Universal Kingdom at Adelaide Zoo is an event running as a part of Illuminate Adelaide from 2 – 19 July 2026.

Building on the sell-out success of Universal Kingdom – Prehistoric Nights and The Next Era, Universal Kingdom – Ice Age transports you to a time when colossal creatures ruled an icy world.

Expect large-scale illuminated installations and roaming puppets throughout Adelaide Zoo, including towering dinosaurs, a woolly mammoth, immersive projections and an icy gateway entrance that transforms the zoo after dark. Families can also explore interactive kids’ activities, fossil digging zones, themed lighting displays and selected zoo areas open late during the event.

No, guests are not permitted to touch the installations but will be able to get close to the action with the live puppetry and projections

The space will be transformed into a walk-through experience featuring Erth Puppets, selfie stations and Fossil digging activities. Expect to see the Leaellynasaura and baby dinosaurs roaming the area throughout the evening.

Make sure you stay up to date with Universal Kingdom: Ice Age, Adelaide Zoo and all things Zoos SA by signing up to our fortnightly eNews and follow us on Facebook @AdelaideZoo & Instagram

We are planning to continue to present the Free Flight Bird Show each day and will advise if there are any changes to our current presentation program. For up-to-date information regarding the Free Flight Bird Show please contact us via information@zoossa.com.au. Please note: The Free Flight show will take place during the build of Universal Kingdom which takes place from 25 June – 2 July.

Upon arrival, your group will be given an event map handout. This handout contains information about the installations, catering, site facilities and more.

Yes, site maps will be available digitally in the pre-visit email and visitors will receive a paper map on arrival to their session.

While the event is open to all ages, it’s especially geared toward families and young children. With dinosaurs, puppetry, and plenty of hands-on kids’ activities, it’s a fun, family-focused experience!

Universal Kingdom: Ice Age at Adelaide Zoo is running from Thursday 2 July – Sunday 19 July

• First weekend: Thursday 2 July – 5 July
• Second weekend: Thursday 9 July – Sunday 12 July
• Third weekend: Thursday 16 July – Sunday 19 July

• Sunday 12 July 5.30pm – 6.30pm
• Sunday 19 July 5.30pm – 6.30pm

Sessions start at 5.30pm, 6.30pm & 7.30pm. Site closes at 9:30pm.

We recommend allowing 60 minutes to explore Universal Kingdom: Ice Age

Yes please! Your ticket is valid for the date and time shown.

No, but an average visit to Universal Kingdom: Ice Age will take around 60 minutes.

Unfortunately, if you arrive for the wrong session, you will be asked to come back at the right time. You cannot enter after 7.30pm with a 5.30pm session ticket.

A number of parking spaces are available on Plane Tree Drive.  Please note parking on Plane Tree Drive is controlled by Botanic Gardens of South Australia. Parking can be paid through the Botanic Garden’s parking pay stations located along the road. We recommend reviewing parking access and pricing through the Botanic Gardens website here.

Any questions about parking on Plane Tree Drive can be directed to the Botanic Gardens at botanicgardens@sa.gov.au  Any feedback about parking on Plane Tree Drive can be directed to the Botanic Gardens here.

The Botanic Gardens of South Australia owns and operates all parking on Plane Tree Drive and offers a number of accessible parking spaces close to the zoo main entrance. Accessible parking bays are located along Plane Tree Drive adjacent to Gate 2 on the left side. Passengers can be dropped off in our passenger loading and unloading zone, located on the left side between Gates 1 and 2.

You can take advantage of the Free City Connector offering a hop-on and hop-off service to the city and North Adelaide linking popular city attractions, shopping, dining, and key destinations. Bus route 98A and 98C connect North Adelaide with the city, and 99A and 99C connect the inner-city. Services operate every 15 minutes on weekdays and every 30 minutes on weekends.

For timetables, route details and real-time information visit Adelaide Metro.

Yes, set your destination as Adelaide Zoo, Plane Tree Drive entrance.

Access to Adelaide Zoo is available through the main entrance gate on Plane Tree Drive. Entry is accessible via Plane Tree Drive or Frome Road.

Please arrive for your session start time to explore the site at your own leisure. Please note, there may be a short wait upon arrival. Early arrivals will be refused entry until their session time starts. Late arrivals will be admitted when possible; however, delays may occur.

Security staff at Adelaide Zoo have the right to check all bags. To comply with safety precautions at the event, please prepare to show the contents of your bag if you are asked to do so.

All sales of tickets are considered final, and no refunds or exchanges will be permitted. We kindly ask that you show consideration towards our staff members who have been instructed not to exchange or refund tickets for this event when requesting via email or on the phone.

No, Universal Kingdom: Ice Age at Adelaide Zoo is an all-weather event. In the event of weather that poses a threat to visitor and staff safety the event night will be cancelled, and ticket holders will be contacted to arrange rescheduled session.

We completely understand that unexpected situations can arise and while we truly wish we could accommodate everyone, unfortunately, we’re unable to offer refunds, even in cases of legitimate reasons. This is similar to not being able to attend a concert or a football game.

Universal Kingdom: Ice Age is returning after sell out sessions in previous years, we strongly recommend booking in advance to secure the time and date you prefer. Limited tickets will be available on the gate each night unless a session is sold out prior.

No, Universal Kingdom: Ice Age at Adelaide Zoo is a No Free Tickets (NFT) event.

**Families with more than 2 children will require additional tickets.

Zoos SA staff need to purchase tickets to attend this event, staff have access to a $30 rate until allocation is exhausted and can then access Zoos SA member prices.

• Non-Member Standard tickets:

Linked HERE

• Member Standard tickets (requires Card Barcode and Surname to log in):

Linked HERE

No, children 0 – 3 are free, these children still require a free reservation as they are counted towards event site capacities. Thank you for helping us ensure crowd safety by booking your cub ticket at the time of adult ticket purchasing.

No, Universal Kingdom: Ice Age at Adelaide Zoo is a No Free Tickets event. Zoos SA Two Visit Pass can be used to visit Adelaide Zoo, Monarto Safari Park, or the same site twice during standard daytime opening hours.

As this is a strictly limited-capacity event that welcomes visitors of all ages to have an enjoyable evening tickets for all persons over the age of 4 are set at the same price. Please note, Zoos SA members are able to access a special discounted ticket price and under 4-year-olds only require a free reservation. As a conservation charity, your ticket purchase, and the support of our members, sponsors and donors means we can continue shining a light on conservation and saving species from extinction.

Universal Kingdom: Ice Age is held after regular zoo opening hours and therefore beyond the scope of Zoos SA membership. This ticketed event is open to all members of the public who wish to attend however, we do offer a discounted ticket price to members.

Yes, you are able to use Life Membership Transferable cards to purchase a single member Universal Kingdom: Ice Age ticket.

Universal Kingdom: Ice Age ticket prices are available at general admission or member rates, Zoos SA offers concession membership which is a great way to discover and enjoy nature all year round and get access to the discounted event tickets.

No, reciprocal entry rights for interstate members apply to general entry to Adelaide Zoo. Tickets for Universal Kingdom: Ice Age at Adelaide Zoo are full price and need to be purchased online and we recommend, in advance.

Yes, the companion card is applicable for Universal Kingdom: Ice Age at Adelaide Zoo and entitles the card holder to a Free of Charge ticket for their carer. Please note this is eligible for one carer per card holder and the Companion Card must be presented upon entry. To book a Companion Card free ticket please phone our bookings team on 8267 3255.

No, tickets for Universal Kingdom: Ice Age and Adelaide Zoo general entry are separate and are priced differently. If you wish to attend the Adelaide Zoo during the day and Universal Kingdom: Ice Age in the evening, you will need to purchase both tickets individually.

Adelaide Zoo will close as per usual at 5:00pm and then reopen at 5:30pm for Universal Kingdom: Ice Age.

Yes, please have tickets ready for scanning on your mobile and the screen brightness turned up when you are in line at the front gate.

If you have not received your tickets, please check in your junk mail folder. If you are still unable to locate the email, please contact us via www.adelaidezoo.com.au/contact-us/ or email universalkingdom@zoossa.com.au

When selecting tickets make sure you are clicking ‘Select Date/Time’ and choosing an available date before adding your tickets to cart.

Please ensure that when entering in your membership barcode you include the single space before the last two digits and any dashes or underscores (if present) along with your last name.

If you have recently signed up or renewed your membership it may not yet be in our system. Please contact us on 8267 3255 to book tickets.

Selecting the ‘Print Now’ option will send the tickets to the email you have provided.

If you are unable to select a date for purchasing a ticket, that date has sold out. Please select another date.

Unfortunately, we are unable to change the date of your tickets once you have purchased them. Please consider carefully before selecting the date of your tickets.

While some of our animals may be visible during your visit, we cannot guarantee you will be able to see them. We prioritise the wellbeing of our animals and therefore allow them access to their night quarters throughout the evening.

No, you will need to leave the zoo to smoke or vape, pass outs are available.

Yes, if you need to leave the zoo at any stage and wish to return, please get a wrist band from the Information Desk. Please note, last entry time applies to pass outs.

Yes, the Zoo Shop will be open for the duration of the night. The Dino Shop (Panda Shop) will also be open as well as other pop-up retail carts onsite.

Yes, Zoobarus will be available to hire.

Yes, please be mindful of others, and please do not use flash photography near any animals as this can cause harm.

Yes, site maps will be available digitally in the pre-visit email and visitors will receive a paper map on arrival to their session.

Yes, St Johns Ambulance is available on site at this event to respond to any medical requirements or injuries.

Closed areas during Universal Kingdom: Ice Age at Adelaide Zoo include Bamboo Forest, Nocturnal House, and all aviaries. Some pathways and boardwalks will also be closed, including the lower level beyond the Envirodome.

If you believe you have lost an item at Adelaide Zoo, please contact us as soon as possible here. Please note unhygienic items will be disposed of at COB (e.g. food containers).  Any wallets or phones will be taken to the closet police station after 24 hours.

Yes, some installations on site will be visible throughout the daytime. However, they will not be illuminated, and any associated soundtracks or lighting will not be operating.

Zoos SA is committed to reducing the amount of single-use plastics produced and used at Adelaide Zoo. Where possible we provide sustainable alternatives such as paper straws, compostable coffee cups and cutlery. We also offer recycling bins conveniently located throughout the zoo for visitors to use.

Quality Catering will be opening Fig Tree Café, Wisteria Café, Immersion Hut and a pop-up bar and dessert station in the Fig Tree courtyard. Quality will also offer an external café in Wisteria for customers in the entry line and is accessible via the doors adjacent to the Plane Tree Centre.

Yes

Yes. We have worked with caterers to ensure there are lots of options including curry and burgers meeting all dietary requirements.

Yes, we have a family room at the zoo located near our Natures Playground with baby changing facilities.

Yes, we have accessible toilets located at Natures Playground that include an adult hoist facility.

Only card payments are accepted throughout the zoo.

We are unable to offer lockers for visitors for this event. Any items you cannot carry will need to be left in the car or at home.

There are no ATMs or Cash out facilities available on site at Adelaide Zoo.

We recommend that you bring weather appropriate clothing, comfortable shoes, and any medical equipment/medication you require. Catering is available at multiple areas throughout the zoo, however guests are permitted to bring small snacks and non-alcoholic beverages if desired.

Yes, you are permitted to, however please remember that plastic straws are banned from site, and the bringing in your own alcohol is prohibited. Food and beverages will be available on the night from several catering locations and are highlighted on the site map. All dietary requirements will be catered for.

Plastic straws, balloons, alcohol, balls, wheeled shoes, scooters, bicycles, animals, torches and selfie sticks.

Adelaide Zoo has limited wheelchairs available for hire for $5, which need to be reserved prior to your booking date. To check availability please contact us at bookings@zoossa.com.au

Yes, Adelaide Zoo is a wheelchair accessible site. The walkways and trails that are part of the event are accessible for individuals with wheelchairs.

Some installation locations are on grass, accessible floor matting will be in use and is recommended for wheelchair and pram users.

Adelaide Zoo is equipped with accessible toilet facilities to ensure the safety and privacy of all our visitors. These toilets are located at Natures Playground and the Rotunda.

The Natures Playground accessible toilet is fitted with a full body ceiling hoist that is readily available and designed to meet the needs of the individual and carer while visiting the zoo. The following information is important to note:

• Individuals will need to bring their own loop sling upon visiting the zoo.
• This hoist is compatible with loop style slings, as opposed to clip style slings.
• Please note that the ceiling hoist SWL is 200kg, this is the maximum weight it can take regardless of the SWL of the sling.
• Zoo employees and volunteers are neither permitted nor trained to lift an individual or help them inside a restroom.

Zoos SA has partnered with See Differently (formerly the Royal Society for the Blind) to welcome trained and accredited assistance dogs on site. We are committed to providing an accessible and inclusive experience for all guests while maintaining positive animal welfare outcomes for both zoo animals and assistance animals.

Please note that all assistance animals must be pre-booked for this event and an application must be submitted at least five (5) business days prior to your visit. Staff are unable to permit entry to assistance animals that arrive without a confirmed booking and approved application.

Before applying, please review the information about the assistance animal pilot program at Adelaide Zoo via the Assistance Animal Application page:
www.adelaidezoo.com.au/assistanceanimalapplication/

If you would like to attend Universal Kingdom: Ice Age with your accredited assistance dog, please contact our friendly team at universalkingdom@zoossa.com.au or (08) 8267 3255 to discuss the requirements and submit your application.

Yes, Universal Kingdom: Ice Age at Adelaide Zoo is safe for people with Epilepsy and does not include strobe lights or flashing light effects that may trigger a seizure.

Yes. Auslan translations are available for the audio components of the event and can be accessed here

To support a range of accessibility needs, a digital guide is also available, providing all installation information in a format that is compatible with screen readers and can be listened to on your device throughout the event.

Yes. Universal Kingdom: Ice Age will offer Relaxed Sessions on Sunday 12th July & Sunday 19 at 5.30pm designed to create a more comfortable and accessible experience for guests who may benefit from a reduced-sensory environment.

Relaxed Sessions feature:

• An earlier twilight start time (5:30pm)
• Reduced event capacity, allowing for more space to explore
• Lowered volume across installations and soundscapes
• Reduced human noise where possible
• Accessible pathways throughout the event
• Accessible toilet facilities, including a full-body ceiling hoist at Nature’s Playground
• Auslan videos available for installation stories and audio content

Due to the nature of these sessions, not all live performance elements will be operating. However, guests attending a 5:30pm Relaxed Session are welcome to stay and continue exploring throughout the evening.

Please note that sessions commencing from 6:30pm onwards will operate at standard event capacity and sensory levels.

For guests who prefer a quieter daytime experience, Adelaide Zoo also offers Relaxed Afternoons every Monday and Wednesday from 3:00pm to 4:30pm. During this time, human noise on site is reduced to create a calmer environment. Universal Kingdom: Ice Age installations will be visible during the day, although they will not be illuminated and soundtracks will not be playing.

If you have any questions or would like assistance with your booking, please contact the team at universalkingdom@zoossa.com.au or call (08) 8267 3255.

Zoos SA is continuing to explore opportunities to increase accessibility through Audio Description; however, Audio Description sessions will not be available for Universal Kingdom: Ice Age.

To support guests who are blind or have low vision, a digital guide will be available containing information about each installation and experience throughout the event. This guide can be accessed using screen readers or listened to on a personal device.

Access Digital Guide

What do the accessible symbols relating to the event mean?

Please see below for the accessibility symbol definitions.

Companion Card: holders are entitled to a complimentary ticket for their companion. Companion Card holders need to pre-book their carer’s free of charge ticket to the event prior to arriving. Guest can do this by contacting us via our bookings team on 8267 3255. Proof of the valid Companion Card will need to be shown at the front gate upon arrival.

Wheelchair Accessible: If this symbol is displayed in the event listing, the venue is wheelchair accessible. Adelaide Zoo is a wheelchair accessible site, please take care however as Universal Kingdom: Ice Age at Adelaide Zoo is an after hours event therefore visibility may be reduced. As a winter event, inclement weather may also result in wet pathways and surfaces so wheelchair users and carers should take care.

Wheelchair Accessible Toilet: If this symbol is displayed in the venue index, the venue has a wheelchair accessible toilet facility. Wheelchair accessible toilet facilities are located at Natures Playground and the Rotunda.

Auslan Interpreted Events: Where this symbol is displayed, events will be Auslan interpreted. Auslan is the sign language of the Australian Deaf community, providing access for those who are deaf or hard of hearing. Auslan translations will be available via QR code on selected signage throughout the event.

Suitable for ESL Audiences: This symbol indicates that audiences can understand and engage with the event without a comprehensive understanding of the English language.

Yes. A social story is available to help visitors prepare for their visit to Universal Kingdom: Ice Age. It includes what to expect on arrival, the event environment, lighting and sound effects, and other useful information to support your visit.

Visit the Universal Kingdom: Ice Age social story here.

A major annual event taking over Adelaide’s city streets, laneways, and buildings this winter. Program and full website out now. Please follow the link below to book tickets and find out more:

www.illuminateadelaide.com/

No, Universal Kingdom: Ice Age at Adelaide Zoo is a No Free Ticket event, meaning discounts are not permitted.

Unfortunately, this is not possible, please visit the Illuminate Adelaide website to find ticketing information for any other festival event. Adelaide Zoo visitor services can only assist with Universal Kingdom: Ice Age bookings.

Please contact Illuminate Adelaide directly at hello@illuminateadelaide.com

Please visit Illuminate Adelaide’s webpage for event ticket purchases

www.illuminateadelaide.com/

Please email universalkingdom@zoossa.com.au and someone will reply to your enquiry within 48 hours.