Adelaide Zoo sits in the parklands northeast of the CBD, a ten-minute walk from North Terrace. It was established in 1883 and retains some of its Victorian-era character — wrought-iron enclosures, a charming Heritage Trail through the original zoo buildings. For most of the 2010s it was the only zoo in Australia to hold giant pandas; the two pandas (Wang Wang and Fu Ni) drew visitors from around the country.
The zoo focuses on wildlife conservation and is home to a range of Australasian and exotic species. The adjacent Botanic Garden makes the two a natural pairing for a half-day. Book tickets in advance if visiting during school holidays.