we farewelled our giraffes and all climbed back into the safari bus for our next animal-experience. This time it was watching the black rhino be fed. It’s truly humbling to be so close to these magnificent, endangered creatures. Taronga Western Plains Zoo does so much to help support endangered rhino populations all around the world.

Next stop – we were allowed in to a private area to watch the Ring Tailed Lemur families – including tiny little babies clinging to their mother’s backs – be fed banana pieces right in front of us. It was almost cuteness-overload!

Our last stop on our sunrise tour was one of the most memorable – the elephant house! Here we were allowed to watch these giant, gentle ladies patiently devouring their breakfasts after their morning baths. Here again we found Cuddles the elephant from the Twilight Tour, and her knowledgeable keeper Jackie told us a little more of her story. The last of her kind in Australia, Cuddles had outlived her fellow African Elephant mates, and was now supplied with two pet camels to keep her company throughout the day, so that she wasn’t lonely.

The children loved being given the opportunity to ask Jackie questions about elephants – to them, she was an elephant God! Samantha, my youngest, wanted to know – do elephants really like peanuts? (Yes, apparently they do!) Meanwhile, another zoo keeper strolled in eating a banana and casually threw half of it in to one of the breakfasting elephants who just as casually scooped it up and stuffed it into her mouth! This was a zoo experience like no-other. As we left the Elephant House, it was just in time to see Cuddle’s pair of camel pets being led to their day paddock to join her.

Of all the different things we learned about these beautiful animals over our stay, one thing was very clear – the animals at Taronga Western Plains Zoo were cared for, and cared about – very much. The tour guides and keepers all spoke with genuine affection about their animal charges.

Whilst expressing concern for the future of their breeds in general, the keepers all spoke hopefully of how animal population endangerment was being addressed – and how the zoo planned to help strengthen endangered populations into the future. It was really quite something to listen to them speak. Taronga Western Plains Zoo is making a real difference to many endangered animal populations around the world.

Zoofari Lodge Breakfast

After the Morning Tour it was time for breakfast at the Zoofari Lodge Guest House. Another delectable buffet and hot cooked meal awaited, which took us some time to polish off. There were plenty of choices to keep both children and adults happy.

After breakfast it was time to check out of Zoofari Lodge, however not the zoo – the Zoofari Lodge package also includes two full days admission. We bade goodbye to the lovely Zoofari Lodge staff and headed off to explore the zoo for the day.

Another day to wander the zoo at will

The Taronga Western Plains Zoo is very large, modern and professionally run. A zoo this size with a 6km loop road has an abundance of wildlife on offer – and many ways to get around the zoo to see it!

Zoo visitors can choose to drive using their own car, hire a bicycle or an electric cart. We opted for the car which did the job well, with wide roads and easy parking everywhere. However I must admit, I felt a little sorry we hadn’t chosen the cart option when we saw some families zooming around in them – they looked like fun!

We spent the day driving around the loop road, stopping off to visit the different animal areas. We saw so much – zebras, lions, cheetahs, tigers, and even a wee baby elephant (if you get the chance, be sure to visit the zoo soon, while Sabai the baby elephant is still tiny and hilarious)!

The best thing about the Taronga Western Plains Zoo is seeing the quality of life of the animals who live there. Plenty of room to move and well fed, our self-guided day at the zoo confirmed to us that this zoo is full of happy animals.

As the day drew to a close, we were sad to leave. Zoofari Lodge had been unlike any accommodation we had every experienced before – unique, luxurious, exciting – a real African adventure!

The zoo itself was a great example of how to do a zoo right, and thanks to the fabulous Zoofari Lodge behind-the-scenes tours, both children had even decided to become Zoo Keepers! As for me, and I was already mentally planning a return trip.

What an incredible time we had on our Zoofari Lodge stay at Taronga Western Plains Zoo!

Stop Press – new attraction!

Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo has a brand new attraction – the exciting new Savannah Safari tour is now open! Climb aboard the Savannah Safari truck and experience a unique guided tour amongst African animals. Just like a safari! Only $10 per adult and $5 per child (in addition to Zoo admission). You can find out more about the Savannah Safari at the Taronga Western Plains Zoo website here.

Zoofari Lodge – what’s included?

– Two day admission to Taronga Western Plains Zoo

– One night accommodation at Zoofari Lodge

– Exclusive behind the scenes tours with a Zoofari Guide

– African style canapés, banquet dinner and dessert

– Buffet breakfast

– Standard bicycle hire for two days

– 10% discount at the Zoo’s Souvenir Shop

– 10% discount voucher for Bakhita’s Café

– 10% discount on additional Animal Encounters

Zoofari Lodge essential info

Zoofari Lodge is 15 luxurious African-style lodges with exclusive access to the Zoofari Lodge Guest House, offering guests lounges, verandah, catered fine dining and a salt-water swimming pool

Animal View Lodges sleep up to four people, with a king split bed and sofa bed.
Rates start from *$309 per adult / *$49 per child – check current rates at the official zoo website

Bushland View Lodges sleep up to six people with a queen bed, two singles and a sofa bed.
Rates start from *$269 per adult / *$49 per child – check current rates at the official zoo website

Both Animal and Bushland View Lodge accommodation include a private ensuite, coffee and tea facilities with mini-bar, a fridge and a shaded veranda with outdoor furniture. All bedding, linen and towels are provided. 

Zoofari Lodge location

Address: Obley Road, Dubbo, NSW 2830
Find it on Google Maps here
Phone: (02) 6881 1400
Email: wpz@zoo.nsw.gov.au
Website: Taronga Western Plains Zoo official website.

*All prices are correct as at March 2017 – please check the official zoo website for current rates

The Let’s Go Mum! family were hosted guests of Zoofari Lodge. All opinions are our own.

Have you ever visited the Taronga Western Plains Zoo? What do you think about staying inside the Dubbo Zoo? Comment below…

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