What Are the Best Kids Activities in Melbourne, Australia?
The best kids activities in Melbourne include Luna Park (a 110-year-old amusement park in St Kilda), Melbourne Museum (free for kids, with real dinosaur skeletons and a toddler play gallery), ACMI at Federation Square (free, interactive, great from baby age up), Puffing Billy Railway through the Dandenong Ranges, and DreamCity for role-play career fun. Many top options are completely free, and Melbourne’s tram network makes getting between them easy with children in tow.
Melbourne, Australia is one of the most kid-friendly cities in the world. From beaches and skyscrapers to amazing street art and theme parks… there’s something for every family here! Our two daughters had a blast when we visited this Australian city.
I’ve been to some fantastic spots in Melbourne with my kids, and others not so much. That’s why I’m sharing this guide! Finding fun activities for kids can be tricky sometimes. But Melbourne makes it easy with so many family-friendly options. There are loads of friendly locals and unique experiences that make planning your Melbourne adventure exciting too. Ready to get your family trip sorted? Let’s get to it!
Just a heads-up: I don’t include places that exploit animals, like Sealife or wildlife shows. I stick to family fun that feels good, for us and the animals.
Free Kids Activities in Melbourne
One of the best things about Melbourne with kids is how much you can do without spending a cent. Here’s a quick rundown of the best free options:
- ACMI at Federation Square: completely free general entry, interactive for all ages
- Melbourne Museum: free for all children up to 16 years
- National Gallery of Victoria (NGV): free general admission, often has creative kids spaces
- State Library Victoria: free kids room with activities and reading nooks
- Laneway art trails: Hosier Lane, AC/DC Lane, and Caledonian Lane are free open-air galleries
- Southbank Promenade: free riverside walk with street performers
- Fitzroy Gardens: free entry, with the Fairies’ Tree and model Tudor Village
- City Circle Tram: free for everyone, covers the city centre loop
You can genuinely fill two full days in Melbourne with kids and pay zero in entry fees. Budget families, this city is your friend.
Best Toddler Activities in Melbourne
Travelling with a toddler in Melbourne? You’re in luck. The city has some genuinely brilliant spots for the under-5s that go way beyond just “tolerating” small children.
**MoPa (Museum of Play and Art)**is the undisputed top pick. It’s designed for kids aged 1 to 8, with hands-on creative play that keeps toddlers genuinely busy (not just watching). Sessions book out, so grab tickets in advance.Melbourne Museum’s Children’s Galleryis another winner. It’s basically a beautiful indoor playground for babies to 5-year-olds. Sessions are capped at one hour per visit, which is actually perfect toddler timing.ACMIat Federation Square works surprisingly well for little ones too. My baby was just as engaged as my 5-year-old with the interactive displays. And it’s free.Fitzroy Gardenshas open green space, a playground, and the magical Fairies’ Tree. Low stress, no entry fee, easy to leave when the meltdown starts (we’ve all been there).Southbank Promenade with an ice cream in hand? Perfect toddler afternoon. Wide paths, river views, street performers, and plenty of space to toddle around safely.
Kids Activities in Melbourne This Weekend
If you’re planning a last-minute Melbourne weekend with the kids, here’s how to make it work without stress:
- Free weekend wins: ACMI, Melbourne Museum, NGV, and the State Library kids room are all free and open on weekends. The laneway art walk costs nothing and takes about an hour.
- Book in advance: Luna Park, DreamCity, and Puffing Billy Railway all sell out on busy weekends, especially during Victorian school holidays. Book online before you go.
- Kids travel free: On weekends, children ride Melbourne’s trams, trains, and buses for free with a myki card. This makes hopping between spots easy and cheap.
- Indoor backup plan: If Melbourne’s famous unpredictable weather kicks in, Social Fair Coburg (climbing walls and slides), MoPa, and ACMI are all brilliant rainy-day options.
- Check What’s On Melbourne: The official whatson.melbourne.vic.gov.au site lists current family events, pop-up activities, and free weekend programming. Worth a quick check before you head out.
Best Indoor Kids Activities in Melbourne
1. Luna Park
This amazing amusement park is over 110 years old and a must-see in Melbourne. Walk through the huge Mr. Moon mouth and step into a world of fun rides and carnival vibes. The rides come in three types, Thrill Seekers for brave kids and adults, Family Rides for everyone, and Little Lunies for small children.
💡 Top tip: Buy tickets online before you go. Otherwise, you might have to wait outside until more tickets open up. Nobody wants cranky kids waiting in line!
Don’t forget to snap a pic at the famous entrance, it’s one of Australia’s favourite landmarks.
- Location: 18 Lower Esplanade, St Kilda VIC 3182
- Opening Hours:
- Thursday: 6 PM, 10 PM
- Friday: 6 PM, 10 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM, 10 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM, 7 PM
- Closed Monday to Wednesday
Ticket Prices:
Park Entry + 1 Single Ride:
- 0-3 years: Free
- 4-12 years: $25
- 13+ years: $25
Additional Single Rides: $15
Park Entry + Unlimited Rides:
- 4-12 years: $45
- 13+ years: $55
Annual Pass: $129
2. ACMI, Where Movies And Games Come Alive
ACMI sits right in the heart of Melbourne at Federation Square. If your kids like movies, TV shows, or video games (and which kids don’t?), they’ll love this place! My 5-year-old and even our baby were totally into all the cool stuff here.
They got to play with old cameras and try interactive games. It’s a great way to learn about films and gaming while having fun. The moving image displays are super cool. We spent hours here and the kids never got bored! There’s this ongoing exhibition about science fiction that even I found interesting.
- Location: Federation Square, Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000
- Opening Hours:
- Daily: 10 AM, 5 PM
- Closed on Christmas Day (25 December)
Ticket Prices:
- General entry: Free
- Special exhibitions and cinema screenings: Prices vary; check the website for current events and pricing.
3. Melbourne Museum
Wow! The Melbourne Museum completely blew us away. We spent a whole day here, and all four of us had so much fun. It’s definitely one of the best ways to spend family time in Melbourne.
The exhibits cover everything, art, design, local history, and yes, REAL dinosaur skeletons! My kids couldn’t stop talking about those massive dino bones. The dinosaur area is seriously impressive and without a doubt one of the best kids activities in Melbourne.
What makes this place extra special is the Children’s Gallery for babies to 5-year-olds. It’s basically like a super cool indoor playground with tons of stuff to climb on and explore. Just know that playtime is limited to one hour in this area.
💡 **Insider tip:**Plan at least 6 hours for the whole museum! There’s food at the museum’s restaurant, so you don’t need to leave when everybody gets hungry.Location:11 Nicholson St, Carlton VIC 3053Opening Hours:
- Daily: 10 AM, 5 PM
- Closed on Good Friday and Christmas Day
Ticket Prices:
- Concession: $10
- Adults: $15
- Children (0-16 years): Free
4. MoPa: Museum of Play and Art
Another mindblowing experience we had was at MoPa! This is an immersive children’s museum where kids can explore, play, create and learn. It’s perfect for children aged 1 to 8 years old. You can find this gem in two locations: Sandringham and Geelong.
MoPa is all about letting kids be curious and discover new things through play. My daughters were completely engaged the whole time. If you’ve got little kids, this is definitely a place you shouldn’t miss during your Melbourne visit.
Locations:
- Sandringham: 1/8 Waltham St, Sandringham VIC 3191
- Geelong: 51 McKillop St, Geelong VIC 3220
- Opening Hours: Session times vary; typically open daily with multiple sessions.
- Ticket Prices:
- Children (1-12 years): $15, $20
- Adults: $10
- Babies (under 12 months): Free
5. Polly Woodside
Did you know there’s an actual tall ship you can explore in Melbourne? The Polly Woodside traveled 1.5 million miles across the globe back in the day, carrying coal and wheat between England and South America. Now it’s open for visitors curious about life at sea!
My kids had so much fun ringing the huge bell, cleaning the deck, and checking out the tiny bunk beds and toilets that sailors used long ago. Even as adults, we found the tour fascinating. It’s such a unique place to learn about maritime history.
Plan about 40 minutes for the guided tour. It’s the perfect length for kids who might get restless on longer tours. The staff are super friendly and make the experience really engaging for children of all ages.
- Location: 21 South Wharf Promenade, South Wharf VIC 3006
- Opening Hours: Open on the first and third Sunday of each month: 10 AM, 4 PM
- Ticket Prices:
- Adults: $16
- Children (3-15 years): $9
- Family (2 adults + 2 children): $45
6. Laneway Art
Melbourne is famous for its vibrant street art culture! We had such a great time strolling through Hosier Lane, Centre Place, AC/DC Lane, Caledonian Lane, and Croft Alley to discover all the amazing art pieces.
The kids were totally mesmerized by the huge colorful murals and all the details in the smaller pieces. It’s like walking through a free outdoor art gallery! Plus, it’s a great opportunity to talk to your kids about art and creative expression.
Location: Drewery Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000
7. Melbourne Skydeck
Want to see Melbourne from waaay up high? The Melbourne Skydeck lets you discover the city from almost 300 meters above ground! The views are absolutely breathtaking. You can take photos through the window and even go onto a small balcony (if you’re brave enough!).
My kids were pressed against the glass the whole time, pointing out tiny cars and people below. A family ticket is quite pricey, I won’t lie, but it’s totally worth it for the unforgettable experience. From the Skydeck, you can really appreciate how beautiful Melbourne is.
Don’t worry about safety, you and your kids are completely secure on the highest floor of this building. It’s a great activity for a clear day when you can see for miles!
- Location: Riverside Quay, Southbank VIC 3006
- Opening Hours:
- Daily: 12 PM, 9 PM (last entry at 8:30 PM)
Ticket Prices:
- Adults: $28
- Children (4-16 years): $18
- Family (2 adults + 2 children): $70
8. Southbank Promenade
When you need a break from museums and attractions, head across the river to the picturesque Southbank Promenade right by the Yarra River. It’s a great place to just stroll around and soak up the atmosphere.
We loved walking along the river, watching street performers, and enjoying the views of the city. When the city hums with activity, this riverside walk offers a nice change of pace. And don’t miss the yummy ice cream at Cups n Cones! My kids rated it as “the best ice cream EVER”, high praise from my little ice cream experts!
The promenade is especially beautiful at sunset when the city lights start to twinkle. We spotted families having picnics, couples on dates, and lots of other tourists enjoying this lovely spot.
Location: Melbourne VIC
9. State Library Victoria
OK, I know what you’re thinking, a library with kids? Trust me on this one!
The State Library of Victoria isn’t just any library. Sure, as a family with kids, you probably won’t spend hours reading books (obviously!), but the State Library Victoria has an extra kids room that you absolutely should visit.
This special area is designed just for children with fun activities, comfy reading nooks, and interactive displays. It’s the perfect stop for rainy days when you need an indoor activity. And the best part? It’s completely free!
The main reading room with its stunning dome is also worth checking out. My kids were amazed at how big and quiet it was, they actually whispered without being told to! Located in the city centre, the library is easy to reach and a peaceful break from the busy streets outside.
Location: 328 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000
10. Port Melbourne Beach & St. Kilda Beach
Need some beach time? Hop on the tram and head to Port Melbourne Beach and St. Kilda Beach. These broad beach areas have beautiful promenades with playgrounds, restaurants, and wide green spaces. You can even go swimming in designated zones!
This area is quite touristy, so if you’re searching for a quiet, peaceful place, this might not be for you. But for family fun and atmosphere, it’s perfect! St. Kilda has such a cool vibe with its cafes, ice cream shops, and the historic Luna Park nearby.
Location: St. Kilda Beach, Victoria
11. DreamCity Melbourne
“What do you want to be when you grow up?” At DreamCity, kids don’t have to wait to find out! This amazing place lets children try out many professions, from performing surgeries and operating flight simulators to fighting virtual fires and even learning how to become a podcaster!
My 5-year-old had an absolute blast here. One minute she was a doctor, the next a firefighter, then a pilot! The experiences are so well designed and realistic (in a kid-friendly way). It’s perfect for children from 5 to 12 years old.
💡 **Important tip:**Better contact DreamCity in advance for a booking! This place is popular and can get busy, especially during school holidays. It’s located in the heart of Melbourne and easy to reach by public transport.Location:Level 1, DFO South Wharf, 20 Convention Centre Pl, South Wharf VIC 3006**Opening Hours:**Session times vary; typically open during school holidays and weekends.Ticket Prices: Prices vary based on activities and duration; check the website for current offerings.
12. Social Fair Coburg (former GoClimb)
I don’t know about your kids, but my 5-year-old needs to let off steam regularly! If you’ve got energetic little ones (or you’re a big kid yourself), Social Fair Coburg is a brilliant spot to burn some energy, indoors and rain or shine.
They’ve got 26 climbing walls, including a speed wall and a ninja-style course. But that’s just the start. There’s also a multi-level Adventure Play Zone with tube slides, a Sky Net, a toddler area, and even an inflatable Air Court for bouncing and ball games.
The best part? It’s not just for kids. Parents can climb, too! Honestly, I was probably more excited than my daughter to try the climbing walls, and yes, I totally gave the ninja course a go. There’s a café, bar, and restaurant on-site, and the staff are lovely. We’ve always felt safe and supported, and had a great time.
- Location: LINCOLN MILLS HOMEMAKER CENTRE, 64/74 Gaffney St, Coburg VIC 3058
- Opening Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 10 AM, 5 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 9 AM, 6 PM
Ticket Prices: Prices vary based on activities; check the website for current pricing.
13. Puffing Billy Railway
Since 1900, Australia’s premier preserved steam railway, “Puffing Billy,” has transported over 11 million passengers through the beautiful landscapes of the Dandenong Ranges. Today you can have a truly unique experience here: sitting on the sill of the traditional open-side carriages with your legs hanging out!
The kids thought this was THE COOLEST THING EVER! There’s something magical about a steam train journey, especially one where you can feel the breeze on your face and see the stunning scenery up close. The train puffs through forests, over bridges, and past charming stations. My daughter said it looked like the Hogwarts Express, and I have to agree!
- Location: 1 Old Monbulk Rd, Belgrave VIC 3160
- Opening Hours: Train services operate daily; departure times vary.
- Ticket Prices:
- Adults: $61
- Children (4-16 years): $31
- Family (2 adults + 2 children): $155
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More Awesome Melbourne Family Fun
I could go on about all the amazing places in Melbourne, but let me quickly share a few more spots you shouldn’t miss:
Collingwood Children’s Farm, Country Life In The City
A short trip from the heart of Melbourne, this farm lets city kids experience farm life. My girls were so excited to milk cows, feed chickens, and pet guinea pigs! Check their schedule before you go, the cow milking demos are a hit.
- Location: 18 St Heliers Street, Abbotsford VIC 3067
- Opening Hours: Daily: 9:30 AM, 4:30 PM Note: Open every day, including public holidays.
Ticket Prices:
- Adults: $20
- Children (2-17 years): $10
- Infants (under 2 years): Free
Queen Victoria Market, Food And Shopping Fun
This is the largest open air market in the Southern Hemisphere! Operating since 1878, it’s packed with food, crafts, and souvenirs. The kids loved trying different foods, especially the fresh doughnuts! It’s a great place to support local business owners and find unique gifts.
- Location: Queen Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
- Opening Hours:
- Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 6:00 AM, 3:00 PM
- Saturday: 6:00 AM, 4:00 PM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM, 4:00 PM
- Closed on Mondays and Wednesdays
- Note: Specialty shopping opens at 9:00 AM on market days.
Entry: Free
National Gallery of Victoria, Kid-Friendly Art
With free entry to its main collections, the NGV often has special exhibits for kids. My daughters spent ages in the creative spaces making their own art. During our visit, they had cool optical illusions that mesmerized the kids!
Locations:
- NGV International: 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne VIC 3006
- The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, Federation Square, Melbourne VIC 3000
Opening Hours: Daily: 10:00 AM, 5:00 PM Closed on Christmas Day; opens at 1:00 PM on ANZAC Day
Entry:
- General admission: Free
- Special exhibitions: Entry fees may apply
Fitzroy Gardens, Outdoor Adventures
These beautiful gardens in East Melbourne are perfect when you need a break from city activities. The kids loved the Fairies’ Tree (a carved tree stump with animals and fairy figures) and the model Tudor Village. Most attractions here are free, just bring a picnic!
- Location: Wellington Parade, East Melbourne VIC 3002
- Opening Hours:
- Gardens: Open 24 hours daily
- Visitor Centre: Daily, 9:00 AM, 4:00 PM
- Cooks’ Cottage: Daily, 10:00 AM, 4:00 PM
Entry:
- Gardens: Free
- Cooks’ Cottage: Adults: $6.50 | Children: $3.50 | Concession: $5.00
Old Melbourne Gaol, History With A Spooky Twist
Victoria’s oldest prison is great for families with older kids (8+). They do family-friendly day tours about Melbourne’s famous criminals, including bushranger Ned Kelly. For teens, they also offer spooky night tours!
- Location: 377 Russell Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
- Opening Hours: Daily: 10:00 AM, 5:00 PM Closed on Good Friday and Christmas Day
Ticket Prices:
- Adults: $38
- Concession: $30
- Children (5-15 years): $22
Quick Tips For A Stress-Free Melbourne Family Trip
| Attraction | Age Group | Cost (Kids) | Book Ahead? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luna Park | All ages | $25 single / $45 unlimited | Yes |
| ACMI | All ages | Free | No |
| Melbourne Museum | All ages | Free | No |
| MoPa | 1 to 8 years | $15 to $20 | Yes |
| Puffing Billy Railway | 4 to 16 years | $31 | Yes |
| DreamCity | 5 to 12 years | Varies | Yes |
| Social Fair Coburg | All ages | Varies | No |
| Melbourne Skydeck | All ages | $18 | No |
Before I wrap up, here are a few quick tips that made our Melbourne adventure much easier:
- Get a myki card for public transport, kids travel free on weekends and during school holidays!
- Pack for all weather, Melbourne can have “four seasons in one day”
- Try the free city circle tram to get around the city centre
- Look online for family deals, many places have discounts when you book ahead
- Think about a Melbourne City Card if you plan to visit lots of attractions
Where to Stay in Melbourne with Kids
Here’s a quick list of family-friendly areas and hotel options that work well with kids:
Melbourne CBD (City Centre)
If you want to be close to everything, museums, laneways, trams, and easy public transport, this is your best bet. The downside? It’s busy. But if your kids don’t mind some city buzz, you’ll love the convenience.
- Novotel Melbourne on Collins, Big rooms, perfect location, and kids under 16 stay free if they share your room and bedding.
- Citadines on Bourke, Apartment-style with kitchens and laundry, great for longer stays.
Southbank
We loved Southbank! Close to the river, near playgrounds and attractions like the Melbourne Skydeck and ACMI. It’s central but feels a little more relaxed.
- Crown Metropol, Access to the Crown pool and indoor playground. A bit pricier, but great for a short splurge.
- Imagine Marco, Apartment hotel with views and space to spread out. Our kids loved watching the trams from the balcony.
St. Kilda
If you’re coming in summer or want to be near the beach, St. Kilda is a fun choice. It has Luna Park, penguins, and plenty of cafés. Just know it’s not super quiet, especially on weekends.
- Quest St. Kilda Bayside, Spacious apartments and a pool. Walking distance to the beach.
- The Prince Hotel, Stylish, boutique vibe with family-sized rooms. Just a short walk to the beach and Luna Park.
There are loads of family-friendly hotels in Melbourne, Hotels and Stays can be a handy place to start, or just scroll down and check the map below for more options.
Key Takeaways
- 13+ kid-friendly attractions across Melbourne.
- Free options: ACMI, Melbourne Museum, NGV, laneways.
- Kids ride public transport free on weekends.
- Best for toddlers: MoPa and Melbourne Museum Gallery.
- Best for ages 5 to 12: DreamCity, Luna Park, Social Fair.
- Puffing Billy and Skydeck: book ahead for school holidays.
- Pack layers. Melbourne weather changes fast.
One Last Thing…
No matter how great Melbourne is with kids (and it really is awesome!), sometimes parents need a little break too. If you want some couple time, I recommend City Babysitters. We used them for a few hours and could enjoy some adult time exploring Melbourne’s famous coffee shops.
In my personal opinion, Melbourne is one of the most kid-friendly cities we’ve visited. From interactive museums and wildlife parks to beautiful beaches and theme parks, there’s something for everyone in the family. We made so many great memories here.
Have you been to Melbourne with kids? What did you like best? Or if you’re planning a trip, which of these places sounds most fun to you? Drop a comment below!
Thank you for reading and for making me part of your day!
Yours, Lulu
Frequently Asked Questions
What free activities are there for kids in Melbourne?
Melbourne has an impressive number of free kids activities. ACMI at Federation Square and Melbourne Museum are both free for children. The State Library Victoria has a dedicated kids room at no cost. Laneway art trails like Hosier Lane and AC/DC Lane are free outdoor experiences. The NGV (National Gallery of Victoria) has free general admission. Fitzroy Gardens and Southbank Promenade cost nothing to visit. You can easily fill two full days with kids in Melbourne without paying a single entry fee.
What are the best Melbourne kids activities by age group?
Melbourne works well for all ages, but the activity mix varies. Toddlers (1 to 5) love MoPa Museum of Play and Art and the Melbourne Museum Children’s Gallery. Kids aged 5 to 12 get the most from DreamCity, Luna Park, and Social Fair Coburg. Older kids and teens enjoy Puffing Billy Railway, Melbourne Skydeck, and Old Melbourne Gaol. Families with mixed ages can combine Southbank Promenade, ACMI, and Melbourne Museum for a day that works for everyone.
Is Melbourne family-friendly?
Melbourne, Australia is one of the most family-friendly cities in the world. It has a free tram zone in the city centre, kids travel free on public transport on weekends and during school holidays, and most major museums and galleries offer free entry for children. The city has a huge range of indoor and outdoor activities suitable for babies through teenagers, and is very walkable with a pram or stroller.
How do kids get around Melbourne for free?
Children travel free on Melbourne’s public transport (trams, trains, and buses) on weekends and during Victorian school holidays with a myki card. During the week, the free City Circle Tram covers the city centre loop and costs nothing for anyone. For families staying in the CBD or Southbank, most major attractions are within walking distance or a short tram ride.
What are the best indoor kids activities in Melbourne for rainy days?
The best indoor kids activities in Melbourne for rainy days are Melbourne Museum (full day, free for kids, with dinosaurs and a toddler play area), ACMI at Federation Square (free, interactive, ages 0 and up), MoPa Museum of Play and Art (ideal for ages 1 to 8), Social Fair Coburg (climbing walls, ninja course, and slides), and DreamCity (role-play careers for ages 5 to 12). All are easily accessible by tram from the city centre.
Is Puffing Billy Railway worth it for kids?
Puffing Billy Railway is absolutely worth it for kids. The steam train has run through the Dandenong Ranges since 1900, and children can sit on the sill of the open-side carriages with their legs hanging out, which they find thrilling. The scenery through forests and over bridges is stunning. Tickets cost $31 for children (4 to 16 years) and $155 for a family of four. Book ahead, especially during school holidays, as it sells out.
What are some unique Melbourne experiences for kids?
Some uniquely Melbourne experiences for kids include riding the open-sided carriages of Puffing Billy Railway with legs dangling out, exploring Hosier Lane’s ever-changing street murals, trying out careers at DreamCity (from surgeon to podcaster), standing 300 metres above the city at Melbourne Skydeck, and exploring a real 19th-century tall ship at Polly Woodside. None of these exist anywhere else in the world in quite the same way.
