Choose from 889 Fun Things to Do in Australia And The Pacific
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Adelaide Zoo
Around 1,800 exotic and native mammals, birds, reptiles and fish reside at the 8-hectare Adelaide Zoo, comprising 300 species. Major attractions include the Southeast Asian rainforest exhibit, Immersion, a walkthrough jungle environment where tigers and orangatuns feel within reach. Also the giant pandas Wang Wang and Funi!
Opened in 1883, it is Australia's second-oldest zoo and the only not-for-pro fit zoo in the country. Many of the structures are National Trust registered although these, such as the elephant house, these days are used for educational exhibits while the animals have moved to more natural environments. There is a Children's Zoo where you can pet animals including kangaroos and koalas, and the Envirodome, an education/interactive center.
Practial Info
The zoo is on the edge of the city next to the Botanical Gardens. Catch bus 271 or 273 from Currie Street to Frome Street directly outside the zoo. You can take a water cruise to the zoo from Elder Park, in front of the Festival Centre, on Pop-eye.
Address: Frome Road, Adelaide 5000, Australia
Hours: 9.30am - 5pm
Admission: Adults: AU$28.50
From $ 27
AAMI Park
With a bold profile of gleaming triangular panels in a unique bioframe
roof, it’s no surprise that Melbourne’s AAMI Park has quickly become an
iconic sporting stadium.
Located only one kilometre from the city centre, between the sweeping Yarra River and the internationally-loved MCG, AAMI Park is Melbourne’s premier medium-sized soccer, rugby union and rugby league venue.
AAMI Park’s star teams include the National Rugby League's Melbourne Storm, Melbourne’s Super Rugby team, the Melbourne Rebels, and soccer’s A-League teams, the Melbourne Victory and Melbourne Heart.
The stadium has a capacity of more than 30,000 spectators and boasts a popular roof design that offers seating cover and a notable lack of pillars and walls obstructing the view.
Recognizing the unique value of this Melbourne attraction, in 2012 AAMI Park was awarded the World’s Most Iconic and Culturally Significant Stadium by the Stadium World Congress.
Located only one kilometre from the city centre, between the sweeping Yarra River and the internationally-loved MCG, AAMI Park is Melbourne’s premier medium-sized soccer, rugby union and rugby league venue.
AAMI Park’s star teams include the National Rugby League's Melbourne Storm, Melbourne’s Super Rugby team, the Melbourne Rebels, and soccer’s A-League teams, the Melbourne Victory and Melbourne Heart.
The stadium has a capacity of more than 30,000 spectators and boasts a popular roof design that offers seating cover and a notable lack of pillars and walls obstructing the view.
Recognizing the unique value of this Melbourne attraction, in 2012 AAMI Park was awarded the World’s Most Iconic and Culturally Significant Stadium by the Stadium World Congress.
Practical Info
AAMI Park is within the Melbourne and Olympic Parks precinct, and has been designed with easy and frequent connection to Melbourne trains, trams and buses.
Trams from Flinders Street and Richmond Stations stop at AAMI Park Stop 7D. Richmond Station, Jolimont Station and Flinders Street train stations are within walking distance to AAMI Park. Buses link between the city and the sports precinct. Visitors can also walk from Federation Square in the city, along the Yarra River.
Onsite car parking is limited and fees apply. Event days are more expensive than non-event days.
Trams from Flinders Street and Richmond Stations stop at AAMI Park Stop 7D. Richmond Station, Jolimont Station and Flinders Street train stations are within walking distance to AAMI Park. Buses link between the city and the sports precinct. Visitors can also walk from Federation Square in the city, along the Yarra River.
Onsite car parking is limited and fees apply. Event days are more expensive than non-event days.
Address: Olympic Blvd, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
Hours: Check website for event times.
Admission: Depends on event
From $ 89
Block Arcade
The Block Arcade is a heritage-shopping arcade that was built in the late 1800s. Restored to its original glory, the arcade still features its original mosaic tiled flooring, glass canopied ceiling and wrought iron and carved stone finishes.
In conjunction with Melbourne’s Royal Arcade, The Block Arcade forms part of the city’s Golden Mile heritage walk that cuts through the center of the CBD and offers a unique shopping experience.
Much loved shops within the arcade include the popular Hopetoun Tea Rooms (Melbourne’s original spot for high tea and still home to the city’s most drool-worthy window display!), Dafel Dolls & Bears toy shop and Haigh’s Chocolates.
You can enter The Block Arcade from its official entrance on Collins Street or via Elizabeth Street (west) or the pedestrian laneway off Little Collins Street.
In conjunction with Melbourne’s Royal Arcade, The Block Arcade forms part of the city’s Golden Mile heritage walk that cuts through the center of the CBD and offers a unique shopping experience.
Much loved shops within the arcade include the popular Hopetoun Tea Rooms (Melbourne’s original spot for high tea and still home to the city’s most drool-worthy window display!), Dafel Dolls & Bears toy shop and Haigh’s Chocolates.
You can enter The Block Arcade from its official entrance on Collins Street or via Elizabeth Street (west) or the pedestrian laneway off Little Collins Street.
Address: Shop 23/282 Collins Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
From $ 51
Afu Aau Falls
If there’s a single image of tropical paradise it’s a hidden waterfall in the rainforest. That’s the scene that visitors will encounter at Afu Aau Falls, where a waterfall peacefully plunges into a cool, crystalline pool. After paying a nominal entry fee at the gate to local villagers, park the car by the changing station and make the short, 10-minute walk to the tumbling stream of water. Be sure to pack along a swimsuit, since one of the highlights of Afu Aau Falls in splashing and swimming in the water. It’s the perfect refresher on a hot day of exploring Savai’i, and you could easily while away hours just splashing and hanging out on the rocks.
For visitors traveling without a car, the waterfall is a popular stop for half-day, guided tours of the island, where you can experience the lush, natural beauty just minutes away from town.
Insider's Tip: Be sure to bring proper walking shoes for the short hike up to the falls.
Practical Info
Alcohol is strictly forbidden at the falls, and there is no access on Sundays. There are basic toilets and changing rooms that offer minimal privacy, and the walk to the waterfall can often be slippery—particularly after it’s rained. Because the road to the falls is narrow, visitors who choose to drive independently will need to reverse down a long driveway since turning around can be a challenge.
Address: Afu Aau Falls, Vailoa, Samoa
Hours: Closed on Sundays
Admission: $2 donation
From $ 64
Adelaide Gaol
This now defunct prison in the heart of Thebarton was the first home of criminals in South Australia. While it serves as a museum today, Adelaide Gaol held lawbreakers and convicts between 1841 and 1988. Life was hard here and executions and torture were a part of daily life.
Travelers who journey to this top attraction will find plenty to do and see on a tour of this historical icon, and visitors say the guided day and evening tours are an ideal way to not only learn about the history of Adelaide Gaol, but those who once called its walls home, too. Travelers who opt for a self-guided tour will still find impressive displays with well-marked information and plenty of historical context.
Practical Info
Adelaide Gaol is located at 18 Gaol Road in Thebarton. Travelers can take self-guided tours Sunday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. with the last entry at 3:30 p.m. Visitors who are interested in the paranormal can book guided tours with local outfits that focus on ghosts and spirits of the Adelaide Gaol.
Address: 18 Gaol Rd, Thebarton SA 5031, Australia
Admission: Tour pricing varies
From $ 29
Birdworld Kuranda
Queensland's lush, tropical north is alive with colorful bird life, and you can experience the festive cacophony of chirps on a visit to Birdworld Kuranda. Over 60 different species of birds make their home in this enclave of forest and waterfalls, and the landscape is built to mimic the surroundings the birds would find in the wild. When walking the open-air aviary, there’s the chance a bird could simply fly up and land on your shoulder, or a curious parrot might cock its head sideways and inspect you while sitting on a tree branch. Visitors also have the chance to hand-feed birds under the supervision of the aviary staff. Keep an eye out to spot Amazonian macaws, kingfishers, and Australian black swans.
Practical Info
Birdworld Kuranda is located near the Heritage Markets in Kuranda. It is a 40-minute drive from Cairns, though most visitors prefer to come via the Kuranda Scenic Rail or Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. There is a free shuttle bus to the Kuranda Skyrail station, and you can combine the visit with Kuranda Koala Gardens, which is located right next door. The aviary is open from 9am to 4pm every day, with guided tours at 11:15am. The price of admission is $18 for adults and $9 for children ages four to 15. Birdworld Kuranda is wheelchair accessible.
Staff-led talks at 11:30am offer more insight on the birds, and you’re allowed to bring in your own camera to shoot photos of birds in the treetops.
Address: Heritage Markets, Rob Veivers Drive, Kuranda, Queensland 4881, Australia
Hours: 9am–4pm daily
Admission: Adult: $18; Child (yrs 4-15): $9
From $ 24
Abrolhos Island
Imagine soaring above Humpback whales as they breach in the water below, and seeing manta rays, dolphins, and shipwrecks as they whiz by under your feet. That’s the scene that visitors may experience on a sightseeing tour of the Abrolhos, an island chain off Western Australia that’s one of the nation’s best secrets. Save for a handful of lobster fisherman, the Abrolhos Islands are completely uninhabited—protected in conservation—though select areas are accessible to visitors who arrive by air and by sea.
One of the most popular way to experience the islands is on a flightseeing tour from Geraldton, where pilots search for splashing marine life in the turquoise waters below, and point out the wreck of the famous Batavia which sank in the 17th Century. Touching down on one of the islands, hike along white-sand, tree-lined shorelines for the chance to snorkel the reef, where the vibrant colors and wealth of marine life offer some of Australia’s best snorkeling. Unlike more popular spots, however, like Queensland’s Great Barrier Reef, the Abrolhos Islands are nearly deserted—just you, your pilot, and the sea.
Practical Info
The Abrolhos Islands are about 36 miles west of Geraldton and consist of 122 islands. The three main groups are the Easter, Wallabi, and Pelsaert groups, and since the islands became a national park in 2016, it’s believed more facilities—and eventually more visitors—won’t be far behind.
Did You Know? When the Zweeijk was wrecked off the Abrolhos Islands in 1727, over 3 tons of gold coins were saved and rescued by its crew.
Address: Geraldton, Western Australia, Australia
From $ 208
Agrodome
New Zealand has the world’s highest sheep-to-human ratio, with an industry that is estimated to include 30 million sheep. At the Rotorua Agrodome—a 350-acre (142-hectare) working sheep farm just outside of town—visitors can help to shear sheep, tour the mill, and observe well-trained sheepdogs as they follow commands.
The Basics
An entrance ticket to the Agrodome typically includes a Farm Tour, Farm Show, or both. Visitors ride an all-terrain vehicle through North Island pasturelands and lend a hand to milk a cow or bottle-feed a baby goat, and watch a carding and spinning demonstration at the century-old Woollen Mill. Visitors can tour the Agrodome as part of a full-day tour of Rotorua, or explore the farm only on a dedicated 3-hour excursion.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This educational experience is suitable for all ages and allows families to participate in farming activities; children under 5 years old enter free.
- Choose between an Agrodome Farm Show or Farm Tour, or select both.
- Day trips combine the North Island’s top attractions, such as the Hobbiton Movie Set, Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, and Rainbow Springs Nature Park.
How to Get There
The Rotorua Agrodome is located at 141 Western Road, Ngongotaha, only 6 miles (10 kilometers) from Rotorua. The farm is served by excellent public transport from the city center. For those with a car, it’s a 10-minute drive from the city center and 2.5 hours from Auckland Airport. Most guided day trips provide round-trip hotel transport.
When to Get There
This must-see attraction is open daily from 8:30am to 5pm. The Agrodome remains open in all weather conditions and during all public holidays, including Christmas Day. The Farm Shows and Farm Tours (each lasts one hour) are scheduled throughout the day.
For Adventure Seekers
There is an adrenaline-fueled side to the Agrodome. Visitors can “zorb” down a long, grassy hill, which essentially means standing in a large plastic ball and rolling yourself downward. There’s also the option to take a ride on the cheek-flapping swing bridge, or go flying inside of a wind tunnel. Visitors can even go bungee jumping.
Address: Western Road, Ngongotaha, Rotorua, New Zealand
From $ 26
Adelaide Oval
People come to America to watch baseball and they go to Australia to watch cricket. The Adelaide Oval, located in the parklands between city center and North Adelaide, has been home to two teams, as well as the South Australian Cricket Association. Built in 1871, lights were not added to this 54,500-seat stadium until 1997.
The Adelaide Oval is an ideal spot for catching both international and domestic cricket, as well as Australian rules football games, rugby and soccer. The stadium has also proved a successful music venue, with acts like Paul McCartney, Madonna and Michael Jackson taking the stage.
Practical Info
Games are played regularly, so it’s easy to catch an event at this impressive stadium. Admission is subject to review, so be sure to check the website for prohibited items, dress code and other information before arriving at the Oval.
Address: War Memorial Dr, North Adelaide, SA 5006, Australia
From $ 19
Adelaide Botanic Gardens
Stroll, jog or find yourself a grassy patch to read a book in the splendid, city-fringe Adelaide Botanic Garden, established in the 1850s. Highlights here include a unique prefabricated palm house (1877), the Museum of Economic Botany (check out its stencilled ceiling), and the 1988 Bicentennial Conservatory, which recreates a tropical rainforest environment.
Comprising the Botanic Gardens of Adelaide are two other sites: the Mount Lofty Botanic Garden and Wittunga Botanic Garden. Mount Lofty is less than half an hour from the city centre and has plants which thrive in cooler climates than those of the plains below. Wittunga in the Adelaide Hills was once the private Garden of Edwin Ashby and has been open to the public since 1975. It is a popular place for picnics.
Practical Info
The Adelaide Botanic Garden is an easy walk from the city. Free 1½-hour guided walks depart from the kiosk at 10:30am
Address: North Terrace, Adelaide 5000, Australia
Hours: Open everyday.
Admission: Free
From $ 44
Church Road Winery
Like a stone monastery rising up from the vines of Napier’s fertile plains, Church Road Winery is one of the oldest and finest Hawke’s Bay wineries. Established in 1897, this vineyard was the first in all of New Zealand to release a Cabernet Sauvignon, and when bottles hit shelves in 1949 they were instant New Zealand classics. Fast-forward over half a century, and Church Road Winery has been completely renovated and is still one of Napier’s best. Aside from the a la carte restaurant on site and imposing cellar door, where rows of wine barrels stand in for pews you might find in a dimly lit church, one of the best parts of visiting Church Road winery are the daily cellar tours. Learn the history of Church Road Winery and the time-honed winemaking process, and pair the wines with succulent foods in an intimate, boutique tasting area. You’ll also find a wine museum beneath the tasting area, where some of the country’s oldest wine relics are housed in concrete vats. Throughout the tour you can talk with the staff about wine and the Hawke’s Bay terroir, and elevate your level of wine expertise at one of New Zealand’s best wineries.
Practical Info
Tours take place daily at 11am and 2pm from the end of October-April, and at 2pm daily from May-October.
Address: 150 Church Road, Taradale, Napier, New Zealand 4112, New Zealand
Hours: Open daily 10am-4:30pm (open at 10:30am May-October)
Admission: $17.50 for tour and tasting
From $ 85
Adelaide River
In the far reaches of Australia’s Northern Territory, the rough and tumble outpost of Darwin is a hotbed of quintessential Australian adventure, and none more so than a cruise on the Adelaide River to see the legendary jumping crocodiles, which can grow upwards of 20 feet long. Salt-water crocodiles are some of the most fearsome and notorious wild animals in the Australian bush, and the Adelaide River literally teems with them—don’t plan to take a swim during a day on the water.
Experienced guides control the experience so you can see these incredible prehistoric reptiles from the comfort and safety of a boat. And while the crocs are certainly the highlight of a trip to the river, you can see plenty of other wildlife along the way, including wild buffalo and white-breasted sea eagles. The Adelaide River is also a hotspot for fishing trips to snag massive, hard-fighting barramundi fish.
Practical Info
The Adelaide River flows through the Harrison Dam Conservation Area on its way to the ocean, and it’s on the edge of the park from which most river tours board and depart. From downtown Darwin, it’s about 40 miles to the southeast, and an hour-long drive each way.
Address: Adelaide River, Northern Territory, Australia
From $ 88
Churchill Island
The Churchill Island Heritage Farm is one of Melbourne’s most unique attractions. A tiny island off the coast of Phillip Island, Churchill Island is occupied entirely by the Churchill Island Heritage Farm.
Churchill Island was one of the first places in Victoria to be used for agriculture. Farmed since 1798, the island retains its heritage by showcasing pioneer farming techniques to visitors in its current incarnation as an historic working farm.
The Churchill Island Heritage Farm Visitor Centre contains an exhibition on the history of the island, as well as a giftshop and café. The real attraction of the island however is the farm life. Daily farming activities include cow milking, sheep shearing and more. Visitors can also circumnavigate the island on a walking track with fantastic views. The farm hosts a farmers market on the fourth Saturday of each month with lots of local produce.
Kids will love spotting the unusual breed of typical farm animals on the island. Highland cows, Clydesdale horses, peacocks and more can be found on the farm, as well as sightings of the Little Penguins that live on Phillip Island next door.
Practical Info
Access to Churchill Island is via Phillip Island, a ninety minute drive from Melbourne. Once on Phillip Island, head across the Churchill Island bridge. It’s also possible to walk from Phillip Island to Churchill Island if you’ve taken a tour or public transport to Phillip Island. The Heritage Farm is open from 10am to 5pm daily, and entry costs $12 for adults and $6 for children.
Address: 246 Samuel Amess Drive, Churchill Island 3925, Australia
Hours: Daily 10am-5pm
Admission: Adults $12 AUD, children $6 AUD
From $ 193
Bloody Mary's Restaurant
Bloody Mary's is Bora Bora's most famous restaurant. It is as well known for its food as it is for its colorful history and atmosphere.
The restaurant was founded in 1979 by an eccentric Polish nobleman, the Baron Jerzy Hubert Edward von Dange (George to his friends). It was sold to a Los Angeles businessman in 1985 but the restaurant still maintains what it calls its “old Tahiti style.” The building is a fare tiurai, a traditional hut with a thatched roof and open sides. The kitschy interior features a sand floor (bare foot dining encouraged), tiki torches and polished palm trunks for seats.
Bloody Mary's is open for lunch, dinner and drinks. On the menu is fresh seafood and the daily catch is displayed on ice at the entrance. You will no doubt be encouraged to pair your meal with a fruity island cocktail. Don't forget to check out the open air restrooms which have waterfalls instead of sinks.
The restaurant was founded in 1979 by an eccentric Polish nobleman, the Baron Jerzy Hubert Edward von Dange (George to his friends). It was sold to a Los Angeles businessman in 1985 but the restaurant still maintains what it calls its “old Tahiti style.” The building is a fare tiurai, a traditional hut with a thatched roof and open sides. The kitschy interior features a sand floor (bare foot dining encouraged), tiki torches and polished palm trunks for seats.
Bloody Mary's is open for lunch, dinner and drinks. On the menu is fresh seafood and the daily catch is displayed on ice at the entrance. You will no doubt be encouraged to pair your meal with a fruity island cocktail. Don't forget to check out the open air restrooms which have waterfalls instead of sinks.
(Image courtesy of www.bloodymarys.com)
Address: Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Hours: Restaurant: Mon-Wed 11am-3pm; Mon-Sat 6pm-9pm. Bar: Mon-Sat 9:30am-11pm
From $ 226
Agincourt Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is the Earth’s largest structure built entirely by living organisms. It runs for over 1,200 miles from its northern to southern tip, and is almost the size of the state of Montana when its various reefs are combined. One of the reefs—the Agincourt Reef—is a distant section along the reef’s northern tip where stunning biodiversity creates one of the most pristine ecosystems found anywhere along the reef.
Known as a type of “Ribbon Reef,” the Agincourt Reef runs parallel to the line with the Continental Shelf. Exotic species such as the Maori wrasse are commonly found along the reef, and sharks, rays—and even whales—can be seen when scuba diving the reef. Even for travelers who are just snorkeling, however, there are sections of the reef only a few feet below the clear, turquoise waters. Here, in the shallow lagoons, thousands of fish inhabit a reef that bursts with vibrancy and color—and there is even the chance of encountering species like the giant purple clam. Like a galactic portal to an entirely new world, the sights, colors, and marine diversity create an aquatic wonderland off of Port Douglas unlike anything you’ve ever seen before.
Practical Info
Port Douglas is the best access point for reaching the Agincourt Reef, which is 90 miles off of the coast and takes 1.5 hours to reach. Diving and snorkeling is possible during all times of the year, but August to December offers the best conditions for temperature and visibility.
Address: Great Barrier Reef, Port Douglas, QLD, Australia
From $ 180
Church of the Good Shepherd
Built in 1935 as a memorial to the pioneers of Mackenzie County, The Church of the Good Shepherd attracts visitors from around the world. The Church is set on the shores of Lake Tekapo. Framed by the lake and the mountains, you don’t have to be a photographer to appreciate its picturesque qualities.
When the Church was constructed, builders were given a very specific set of rules to follow. The site had to be undisturbed. No plantings or rocks could be removed. All stones used to build the church walls had to come from within five miles of the construction site and could not be chipped or altered.
The church interior features an altar window with views of Lake Tekapo and the mountains. The cupboard in the Vestry was made with wood from the Tekapo Bridge. The bridge was demolished in 1954.
Practical Info
The Church of the Good Shepherd is interdenominational and services are held regularly throughout the year. It’s also a popular spot for weddings. Be sure to have your camera charged and handy.
Address: Lake Tekapo 7999, New Zealand
From $ 155
Adelaide Central Market
Remember the days of buying your fresh fruit and vegetables direct from the people who grow it? The thrill of bargaining, and buying according to what's in season, with a recommendation of what's best tasting at the moment and how you should eat it? You can still experience that at Adelaide Central Market.
For 140 years this market in the heart of the city has been providing residents with fresh produce. Over 80 stalls selling direct from the producers, include fruit and vegetables, meats and seafood, bakeries, cheeses, small goods and plants and flowers. There are cafes to rest in with a coffee or snack after an invigorating session of bargaining.
Practical Info
The market is located right in the heart of the city so it's easy to get to. The City to Bay tram stops right outside the door, as does the Free Adelaide Connector Bus.
Address: Gouger Street, Adelaide 5000, Australia
Hours: Open Tuesday - Saturday
Admission: Free
From $ 20
Admirals Arch
A scenic boardwalk leads to the viewing platform for Admiral’s Arch – the naturally formed rock bridge that towers above colonies of New Zealand fur seals.
Originally an ancient cave, Admirals Arch has been shaped by the intense winds and surf that pound the coast of Kangaroo Island. Stalactites still hang from the rocky ceiling whilst the floor has been eroded to a smooth finish. The Arch has been designated a geological monument, and is one of 27 geological monuments on the island.
The boardwalk runs along the cliff face, providing uninterrupted views of the ocean. Dolphins can often be spotted, and whales migrate along the coast from May to October. Year round entertainment however, is provided by the colony of fur seals that live and play on the rock platforms beneath the cliff. Pups are born in December, and remain with their mothers for a year, playing in the rock pools under the Arch.
Originally an ancient cave, Admirals Arch has been shaped by the intense winds and surf that pound the coast of Kangaroo Island. Stalactites still hang from the rocky ceiling whilst the floor has been eroded to a smooth finish. The Arch has been designated a geological monument, and is one of 27 geological monuments on the island.
The boardwalk runs along the cliff face, providing uninterrupted views of the ocean. Dolphins can often be spotted, and whales migrate along the coast from May to October. Year round entertainment however, is provided by the colony of fur seals that live and play on the rock platforms beneath the cliff. Pups are born in December, and remain with their mothers for a year, playing in the rock pools under the Arch.
Practical Info:
Sitting on Cape du Couedic in Flinders Chase National Park, Admirals
Arch is a 10 minute walk from the Admirals Arch Car Park. Several longer
walks such as the Cape du Couedic Hike begin within the area, and the
Cape du Couedic Lightstation lies on the road to the Admirals Arch
Boardwalk.
Address: Admiral's Arch Boardwalk, Flinders Chase National Park, Flinders Chase, SA 5223, Australia
Hours: Open 24/7 but day visitors are requested to leave the park by sunset.
Admission: Adult: $10 (2 Day Pass $15). Child: $6 (2 Day Pass $9)
From $ 219
A Maze'N Things
Set amid the natural wonders and wildlife reserves of Phillip Island, A Maze'N Things offers a fun alternative for a family day out. The small-scale theme park is packed with interactive exhibitions and activities, including mind-bending illusions, a gigantic maze, a minigolf course, and plenty of games, puzzles, and challenges to keep all ages entertained.
The Basics
Admission to A Maze'N Things includes entrance to its Magic Manor, Puzzle Island, Illusion Rooms, and the Maze, while tours from Melbourne often combine a visit with attractions like the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory or the evening Penguin Parade. Additional ticketed activities include the 19-hole Maxi Mini Golf course and the SkyTrail high-ropes adventure course.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A Maze'N Things is suitable for all ages, but there are age restrictions on some activities and children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
- On-site facilities include a café, picnic and barbecue area, gift shop, and playground.
- The Maze takes an average of 45 minutes to complete, but plan up to three hours to enjoy all the park’s activities.
- Some of the park’s attractions are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
A Maze’N Things is located on the main Phillip Island Road, between the Rusty Water Brewery and Phillip Island Adventure Resort. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Melbourne city center and just a 10-minute drive from Phillip Island attractions such as Seal Rocks and the Penguin Parade.
When to Get There
Open daily year-round, A Maze’N Things is busiest in peak season (December and January) and during school holidays. The SkyTrail is open daily throughout January, but the rest of the year it opens only on weekends.
Family Fun at A Maze’N Things
Tackling a gigantic open-air 3-D maze, zooming down the LookOut! slide, clambering through the treetops on the SkyTrail, and playing a round of minigolf are just some of the activities on offer at A Maze’N Things. In the Illusion Rooms, you can make people disappear, see water flowing uphill, defy gravity, and get shrunk. On Puzzle Island, experience a Mirror Maze, ride a flying boogie board, or try to balance in a rotating room; and in the Magic Manor, see a flying chandelier, test your nerves in the scare rooms, and try out magic tricks.
Address: 1805 Phillip Island Road, Cowes, Australia
Admission: $44 for adults, $29.50 for children
From $ 25
Black Pearl Museum
One of Papeete’s few museums, the Musée de la Perle (or Black Pearl Museum) celebrates all aspects of pearl culture. In the days before large-scale cultivation, these ocean jewels were charged with mystical significance, associated with religious rites and coveted as status symbols. The museum, established by local entrepreneur Robert Wan, looks at the pearl in art, history and literature, and shows how they get from the sea to the display case.
The real star here is the black pearl. While a little more abundant than in the days when Mary, Queen of Scots adorned herself with a priceless necklace of the dark sea bounty, this Tahitian specialty is still a sought-after rarity.
Practical Info
The Musée de la Perle is a stone’s throw from Papeete’s waterfront, close to the Marché de Papeete and the cathedral. There are numerous stores in the area where you can buy your own black pearls.
Address: Boulevard Pomare, Papeete, French Polynesia
Hours: Mon - Sat 9am - 5pm (Last entry at 4:45pm). Closed Sundays
Admission: BP 850
From $ 50