Beaches, Skyscrapers, Streetart, and Nightlife – Melbourne is more diverse than hardly any other city. And the best thing: It also has a lot to offer for children. Our two daughters were perfectly entertained when we vacationed in the Australian city. Here you can find the 15 best kids activities in Melbourne.
Best Kids Activities in Melbourne: Luna Park
The carnival atmosphere and timeless rides that have been entertaining visitors for over a century make this park a truly special experience. The diverse array of rides is thoughtfully categorized into sections, catering to different preferences and age groups. Thrill Seekers can revel in heart-pounding adventures, families can enjoy a variety of entertaining rides, and the Little Lunies have their own dedicated space for age-appropriate fun.
An essential tip for prospective visitors is to secure tickets online in advance. Given the park’s enduring popularity and historical significance, waiting until arrival might result in a gate-side wait until new tickets are released. Planning ahead ensures a seamless entry, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the magic of this historic amusement park without delay.
ACMI
A museum that’s all about celebrating film, television, and gaming with exhibits, screenings, and events. Anyone interested in videography and the evolution of the gaming industry is in the right place. Our baby and 5-year-old daughter were thrilled with the countless experiments and opportunities to try out games and old film equipment.
For families, the museum becomes a playground of discovery and excitement. Even the youngest visitors, like our baby and 5-year-old daughter, are enthralled by the myriad experiments and opportunities to try out games and old film equipment. The interactive nature of the exhibits allows children to engage with the history and evolution of visual storytelling in a way that is both educational and entertaining.
From screenings that transport visitors into cinematic realms to exhibits that showcase the technological advancements in gaming, the museum caters to a diverse audience. It becomes a space where both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers can share in the wonder of storytelling through the lens of film, television, and gaming.
Melbourne Museum
This Melbourne museum blew us away! We spent a whole day there, and all four of us had endless fun. The Exhibitions cover topics such as art, design, history, and even real dinosaur skeletons. On top: There is a Children’s Gallery for Babies to 5-year-olds. Basically, it’s a lovingly designed indoor playground with lots to discover and climb. Here the time is limited to one hour of play. Plan at least 6 hours for the whole museum! Food is available at the museum’s restaurant.
One of the standout features for families is the dedicated Children’s Gallery, tailored for the youngest visitors aged from babies to 5-year-olds. This gallery is more than just an exhibit; it’s a lovingly designed indoor playground with a wealth of discoveries and climbing adventures. The playtime is limited to one hour, but the memories created in that short span are boundless.
For a comprehensive exploration of the museum’s offerings, we quickly realized that planning at least 6 hours was a wise decision. The wealth of exhibits and interactive displays beckoned us to immerse ourselves fully in the world of art, design, and history.
To ensure our energy levels stayed high throughout the day, we took advantage of the museum’s restaurant, where food was readily available. This thoughtful addition allowed us to take breaks, refuel, and discuss the fascinating discoveries we made in the various galleries.
MoPa: Museum of Play and Art
Another mindblowing experience! The MoPa is an immersive children’s museum where kids can explore, play, create and learn. Suitable for children aged from 1 to 8 years old. You can find the museum in two locations: Sandringham and Geelong.
What sets MoPa apart is its commitment to creating an environment that nurtures the natural curiosity of children. Through interactive exhibits and play areas, kids can embark on a journey of exploration, discovering new concepts and developing essential skills in a playful and engaging manner.
The museum’s presence in two locations, Sandringham and Geelong, ensures accessibility for families across different regions. Whether nestled in the coastal charm of Sandringham or the picturesque landscapes of Geelong, MoPa provides a local haven for families seeking a blend of entertainment and educational experiences for their little ones.
For parents, witnessing the joy and wonder in their children’s eyes as they navigate the immersive exhibits is a testament to MoPa’s success in creating a memorable and impactful space. It becomes more than a museum; it transforms into a hub of shared moments, laughter, and the building blocks of early childhood learning.
Polly Woodside
This ship traveled 1.5 million miles across the globe and is now open to visitors curious about what life was like on a tall ship. Polly Woodside carried coal and wheat between England and South America and was well-maintained. Kids can ring the huge bell, clean the deck, and discover the bunk beds and small toilets that sailors used long ago. Plan approximately 40 mins for a guided tour.
For families exploring Polly Woodside, the experience is not just about walking the decks of a historic ship; it’s an interactive adventure. Kids have the opportunity to ring the ship’s huge bell, participate in the cleaning of the deck, and delve into the bunk beds and small toilets that sailors used in times long past.
A guided tour through Polly Woodside is a journey through maritime history, providing insights into the challenges and lifestyles of sailors on a tall ship. The approximately 40-minute tour offers a comprehensive understanding of the ship’s storied past and the intricacies of life at sea.
Laneway Art
Hosier Lane, in particular, is renowned for its dynamic and ever-changing street art. The vibrant and eclectic mix of colors, styles, and messages make it a captivating outdoor gallery that reflects Melbourne’s commitment to artistic expression.
Centre Place offers a charming laneway adorned with an array of murals, stencils, and graffiti art. The narrow confines of this lane create an intimate and immersive experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the details of each piece up close.
AC/DC Lane pays homage to the legendary rock band with its vibrant street art and murals that capture the essence of Melbourne’s musical history. Caledonian Lane and Croft Alley add to the city’s artistic tapestry, showcasing a diverse range of styles and voices.
Melbourne Skydeck
While a family ticket for the Melbourne Skydeck may come with a price tag, the awe-inspiring views and the unique perspective of the city make it a worthwhile investment. From this elevated perch, landmarks, city streets, and the surrounding landscape unfold before your eyes, offering a visual feast that captures the essence of Melbourne.
The Skydeck not only serves as a prime photography spot but also provides an educational experience. Informational displays and interactive exhibits offer insights into Melbourne’s history, landmarks, and points of interest, making the visit both visually captivating and intellectually enriching.
Southbank Promenade
As you amble along the Southbank Promenade, you’ll be treated to a feast for the senses. The gentle breeze from the river, the lively chatter of fellow strollers, and the stunning cityscape create an atmosphere that is both relaxing and invigorating.
A delightful highlight of your stroll awaits at Cups n Cones. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in their yummy ice cream, adding a sweet note to your riverside experience. Whether you’re savoring classic flavors or daring to try something new, the delectable treats from Cups n Cones are sure to enhance your Southbank adventure.
State Library Victoria
Port Melbourne Beach & St. Kilda Beach
Port Melbourne Beach welcomes you with its wide shoreline and a vibrant promenade that offers stunning views of the bay. The beachside playground provides a perfect spot for little ones to play, while the adjacent restaurants offer a variety of dining options. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront or simply relax on the sand while soaking in the coastal atmosphere.
St. Kilda Beach, with its iconic pier and lively esplanade, is a must-visit destination. The beachfront playground adds a playful touch for families with kids. The expansive green spaces provide ample room for picnics or games, creating a vibrant and social atmosphere. Don’t miss the chance to explore St. Kilda Pier, offering breathtaking views of the Melbourne skyline.
DreamCity Melbourne
Designed for kids aged 5 to 12 years old, DreamCity provides an inspirational and educational environment where young minds can get a taste of various careers in a playful and interactive way. The immersive experiences go beyond traditional role-playing, allowing children to step into the shoes of professionals in diverse fields.
Whether it’s donning a doctor’s coat and performing simulated surgeries, taking the captain’s seat in a flight simulator, or experiencing the adrenaline of virtual firefighting, DreamCity offers a dynamic and engaging exploration of the world of work.
GoClimb
GoClimb transforms climbing into a thrilling experience with a variety of walls designed to challenge and entertain. Whether your little one is scaling the walls with boundless enthusiasm or you’re a parent ready to embrace the challenge, the diverse climbing options ensure an adventure for everyone.
The speed wall adds an extra layer of excitement, encouraging climbers to race against the clock and each other. Meanwhile, the ninja course introduces an element of agility and skill, providing a dynamic and engaging climbing experience.
Funtopia Maribyrnong
Funtopia Maribyrnong is one of Melbourne’s biggest and best indoor play centers featuring interactive climbing walls and an Australian-themed adventure playground. Join your kids climbing, or sit back and enjoy a coffee.
The interactive climbing walls at Funtopia provide an engaging and dynamic experience for kids and parents alike. Whether you join your little ones in the climbing adventure or prefer to relax with a coffee, the center offers a versatile and enjoyable space for everyone.
The Australian-themed adventure playground adds a unique touch to the overall experience, immersing children in a world of imaginative play and discovery. From climbing challenges to vibrant play zones, Funtopia Maribyrnong creates an environment where kids can unleash their energy and creativity.
Puffing Billy Railway
Since 1900, Australia’s premier preserved steam railway, “Puffing Billy” has transported over 11 million passengers through the 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!
What makes the Puffing Billy experience truly unique is the opportunity to sit on the sill of the traditional open-side carriages, letting your legs dangle freely as you traverse the beautiful countryside. This open and immersive style of travel allows passengers to feel the rush of wind, hear the rhythmic sounds of the steam engine, and soak in the breathtaking views of the Dandenong Ranges.
Last but not least – no matter how great Melbourne is with kids, the city is also amazing without them. If you want to spend time alone, I can highly recommend City Babysitters. We had great support for a few hours and could enjoy some couple time.
Have a great Melbourne experience, and also check out my guides for family activities in Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Koh Phangan! Thank you for reading!