The Optimist

Melbourne Aquarium
This is a high-technology aquarium stretching over three levels. It features a Barrier Reef exhibit and a walk through tank with sharks that you can dive with if you so feel! Corner of Queens Wharf Road and King Street (03 9620 0999).
Melbourne Zoo
Melbourne Zoo was established in 1862 and is the oldest zoo in the world. Most animals are housed in spacious, natural surrounds.The zoo is located only 4km from the city centre at Royal Park. Highlights are the butterfly house, the large gorilla exhibit and the new elephant enclosure. And sleepovers are also possible at Melbourne Zoo. Elliott Ave,Parkville (03 9285 9300). Train to Royal Park Station.
Werribee Zoo
This Zoo has a strong African feel and is only 30 minutes from Melbourne.The animals graze in wide open parklands and can be viewed from a safari bus.The zoo offers an unusual overnight safari adventure where you can stay in a deluxe campsite. New to the zoo are the Kabu River Hippos. K Road, Werribee (03 9731 9600). Take train from city to Werribee then bus to Werribee Zoo.
Healesville Sanctuary
Healesville Sanctuary, opened in 1934, and is 65 kilometres east from the centre of Melbourne. Healesville Sanctuary specialises in native Australian wildlife and is one of the best places in the country to go to see such unique Australian creatures as wombats, koalas, kangaroos and, particularly, platypus. The Sanctuary has kept platypus since the 1930s and, during the 1940s, became the first place in the world to breed a platypus in captivity, a success not repeated until 1999. Included is the Australian Wildlife Health Centre which gives a behind the scenes view of a real wildlife hospital. Badger Creek Road, Healesville (03 5957 2800) Take train from city to Lilydale and connecting bus at Lilydale.