To get to Featherdale Wildlife Park from Sydney, the most convenient method is to take the train from Central Station to Blacktown Station, followed by a short bus ride. This charming park is nestled in Doonside, near Blacktown, offering a wonderful opportunity to explore a variety of Australian native wildlife and birds.
Once you arrive at Blacktown Station, head over to bus stand E and hop on the 729 bus, which will drop you off right at the gates of Featherdale Wildlife Park. This journey typically takes around 55 minutes and costs between $4 and $8, making it both time-efficient and affordable.
Spanning seven days a week from 8 am to 5 pm, Featherdale Wildlife Park provides you with countless unforgettable animal encounters. Whether you’re hand-feeding wallabies and kangaroos, patting a koala, or wandering through the Lorikeet Aviary, your visit promises memorable experiences with Australia’s unique fauna.
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Planning Your Visit
Organising a visit to Featherdale Wildlife Park involves considering various factors such as ticket prices, transportation, and accessibility. Planning these details in advance will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for you and your family.
Ticket Information
Featherdale Wildlife Park offers a range of ticket options to suit different visitors. Adult tickets are priced at $42.00, while children aged 3-15 years can enter for $28.00. Children 2 and under can enter for free. Discounts are available for seniors and concession card holders. For those looking to make the most of their visit, combo deals for entry and animal encounters are also offered. It is recommended to book online to secure your tickets and avoid queues.
Operating Hours
Featherdale Wildlife Park operates daily from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, providing ample time for a full day of exploration. The park is open on all public holidays except Christmas Day. Arriving early is advisable to make the most of your visit and to see the animals when they are most active. Check the park’s website for any special event timings or changes in hours.
Transportation Options
You have multiple transportation options to reach Featherdale Wildlife Park. If using public transport, take the train to Blacktown Station on the Western Line or Blue Mountains Line. From Blacktown Station, follow the signs to the bus interchange and take a bus directly to the park. For those travelling by car, the park provides ample parking facilities. Ride-sharing services and taxis are also convenient options from various parts of Sydney.
Maps and Directions
Featherdale Wildlife Park is located in Doonside, Western Sydney. The address is 217-229 Kildare Road, Doonside, NSW 2767. Detailed maps and directions are available on the park’s official website. It’s beneficial to download or print a park map beforehand to help plan your visit. Signposted routes from Blacktown Station and major roads in Sydney make the park easily accessible.
Accommodation
For visitors looking to stay overnight, a variety of accommodation options are available nearby. Western Sydney offers hotels, motels, and serviced apartments. You can find family-friendly hotels and budget options. Staying nearby provides the convenience of an early start at the park, making the most of your day trip. Major accommodation chains and local options are listed on travel websites and the park’s website.
Accessibility
Featherdale Wildlife Park is committed to providing an accessible experience for all visitors. The park is wheelchair-friendly with accessible pathways and amenities. Parking for visitors with disabilities is available near the entrance. Assistance animals are welcome, and the staff are trained to assist with any special needs. It is advised to notify the park in advance if you require specific accommodations or assistance.
Planning your visit to Featherdale Wildlife Park involves factoring in these details to ensure a fun and fuss-free day out immersed in Australian wildlife.
Animal Encounters
Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park offers a range of unique animal encounters that allow you to interact closely with some of Australia’s most iconic and exotic native species.
Species Exhibits
At Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park, you can explore exhibits featuring diverse Australian wildlife. Meet the koalas, known for their charming, sleepy demeanour. Get up close with kangaroos and wallabies, animals that embody the spirit of the Australian outback.
Witness the engaging behaviour of wombats and the nocturnal habits of Tasmanian devils. The park also houses a variety of birds, including emus and the smallest penguin species, the Little Penguin. Each exhibit is carefully designed to mirror the animals’ natural habitats, promoting both conservation and education.
Interactive Experiences
Interacting with animals can be a highlight of your visit. Featherdale offers private animal encounters where you can hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies or cuddle a koala. For bird enthusiasts, the Little Penguin Encounter is a must-do, allowing you to feed and learn about these fascinating birds.
The Farmyard Encounter provides a relaxed environment to engage with farm animals, perfect for younger visitors. These interactive experiences often require pre-booking and have additional costs, so planning is recommended.
Health and Safety
Featherdale prioritises the health and safety of both animals and visitors. Enclosures are designed to offer ample space and enrichment activities for the animals, adhering to strict animal welfare guidelines.
Qualified staff are always present to supervise interactions, ensuring that proper procedures are followed. Before engaging with animals, you’ll receive instructions on how to interact safely and respectfully. It’s important to follow these guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Amenities and Services
Featherdale Wildlife Park in Sydney offers visitors a range of amenities and services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re looking for dining options, shopping for souvenirs, connectivity, or general guest services, you’ll find what you need.
Dining Options
When it comes to food, Featherdale Wildlife Park has several dining options to satisfy your hunger. The on-site café, conveniently located near the entrance, offers a variety of meals, snacks, and beverages. You can enjoy breakfast, lunch, or a quick snack here.
If you prefer a sit-down meal, the park features a restaurant serving a more extensive menu, including hot meals and refreshing drinks. Families with children will appreciate the kid-friendly menu items available. The park also has several picnic areas, perfect for those who prefer to bring their own food.
Shopping
The gift shop at Featherdale Wildlife Park is a great place to purchase souvenirs to remember your visit. You’ll find a wide range of items, including plush toys, t-shirts, and other branded merchandise featuring the park’s resident animals.
For those looking for something unique, the retail store offers Australian-themed gifts and locally made products. It’s an excellent spot to pick up a memento for yourself or a loved one. The shop is conveniently located near the exit, making it easy to stop by before you leave.
Connectivity
Staying connected while you’re at the park is seamless, thanks to the free WiFi available throughout the premises. This amenity is particularly convenient if you want to share your experiences on social media or need to stay in touch with family or friends.
The WiFi coverage is strong in most areas, ensuring you won’t have to worry about losing connection. This service enhances the visitor experience, allowing you to access online maps and information during your visit.
Guest Services
Featherdale Wildlife Park provides various guest services designed to make your visit smoother. Friendly and knowledgeable staff are available at the information desk to assist you with any queries or provide directions.
The park is equipped with accessible facilities, including toilets that cater to families and guests with disabilities. Baby changing facilities are also available. For those travelling via public transport, the park is easily accessible from central Sydney, with detailed routes available. Information on public transport options is readily available at the park entrance.
Educational and Conservation Programs
Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park is committed to both education and conservation. As a visitor, you are given a valuable opportunity to learn about the intricate world of Australian wildlife.
Educational Programs
Several educational programs are tailored for students of all ages. These experiences go beyond textbook learning, allowing students to engage with a variety of animals. Lessons are designed to instill respect and curiosity about local and global wildlife.
The interactive sessions include:
- Animal Encounters: Get close to koalas, kangaroos, and other native species.
- Feeding Sessions: Observe the feeding habits of various animals.
- Wildlife Talks: Hear from experts about the habits and environments of the park’s inhabitants.
Conservation Efforts
The wildlife park plays a crucial role in the conservation of over 60 threatened native species. Their conservation programs aim to protect these animals for future generations through both in-situ and ex-situ strategies.
Key conservation initiatives include:
- Breeding Programs: Ensuring the survival of endangered species.
- Habitat Restoration: Rehabilitating local ecosystems within and outside the park.
- Research Opportunities: Collaborating with researchers to further conservation knowledge.
Visitor Involvement
Visitors can also contribute to conservation efforts. By adopting an animal or participating in eco-friendly activities, you can support the park’s mission.
Engaging in these programs not only enhances your visit but also provides a deeper connection to and understanding of Australian wildlife.
Special Events and Group Bookings
Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park offers a range of special events and group bookings, catering to families, tour groups, and school excursions. These experiences provide unique opportunities for engaging with Australia’s native wildlife and creating memorable adventures for all visitors.
Family Events
Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park is a fantastic venue for family events. The park offers tailored experiences that highlight fun encounters with Australian animals, suitable for all ages. Your family can enjoy a hands-on experience with koalas, kangaroos, and other native wildlife.
Consider booking a Keeper for a Day experience, where you and your family can shadow a zookeeper and learn about animal care. Birthday parties are another popular choice, featuring animal interactions and educational talks from the park’s experienced staff.
Catering services are available to ensure your family event is stress-free, with a variety of food options to please both kids and adults. The beautiful surroundings make it a perfect spot for picnics and family gatherings.
Tour Groups
Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park can accommodate tour groups of various sizes, from small private tours to larger groups of up to 4000 guests. The park’s team is skilled in organising bespoke experiences that cater to the specific needs of each group.
When you visit with a tour group, you have the option of guided tours led by knowledgeable staff. These tours provide in-depth information about the park’s inhabitants and conservation efforts. It’s a great way to learn more about wildlife while enjoying a personalised experience.
Flexible booking options are available, whether you are a tour operator or organising your own visit. Featherdale partners with various tour agencies, including Sightseeing Tours Australia, to provide convenient travel and admission packages.
School Excursions
Educational programs at Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park are designed to provide students with a hands-on learning experience. The park offers a range of curriculum-aligned excursions tailored to different age groups and educational levels.
During school excursions, students can take part in interactive presentations and meet animals up close. This provides a valuable opportunity to learn about Australian wildlife, ecology, and conservation efforts directly from experienced guides and educators.
Featherdale also provides teacher resources and pre-visit materials to help educators plan their trip effectively. Special rates are available for school groups, ensuring an affordable and enriching educational adventure for students. Streamlined booking processes and dedicated staff support make organising a school visit straightforward.
Visitor Reviews and Additional Information
Visitors frequently share their experiences at Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park, offering valuable insights into the park’s attractions, facilities, and services. Understanding these reviews and additional information can help you plan a more enjoyable visit.
Online Reviews
Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park has received numerous positive reviews across various online platforms. On Tripadvisor, visitors often highlight the unique opportunity to pat a koala and the wide variety of Australian wildlife. Reviews frequently mention the friendly and knowledgeable staff who enhance the visitor experience.
While most feedback is positive, some reviews mention the crowding during peak times. The park’s cleanliness and the animals’ wellbeing are often praised. An occasional negative review may note the higher costs of some experiences, but overall satisfaction remains high among visitors.
Travel Guides and Tips
Travel guides provide useful tips for making the most of your visit to Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park. The park is conveniently located 45 minutes’ drive from Sydney and is a popular stop on the way to the Blue Mountains. Public transport options include trains to Blacktown Station, followed by a short bus ride.
Arriving early helps avoid crowds and ensures you catch feeding times and animal encounters. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to the park’s size. Guides also suggest bringing a camera, as there are ample photo opportunities with kangaroos, koalas, and other native animals.
Special Offers and Memberships
Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park offers a range of special promotions and membership options. Entry tickets are priced at $42.00 for adults and $28.00 for children aged 3-15 years. Children 2 and under can enter for free. Special discounts are available for seniors and concession card holders.
Annual passes provide unlimited entry and additional benefits such as discounts at the park’s cafe and gift shop. Featherdale also collaborates with Mogo Wildlife Park and Hunter Valley Wildlife Park, offering combined membership options for access to multiple parks. Gift cards are available and make for a perfect present for animal lovers. Keep an eye on the park’s website for seasonal promotions and special events.
Contact and Bookings
When planning your visit to Featherdale Wildlife Park, it’s important to know how to get in touch with their team and make your bookings. The sections below offer specific details on customer support and how to handle inquiries and feedback.
Customer Support
For any questions or assistance, Featherdale Wildlife Park provides multiple ways to reach their customer support.
Location: 217 Kildare Road, Doonside, Sydney NSW 2767.
Phone: You can call them directly at (02) 9622 1644.
Email: For written inquiries, email them at info@featherdale.com.au.
Their friendly staff are available to help with booking tickets, providing information about the park, or answering any other questions you might have. It’s advisable to check their website for the latest updates on opening hours or special events.
Enquiries and Feedback
If you have specific questions or need to give feedback, Featherdale Wildlife Park encourages you to get in touch.
You can submit an enquiry or a feedback form via their official website. This is a straightforward way to get detailed responses. If you prefer, you can also write to them through their mailing address.
Whether you need details about unique animal encounters, school tours, or group bookings, the staff at Featherdale are ready to assist and ensure your visit is memorable. For any online booking issues, their website provides a comprehensive FAQ section that resolves common concerns swiftly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the opening hours of Featherdale Wildlife Park?
Featherdale Wildlife Park is open every day from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
How do I get there using public transport?
From Central Station, take the North Shore and Western Line train (T1) to Blacktown Station. From there, walk to bus stand E and take the 729 bus. The bus stops right outside the park’s gates.
Is there parking available at the park?
Yes, there is ample parking available at Featherdale Wildlife Park for visitors who choose to drive.
Can I buy tickets in advance?
Yes, you can purchase tickets online through the Featherdale Wildlife Park website. This can save you time and ensure entry on busy days.
What kind of animal encounters can I experience?
You can hand-feed wallabies and kangaroos, pat a koala, walk through the Lorikeet Aviary, and interact with various farmyard animals.
Is there accommodation nearby?
There are various accommodation options available in Sydney, as Featherdale Wildlife Park is just a 45-minute drive from the city centre. You can find hotels, motels, and Airbnbs to suit different budgets.
Are there any food options at the park?
Yes, the park offers several dining options, including cafes and picnic areas. You can also bring your own food if you prefer.
Can I visit the park if it’s raining?
Featherdale Wildlife Park is open rain or shine. There are sheltered areas throughout the park, but it’s a good idea to bring a raincoat or umbrella if it looks like rain.
Revenue and Business Information
Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park, located in Blacktown, serves as a major attraction in the Sydney region. The park generates its revenue from several streams, mainly focused on ticket sales and visitor numbers.
Ticket Sales form a significant part of the park’s income. Entry tickets are priced at $42.00 for adults and $28.00 for children aged 3-15. Children under 2 enter free, and there are special discounts for seniors and concession card holders.
Combo deals and special encounters with the animals, such as patting a Koala, also contribute to the revenue. These experiences are popular and encourage more visitors to purchase tickets.
The park is a popular destination, attracting a high volume of visitors. Its location, en route to the Blue Mountains, makes it an ideal stop for tourists.
To assist you in planning your visit, online ticket sales and information can be found on their official website. With over 2,000 mammals, birds, and reptiles, the park’s diversity appeals to a broad spectrum of visitors, bolstering its business sustainability.
Zoo Comparison
Sydney is home to several renowned wildlife parks and zoos, each offering unique experiences. Featherdale Wildlife Park, Taronga Zoo, and others provide distinct attractions that cater to different interests and logistical conveniences.
Featherdale vs Other Zoos
Featherdale Wildlife Park is especially notable for its intimate encounters with native Australian animals. It allows you to get up close to koalas, wombats, and kangaroos, which is a major draw for tourists.
Taronga Zoo, situated on the edge of Sydney Harbour, offers stunning views in addition to its wide variety of both exotic and native animals. It is easily accessible by ferry, making it a convenient option for visitors staying in Sydney.
Mogo Wildlife Park and Hunter Valley Wildlife Park also provide great wildlife experiences, focusing more on conservation and education programs. While they might not have the picturesque setting of Taronga or the close encounters of Featherdale, they are still worth a visit for animal enthusiasts.
Unique Features
Featherdale is unique in its hands-on approach. You can feed kangaroos and take photos beside quokkas. This personal interaction is rare and highly valued.
Taronga Zoo’s key feature lies in its spectacular location and vast variety of animals from around the globe. Visitors often appreciate its educational shows and scenic walking paths.
Mogo Wildlife Park is renowned for its exotic animals, including white lions and red pandas. Hunter Valley Wildlife Park focuses on family-friendly experiences, offering feeding sessions and educational talks.
Featherdale stands out for its focus on Aussie wildlife, making it an iconic attraction for those looking to experience native animals in an up-close setting.
Future Developments and Projects
Featherdale Wildlife Park is committed to continuous improvement and innovation. Planned projects include expanding enclosures to provide more space and natural habitats for the animals. This will not only enhance the visitor experience but also ensure the well-being of the wildlife.
The park is also working on new conservation initiatives. They aim to increase breeding programs for endangered species and create partnerships with local and international conservation organisations. These efforts are crucial for preserving Australia’s unique wildlife.
Education is another key focus. Featherdale plans to introduce interactive exhibits that leverage modern technology. Digital displays, augmented reality, and interactive talks will help visitors learn more about the animals and the importance of conservation.
Facility upgrades are also in the pipeline. The park intends to improve visitor amenities, including new dining options, updated restrooms, and expanded parking facilities. These upgrades will make the visit more comfortable and enjoyable for everyone.
Regular visitors can expect new wildlife encounters and animal shows. These additions are designed to offer unique experiences that promote wildlife appreciation and foster a deeper connection between visitors and the animals.
Future projects also include collaborations with schools and universities. By developing educational programs and research opportunities, Featherdale Wildlife Park aims to contribute to wildlife education and knowledge within the community.
These future developments highlight Featherdale Wildlife Park’s dedication to conservation, education, and providing an exceptional visitor experience. Keep an eye out for these exciting changes during your next visit to the park!