melbourne day trips with baby

19 of the Best Day Trips from Melbourne for Families with Kids

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Are you looking for the very best day trips from Melbourne, VIC for families? If yes – then read on, because in this guide we have listed all the best Melbourne day trips. Whether you’re a Melbourne local or visiting from out of town, after reading this guide, you’ll have plenty of inspiration for some easy day trips from Melbourne the whole family will love.

No matter kids, teens or adults, this post has something for you.

Not the best weather? Check out our list of the best rainy day activities in Melbourne .

19 of the best day trips from Melbourne for families

With most of our suggestions for day trips around Melbourne, you can choose to make it a DIY and drive yourself or sit back and relax by booking one of the awesome Melbourne day tours.  

Looking for more suggestions for the Victorian school holidays – click here.

1. Great Ocean Road day tour from Melbourne

One of the most popular and best day trips from Melbourne is to drive along the Great Ocean Road and see all its iconic landmarks. However it does makes for a long day, so probably best to book a Great Ocean Road day tour from Melbourne and let someone else take care of all the driving.

Most of these day tours from Melbourne are at least 12 hours in duration and include stops at all the best attractions along the 243 kilometre scenic drive. Some of the places you’ll see are the 12 Apostles, The Lord Ard Gorge, Shipwreck Coast – London Bridge, Razorback and Port Campbell.

If you have time, we’d recommend you drive yourself and maybe spend a day or two exploring all the sites – but if you only have time for a 1 day trip from Melbourne – click here for a Great Ocean Road / 12 Apostles day trip.

The Great Ocean Road is on many people’s bucket list and makes for a great Melbourne day trip tour.

2. Snow day trips from Melbourne

If you happen to be visiting Melbourne during the winter months, make the most of the cold weather and do one of the snow day trips from Melbourne. It’s a long day, but so worth it to see the kids playing in the snow.

The best options are to do is this Lake Mountain Melbourne day tour.

Lake Mountain is the closet snow resort to the Melbourne CBD and, during one of the snow day tours Melbourne offers, you can play in the snow, go toboggan riding, build a snowman, have a ski lesson or walk to the top of the mountain for great views.

You could also go to Mt Buller. Mt Buller is a little further away from the CBD, but still totally worth it. During the Mt Buller day tours Melbourne offers, you can have a go at skiing and snowboarding as well as explore the village with it’s open fires in quaint little bars and restaurants.

So, if you’re in Melbourne and the weather is freezing make the most of it and visit the snow.  Melbourne winter day trips are the best!

3. Phillip Island day trip from Melbourne

For families you really can’t beat a Phillip Island day trip from Melbourne. Even better if you can stay on Phillip Island for a few days, but if you’re short on time don’t miss the opportunity to take the kids on a Phillip Island day tour from Melbourne – they will just love seeing those adorable little penguins!

While we know the drawcard to Phillip Island is those super cute penguins, there is so much more to Phillip Island. Other things you might like to do on Phillip Island include a cruise to see the seals at Seak Rock, eat all the yummy chocolate at the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory, or be wowed at A Maze’N Things.

You can of course join a Phillip Island one day tour from Melbourne – or drive yourself.  If you do decide to join a Melbourne 1 day tour, there is the option for a full day tour which includes various other activities during the day before the Penguin Parade. If you’re super short on time you can join a shorter tour which leaves Melbourne in the afternoon and just takes you to see the Penguins. If you do go yourself make sure to pre book your Penguin Parade tickets here.

If you only have time for just one of the day trips out of Melbourne – make it a visit to Phillip Island to see the penguins.

4. Melbourne to Mornington Peninsula day trip

Just a one hour’s drive from Melbourne is the Mornington Peninsula, which is a fabulous one day trip, Melbourne offers. Either plan a DIY Melbourne to Mornington Peninsula day trip or let someone else do all the organising and join one of the day tours to Mornington Peninsula from Melbourne.

While you’re visiting the Mornington Peninsula go to Murrays Lockout, visit Point Nepean National Park and see the coloured bathing boxes in Portsea. Or why not indulge in some wine tasting, pick fresh strawberries at a farm, relax in some hot spring pools or take in the stunning panoramic views of the Peninsula and Port Phillip Bay on the Arthurs Seat Eagle Gondola . You can even take the kids snorkeling to see the rare Seadragons .

5. Healesville Sanctuary

Just 52kms north east of the Melbourne CBD is the Healesville Sanctuary which makes for one of the easiest day trips from Melbourne by car. This sanctuary is dedicated to fighting extinction of native wildlife and is a great opportunity for the kids to get up close to the animals.

While you’re in the area check out the lovely countryside. There are plenty of places to eat in Healsville, but if you’re looking for somewhere child friendly, try A Wanda Inn which combines modern Australian and Japanese cuisine.

Website: Healsville Zoo

Address: Glen Eadie Ave, Healesville VIC 3777

6. Fairy Park

For families with young children after inspiration for one day trips from Melbourne consider Fairy Park. Fairy Park is about an hour’s drive from the Melbourne CBD, and is a land all about the telling of stories, myths and legends.

This is a great place for families with little children, as they will love exploring all the different areas. Attractions include Camelot Adventure Playground, Fairytale Land, model trains and a kids castle. Spend a couple of hours or the whole day and immerse yourself in fairy tales.

While you’re in the area and fancy grabbing something to eat, Del Rios Winery offers a casual dining option with loads of room to move.

Website: Fairy Park

Address: C141/2388 Geelong-Ballan Rd, Anakie VIC 3213

7. Puffing Billy Melbourne day trips

If your children are young and you’re looking for the best short day trips from Melbourne, the Puffing Billy steam train is the perfect idea. The 100 year old Puffing Billy is only 40 minutes from Melbourne and the tour only takes a few hours, making it perfect for little ones who tire easily.

Kids will love hanging their legs over the edge of the train car as you putt along through the beautiful Dandenong ranges, making it one of the best half day trips from Melbourne.

If you have older kids try the full Puffing Billy Melbourne day trips, which combine a ride on the iconic steam train with a Healsville Sanctuary visit or wine country tour.

8. Yarra Valley Day Trip from Melbourne

When it comes to Melbourne day trip ideas the Yarra Valley is a popular choice for many people.    While most people associate the Yarra with a Yarra Valley wine tour, there are various things to see and do, making it one of the great Melbourne day trips with kids.

While you’re in the Yarra visit some wineries and breweries, stop in at the dairy and try some cheese and the kids will love stopping off at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery.  Better yet take a Yarra Valley tour so you can enjoy a glass of wine or two without concern.

If you do decide to join a Yarra Valley Tour, be sure to check the terms and conditions though as some tours are for adults only!

9. Werribee Open Range Zoo

If you’re looking for fun day trips near Melbourne to entertain the kids, the Werribee Zoo is only a 30 minute drive from the city but you’ll feel like you’re a world away.

Travel on the safari bus through Australian grasslands to spot koalas and kangaroos. Then, the guided Africa tour will have you getting up close with giraffes, rhinos, lions and so much more.

For some extra fun, the sunset tour includes dinner and an African dance performance.  If it’s a special occasion, the fully inclusive slumber party experience lets kids enjoy breakfast whilst watching the animals roam free.

We have a detailed review including how to get cheap tickets to Werribee Zoo here.

Website: Werribee Open Range Zoo

Address: K Rd, Werribee South VIC 3030

10. Melbourne Zoo

Kids love animals and a visit to Melbourne zoo is one of the best day trips in Melbourne and sure to thrill kids of all ages. From penguins to tigers and elephants to butterflies, there really is something for everyone.

A particular highlight is the chance to get close to the endangered and incredibly beautiful Sumatran Orangutans and teach kids all about conservation efforts. If you really want to impress the kids, book them an up close Kangaroo encounter and make their day!

It’s easy to see why so many consider it one of the best family day trips from Melbourne!

We have a detailed review including how to get cheap tickets to Melbourne Zoo here.

Website: Melbourne Zoo

Address: Elliott Ave, Parkville VIC 3052

11. Grampians National Park

The Grampians National Park is one of the best Melbourne day trips with kids that love to be outdoors hiking and exploring. Enjoy various lookouts with incredible panoramic views over the landscape as well as an easy hike into the beautiful Grand Canyon.

This is one of the best day drives from Melbourne and you can easily explore the area on your own.  However if you don’t want to miss anything join a guided Grampions tour. On a guided tour, you’ll have the best chance of taking in all the falls, lookouts and be shown where to spot some native wildlife as well as getting a delicious morning tea and lunch included.

12. Melbourne Tours

Even if you only have one day in Melbourne, don’t panic! You can still get around to see the highlights. You can either take one of the guided Melbourne city day tours or choose to explore the city at your own pace.

The Melbourne city sightseeing bus makes it really easy to see Melbourne in a day. You can choose either a 24 hour or 48 hour pass and hop on and off the bus at one of the 25 major attractions on your one day trip around Melbourne.

If you want the best of both worlds, take one of the Melbourne half day tours like this one and you’ll still have the afternoon to explore on your own.

13. Sovereign Hill and Ballarat Day Tour from Melbourne

If you’re looking for a great one day trip near Melbourne, Sovereign Hill is an immersive outdoor museum that will transport you and your kids back to the gold rush days. Let the kids try their hands at gold panning and travel underground on the Red Hill mine tour.

If you don’t have your own transport, join a tour that includes transportation from the Melbourne CBD.  You can even combine your trip with a tour of Ballarat and a visit to the wildlife park. It’s a great option if you’re looking for fun day trips Melbourne has on offer.

14. Wilsons Promontory National Park

Another one of the good day trips from Melbourne is a visit to the Wilsons Promontory National Park. Nature loving families will find this one of the best day trips from Melbourne with kids.

At the Wilsons Promontory National Park there are plenty of opportunities to let the kids burn off some energy with hiking trails , bushwalking and wildlife spotting. The whole family will enjoy being on the lookout for kangaroos, koalas, wombats and heaps more.

While you can easily explore the Wilsons Promontory National Park on your own, if you don’t have your own transport in Melbourne join a guided tour which includes return transportation from Melbourne as well as a few other stops along the way!

15. Melbourne shopping tour

A one day trip in Melbourne wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the famous shopping arcades and laneways. Experience some authentic Melbourne culture whilst exploring the cities boutique shops and street art.

Shopping day tours around Melbourne would be the perfect way to spend some quality mum and daughter time. Take a look at this great shopping day tour that even includes the chance to sample some locally made jams and chocolates or if you prefer some bargain shopping, join this tour that takes you to all the local outlet stores.

16. Bellarine Peninsula day tour from Melbourne

The Bellarine Peninsula is a sightseeing bonanza and makes a jam-packed one day road trip. Melbourne is famous for being a food lovers dream and the Bellarine Peninsula is one of the best kept secrets in the area.

In addition to the delicious food and wine, in the Bellarine Peninsula families will love the stunning natural landscapes.  Plus you can take the kids to see the emus and wallabies at the Narana Culture Centre.

Whether you drive yourself or join a sightseeing tour, a visit to the Bellarine Peninsula is definitely one of the fun filled day trips outside Melbourne.

17. Otway Fly Treetop Walk and Zipline

The highest treetop walk of it’s kind in the world, Otway Fly Treetop Walk is one of the top day trips from Melbourne. The scenic 2-hour journey makes it a great opportunity to get out of the city on a self drive day trip.

Adventurous kids will love the chance to try out the exciting zipline experience, taking you on a 3.5-hour adventure, whizzing through the treetops.

18. Gumbuya World

Melbourne family day trips don’t come much better than this! Wildlife, thrill rides and all sorts of family entertainment await you at Gumbuya world , which is the largest theme park in Victoria.

Only 50 minutes out of the city it’s one of the best day trips out of Melbourne, if you’re looking for something to entertain all ages. The whole family will love the Oasis Springs water park on hot summer days and older kids can enjoy the thrill rides whilst little ones meet the local wildlife.

19. Melbourne Ghost Tours

If you have older kids that enjoy all things spooky, make sure one of the city’s famous ghost tours is on your one day in Melbourne itinerary.

Plenty of these Melbourne ghost tours cater to families with young children and are a fun way to see the city in a different light. Whether it’s a ghost hunt with dinner or a tour around an abandoned prison, there is sure to be something for everyone.

Best Melbourne day trips

There you have it! We hope this list has helped you find you’re next Melbourne day trip! If you think we missed anything feel free to let us know by contacting us!

Looking for more things to do in Melbourne with kids?

• School holiday activities Melbourne
• Water parks in Melbourne
• Trampoline parks in Melbourne
• Strawberry picking Melbourne options
• Dog friendly beaches and swimming holes in Melbourne
• Camping ideas for Melbourne families
• Camping with dogs around Melbourne
• Things to do in Melbourne with teenagers
• Rainy day activities in Melbourne
• How to get discount Werribee Zoo
• How to get discount Melbourne Zoo tickets
• Great Ocean Road trip with kids

Kid friendly restaurants in Melbourne

• Best high tea options for kids in Melbourne
• Places where kids eat for FREE in Melbourne
• Best seafood buffets Melbourne
• Best buffets in Melbourne
• Vietnamese restaurants in Melbourne
• Best sushi in Melbourne for kids
• Gluten free restaurants in Melbourne for kids
• Australia Day restaurant options

Celebrating with kids in Melbourne?

• Things to do on Australia Day in Melbourne
• Christmas markets in Melbourne with kids
• Best Christmas lights in Melbourne
• Christmas lunch Melbourne options for families
• ANZAC Day services in Melbourne

Janine Mergler

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45 of the Best Things to do in Melbourne with Kids

Heading to Melbourne with the family and wondering what the best things to do in Melbourne with kids? Well, you have come to the right place because I absolutely love spending time in Melbourne and with so many great family things to do in Melbourne, I put them all in this handy guide.

The kid’s activities Melbourne offers are endless, and not just in the CBD but the surrounding areas too. The best things to do with kids in Melbourne include discovering the colourful murals down Melbourne’s laneways, maybe interacting at a museum, cruising down the Yarra River and the kids will even be entertained riding the free trams around the city.

This Guide to Visiting Melbourne shows you 45 of the best things to do in Melbourne for kids, including everything you need to know about ticket prices, where to save money booking online and opening times.

As well as all the family activities Melbourne has to offer; this guide will provide tips on getting to the Melbourne CBD from the airport, getting around the CBD and where to stay in Melbourne on a budget.

There are so many great things to do in Melbourne’s surrounding areas that in this post, I am just going to focus on the things to do in Melbourne CBD with kids (plus a few awesome attractions just outside the CBD). I also have some great tips for St Kilda with kids and all the Phillip Island attractions for families.

This post may contain compensated links. Please refer to my disclaimer here for more information.

Talk to other families about their tips on visiting Melbourne and join our Thrifty Family Travel Facebook Group or be inspired on our Thrifty Family Travel Instagram Feed .

Page Contents

• 1 Best things to do with kids in Melbourne map
• 2.1 Museum of Play and Art (MoPA)
• 2.3 The District Docklands
• 2.4 Ice Skating at Docklands 
• 2.5 Werribee Open Range Zoo
• 2.7 Glow Golf 
• 2.8 Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq
• 2.9 Collingwood Children’s Farm
• 2.10 Chinatown Melbourne
• 2.11 Explore the Laneways
• 2.12 Street Art
• 2.13 Federation Square
• 2.14 National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)
• 2.15 The Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI)
• 2.16 City Circle Tourist Tram
• 2.17 Melbourne Tram Museum
• 2.18 Yarra River Cruise
• 2.19 SEA LIFE Melbourne
• 2.20 iFLY Indoor Skydiving
• 2.21 Legoland Discovery Centre
• 2.22 Polly Woodside
• 2.23 State Library Victoria
• 2.24 Melbourne Skydeck
• 2.25 Melbourne Zoo
• 2.26 Old Melbourne Gaol
• 2.27 Luna Park
• 2.28 IceBar
• 2.29 Melbourne Museum
• 2.30 IMAX Melbourne
• 2.31 Australian Sports Museum
• 2.32 Immigration Museum
• 2.33 Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria
• 2.34 Phillip Island Penguin Parade
• 2.35 Scienceworks
• 2.36 Queen Victoria Markets
• 2.37 St Kilda Penguins
• 3.1 Great Ocean Road Day Trip
• 3.2 Sovereign Hill
• 3.3 Kryal Castle
• 3.4 Healesville Sanctuary and Puffing Billy Tour
• 3.5 Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery
• 3.6 Gumbuya World
• 4 Klook Melbourne Pass
• 5 Melbourne City Attraction Pass
• 6.1 Space Hotel 
• 6.3 Winston Apartments Docklands
• 6.4 Mercure Melbourne Southbank
• 7.1 Melbourne Airport to Melbourne City
• 7.2 Getting around the CBD
• 8 Melbourne – Our Verdict

Best things to do with kids in Melbourne map

Below in this kids activities Melbourne CBD guide, I’ve provided a comprehensive list of the top things to do in Melbourne Australia. I have tried to provide as much information as possible to make your planning easier, including locations, opening hours and ticket prices.

Please note that all prices mentioned were correct at the time of writing and may fluctuate depending upon changes to currency conversion and rate increases.

To check the rate in your local currency, click here.

To help you plan what to do in Melbourne with kids, I’ve also provided this handy map below, which shows you where all the different attractions are. Zoom in and out for a better view.

Best things to do in Melbourne with kids

Here are our suggestions on the fun things to do in Melbourne with kids, in no particular order.

Museum of Play and Art (MoPA)

The team behind the most acclaimed Children’s Museums in Australia have done it again, opening their latest Museum in the bayside suburb of Sandringham, just 20 minutes from Melbourne CBD.

MoPA Melbourne is one of the best Melbourne family activities and one of the largest children’s museums in the southern hemisphere. All of the 30+ exhibits and the constantly rotating activities are built on the theories of play-based learning and creative exploration.

Perhaps most importantly, though, everything at MoPA is wrapped up in a world of fun for the whole family! From painting a real car to climbing inside a gallery full of real art to ‘become the art’, from crafting to drumming and even regular dance parties, MoPA is an absolute must-see. 

If looking for things to do in Melbourne with toddlers, then visit MoPA as it is best suited to families with children up to 8 years of age, the Museum is certainly one of the Melbourne things to do kids will just love. 

All MoPA locations are open 7-days a week, but with a very comfortable capacity limit set on their Museums, MoPA tends to sell out of tickets on most days – so online bookings are absolutely essential.

Location : 247 Bay Road, Sandringham and 51 McKillop Street, Geelong

Opening hours : Monday – Friday 9.30 am to 4.00 pm | Weekends 9 am to 5 pm

Price : MoPA Free Play from $12 | Under 1s are free | Bookings essential, no walk ins.

The District Docklands

Looking for a one-stop shop for multiple fun things for kids to do in Melbourne? Then head down to the District Docklands as there are numerous Melbourne family attractions here (keep reading below for more details about these family attractions Melbourne offers). The District Docklands is an outdoor shopping centre that is also a great dining and entertainment precinct.  

Here you will find plenty of great Melbourne attractions for kids, including ArtVo, Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq, Chipmunks, O’Brien Icehouse, Saboteurs, Chaos Lab, Glow Golf and plenty more. There are over 80 specialty retail stores, cafes and various attractions within the District Docklands, so you could easily spend the entire day here. This is an ideal place to check out if you are wondering what to do with kids in Melbourne.

With many shops and attractions indoors, it’s also a great place to come if you’re wondering what to do in Melbourne with family when the weather is poor.

Location : 440 Docklands Drive, Docklands

Opening Hours: Open daily 10 am to 6 pm.  

Price: Free to enter and browse the numerous shops and eateries. Check out their website by clicking here.

Ice Skating at Docklands  

Looking for active things to do for kids in Melbourne? Then head down to the O’Brien Icehouse for some ice skating at Docklands. This is quite literally one of the cool things to do in Melbourne.

I have never been ice skating beforehand, and Myla had only done so once, so I was a bit nervous about how our visit here was going to go. I was surprised how easy it was to walk with the skates on, and while I by no means was any good, I managed to skate (very slowly) a few times around the rink. With the aid of a seal (cool skating aid shaped like a seal that she could sit on), Myla skated around and around the rink many times.  

Ice skating is an excellent opportunity for some family bonding time, and I love any activity that gets the kids physical. It was difficult to drag Myla away! While I recommend bringing warm clothes, once you get going, you warm up, so make sure you wear layers that you can take off.

Over Melbourne school holidays, this is undoubtedly one of the fun places to go in Melbourne as the arena has a variety of fun family activities, including games, face paintings, circus performers, skating performances and a craft zone.

Location : 105 Pearl River Road, Docklands.  

Opening Hours: In general, public skating is daily from 9 am. However, please check out their calendar as events will sometimes block out some calendar days and you don’t want to turn up and not be able to skate.

Price: $35.00 per adult | $19.00 per child (under 8) | $98 per family (2A+2C) – includes skate hire. Discounted rates on Tuesdays.

• Werribee Open Range Zoo

Whilst not technically in Melbourne CBD, you’ll find Werribee Zoo around a 40-45 minute drive from town. We have included the Melbourne Zoo in this guide (a little further down), however Werribee gets a special mention as it’s not your ordinary zoo, it’s an African themed open range zoo.

You’ll enjoy a guided safari across the unique open range savannah to spot rhinos, giraffes and zebras. The walking trails will have you strolling past prides of lions, hippos in their wetland home and one of the world’s largest gorilla exhibits.

To see these large animals out in the vast open is an adventure the whole family will enjoy. 

Location: K Rd, Werribee South

Opening Hours : Daily 9 am to 5 pm

Price : $46 per adult | $23 per child (4-15) weekdays  Under 4s are free all the time and Under 16s are free on weekends and Vic School Holidays – Click here to book tickets online .

If you have kids of varying ages and are looking for Melbourne things to do with kids, then you will love ArtVo! 

ArtVo is an art gallery with interactive 3D art where you are encouraged to touch and interact with the artworks. The art is painted on both the floor and walls with various other sculptural elements so you can get among the numerous scenes, photographing yourself and becoming part of the artwork.

In each piece of art, there is a photo point marked on the ground; stand here and follow the directions on the best way to take the photograph.

There are various gallery zones, including Australiana, Jungle Safari, Aquatic Adventure, and Dimensional Dreams, to name a few. Definitely one of the fun places to go in Melbourne for kids.

Location : 26 Star Crescent, Level 1, The District , Docklands

Opening Hours: Weekdays 10 am to 4 pm | Weekends 10 am to 6 pm 

Price: $30 per adult | $20 per child (5-15) | $88 per family (2A+2C) | Under 4s are free – Click here to book tickets online .

Glow Golf  

Glow Golf is another one of the fun things to do in Melbourne for families. Play 18 holes of golf in the smallest mini golf course in Australia – in the dark! Well, it’s not complete darkness; play your way through iconic Australian landmarks under ultraviolet lighting. It has been specially tailored for children, families, teenagers and all keen golfers alike.

Glow Golf is undoubtedly one of the fun things to do with kids in Melbourne that the entire family will love.   

Location: The District Docklands – Level 1, Shop 35

Opening Hours : Monday – Thursday 12 pm to 6 pm | Friday 12 pm to 11 pm | Saturday 11 am to 11 pm | Sunday 11 am to 6 pm 

Price : $12 per game Monday to Thursday and $15 per game Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and kids under 5 are free. 

Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq

Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq has a range of fun things to do with family in Melbourne, all in one place. Here you will find loads of arcade games, dodgem cars, VR, ten pin bowling and more!  

All the classic arcade games are here, so parents are also entertained, but of course, all the latest games are here too. With each game you play, you will get credits, which can be traded in for cool prizes at the end.

The whole family will enjoy competing against each other in a game of ten pin bowling and bumping and dodging each other in the bumper cars. Then for something a little different, take the Thrillrider, where you sit back and relax in a cinema style setting, although you’ll need to hang on in this virtual reality thrill ride.

On site, there is also a bar and café selling a range of burgers and sandwiches.

Archie Brothers is also another option if you’re looking for fun kids things Melbourne has to offer on a rainy day.

Location : The District Docklands – 440 Docklands Drive, Docklands

Opening Hours : Mon – Thu 12 pm to 10 pm | Friday & Saturday 10 am to 12 am | Sunday 10 am to 10 pm 

Price : Games and rides vary in price. Dodgems are $6 per ride, bowling starts at $10 per game and the Thrillrider is $8 per ride. Click here to purchase a one or two hour unlimited game pass.

Collingwood Children’s Farm

Collingwood Children’s Farm is a place where children (and adults) can immerse themselves in a community farm – yet still be within the heart of the city. Perfect for those who want a taste of the farm-life, yet don’t want to go all out country.

There are daily activities that are regularly rotated; you will find out what these are for the day when you arrive. The activities will be such things as cow brushing, guinea pig cuddles, meet the farmer and farm crafts. However, the Farm encourages independent exploration at your own pace. Whether that is cuddling the goats, chatting with the farmers or simply spending time in nature.

So if you’re after an authentic farm experience – which is not a zoo or a petting zoo, the Collingwood Children’s Farm is the place to go, and may just make some farmers out of the family.

Location: 18 St Heliers St, Abbotsford

Opening Hours : Daily 9.30 am to 4.30 pm

Price : $17 per adult | $8 per child | Under 2s are free 

Chinatown Melbourne

Melbourne’s Chinatown is a vibrant precinct dominated by a range of restaurants from fine dining to noodle houses and of course karaoke bars. There are traditional retailers sitting alongside Chinese herbalists creating an eclectic cosmopolitan vibe.

Throughout the year, there are many traditional festivals and activities including Chinese New Year and the Lantern Festival. This is a great time to visit as there are street parades and stage performances bringing the laneways to life.

If you would like to find out more about Australia’s Chinese community, the Chinese Museum is located in the heart of Chinatown and showcases the contribution Chinese Australians have made to Australian society over the past 200 years. (There is a small entry fee for the museum.)

Location: Little Bourke Street’s northern end (between Swanston to Spring Streets and Bourke to Lonsdale Streets including all the laneways)

Opening Hours : Anytime – stores have differing opening hours, check them out here

Price : Free to explore and window-shop

Explore the Laneways

One of the best family activities in Melbourne is exploring the murals down the little laneways. These laneways are home to boutiques, restaurants, and hole in the wall type cafes and bars, not to mention fantastic artwork and oversized murals.

I just love finding a cozy café in one of these laneways and treating Myla to something sweet while I have a cuppa and watch the Melbourne life pass me by. Definitely one of the best free places to take kids Melbourne has to offer. Click here for information about the best Melbourne cafes.

Location : Click here to explore and plan your Laneway Adventures.  

Opening Hours: 24 hours per day.

Price : Completely free to wander through all the eye-popping laneways Melbourne has on display.

Melbourne’s impressive street art is internationally renowned and one of my favourite kid-friendly things to do in Melbourne City. The kids will love the bright colours and huge murals that feature in the hidden laneways, plus it is another great free kids activity Melbourne offers. During our recent stay in Melbourne, we went to see a few different streets. My favourites were:

• AC/DC Lane and Duckboard Place (large man and tree)
• Hosier and Rutledge Lanes (Melbourne sign)
• Presgrave Place (photo frames)

Others we checked out, which I didn’t think were much more than graffiti, and I wouldn’t bother going to were:

• Russell Place
• Queen and Franklin Streets
• Blender Lane

Others that were recommended to me and I didn’t get a chance to see were:

• Centre Place
• Flinders Court
• Croft Alley
• Stevenson and Tattersalls Lanes
• Drewery and Sniders Lanes
• Caledonian Lane
• Corner 361 Little Bourke Street and Rankins Lane
• Finaly Lane

Location: Click here for the map.

Price : There is no cost to walk freely through the busy Melbourne streets.

Federation Square

Looking for some of the free things to do in Melbourne with family? Then head down to Federation Square, just opposite Flinders Street Station, the ultimate meeting place in Melbourne’s CBD and one of the many eclectic places to visit in Melbourne.

Throughout the year, Federation Square hosts around 2000 special events; many are free.

During our recent visit, there was some kind of pop up games convention going on with kids on stage competing in ‘Just Dance’ games and various other tables around the square had people playing a variety of board games, including the old favourite ‘Connect Four’. Anyone could join in, and it was all completely free. 

You will find the Melbourne Visitors Centre, the NGV Australian Collection, the Australian Centre for the Moving Image, Koorie Heritage Trust, and various cafes and bars in the square. I recommend you visit Federation Square during lunch hour, as this is when you will really see the square come alive. 

Location: Corner of Swanston and Flinders Street Melbourne –  grab a free Tram from anywhere in the free tram zone and jump off at Stop 13.

Opening Hours: Federation Square is open 24 hours per day, 365 days a year; however the large array of shops, bars and cafes keep their own hours. Click here for more details on individual store opening hours.

Price : Free to enter and enjoy the everyday happenings of each day.

National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)

NGV Kids has been set up to provide creative experiences for young people and their families – from toddlers to teens! This year-round program is dedicated to children’s participatory exhibitions, free events and sensory experiences. 

If you’re seeking some children’s activities Melbourne offers, then this could be the one! It’s one of the great indoor activities Melbourne offers families.

Some of the activities include creating collages and then turning them into digital animations, writing poems and creating portraits, making three-dimensional sculptures… and so much more!

To see what exhibits and events are on at NGV Kids when you’re travelling to Melbourne, you can check out their schedule here .

Location: Federation Square, Melbourne

Opening Hours : Daily 10 am to 5 pm

Price : Free

The Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI)

Want more free children’s activities Melbourne CBD has? Then within Federation Square, check out the ACMI.  This is a free museum showcasing Australia’s film, TV, video games, digital culture, and art.  

This is another one of the free and fun things to do in Melbourne CBD with the kids. I found it quite interesting to show Myla how I use to watch TV when I was a kid. I had to explain to Myla that ‘back in my day’, you had to get up off the couch to change the TV channel and yes, TV’s really were that small!  It was cool seeing all the old school video games we use to play and how far technology has come in a relatively short time frame.

Throughout the year, the ACMI hosts various exhibitions. While we were there, we went to the Wallace and Gromit and Friends: The Magic of Aardman exhibition. This was a great exhibition learning about how the fantastic Aardman Studios make Claymation. We got to meet Shaun the Sheep and see the various movie and TV sets. We even had a go at making our own Claymation film.

The centre is located within Federation Square, the epicentre for what’s on Melbourne, and is an exciting way to spend an hour or so. It’s one of the free fun activities for kids Melbourne has to offer.

Location : Federation Square, on the free City Circle Tramline.

Opening Hours : 10 am to 5 pm daily

Price: FREE – although you need to still book online here .

City Circle Tourist Tram

A fun way to get around Melbourne is via the trams (more on this below). However, the City Circle Tourist Tram is an attraction in itself and it’s another one of the great free kids’ activities Melbourne offers. Yep free! 

Jump on board the free City Circle Tram (number 35) and along the way, listen to the audio commentary about the various sights around Melbourne. You can get off when you see something that interests you, once you are done, get back on and continue the route.

You can easily spot the City Circle Tourist Tram as it is serviced by the heritage W class trams which are decorated in maroon and green with yellow and gold trimmings – just gorgeous! Although there is no need to get on the City Circle Tram unless you want to hear the commentary, as all the trams within the CBD are free too.  Yes, that’s right, completely free!!! 

So jump on any tram and take a ride around the city for some family fun Melbourne time! For the bigger kids, get them a map and let them help you identify the various things to see in Melbourne and figure out the best route to take. Myla just loved doing this!

Who would have thought one of the fun things to do with kids Melbourne offers would be public transport?!

Location : Click here for the timetable and map for the City Circle Tram Route 35.

Opening Hours : Sunday – Wednesday 10 am to 6 pm | Thursday – Saturday 10 am to 9 pm | The tram runs every 30 minutes (in both directions)

Price : FREE

Melbourne Tram Museum

If catching Melbourne’s Trams gets you excited, imagine what you’ll think of the Tram Museum! There are 20 fully restored trams located within the unique heritage location – Hawthorn Depot.

Melbourne’s trams were and still are the iconic symbols of the city. The Museum celebrates the history of the trams from the 1880s and their influence on the development of Melbourne. You can explore the trams at your own pace or join a guided tour where volunteers provide insights on the history of the trams.

With the cost of the tour being a gold coin donation, the Tram Museum is one of the cheaper activities for families visiting Melbourne. And one of the must see attractions for all the history buffs!

Location: 8 Wallen Rd, Hawthorn

Opening Hours : Second and Fourth Saturday of each month and select Wednesdays, check the calendar here

Price : Gold coin donation

Yarra River Cruise

One of the most popular things to do in Melbourne with family is to take a river cruise down the Yarra River.

The two main cruise operators are the Yarra River Cruises and Melbourne River Cruises. Both offer a range of cruises including sightseeing tours, twilight cruises and dinner cruises.

For family outings, Melbourne river cruises are a great option with the sightseeing cruises are probably best as they will take you up and down the river where you’ll enjoy gorgeous views of the Melbourne CBD and can listen to the commentary regarding the city sights.

Tours run every day with multiple departure times throughout the day and are among the great Melbourne activities for families. On a side note, as there are not many family things to do in Melbourne at night, a cruise is a great option!

Location : Varies

Opening Hours : Varies

Price : Varies – Click here to book a sightseeing cruise on the Yarra River. 

SEA LIFE Melbourne

Another one of the great Melbourne kid’s attractions is Sea Life. Sea Life Melbourne is located on the Yarra River banks and showcases more than 10,000 marine creatures over four different levels. Animals on display include penguins, sharks, fish, rays and one of the biggest saltwater crocodiles in captivity.

Sea Life is one of the great fun family things for kids to do Melbourne offers!

Location : The corner of Flinders Street and King Street on the Yarra River. The FREE City Circle Tram stops on Flinders Street, directly out front.

Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 10 am to 5 pm | Saturday & Sunday 9.30 am to 5 pm

Price : $47 per adult | $32 per child (3-15) | Under 3s are free – Click here to book discounted tickets online

iFLY Indoor Skydiving

For the adrenaline loving families aged between 3 and 103 why not soar like a bird in a 14ft (4.2 m) diameter wind tunnel! You will literally be blown skyward, kind of like skydiving – but you don’t have to jump from a plane and fall thousands of feet to the ground – instead you will be flying on a cushion of controlled air.

The great thing is no experience is necessary as you will receive an orientation, all equipment (suits and helmets) and then be coached by a highly trained flight instructor. And this experience really is available for the kids as well (as long as they are over 3 years, fit the suits and are healthy) – and let’s be honest they’re the ones that will probably enjoy this activity the most!

What I loved about iFly is their ‘All Abilities’ package. If you have kids with physical or cognitive disabilities, there is an option to enable them to experience the thrill of Indoor Skydiving.

Location: 2 Burns Street, Essendon Fields

Opening Hours : Mon-Thu 9 am to 9.30 pm | Fri 9 am to 11 pm | Sat 8 am to 11 pm | Sun 8 am to 10.30 pm

Price : From $79.95 per person

Legoland Discovery Centre

For kids who love Lego, the Legoland Discovery Centre would have to be one of the best kids attractions Melbourne offers.

Here you can explore 13 play areas, including Miniland Melbourne, where kids can spot Melbourne’s most iconic landmarks, Duplo Farm Adventure, an area, especially for kids aged 2 – 5, Heartlake City, where you’ll find the Lego Friends and more. There are also rides such as Kingdom Quest and Merlin’s Apprentice, a 4D Cinema that plays a range of different movies (watch one or watch them all!) and workshops.

A day at Legoland Discovery Centre is one of the fun things to do for kids Melbourne has. It is a true hands on experience where the kids will love doing all things Lego. There is also a café on site.

Location : Level 2 / 1341 Dandenong Road, Chadstone

Opening Hours : Monday to Wednesday 10 am to 5 pm | Thursday to Sunday 9.30 am – 6 pm 

Price : $36 per person – click here to get cheaper tickets online . 

Polly Woodside

You’ll have to time your family trip to Melbourne if you’re wanting to climb aboard Polly Woodside, as she’s only open twice a month. If you can make your schedule work, the kids will love roaming the decks of this historic 19th century tall ship – one of Australia’s last surviving ships.

You’ll hear all about the maritime adventures Polly was part of including her coal carrying days between England and South America, the 1.5 million miles travelled and circumnavigating the world 17 times over. Alongside the tales, there are a range of activities including an interactive gallery, children’s Crew Calls and Pirate Days.

Location: 21 South Wharf Promenade, South Wharf

Opening Hours : First Sunday of the month 10 am to 4 pm with tours on at 10.30 am, 11.30 am, 1.30 pm, 2.30 pm. Pirate Day Third Sunday of the month with yours on at 10 am & 1.30 pm

Price :  Polly Woodside $16 per adult | $9.50 per child with additional being $5 per child (3-15) | $43 per family (2A+2C) | Pirates Day $25 per adult | $15 per child 

State Library Victoria

If you’re after kid friendly things to do in Melbourne, you wouldn’t normally think of a library… however, at the State Library of Victoria, you can see the armour of Australia’s infamous bushranger Ned Kelly and artifacts from the expedition of explorers’ Burke and Wills. There are also free tours where you can hear stories about the state of Victoria and its people. 

There are guided tours or various free programs and exhibitions all year round. Jump online to see what’s going on during your visit to Melbourne and what Melbourne kids activities they have on. Free walking tours of Melbourne start here too.

Location : 328 Swanston Street, Melbourne.  

Opening Hours: Daily from 10 am to 6 pm.

Price : FREE!

• Melbourne Skydeck

Another one of the cool activities for kids Melbourne has is the Melbourne Skydeck.

Get a bird’s eye view of the city from the southern hemisphere’s highest viewing platform. Travel up to floor 88 in less than 40 seconds and enjoy fantastic views of Melbourne. You can see all of Melbourne’s landmarks with viewfinders and binoculars available to help pinpoint attractions.

If you’re game, you can try the Edge Experience, where you are suspended 300 metres over the city in a glass box.  

Location : 7 Riverside Quay, Southbank. 

Opening Hours : Sunday to Thursday 12 pm to 9 pm | Friday & Saturday 12 pm to 10 pm

Price : Skydeck: $30 per adult | $19.50 per child (4-16) | Under 4s are free – Combined Skydeck & Edge Experience: $46 per adult | $33 per child – Click here to book tickets online .

• Melbourne Zoo

If you want to see some animals during your visit to Melbourne with kids, then go to the Melbourne Zoo, where kids get free entry on weekends!

Only 10 minutes from the city centre you can see over 320 exotic species from around the world at Melbourne’s Zoo. Animals include tigers, orangutans, penguins, seals, and elephants as well as Australian animals such as Koalas and Kangaroos.

So if you’re looking for activities with kids Melbourne has on offer, that you know they’ll love, head to the zoo!

Location: Elliott Avenue, Parkville.  

Opening Hours: Daily from 9 am and 5 pm.

Price : $46 per adult | $23* per child ( 4-15) *On weekends, public holidays and school holidays children are free | Under 4s are always free – Click here to book tickets online

Old Melbourne Gaol

For older children, one of the interesting activities in Melbourne for families is a visit to the Old Melbourne Gaol. 

Built in the 1800s, the Old Melbourne Gaol is one of Melbourne’s oldest buildings and a fascinating historical attraction. During its operation as a gaol between 1842 and 1929, it held and executed some of Australia’s most notorious prisoners, including the infamous bushranger Ned Kelly.

The museum displays various information and memorabilia of the prisoners and staff.

The best way to experience the gaol is by downloading the audio guide app. There is also a new fun thing to try – the Cluedo Experience. This is designed for kids 12+ and has the whole family working together to solve a murder mystery. This is one of the fun things to do with family Melbourne has.

Just be mindful that the museum is a little dark and maybe one of the things to do in Melbourne for families with older children. Although the Melbourne Gaol was right across from our accommodation, I chose not to take Myla there when she was little, but I have been before myself and found it really interesting.

Location: 377 Russell Street, Melbourne.  

Opening Hours: Wednesday – Sunday 10 am to 5 pm | Closed Monday & Tuesdays.

Price: $33 per adult | $20 per child (5-15) | $77 per family (2A+2C) | Under 5s are free – Click here to book discounted tickets online The Cluedo Experience is an additional $5 per ticket.

No doubt, one of the fun family things to do in Melbourne is to visit Luna Park. Luna Park is one of the world’s oldest existing amusement parks, with it being in operation for over 100 years. Of course, one of the more famous Melbourne attractions for the family is the enormous giant smiling face entry for the required family selfie.

The park has 18 different rides, with various rides aimed at different age groups. There are slow rides for the little munchkins right up to the crazy rides for the adrenaline junkies and all kinds of rides in between. 

As well as the rides, there are various games and places to eat. The rides do have height restrictions with some of the rides requiring children to be accompanied by an adult. The adult also requires a ticket.

Myla absolutely loved Luna Park, so I can highly recommend it as one of the fun things to do in Melbourne kids will love.  

Location: 18 Lower Esplanade, St Kilda.  Luna Park is between Jacka Boulevard, Shakespeare Grove and the Esplanade. If you are coming from outside of St Kilda, you can easily catch a tram from Melbourne CBD, or there is plenty of metred parking around the park. 

Opening Hours: Friday 6 pm to 10 pm | Saturday 11 am to 10 pm | Sunday 11 am to 7 pm During Victorian School Holidays Luna Park is open 7 days a week.

Price (park entry and unlimited rides) : $49.50 per adult | $40.50 per child (4-12) | $18 Infants (0-3) – Click here to book discounted tickets online.

How about some fun family activities in Melbourne, where everything is made from ice? At the IceBar, everything is made from ice, including the walls, tables, chairs and bar. No need to bring your warm clothes, IceBar provides you with everything you need including a snow cape and gloves to keep you toasty.

The IceBar is not only great for adults, it’s also great fun for kids Melbourne has on offer.

Location: The Atrium in Federation Square

Opening hours : Thursdays – Mondays 1 pm to 9 pm | Children are only allowed in the venue from 11 am to 7 pm.  

Price : $45 per adult | $22 per child (0-17) | Includes entry, snow gear, a cocktail for the adults and a mocktail for the kids. – Click here to book tickets online.

Melbourne Museum

The Melbourne Museum is a great attraction if you are looking for educational things to do with kids Melbourne has.

At the Melbourne Museum, they can learn about Victoria’s natural environment, cultures and history through various displays and interactive technology. The little ones (0-5) will love the Pauline Children’s Gallery, where they can become archeologists digging for fossils or become stripey or spotty in the ‘camouflage disco’ – loads of kids entertainment Melbourne Museum has on offer.

Other highlights include the stories from Victoria’s first peoples at the Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre, get to know the city in the Melbourne Story and the rainforest in the Forest Gallery.

The museum also has an IMAX theatre that shows 3D documentaries (see below) and the Museum hosts various exhibitions and workshops throughout the year, so be sure to check out what’s on during your visit to Melbourne. Click here for more information.

Location: 11 Nicholson Street, Carlton

Opening Hours : Daily from 9 am to 5 pm.

Price : $15 per adult | Children under 16 years are free – Click here to book tickets online .

IMAX Melbourne

Another one of the Melbourne attractions kids will love is the IMAX, which is located inside the Melbourne Museum. This is the world’s second-biggest IMAX, featuring IMAX laser, the world’s most advanced cinema technology where you can see various documentaries or the latest movies. The IMAX cinema is within the Melbourne Museum Complex.

Location: The IMAX cinema is located within the Melbourne Museum – 11 Nicholson Street, Carlton.  

Opening Hours : Check their website out here for individual session times for opening hours.

Price : $24 – $28 per adult | $15 – $17 per child | Under 3s are free | $78 – $90 for a family (2A+2C)

Australian Sports Museum

Wondering what to do in Melbourne for kids who are sports mad? Then take them to the Australian Sports Museum located inside Gate 3 of the Melbourne Cricket Ground, also known as the MCG.

The sporty family will love the National Sports Museum with its interactive displays and Australia’s most extensive collection of sporting memorabilia. On display, you will find items associated with Australian football, cricket, Olympics and horse racing. Cricket fans can even face a spinning delivery from a 3D hologram of Warnie and of course, pay their respects at the Shane Warne sculpture located outside Gate 2.

While you’re here, you should definitely take the opportunity to have a guided tour of perhaps the most famous cricket ground in Australia – the MCG!

For sports mad families – the Australian Sports Museum is definitely one of the best things for kids to do Melbourne has.

Location: Gate 3, Melbourne Cricket Ground – Brunton Ave, Melbourne.  

Opening Hours : The Museum is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm and MCG Tours operate from 10 am to 3 pm. However, due to sporting games and events these opening hours vary greatly and tours are cancelled when the MCG is in use. To avoid disappointment, check the events calendar here .

Price : Museum =  $33 per adult | $15 per child (5-15) | $79 per family (2A+2C).

Guided tours of the Melbourne Cricket Grounds = $33 per adult | $15 per child (5-15) | $79 per family (2A+2C).

If you plan on doing both, purchase a combined ticket = $43 per adult | $20 per child (5-15) | $100 per family (2A+2C).

Children under 5 are free for all tickets listed above.

If you are sports mad, why not attend a sporting match at the MCG. This is one of the best things Melbournians and visitors to Melbourne with kids and without do. Fancy cheering on the Australian cricket team or your favourite AFL team? Then do it at the MCG.

Click here to book Museum tickets only online.

Click here to book Museum tickets and MCG tour online.

Immigration Museum

Another one of the educational things to do for families in Melbourne is a visit to the Immigration Museum. The Immigration Museum is in the Old Customs House, which was the former administrative centre for Melbourne’s immigration and customs.

Over two floors, the museum documents the history of immigration in Australia, the various policies in place over time and the multiple reasons certain people have immigrated to Australia.

While I found the museum very interesting, it may not be overly interesting activities in Melbourne for kids that are young. However, they will probably like visiting the replica boat cabins showing how families travelled to Australia many years ago. There is a range of interactive exhibits that school age children may find appealing. 

The museum also has a range of special workshops and exhibits on display throughout the year, so be sure to check what’s on during your visit.

Location: 400 Flinders Street, Melbourne

Opening Hours : Daily from 10 am to 5 pm.

Price : $15 per adult | Children under 16 are free – Click here to book tickets online .

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

Another one of the nice places to go with kids Melbourne offers is the Royal Botanic Gardens. Located in Melbourne CBD is the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria which spans over 94 acres and is home to over 8,500 species of native and exotic plants.

Various activities are available within the gardens, including a guided tour of the Wurundjeri people’s land where you taste Indigenous food straight from the garden on the Aboriginal Heritage Walk. You can experience a traditional punt on the Ornamental Lake or take a scenic drive on the Garden Explorer bus. The kids will also love the Children’s Gardens which have plant tunnels to crawl through, rocks to climb over and a bamboo forest for hiding in.

During the Summer months, a trip to the Moonlight Cinema is great for families, where you can watch a movie under the stars. There are numerous activities for young and old at the gardens.

Within the gardens are also two cafes, so it’s the perfect spot to grab a coffee or have some morning tea.

Location: Birdwood Avenue – approximately two kilometres from Melbourne’s city centre.

Opening Hours: Daily from 7.30 am to 7.30 pm.

Price : Entry to the gardens is free, although the various tours have an associated fee.

Phillip Island Penguin Parade

Okay, this activity is not actually one of the things to do with kids in Melbourne CBD, but it is possible to do a day trip from the city to see the Phillip Island Penguin Parade.

Phillip Island is terrific for families, and I highly recommend it as offering some of the best kids’ activities in Melbourne. I recommend you spend a few days in Phillip Island to see the Penguin Parade; you can read my tips here , but keep reading below if you want to make a day trip from Melbourne.

Each night at the Penguin Parade, tourists come to watch the gorgeous little penguins return home after a big day of catching fish at sea. Tourists take their seats along the beach and just after sunset, the little guys start returning home. It is a beautiful site watching these little guys waddle up the beach towards their burrows.

While you are waiting for the penguins, the local rangers provide information about the penguins, including educating the tourists on how to care for our environment, which the penguins’ wellbeing relies on. As well as watching the penguins return home, the centre contains various interactive displays about penguins, so either get there early or hang about later to check this out.

If you are not staying locally, you can join a Phillip Island tour from Melbourne to see the Phillip Island penguins. This does work out to be a long day, particularly if you are travelling with children and I highly recommend you spend at least one night at Phillip Island, but ideally 2 to 3 nights.

Location: 1019 Ventnor Road, Phillip Island – about a 2 and a half hour drive from the Melbourne CBD.

Opening Hours: The Penguin Parade opening hours change throughout the year but usually opens daily from 5 or 6 pm until 10 pm.

Price : Penguin Parade Viewing Ticket = $30 per adult | $15 per child (4-15) | Under 4s are free | Family $75 (2A+2C) – Click here to book discounted tickets online .

Penguin Parade Viewing Ticket and Tour from Melbourne = $165 per adult | $125 per child (4-12) – Click here to book tickets online .

Scienceworks

One of the fun things for kids to do Melbourne has is Scienceworks. The kids will love Scienceworks with its hands-on experiments, demonstrations, and tours. Another one of the tremendous educational things to do with children in Melbourne. 

Visit the lightning room and watch a demonstration about electricity, visit the planetarium and learn about constellations, stars and the sun or test your sporting skills out against various Australian sportspeople such as Cathy Freeman.

There are various areas to visit, and Scienceworks also hosts numerous temporary exhibitions throughout the year. Click here for more information.

Location: 2 Booker Street, Spotswood.  

Opening Hours: Daily from 10 am to 4.30 pm

Price : $15 per adult | Children under 16 years are free – Click here to book tickets online.

If you want to enter the Planetarium or Lightning Room, each costs an additional $9 per person.

Queen Victoria Markets

Melbourne is known as Australia’s foodie capital and one of the best places to get tasting some of this amazing food is at the Queen Victoria Markets. The Queen Victoria Markets are the largest open-air markets in the Southern Hemisphere. Here you will find various fresh produce, including fruit, vegetables, meat, seafood, cheese, and various small goods.

Besides fresh produce, the market also has various handmade crafts from local artisans and designers and a range of other items such as clothing, jewellery, footwear, and leather goods for sale.

This is a great place in Melbourne families will love. The kids will love all the treats on offer, Myla loved watching the doughnuts being freshly made right before her eyes. She loved eating them even more! I’d recommend planning a visit to the markets around mealtime, so you have an excellent excuse to try out the various goods on offer.

For the ultimate foodies, join a Foodie Tour where during the course of 90 minutes, you will be taken on a guided tour of the various food halls, meet stallholders, try fresh produce and learn about the history of the market. Click here for more information about food tours.

Click here for tips on where to eat in Melbourne and if you want to know where kids can eat free in Melbourne – click here.

Location : The markets are surrounded by Queen and Franklin Streets, Melbourne.

Opening Hours: Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 6 am to 3 pm | Saturday 6 am to 4 pm | Sunday 9 am to 4 pm | Wednesday (seasonal) 5 pm to 10 pm 

Price : Entry is free.

St Kilda Penguins

Our last tip for things to do in Melbourne with children is to see the little St Kilda Penguins return each night. Located at the very end of the St Kilda pier past the pavilion, you will find the St Kilda beach penguins returning home each night just after sunset. Parents and kids alike will love watching these adorable little animals as they come home from a busy day at sea.

Once we arrived, it did not take long to see the little guys coming home. We were fortunate in that there were many chicks around, and we were privileged enough to see one of the penguins feeding its feisty baby. These little dudes are full on, pretty much the same size as their parents and full on hassling them for food – just like human babies!

We saw the penguins in early September, which meant they came ashore around 6 pm. The weather was freezing and windy. For ideal weather conditions, it is best to see the penguins in April when the weather is warmer and daylight saving has finished meaning it is not too late for the kids.

While Andy and I loved watching the St Kilda pier penguins come home, Myla did get bored. There is a little bit of waiting around, and you do need to spot the penguins in the dark, which can be tricky unless you are lucky enough to have a penguin walk by you. I think given the poor weather on the night we went we were lucky as there were not too many people there (although there were still quite a lot). 

Location : St Kilda Pier, past the pavilion – Pier Road, St Kilda. A viewing platform is accessible at the head of the pier.

Opening Hours : Just before dusk is the best time to view the colony coming ashore. It can get busy at times, so it is recommended to visit during weeknights.

Day Trips from Melbourne

Of course, there are plenty more great activities and attractions in the surrounding area of the Melbourne CBD.  See below a few more tips for things to do with the kids while you are in Melbourne.

Great Ocean Road Day Trip

A few days are the perfect amount of time to explore the Great Ocean Road ; if you only have a day, then jump on this day tour: You will stop by several attractions including the 12 Apostles, Great Otway National Park, stunning views from Razzorback lookout, pristine beach of Loch Ard Gorge and more. 

Click here for more information and to check the tour price.

Location : The Great Ocean Road starts in Torquay and ends in Allansford.

Sovereign Hill

Go back to the 1850s during the Gold Rush era. At this authentically recreated town, you will see craftsmen’s work, various demonstrations such as musket firing, boiled lollies being made, and other goods being made the old fashion way.  You can even pan for real gold!  

Location : Bradshaw Street, Golden Point

Opening Hours : Tuesday – Sunday 10 am to 5 pm.

Price : $49 per adult | $29 per child (5-15) | $129 Family Pass (2A+4C) | Under 5s are free – Click here to purchase tickets online .

Kryal Castle

Around an hour and 20 minutes from Melbourne, but a world away from the current day you’ll find Kryal Castle. Kryal Castle is outside of Ballarat so you could combine a visit to Sovereign Hill and Kryal Castle, though I would budget a day at each. Here, you’ll experience over 1,000 years of medieval history through live shows, hands-on activities and the medieval village.

Kids will love the live entertainment including the Royal Joust with knights battling each other atop horses and the comedic and loveable Jesters. But it’s not all just entertainment; families get to participate in the activities including Knight School and Axe Throwing to learn the noble skills of knighthood.

There are loads more to discover at Kryal Castle, including a Maze, Torture Dungeon, Dragon’s Labyrinth and you can even get dressed up in medieval gear and get a family portrait.

With an ever rotating roster of performances and activities, you can download the Kryal Castle App before you visit so you have the most up to date info on hand.

Location : 121 Forbes Rd, Leigh Creek (Ballarat)

Opening Hours : Weekends and Vic School Holidays 10 am to 4 pm | Closed Monday – Friday

Price : $36 per adult | $24 per child (3-15) | $104 Family Pass (2A+2C) | Under 2s are free – Click here to purchase tickets online .

Healesville Sanctuary and Puffing Billy Tour

Take a historic steam train ride on Puffing Billy through the Yarra Valley and visit Healesville Sanctuary where you can see platypus, koalas, kangaroos and more. Tours depart on Sundays. Click here for more information and to check the tour price.

Alternatively, make your own way to Healesville Sanctuary to see all the animals.

Location : The Healesville Sanctuary is at Glen Eadie Ave, Healesville

Opening Hours : Opening hours for the Healesville Sanctuary are daily from 9 am to 5 pm.

Price : Entry to the Healesville Sanctuary only is $46 per adult | $23* per child (4-15) – *On weekends and Victorian school holidays children under 16 are free, and children under 4 are free all the time – Click here to book tickets online .

Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery

For all the chocolate and ice cream lovers a visit to the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie is a must do on your family holiday to Melbourne. Under an hour away from the CBD, the kids will turn this into a full day trip as they won’t want to leave!

There are demonstrations from the European Chocolatiers, a showroom with thousands of products, house-made ice creams and an on site café. If you want to learn the art of chocolate making there are classes, along with seasonal events.

Once the kids have had their fill of chocolate let them run out their energy in the expansive lawns, gardens, orchards and wetlands as the parents sit back and enjoy a coffee… or more chocolate.

Location : 35 Old Healesville Rd, Yarra Glen

Price : Free entry and free tastings

Gumbuya World

For a day of fun the whole family will enjoy, head over to Gumbuya World. This is the only place in Victoria where you get a water park, wildlife and theme park in one place. At Gumbuya World, you have Oasis Springs Water Park, the Wildlife Trail and the Oz Adventure and Outback Explorers theme park for one ticket price (at set times throughout the year).

Location : 2705 Princess Highway, Tynong North

Opening Hours : Depends on the time of year as to which parks are open and at which time – Check here before going.

Price : $34 per adult | $19 per child (3-15) – Click here to book tickets to Gumuya World Wildlife Park only.

Klook Melbourne Pass

Another option for those after a pass to see attractions is the Klook Melbourne Pass.  This pass allows you to choose either 2, 3, 4, 5 or 7 attractions with your pass. 

There are loads of attractions to choose from such as Old Melbourne Gaol, Peninsula Hot Springs, SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium, Melbourne Skydeck, Arthurs Seat Eagle, Melbourne Zoo, O’Brien Icehouse, ArtVo, Melbourne River Cruises, MCG Stadium, Legoland and Australian Sports Museum and more.

One advantage of the Klook Pass compared to others is you have 60 days to use the pass from when it’s first activated.  So there’s no need to see the attractions back to back.  The pass can also be cancelled and fully refunded at any time prior to first using the pass.

Passes start at $72 for adults and $45 for children for the 2 attraction pass, up to $193 for adults and $139 for children for the 7 attraction pass. 

Obviously, the savings will vary depending on what attractions you plan to see.  But a quick example is if you were to visit ArtVo ($30) and visit SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium ($47) you will have saved $5.  The more attractions you visit, the better the saving is.

Click here for more information about the passes and to buy online. 

Melbourne City Attraction Pass

Now depending on how what attractions you plan to visit it may well be beneficial. I’m not always a fan of these attraction passes because sure if you were to go with all of the attractions you’ll have saved money – in most cases, you won’t have time to visit them all and so, in the long run, you won’t save any cash.

However, I do think the Melbourne City card could save some families some cash – IF they were going to go to a few of these attractions anyway. The card offers free admission to attractions and includes discounts on activities, restaurants and bars around Melbourne.

The attractions the card covers free entry for are:

• Melbourne River Cruise
• Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus for 72 hours
• Walking Tour
• Bowling at Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq
• Hidden Laneway Bar Tour
• Melbourne Cricket Ground(MCG) tour
• Healesville Sanctuary
• Ashcombe Maze & Lavender Gardens
• Cooks Cottage
• Creswick Woollen Mills
• Moonraker Dolphin Swims
• VR Escape Room
• Arthurs Seat Eagle – Return Flight
• Carlton Brewery & Beer Tasting Tour

Location: Numerous (see above)

Opening Hours: Various

Price: 2 DAY PASS: $179 per adult | $99 per child (4-15) – Book discounted tickets online here   3 DAY PASS: $239 per adult | $139 per child (4-15) – Book discounted tickets online here .

So I recommend you look at the above attractions and the ones you want to go to – make a note of the entry fee.  Add all the fees up and if they come out more than the card’s cost, the card is worth getting. Just be realistic with how many attractions you can see in the 2 or 3 days – there is no way you can visit all of these attractions – I’d probably allow no more than 2 or 3 a day.

For even more things to do in Melbourne with kids, click here or find other places to visit in Victoria click here .

Where to Stay in Melbourne 

No matter what your budget is, there is a great range of family accommodation in Melbourne. Below I’ve listed three great budget options. 

For even more options on where to stay in Melbourne with the kids, click here for our guide on the best family accommodation Melbourne has to offer . This guide covers 12 recommendations in great locations which will accommodate the entire family and won’t break the bank.

If you prefer a little more luxury than budget, click to see the top Boutique Hotels in Melbourne.    

Space Hotel  

When looking for where to stay in Melbourne, make sure you consider the Space Hotel. We stayed here during a trip to Melbourne and seriously this would have to be the best place to stay in Melbourne if you are on a budget.  The Space Hotel is both a hostel and a great Melbourne budget hotel with a variety of family rooms. The Space Hotel is only a few minutes to the nearest tram stop (which is in the free tram zone) and within minutes, you are in the heart of the city.

The family rooms are massive, which is excellent when you are travelling with a few kids. The room contains one queen bed and a set of bunk beds. Also in the room is a TV, desk and a large storage cupboard. The bathroom was nice and modern, although the shower was pretty tiny.

Although the Space Hotel is a budget hotel, it has plenty of impressive facilities, including a cinema, gym, lounge, shared kitchen for preparing meals, laundry and an excellent rooftop area. From the rooftop, you get a great view of the Melbourne skyline, plus there is a spa and BBQ facilities here.

There are even a few attractions within walking distance; for example, the Melbourne Gaol is right across the road, and the Queen Victoria Markets are a 5-minute walk away.

Click here for more information and to check current pricing.

Winston Apartments Docklands

For those families that want plenty of space while in town, you really can’t beat the Winston Apartments in Docklands – they are so cheap too! Also, in the free tram zone, from here you are within easy reach of all the Melbourne attractions. It’s the perfect place if you’re heading to Marvel Stadium, which is a 10 minute walk away, plus it’s just a 30 minute walk to the centre of town or a short tram ride.

Winston Apartments offer families huge two bedroom apartments – with a large bed in each room. They have a full kitchen, so perfect for preparing meals for the family and also come with a washing machine and dryer. Plus, you even get river views from your own private balcony!

The apartments also have an indoor swimming pool and spa, sauna, gym, parking (paid) and WiFi.

Mercure Melbourne Southbank

While located in the South Bank Precinct, the recently renovated Mercure Melbourne Southbank is probably the most central hotel out of all listed in this guide. It’s also the most expensive – but still great value at less than $170 per night.

This hotel is not located in the free tram zone; however it’s only 500 metres to the nearest zone stop. From here, it’s also an easy walk to various laneways, street art and other attractions such as Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium, Immigration Museum and the Yarra River Cruises.

The Mercure Melbourne Southbank offers family size hotel rooms which come with two large beds in a single room. Each room has a small dining table, microwave, fridge and tea and coffee making facilities, so it is possible to prepare some basic meals.

The Mercure Melbourne Southbank has a restaurant on site that serves a buffet breakfast each morning, free WiFi and parking (paid) is available at the nearby Eureka Car Park.

Getting Around Melbourne with Kids

Below we’ve provided some tips on how best to get between the airport and the city and tips on how to get around the city and between various attractions.

Melbourne Airport to Melbourne City

One of the cheapest and easiest ways to get from Melbourne Airport to Melbourne City is via Skybus. Skybus operates between 4.30 am to midnight, 7 days a week with a bus leaving the airport every 15 minutes directly to the Southern Cross Station.

Location: Melbourne Tullamarine Airport = Terminal 1 (Qantas domestic) – Skybus pick up and drop off | Terminal 3 (Virgin domestic and international flights) Skybus pick up and drop off | Terminal 4 (Jetstar and Tigerair domestic) Skybus pick up only.

Price: One-way = $22 per adult | $4 per child (4-16) –  Click here to buy discounted tickets online .

If you’re planning on taking a taxi or rideshare to or from Southern Cross Station – you may find it just as easy to get these directly between your accommodation and the airport. By the time you add the cost of the ride to your Skybus ticket and given the convenience, this may be the better option.

Getting around the CBD

The best thing about visiting Melbourne with kids is the Free Tram Zone. Jump aboard one of the City Circle Trams as many times as you want every day and visit all that the CBD has to offer. Click here for the Free Tram City Circle Map . 

I just love how easy it is to get around Melbourne on the city trams. With their frequent services and multiple stops, there is no need for a timetable or a map; just turn up to the nearest tram stop, read the colour coded map to work out which tram number you need to get and your tram will be along in no time at all.

You may have to change trams to reach your destinations, but trams come so often that you will most likely jump off one tram and the next will be no more than 5-10 minutes away. Don’t even worry if like us, you occasionally jump on the wrong tram, as I said above, jump off at the next stop, and the correct tram will be close behind.

If you are planning on travelling outside of the free zone, you’ll need to get a myki Explorer card so you can top it up with cash to catch public transport around town. You can even purchase a physical card at places such as Public Transport Victoria hubs which are at most train stations or just download the app onto your smartphone and you use it just the same as you would an actual card.

Roadtripping it?  Check out this super detailed guide on the Perth to Melbourne drive.

Melbourne – Our Verdict

As you can see, Melbourne is not only for grown ups to wine and dine… there are loads of kid friendly activities suitable for all ages… with some being FREE, which will help in stretching the travel budget – so you can experience more of the vibrant Melbourne!

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Hopefully you found this guide on the Best Things to do in Melbourne with Kids helpful. I also have some great tips on St Kilda with kids and all the Phillip Island attractions for families . And if you’re after a caffeine hit, don’t miss our Best Coffee in Melbourne article.

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12 fun-filled day trips from Melbourne for families

Melbourne is a great place to visit with the whole family. It has a lot of cool activities for all ages and is a home city to the sporting teams for most major sports in Australia.

With pristine beaches, a rich history and culture, and a vibrant food scene, this city has something for everyone, but day trips from Melbourne for families are also a great idea.

Within a few hours of driving, there are many short family fun day trips from Melbourne where you can get out of the city and do some pretty exciting things with your family.

While we recommend these day trips from Melbourne CBD for families, anyone can go on a road trip to the amazing Victorian destinations and have a wonderful time. So, how many of these awesome day trips from Melbourne can you add to your must-do Melbourne itinerary list?

The best day trips from Melbourne for families

Getting out and about as a family is so important in these times and many of us parents are looking for the perfect activities in Victoria for families.

Finding something that everyone will like and for every budget is the hardest part so luckily we have this awesome guide for you to help you plan some of your most memorable day trips from Melbourne for families.

Fun Day trips in Victoria – Gumbuya World

Gumbuya World or as many people could remember it as Gumbuya Park is a brilliant day trip from Melbourne for families. It’s the perfect place to spend a hot summer’s day.

With water slides, wave pools and cabanas to shade you from the heat, you can easily spend an entire day at Gumbuya World. On-site you will also find a small amusement park and a wildlife sanctuary.

Gumbuya World opening times

Opening times do differ during the seasons and for the separate sections of the park. The timetable is at times difficult to read on the website but you should allow time from 10 am is to 4 pm for all the sections.

Gumbuya World entry prices

Below are the Gumbuya World Entry prices as of November 2021

GA = 120cm+ JA = 90cm – 120cm TA = below 90cm SA = 60+ years

Distance from Melbourne to Gumbuya World

Gumbuya World is located at 2705 Princes Highway Tynong, Victoria 3813 making it an easy family day trip. You can easily drive to Gumbuya World via the M1 and allow approximately an hour drive to get there for exhilarating water slide fun.

Tips for visiting Gumbuya World with kids

• Gumbuya World is NOT a BYO venue
• You can purchase snacks, food and drinks at the shops on site
• Lockers are available for hire to store your valuables
• Get there early to secure a lounge by the water. First in best dressed.

How much time do I need at Gumbuya World?

With the price of the tickets, I would plan to spend all day at Gumbuya World. If it is a hot day I would also consider spending the extra money on a cabana for the day which will make it an easy day trip from Melbourne for families and especially parents!

BOOK YOUR GUMBUYA WORLD TICKETS TODAY

This border town packs a punch and there are so many things to do in Echuca for families. You can easily spend the day here or if you have more time a perfect getaway from Melbourne. Echuca is the perfect place for day trips from Melbourne for families.

Things to do in Echuca for families

There are so many things to do we have put together a list of the most popular activities in Echuca on your day trips from Melbourne for families list.

• Echuca Paddlesteamers run cruises on the river at 10.15 am, 11.30 am, 1.30 pm and 2.45 pm 7 days a week
• Twisted Science runs 3 sessions 10 -11:30am, 12:30 – 2pm and 2:30 – 4pm. Open days are school term opening hours – Wednesday to Sunday.  School holidays opening hours – Monday to Sunday.

Places to eat in Echuca for families

There are some brilliant places to eat in Echuca for families as they wrap up their day trips from Melbourne.

• The Moama Bakery for a great pie or pasty
• The Curry Club
• Moama Bowling Club

Distance from Melbourne to Echuca

The drive from Melbourne to Echuca is approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes along the Calder Freeway (M79).

Parking around the Port of Echuca is free but has a 2-hour limit

How much time do I need at Echuca?

Being only 2 hours 45 minutes from Melbourne you can easily plan a wonderful day in Echuca with plenty of the activities mentioned. I would plan to start your day with the 11.30 am river cruise and then pop in the activities you would like to do from there.

Finish with an early dinner at one of the restaurants in town and head home down the highway on your day trips from Melbourne for families.

Cruise the Silo Art Trails: Discover 2 epic Silo Art Trails in Victoria

Places to visit near Melbourne by car – Sovereign Hill

The award-winning Sovereign Hill is one place kids and adults alike fall in love with and is one of the best day trips from Melbourne for families all year round. A completely immersive experience from the gold rush era where you can pan for gold, see old gold mines and wander streets from a forgotten era.

Take a walk around and see people dressed in period costumes, get photos and go on a horse and cart ride.

Located in Ballarat , a family day trip to Sovereign Hill is an epic day trip from Melbourne for families. If you have more time, stay in Ballarat and enjoy a weekend getaway.

Sovereign Hill opening times

Sovereign Hill is open on Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm

Sovereign Hill entry prices

Here are the entry prices to Sovereign Hill valid as of November 2021

• For concession to be given a valid concession card must be used
• Prices are for entry, it does not include extra activities like mine tours or carriage rides
• For a brilliant addition, there is also Aura at Sovereign Hill which is a nighttime activity.

Distance from Melbourne to Sovereign Hill

Sovereign Hill is located approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from Melbourne along the Western Freeway.

Parking at Sovereign Hill is free and there is a short walk to the entry if it is busy.

How much time do I need at Sovereign Hill?

For anyone that wants a great day out, I would plan on arriving at around 11 am from Melbourne. This will give you time to do mine tours, have some old-time photos taken together, pan for your wealth in gold, have some lunch, rider the carriage, have some lunch and wander the grounds easily.

If you leave at around 5 you can pick up some dinner in Ballarat and be home for bed before 9 with memories of the perfect day trips from Melbourne for families.

Need more time in Ballarat?  Discover 7 amazing places to stay near Sovereign Hill for a hassle-free visit

Places to visit around Melbourne – Kryal Castle

Step back into the medieval past at Kryal Castle. This one is definitely one of the best day trips from Melbourne for families of younger kids. For some Aussie kids, they have not seen a castle so this is a great opportunity for them to experience one.

Many people think that Kryal castle is a real castle but unfortunately, this is a theme park and there are no medieval castles in Australia, however, it does provide good family entertainment.

Kryal Castle opening times

The family-friendly Kryal Castle park is open 10 am-4 pm (last entry at 3 pm) every weekend and daily during the school holidays.

Kryal Castle entry prices

Entry prices to Kyral Castle are correct as of November 2021

Tips for visiting Kryal Castle with kids

• There are activities like jousting, potion making and axe throwing throughout the day. Get a timetable and plan to see them when they are on
• Kids’ birthday parties can be organised in advance
• There are Murder Mystery Nights held throughout the year. While aimed at adults, older kids may find these brilliant to experience

Distance from Melbourne

Kryal Castle is an easy day trip from Melbourne and takes approximately 1 hour to arrive along the Western Freeway towards Ballarat.

How much time do I need at Kryal Castle?

I would aim to arrive around 10 am at the opening. This will give you time to plan out your day and organise what themed shows you would like to see while you are at Kryal Castle. I would expect to be there for around 4 hours with a lunch break in there too. You can also easily visit Ballarat while at Kyral Castle.

Book Kryal Castle entry tickets

Drives from melbourne – puffing billy.

A Victorian institution that not many older kids missed out on as they were growing up. It was the place to go at least once in your life and now it is time to pass it on to the next generation on your day trips from Melbourne for families.

So much fun is to be had on Puffing Billy this old steam train can bring new life to old, memories and make new family ones.

Puffing Billy’s opening times

While there are technically no opening times for Puffing Billy we have included the running times.

Puffing Billy departs Belgrave Station at 10 am. Your ticket will tell you what time you will depart and arrive at your chosen destination. Allow 4 hours for the full Belgrave to Gembrook journey with a short stopover.

Puffing Billy entry prices

Below are the Puffing Billy prices as of November 2021

Tips for Puffing Billy for families:

• Tickets must be pre-booked
• Children under 4 ride free
• A valid concession card must be held to receive the discount price
• Tickets are set for return journeys. You must ride on the time your ticket is booked to leave each station

Distance from Melbourne to Puffing Billy

Puffing Billy is one of the best short trips from Melbourne, located in the Dandenong Ranges approximately 1 hour from Melbourne via the M1 freeway.

How much time do I need at Puffing Billy?

You should allow at least 5 hours for the full experience of Puffing Billy. If you are short of time you are able to book shorter rides on Puffing Billy.

Budget travel in Melbourne? Yes!   Here are the best free things to do in Melbourne

Day trips in Victoria – Healesville Sanctuary

One of the best day trips from Melbourne for families who love animals, The Healesville Sanctuary is a wonderful place to visit with kids . You can find so many animals to see here and you may even be able to have an animal experience if your budget allows.

Healesville Sanctuary opening times

Healesville Sanctuary is open daily from 9 am – 5 pm

Healesville Sanctuary entry prices

Healesville Sanctuary prices as of November 2021

Tips for visiting Healesville Sanctuary

• Tickets can be booked 30 days in advance
• ALL VISITORS MUST HAVE A PRE-BOOKED TICKET TO ENTER, even infants
• Children under 16 receive FREE entry on weekends, Victorian public holidays and Victorian Government school holidays
• Discounts are available to child disability concession card holders, an Australian pensioner concession card, a full-time student card, a healthcare card, a disability concession card, a DVA Gold Card, to a carer accompanying a person with a disability who is a holder of a child disability allowance health care card, or a disability pension card. 
• Valid concession cards must be presented on entry

Distance from Melbourne to Healesville Sanctuary

Healesville Sanctuary is located approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from Melbourne vis the M3 freeway and the Maroondah Highway.

How much time do I need at Healesville Sanctuary?

The Healesville Sanctuary day trips from Melbourne for families can take you all day. If you decide to do an animal experience or see the Ranger talks you need to make sure you have enough time to experience the whole park.

Short drives from Melbourne – Werribee Open Range Zoo

Why head to the Savannah when you can visit the Werribee Open Range Zoo. With all the top African animals on display, you can visit the Werribee open range Zoo to get your safari fix! This is one of the best day trips from Melbourne ideas for families.

Werribee Open Range Zoo opening times

The Werribee Zoo opening times are 9 am – 5 pm daily with the last entry at 3.30 pm

Werribee Open Range entry prices

Werribee Zoo entry prices are correct as of November 2021

Tips for visiting Werribee Zoo for families:

• Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult at the zoo

Distance from Melbourne to the Werribee Open Range Zoo

The Werribee Open Range Zoo is a short road trip from Melbourne, located approximately 45 minutes from Melbourne via the M1. You will get a great view of the animals.

How much time do I need at the Werribee Zoo?

To have one of the best day trips from Melbourne for families at the Werribee Zoo you should set aside 5 hours.

The Mornington Peninsula – family day trips

A day trip to the extremely popular and stunning region of the Mornington Peninsula for families is a fun way to spend a day.

Start your day by exploring the breathtaking Port Phillip Bay, where you can enjoy various water activities such as swimming, snorkelling, or even hiring a paddleboard or kayak.

Next, head over to the enchanting Enchanted Adventure Garden at Arthurs Seat, where a thrilling Flying Fox awaits. Zip through the lush treetops and marvel at the panoramic views of the Peninsula. For some relaxing family time, visit the family-friendly beaches scattered along the coastline.

Sorrento Back Beach and Safety Beach are perfect options for outdoor activities, offering calm waters and picturesque surroundings. Build sandcastles, have a picnic, and soak up the sun while creating precious memories with your loved ones.

The mineral springs at Peninsula Hot springs provide a unique experience, or take a walk at Point Nepean National Park.

A day trip to the Mornington Peninsula promises endless fun, natural beauty, and quality time for the entire family.

Great Ocean Road

One of the most iconic places in Victoria that everyone should witness at least once in their life. People travel for hours from near and far to witness this natural breathtaking masterpiece along the Great Ocean Road and it’s on our back doorstep! This has to be one of the most scenic day trips from Melbourne for families.

Places to visit along the Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road has many stops along the way, so we will only focus on the larger ones, the 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge and Gibsons Steps, for our day trips from Melbourne for families post.

Opening times

These areas are all managed by Parks Victoria, and being part of the natural environment, there are no such opening and closing times. In saying that, there would be no use going after dark as you would not see any of these amazing natural attractions on your day trips from Melbourne for families.

Entry prices

There are no entry fees into the Great Ocean Road attraction near Melbourne.

Distance from Melbourne to the Great Ocean Road

The 12 Apostles Visitors Centre is 226 kilometres from Melbourne.

How much time do I need at each of these Great Ocean Road attractions?

Depending on how much time you want to stare in awe, the 12 Apostles can be done in 30 minutes, while Gibsons Steps and Loch Ard Gorge will take longer if you want to walk down the cliffs (paths provided by Parks Victoria) to the actual beach area of these sites.

At Loch Ard Gorge, you also have the bonus of being able to see the famous blowhole. You could see all 3 and drive the short distance between them in around 3 hours.

This is an epic day trip from Melbourne for families, so take the whole day, stopping at gorgeous towns along the way!

Autumn in Victoria: 13 spectacular places to see the autumn colours

Places to see around Melbourne – Phillip Island

This little island is famous for its Little Penguins that call Phillip Island home, but there is so much more to do there. From Australian native wildlife such as Koalas to Chocolate factories, you can find so much to do on Phillip Island that you actually may find this a day trip from Melbourne for a family destination that needs so much more time. There are no more popular attractions near Melbourne for family day trips.

Things to do on Phillip Island for families

There are so many things to do on Phillip Island for families that your whole day can easily be spent having a wonderful time.

Tips for visiting Phillip Island with family:

• There are different viewing sections at the penguin parade. Rug up as it can get cold
• Purchasing a 4 park pass when you visit Phillip Island will save you on entries to Phillip Island attractions
• The 4 Park Pass includes Arctic Journey, Penguin Parade, Churchill Island and the Koala Conservation reserve
• Entry to the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory Cafe and Shop is free but you must pay for a tour of the Chocolate factory

Free things to do on Phillip Island with kids

There are so many wonderful free things to do on Phillip Island that can be incorporated into your day there. A mix of these free and paid Phillip Island activities will give you a great budget-friendly trip to Phillip Island.

• Watch the feeding of the Pelicans at the San Remo jetty at noon daily
• Spend some time watching the huge stingrays glide through the water at the San Remo jetty
• Find the shipwreck S.S Speke at Kitty Millers Bay
• If the day is warm take a swim at Kitty Millers Bay too
• Walkthrough amazing Aussie bush and look for wallabies at the Oswin Roberts Reserve
• Wander the local markets and maybe even take some local produce home

Places to eat on Phillip Island

There are some great places to eat with kids on Phillip Island and just off the Island too. Here are some of the ones we have checked out over our time there.

• Fresh fish and chips at the San Remo co-op
• The Haven Wave Cafe
• The Spicy Duck

Distance from Melbourne to Phillip Island

Phillip Island is approximately 90 minutes from Melbourne via the M1

How much time do I need on Phillip Island?

Depending on what you choose to do while you are visiting Phillip Island with family your should really try to spend the whole day there. Phillip Island is absolutely perfect for day trips from Melbourne for families.

You can buy a 4 Park Pass for entry to Phillip Island nature parks

Explore Victoria: The detailed guide on things to do on Phillip Island

Adventure Park Geelong (Geelong Water Park)

Adventure Park is the biggest water park in Victoria and is on top of day trips from Melbourne for families list in the summer! Featuring water slides and water playgrounds this is a brilliant family day trip in Victoria.

Geelong Water Park opening times

At this time the park is not due to open till the summer and the times have not been released.

Geelong Water Park entry prices

Entry prices to the family-friendly Adventure Park are correct as of November 2021.

Top tips for visiting Adventure Park with family:

• Children under 90 cm tall are free
• ID and valid concession cards must be presented on entry
• All rides are included in the entry price
• You are able to bring your own food to Adventure Park Geelong

Distance from Melbourne to the Geelong Water Park

Adventure Park Geelong is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes from Melbourne via the M1.

How much time do I need at the Geelong Water Park?

Day trips from Melbourne for families to Geelong Water Park should be a full-day experience.

Family day trips – The Grampians

If you love nature, then a trip to the Grampians has to be one of the top of your day trips from Melbourne for families list! To get the best out of your day, I would base myself in the amazing town of Halls Gap and plan your activities from there.

There is also a great number of activities for families in Halls Gap, so if you tire out of the hiking and pure scenic beauty you can do some of the top-rated activities in Halls Gap .

Things to do in Halls Gap

There are so many wonderful things to do in Halls Gap for families. Day trips from Melbourne for families to Halls Gap will become a regular occurrence.

Free things to do in Halls Gap

Being one of the biggest nature hubs in Victoria there are so many free things to do in Halls Gap with kids. Some are nature-based and some are visiting places where you chose if you spend money or not.

• Visit the Pinnacles
• McKenzie Falls
• Watch the kangaroos on the footy oval
• Visit a winery with epic views
• Silverband Falls
• The Balconies
• Visit 5 Ducks farm for homemade jams
• Hike some of the trails

Distance from Melbourne to Halls Gap

Melbourne to Halls Gap is approximately 3 hours via the National Highway M8

How much time do I need at Halls Gap?

For all of the amazing activities in Halls Gap, you should expect to spend around 5 hours in total on your day trips from Melbourne for families to the Grampians.

Planning to explore Victoria more?  Here are the best things to do in Halls Gap, the gateway to the Grampians!

Day trips from Melbourne for families are a great way to get out and visit Victoria. There are so many wonderful day trips from Melbourne for families in both the summer and winter months and they all will make lasting memories of your time together.

We hope this article from us here at Explore Victoria has inspired you to embark on your adventure in Victoria, Australia, from popular  caravan parks  and  pristine beaches  to drives along the  Great Ocean Road . Enjoy weekends away on the Mornington Peninsula and discover the cosmopolitan charm of  Melbourne, Victoria ,  with a range of experiences for every traveller who wants to visit Victoria.

Whether you’re drawn to the rugged beauty of the Grampians, the cultural richness of Ballarat , or the autumn colours of  Bright  and  Northern Victoria , there’s no shortage of hidden gems waiting to be discovered in Victoria.

Even if you love  exploring Gippsland  or driving the  Great Alpine Road , Victoria has something special for you, and there is so much more for you to discover. If you are looking for more incredible and best places to  visit in Melbourne  or more travel in Victoria destinations,  Explore Victoria  has some more articles below for you to check out. Expand your horizons and get out and about in Victoria, Australia, for an unforgettable experience. 

If you have an idea, attraction, or top spot in Victoria, please comment or email us at  [email protected] .

More Explore Victoria’s inspiration

21 best places to visit in Victoria

12 awesome things to do on the Mornington Peninsula

10 of the very best caravan parks in Victoria

Bec Wyld is the creative force behind the words, blending Explore Victora with a touch of wanderlust. With an innate ability to tell a story that resonates, Bec invites readers on a journey through her home of Victoria Australia. Beyond the keyboard, Bec works in Aged Care helping people to live a better life. With a pen in one hand and on the road in front Bec is on a quest to inspire those looking to explore Victoria through words, images and lifestyle

Home » Travel » Ultimate Family Adventure: Your Essential Guide To Visiting Melbourne With Kids

Ultimate Family Adventure: Your Essential Guide To Visiting Melbourne With Kids

Best food to eat, places to stay & more.

From a taste of the arts and fresh produce from weekend markets, to amazing outdoor adventures and wildlife parks, Melbourne is truly a wonderland for both kids and adults . Moreover, just over an hour’s drive from the city center, you can escape to serene havens overlooking surf beaches, accompanied by crisp mountain air, gourmet eateries  and quaint towns. If you’re planning your next family trip to Melbourne, equip yourself with all the info you need with our guide below!

Want more? Check out other Australia guides here:

• Top Family-Friendly Farm Stays Across Australia
• Best Places To Visit With Kids And Family In Australia
• Family Friendly Guide To Sydney, Australia
• Family Friend Guide To Perth

GETTING AROUND MELBOURNE WITH KIDS

Public transport in Melbourne is pretty accessible. A great network of trams, trains and buses take you all over the city, and most are stroller-friendly. There is the Free Melbourne City Circle Tram , which takes you to many attractions and places of interest including the Melbourne Aquarium, Etihad Stadium and Federation Square.

You can also get a map of the city and involve your kids in planning the route and mode of transportation to take to all the attractions. The famous Melbourne landmark, Flinders Street Station, is also worth seeing by yourselves or with a tour group, even if you don't need to get a train.

BEST BEACHES FOR KIDS AND FAMILIES IN MELBOURNE

While Melbourne isn’t the most widely known city for beaches, what is Australia without some sand and sea? All year round, beaches in Melbourne are also a sight to see, thanks to their vast sea views and photo spots. For a sandy day out, consider these options to bring the little ones to!

Brighton Beach

• Chances are, you’ve seen photos of many colored houses on this beach. Did you know that there are exactly 82 unique bathing houses here that you can snap memories with? The beach is also a hotspot for surfers, swimmers and fishermen – activities you can partake in during a good weather day.

St Kilda Beach

• Water sports enthusiasts will love St Kilda Beach for their generally calm waters. Paddle boarding and windsurfing are just some of the activities you can do here. The best part? It’s near plenty of cafe and restaurants so you can fill up your tummies if you get famished. You can even stroll over to the famed Luna Park after for some family bonding play time.

Williamstown Beach

• If you feel up for a bit of nature in between your city adventures, head down to Williamstown Beach, just a short distance away from the Gem Pier train station. Relaxing and rejuvenating, the unblocked views of the skyline will definitely be a core memory for years to come.

Half Moon Bay

• Half Moon Bay gets its name from its crescent shaped shore, making it a special spot to visit with the family. What’s unique is also how the weather and waters here are generally calm throughout the year, making it an optimal spot for water activities and sports.

South Melbourne Beach

• Sunrise and sunsets will be in full view at South Melbourne Beach, if you and the family are up for an early morning or evening stroll. The nearby beach is great for those with short pockets of time and wanting a slower pace activity. Heads up though, swimming and surfing aren’t encouraged here.

BEST HOTELS AND RESORTS FOR FAMILIES AND KIDS IN MELBOURNE

Whether you want to be in the thick of the action in the city, or prefer a quieter district away from crowds, Melbourne has tons of accommodation options. From artsy boutique hotels to no-frills family stays, take your pick from the list of best family-friendly hotels and resorts in Melbourne.

• Top Family-Friendly Hotels In Melbourne

Best Boutique & Luxury Hotels In Melbourne

• Zagame’s House – www.zagameshouse.com.au
• The Langham – www.langhamhotels.com/en/the-langham/melbourne
• The Cullen - www.artserieshotels.com.au/cullen
• Lancemore Crossley St – lancemore.com.au/properties-2/lancemore-crossley-st
• Laneways By Ovolo – ovolohotels.com/ovolo/laneways
• QT Melbourne – www.qthotels.com/melbourne
• United Places Hotel Botanic Garden – unitedplaces.com.au
• The Interlude – theinterlude.com.au
• The Olsen Melbourne – all.accor.com/hotel
• Adelphi Melbourne –  ​​ adelphi.com.au
• The Como Melbourne – www.comomelbourne.com.au
• Hotel No – hotelno.melbourne/

Best Services Apartments & Home Rentals In Melbourne

• Quest Service Apartments – www.questapartments.com.au/City/melbourne
• Milano Service Apartments – www.milanoservicedapartments.com.au
• Adina Apartment Hotel Melbourne – adinahotels.com/en/apartments/melbourne
• Melbourne City Apartment Hotel – www.melbournecityapartmenthotel.com
• Avani Melbourne Central Residence – www.avanihotels.com/en/central-melbourne-residences
• Silverdoor Apartments – www.silverdoor.com/serviced-apartments/australia/melbourne

BEST FAMILY-FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS & CAFES IN MELBOURNE

Melbourne is world-renowned as a foodie haven, especially known for their cafe culture. If you love cafe hopping, you’d want to prepare a few days just for that! Dining with kids doesn’t have to be a head-scratcher either. Plan your itinerary in advance with this list of best family-friendly restaurants in Melbourne.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY CAFES IN MELBOURNE

Cubbyhouse Canteen 

• Right smack in the middle of a sprawling park complete with two adventure playgrounds in Armadale lies Cubbyhouse Canteen . With sumptuous breakfast and lunch served seven days a week, and early children's dinners on Tuesday and Wednesday nights, what more could we ask for? As an added bonus, all staff have experience working with children and strive to provide a supportive and fun environment for you and your little ones.
• It has been said that if you have never been to Brunetti , you have never fully experienced Melbourne. Right in the heart of Carlton, Melbourne's Italian precinct, Brunetti has the most tantalizing selection of pastries, Italian savories, gelato, coffee and more. You can request coloring sheets and pencils to keep the kids entertained while you sit back and get a breather.

Ladro Junior

• If pizza is one of your kid’s favs, then Ladro Junior is the place to go. This no-frills pizza place is known for its crispy thin crust pizzas and fresh wholesome ingredients. The kids’ menu doubles as an activities worksheet to keep them entertained. Pizza making classes are also available.

Cowderoy’s Dairy

• If you're looking for a good spot for coffee or afternoon tea, Cowderoy's Dairy is an old-school style milk bar, complete with retro fittings and delicious home-made foods. Located a 10 minute walk from St Kilda Beach, the nondescript brick building backs onto Jacoby Reserve playground, so you can take that babycino to go and head outside to play.

Leroy’s Cafe

• A little further out of town, Leroy's Cafe serves up seasonal, local produce from 7am to 4pm. As well as a dedicated kids' menu, which features healthy and gluten-free options, there's an outdoor courtyard with toys, play equipment and a giant chalkboard to keep the kids entertained while you dine. To get there via the scenic route you can take a ferry along the Yarra River from the city to Williamstown, then Newport is a short train ride away.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS IN MELBOURNE

Chocolate Buddha

• With a name like Chocolate Buddha , you know you’re in for a fun time. The kid-friendly restaurant is conveniently located in Federation Square, so you can easily head over after some shopping or sightseeing. It’s also a Japanese restaurant, meaning that you can expect the likes of ramen, sushi and bento sets. Kids will love the sushi train that will deliver every order!

The Boatbuilders Yard

• For dining with a view, The Boatbuilders Yard is your best bet. The restaurant is situated next to the Promenade South Wharf, promising unblocked views of the waterfront next to your table. It’s also both kid and pet friendly, so furry friends can join in on the action. Menu highlights include fish and chips, burgers and chicken wings.

Three Blue Ducks

• Open every day and located within a surf park, Three Blue Ducks is the perfect place to get your fill after riding a wave. Even if you’re not dining after a workout, you can still soak in the vibes with pasta, poultry and seafood dishes that are made with locally sourced ingredients.

Campground Kitchen & Bar

• The great outdoors and greater food? Look no further than Campground Kitchen & Bar . Located in Braybrook, the kid-friendly restaurant is an idyllic spot for families with Italian dishes spanning meatballs, pasta and woodfire pizzas. Cap off your meal with desserts like sweet pizzas or ice cream!

Stomping Ground Brewery & Beer Hall 

• With a dedicated cubby house area where kids can socialize and be busy with, Stomping Ground Brewery & Beer Hall is great for parents who want a break. Let the little ones dig into cheeseburgers or fish and chips from their kids menu, before satisfying their sweet tooth with ice cream or a soda.

Want more? Check out more family-friendly cafes and restaurants below:

• An DI – www.andivietnamese.com.au
• Easey’s – www.easeys.com.au
• China Red – china-red.com.au/home
• 400 Gradi – 400gradi.com.au
• Grazeland – www.grazeland.melbourne
• Republica – republica.net.au
• Little Growling Cafe – littlegrowlingcafe.com.au
• Trinity St Kilda – www.trinitystkilda.com
• Harley & Rose – www.harleyandrose.net.au
• Tetsujin Melbourne – www.tetsujin.com.au
• Kickin’Inn Port Melbourne – www.kickininn.com.au
• Sebastian Restaurant – sebastianwilliamstown.com.au
• CERES Merri Cafe – ceres.org.au/merri

BEST FAMILY-FRIENDLY ATTRACTIONS IN MELBOURNE

The options for play are endless in Melbourne, but there are several places that are a distinct ‘must’ when you are there. From museums to nature spots, shortlist these landmarks to make Melbourne your next playground wonderland!

National Gallery Of Victoria

• The National Gallery of Victoria is the oldest art museum in Australia. Be sure to enquire about activity books, workshops and child-specific labels on artwork at the information counter at the gallery entrance. Audio-visual guides are also available for kids.

Werribee Open Range Zoo

• A visit to all three zoos is essential when you are in Melbourne. The Werribee Open Range Zoo allows you and your kids to experience an African adventure. Here, you can arrange for an off-road safari for an intimate encounter with the magnificent African wildlife as you travel across the Zoo’s open plains. Your kids can also take a journey through the African savannah in the Zoo’s indoor play space. Their Slumber Safari package is an overnight stay in a unique accommodation with a fully hosted experience, which includes amazing close-up animal encounters, an extravagant dinner and awesome night-time activities.

Melbourne Zoo

• Within minutes of the city center is Melbourne Zoo , where you can encounter over 300 different species from around the world. Be sure to check out the Growing Wild exhibit which caters for kids aged 3 to 8 years. Kids can burrow through tunnels and even climb inside Giant Tortoise shells. At the Keeper Kids playspace, your kids can have a first-hand experience of what it is like to work at the zoo! To finish off your zoo experience, be sure to visit Healesville Sanctuary , where little ones can explore a bushland haven for Australian wildlife.

Pauline Gandal Children’s Gallery 

• The Pauline Gandal Children's Gallery at the Melbourne Museum is a wonderful place for kiddos to excavate fossils in a dino dig, become botanists in the discovery garden and transform into disco dancing animals! The exhibition is a mix of hands-on exploration and discovery, open-ended play-based learning as well as unique immersive environments. Mums and dads can also relax and enjoy a cuppa nearby as you watch your kids get creative and go wild in their discoveries!

Lego Education Learning Centre

• If your little one loves building bricks with Lego, let them discover the science and magic behind one of their favorite toys at the Lego Education Learning Centre ! Their interactive workshops are available during holiday season or every Saturday during their Saturday Funday session. There are also merchandise so you can do a bit of shopping to continue the fun at home.
• Thrillseekers must visit the famed Luna Park during your Melbourn trip. With similar outlets in Sydney and New York the amusement park has plenty of rides and rollercoasters to cater to the brave and not-so-brave. Go for the Pharaoh's Curse if you’re looking to challenge your fear of heights, while younger kiddos can sit the Moon Balloons or Carousel.

Want more? Check out more family-friendly attractions below:

• SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium – www.melbourneaquarium.com.au
• Queen Victoria Market – www.qvm.com.au
• Collingwood Children’s Farm – www.farm.org.au
• Ian Potter Foundation Children’s Garden – www.rbg.vic.gov.au/visit-melbourne/attractions/children-garden
• Lake Mountain Alpine Resort – lakemountainresort.com.au
• Hotham – www.mthotham.com.au
• A Maze ‘N Things, Phillip Island – www.amazenthings.com.au
• Phillip Island Nature Parks – www.penguins.org.au

SHOPPING IN MELBOURNE: BEST MARKETS AND WALKING STREETS IN MELBOURNE

What's travel without hitting the shops for some retail therapy for both you and the kids? The beauty of Melbourne is that you can buy just about anything - from designer fashion to locally made goodies. You'll find local boutiques on Gertrude Street and Fitzroy, while high-street Aussie brands are found on Chapel Street, South Yarra and Bridge Road. Vintage stores line Sydney Road, Brunswick, and in the heart of the city Swanston and Collins Streets are the spots to go to for the major luxury labels. If malls are more your thing, or you're pressed for time, here is a list of the must-visit shopping malls in town. Visiting the direct factory outlets is key in getting the best deals!

DFO South Wharf

• Shop with a view at DFO South Wharf , which boasts over 170 brands that span both local and international alongside the boardwalk next to the sea. Think everything from Calvin Klein to Nike and Adidas. Look out for their massive seasonal sales that can rack up to 70% off, so you can save massive dollars on your purchases

Melbourne Central 

• Connected to the Melbourne Central train station is the Melbourne Central shopping mall. Its convenience means you can zip right to your store after disembarking off the subway. On top of a bevy of retail outlets and fashion boutiques, the five storey mall has 300 retailers that also include dining and entertainment options.

Bourke Street Mall

• It’s highly unlikely that you’d miss Bourke Street Mall – a walking shopping district located right in the heart of the city. You and the little ones will spend hours strolling past plenty of shops here – don’t forget to check out department stores like David Jones and Myer too.
• One of the oldest shopping malls in Melbourne, Chadstone shopping centre is a classic mall that both young and old can enjoy. With over 550 shops to explore, there’s never a dull moment here. Take note that you can access it via the free shuttle bus from the central business district (CBD) to the mall directly.

Emporium Melbourne

• Emporium Melbourne is a more modern mall to check out, having opened since 2014. Appealing to a more fashion and luxury crowd, the seven floors span plenty of designer boutiques and high fashion brands. If you’re hungry from all that shopping, there’s also a food court to refuel you.

Want more? Check out more shopping options below:

• DFO Essendon – www.dfo.com.au/essendon
• Harbour Town – www.harbourtownmelbourne.com.au
• Spencer Outlet Centre – spenceroutletcentre.com.au
• Pacific Weribee – pacificwerribee.com.au
• Highpoint – www.highpoint.com.au
• Eastland Shopping Centre – eastland.qicre.com
• The District Docklands – thedistrictdocklands.com.au

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Mum's Little Explorers

• Melbourne With Kids

Best Things to do in Melbourne for Families 2024 | Holiday Guide

by mumslittleexplorers · January 19, 2024

Looking for things to do on your Melbourne family holiday? Melbourne, the Victoria in Australia, is also considered by many, the capital for culture, sport, and art. We are so lucky to be spoiled with things to do in Melbourne with kids that your family will never get bored.

As we live in Melbourne, you will find plenty of Melbourne attraction reviews on this site in general. Our Melbourne activities for kids post has lots of fun kids activities for locals. However, in this guide we have put together our favourite must do family activities for those visiting Melbourne with kids on your family holiday so you have plenty of options to choose from all in one place.

Visiting Melbourne for Families

Melbourne is surrounded by breathtaking beaches, and sparks a cultural vibe. This cosmopolitan city is known for Its food, shopping, museums and art galleries, hidden laneways and markets, and not to mention the various sports venues.

All over Melbourne you will find little hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. Whether you pack your days visiting Melbourne attractions, or just spend your days exploring the little streets and laneways, Melbourne is a city that will leave an unforgettable impression.

With anything you could want to see or do so close to the city, it makes Melbourne a fantastic place to visit for any traveller.

It’s no wonder that this amazing city is the most liveable city in the world.

Whether you are visiting Melbourne from interstate or overseas on a family holiday, or you are visitnthere are plenty of family friendly things to do in Melbourne with kids.

There are a range of attractions for every budget, and we have listed plenty of free things to do as well as those with a fee.

So, whether you want to get up close to some native wildlife, explore a national park, learn about Melbourne’s history, or head to the coast, this list of things to do in Melbourne with kids should keep you busy during your stay.

The Ultimate List of Things to do in Melbourne for Families

Find below our list of the best things to do in Melbourne with kids. If you are visiting during Melbourne school holidays, make sure to check out our School holiday activities Melbourne guide which is updated each term with the most current events around the city.

Things to do in Melbourne for Families – Inner City

A list of things to do in Melbourne with kids close to the city centre, within a short bus or tram ride away.

1. Royal Botanic Gardens Ian Potter Children’s Garden

Close to the centre of Melbourne, and located in the Royal Botanic Gardens is the Ian Potter Children’s Garden which gives kids the perfect opportunity to explore. There is a water feature, a bamboo forest, a plant tunnel, a kitchen garden and more. Take some lunch and have a picnic, it is a gorgeous area to explore. Read More: Children’s Garden Address: Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, Birdwood Ave, Melbourne Website

2. Sealife Aquarium

If you are looking for a fun morning to spend in Melbourne with kids, you can’t go passed the Sea Life Melbourne aquarium. Get up close to some of the most magnificent marine animals and wonder on an interactive underwater adventure discovering the wonders of the underwater world. Read More: SeaLife Melbourne Address: King Street corner, Flinders St, Melbourne Website

3. ArtVo Trick Art Gallery

ArtVo is unlike any kind of gallery you have ever seen and it is the perfect way to introduce your kids to art. Unlike other museums, you can touch and interact with hundreds of 3D artworks immersing yourselves completely. One of the best things to do with kids in Melbourne for those looking outside the box. Read More: ArtVo Address: District Docklands, Shop NCF, 07 Level/1 26 Star Cres Website

4. Melbourne Museum & Carlton Gardens

The Melbourne Museum has a range of different expeditions suitable for all ages and makes the perfect day out for the whole family. Explore prehistoric times and learn about dinosaurs, explore the world of biology and science, or visit the children’s gallery perfect for little ones. There are plenty of events all year round especially during school holidays. Head out for a walk through the Carlton Gardens afterwards and if you are up for it, a meal out in the famous Lygon Street in Little Italy. Address: 11 Nicholson St, Carlton Website

5. Melbourne Zoo

The Melbourne Zoo is another popular things to do in Melbourne with kids. Stroll through a world of wildlife including a range of Australian native animals and birds. Watch the keepers feed the animals, or check out the animal encounters and get up close to some of the most beautiful animals in the world. Read More: Melbourne Zoo Address: Elliott Ave, Parkville Website

6. Melbourne Star Observation Wheel

See Melbourne from above riding the Melbourne Star, one of Melbourne’s iconic tourist destinations. Located at the popular District Docklands the Melbourne star is a popular family activity and a must on every traveller’s bucket list. Read More: Melbourne Star Observation Wheel Address: The District Docklands, 101 Waterfront Way Website (currently closed)

7. Eureka Skydeck

One of the main attractions in Melbourne is the famous Eureka Skydeck. Take a  38 second ride to rise 285 metres above ground, the fastest elevator trip in the Southern Hemisphere. Discover the unparalleled 360 degree views of Melbourne and if you dare, step to the Edge! Address: 7 Riverside Quay, Southbank VIC 3006 Website

8. Free City Circle Tram

Head out for a ride on one of Melbourne’s iconic trams. The free city circle tram takes you past a range of landmarks and attractions, but it is a fun thing to do in Melbourne with kids on it’s own! Get on and off as you please. Routes Website

9. Old Melbourne Gaol

A visit to the Old Melbourne Gaol will give you an interactive experience while learning about some of Victoria’s history. Kids (and parents) can explore the gaol and experience the interactive watch house where you get “arrested and locked up”. Inside you can learn about the lives of some of Melbourne’s most notorious prisoners including the most famous bush ranger Ned Kelly. Read More: Melbourne Gaol Address: 377 Russell St, Melbourne Website

10. Art & Play at Federation Square

Directly across from Melbourne’s Flinders Street Station, Australia’s oldest train station and famous attraction, is the culture capital, Federation Square. There are often special events on during the year, and always something different to see and do. Art & Play is a place for kids of all ages can explore their creativity through art. It is also the only playground in Melbourne’s CBD. Address: Federation Square, Birrarung Marr, Russell St Ext, Melbourne  Website

11. Fitzroy Gardens

If you are looking for relaxing things to do in Melbourne with kids after a long day visiting attractions, the Fitzroy Gardens are the perfect place to chill out. Nestled amongst Melbourne’s busy streets, you can immerse yourself in the natural landscape and let the kids run around and explore. The kids will especially love the Ola Cohn’s Fairies Trees, which have gorgeous carvings on the stump of one of the original Red Gum trees which is over 300 years old! Address: Wellington Parade, East Melbourne  Website

12. Polly Woodside Tall Ship & Museum

Climb aboard Melbourne’s Tall Ship, Polly Woodside and discover what life was like sailing the seven seas years ago. This museum is perfect for families as it offers picnic facilities and has a range of activities for kids including Crew Calls, and Pirate Days for the kids. Address: 21 S Wharf Promenade, South Wharf VIC 3006 Website

Things to do in Melbourne for Families Outside the City

Below is a list of things to do in Melbourne with kids within a short bus, tram or train ride away.

13. Luna Park & St Kilda Beach

One of the most fun things to do in Melbourne with kids is a day at Luna Park which has been one of the city’s most iconic attractions for more than a hundred years. Lots of rides and activities for all ages so no chance to get bored. Luna Park is also located across from the famous St Kilda beach where you can grab a coffee or ice cream and have a walk along the sand. Read More : Luna Park Address: 18 Lower Esplanade, St Kilda  Website

14. MCG AFL Football Game

If you are visiting Melbourne with kids during the footy season (March – September) why not head to the famous MCG, one of the largest stadiums in the world with a capacity of over 100,000 people. See the Australian football teams play and grab yourself one of the iconic meat pies. Address: Brunton Ave, Richmond  Website

15. LEGOLAND Discovery Centre

If you have a LEGO lover, then the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre is the perfect place to spend your morning or afternoon. Lots of LEGO themed activities and events for kids of all ages and conveniently located within Chadstone shopping centre so if you want, you can eat or shop afterwards. Read More: LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Address: Chadstone Shopping Centre – Level 2/1341 Dandenong Rd Website

16. Scienceworks & Melbourne Planetarium

If you are looking for things to do in Melbourne for kids that will get them engaged and stimulate their brains, Scienceworks is a great option. With lots of hands on activities and exhibits for children of all ages, Scienceworks will feed your child’s curiosity and answer many of their scientific questions. Kids and parents will also love the Melbourne Planetarium in the same building where you can journey into space on reclining chairs looking up at the dome shaped roof filled with stars. Read More: Scienceworks Address: 2 Booker St, Spotswood  Website

17. Werribee Open Range Zoo

Just 30 minutes from the centre of Melbourne is the Werribee Open Range Safari Zoo which makes the perfect day out for the whole family. Take a safari bus tour to see a wide range of animals in the open savannah roaming freely. Then walk the Pula Reserve Trail and check out the hippo splash! There’s also a range of animal encounters including getting the chance to feed the giraffes. Located next to Werribee park, you can have some lunch or check out the Shadowfax winery afterwards. Read More: Werribee Zoo Address: K Rd, Werribee South Website

Kids as young as 3 years old can fly at the indoor skydiving experience in Melbourne. Get the feeling of falling through the sky at 200km per hour, without actually jumping out of an aeroplane. This is definitely one of the best things to do in Melbourne with kids if they love an adrenalin rush! Read More: IFLY Indoor Skydiving Address: 2 Burns St, Essendon Fields Website

19. Brighton Beach Boxes

If you are looking for things to do in Melbourne with kids during the warmer months, you should definitely visit one of the beautiful beaches along the bay. Brighton beach is about 15 minutes out of the city and is home to the famous colourful beach boxes lined up along the coast. Take a picnic, grab some fish ‘n chips, and then go for a swim. Address: Esplanade, Brighton Beach

Things to do Near Melbourne for Families for a Day Trip

A list of things to do in Melbourne with kids once you have seen the city. These options are great for a day trip or even a weekend getaway and are within a few hours drive.

20. Puffing Billy, Dandenong Ranges

Take a ride on Victoria’s most famous steam train through the stunning Dandenong Ranges. Just an hour East of Melbourne, Puffing is one of the best things to do near Melbourne for kids if you are looking for a day trip. Start at Belgrave and pass Menzies Creek, into the forests. Take a picnic and have lunch at Lakeside where there are various water activities and walks. Take a look at our post on Things to do in the Dandenong Ranges for more things to see in the area. Read More: Puffing Billy Address: 1 Old Monbulk Rd, Belgrave Website

21. Healesville Sanctuary

The home of Australian wildlife in the beautiful Yarra Valley, Healesville Sanctuary is a great place to take the kids when visiting Melbourne. About an hour and half East of the city, you are met with koalas, kangaroos, dingos, wombats, and emus and many woodland birds in a sanctuary that covers 30 hectares. Check our post on Things to do in the Yarra Valley for more things to see in the area. Read More: Melbourne Zoo’s Address: Glen Eadie Ave, Healesville  Website

22. Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Gelateria

For those with a sweet tooth, the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie is a fantastic place to visit with kids. Set on 40 acres of stunning scenery, you are greeted with the sweet smeall of cocoa as soon as you enter the building. It makes a nice stopover on the way home from Healesville Sanctuary. Read More: Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Gelateria Address: 35 Old Healesville Rd, Yarra Glen Website

23. Phillip Island Penguin Parade

If you have the time, your kids will love the Penguin Parade in Phillip Island. It is definitely one of the most popular things to do in Melbourne with kids if you don’t mind the travel. Experience the magic of watching the penguins return to shore at sunset. You can visit for a day trip if you have a car, or prepared to do a tour. It is a good 2 and half hours from Melbourne so if you can stay overnight it is well worth it. There are so many other things to do in the area. Check out our post on Things to do in Phillip Island with kids. Read More: Phillip Island with Kids Address: 1019 Ventnor Rd, Summerlands VIC 3922 Website

24. Sovereign Hill

Step back in time to the Goldrush days in Ballarat at Sovereign Hill, Melbourne’s most amazing outdoor museum and a great day trip if you are looking for things to do in Melbourne with kids. Just a couple of hours from the centre of Melbourne, Sovereign Hill brings to life the excitement of the gold rush in the 1850’s and provides a full day of family entertainment and a unique historical Australian experience. If you are visiting Melbourne in July, make sure to check out their Winter Wonderlights event, Christmas in July. Read More: Sovereign Hill Address: Bradshaw St, Golden Point  Website

25. Kryal Castle

If you are visiting Sovereign Hill, make sure to pop over and see Kryal Castle, a medieval castle and adventure park where myths, legends, and fairy tales come alive. It can be done as a day trip, along with Sovereign Hill, as it is quite close, or you can actually stay in the castle overnight which is an amazing experience. Read More: Kryal Castle Address: 121 Forbes Rd, Leigh Creek Website

26. Otway Fly

Explore the world’s highest treetop walk 25 metres above the rainforest. The Otway Fly makes a great day trip if you are looking for things to do in Melbourne with kids. Hire a car and take a road trip down the Great Ocean Road stopping along the breathtaking coastline, and then head into the Otway Ranges. With so much to do in the area, you could even stay for the night or if you have the time, a few days. Our top spot to stay in the area for those visiting Melbourne with kids is Bimbi Park where you can sleep under the koalas! Read More: Things to do in Apollo Bay Address: 360 Phillips Track Beech Forest, Weeaproinah Website

27. Peninsula Hot Springs      

Want to relax and get away from the city? Hidden among a bushland setting along the South coast of Melbourne are the Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs. There are 30 experiences, a day spa and various wellness retreats, and best of all children are welcome so you can spend the day out as a family in this stunning setting away from the hustle and bustle. See more things to do in the area in our post on Things to do Mornington Peninsula . Read More: Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs Address: 140 Springs Ln, Fingal  Website

More Family Activities in Melbourne

If you are a local and have landed here, or you have an extended period in Melbourne, make sure you check out our Melbourne Activities for Kids guide with more activities. Also check out these posts for more fun.

• Best Farms in Melbourne
• Best Indoor Climbing in Melbourne
• Best Waterfalls near Melbourne
• Best Beaches in Melbourne

Best time to visit Melbourne with Kids

Melbourne is a great city to visit all year round and there are many advantages to each season.

Summer (Dec-Feb) is a fantastic time to visit, especially if you want to head to coast and visit Melbourne’s beautiful beaches. It is also considered peak time, so prices are generally higher. Just be very careful with the kids during this time as some days can be very warm. Be suns mart, make sure to keep their hats on and use sun cream.

Autumn (March-May) is a beautiful time to go on walks and hikes, or visit the national parks when the trees are losing their coloured leaves. The weather is cooling down and quite comfortable to explore the city.

Winter (June-Aug) is generally cold, but you do get some sunny days. You can also visit the snow in an hour and a half from the city. The advantage of visiting Melbourne in Winter is that you will find cheaper accommodation.

Spring (Sept-Nov) is a gorgeous time for a family trip to Melbourne with kids as the days are generally sunny, the gardens are in full bloom, and there are plenty of child friendly events. It is also the perfect time to visit the waterfalls just after Winter and plenty of rainfall.

Note about Melbourne’s seasons: This amazing city is famous for having four seasons in a day, so whenever you are visiting, make sure to bring some sun cream, and keep an umbrella handy just in case!

Melbourne Family Trip

We hope this Melbourne family holiday post has given you lots of ideas of things to do in Melbourne with kids. Whether you have a few days or a few weeks, you are going to have an amazing time. Make sure you follow us on FACEBOOK and INTAGRAM for more information. We also have a fantastic community group on FB, feel free to join us HERE .

If you have any questions about Melbourne attractions, or kids activities in Melbourne feel free to contact us at [email protected]

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The perfect Melbourne itinerary for families

Leigh Ann Pow

Travel Journalist

30 October 2023

From quirky neighbourhoods to iconic sporting venues to graffiti-daubed laneways, the Victorian capital is a riot of activity and colour worthy of a city considered by many to be one of the best in the world.

Any exploration of Melbourne really needs to start in the heart of the city, which is considered by many as one of the most liveable in the world. The best way to get your bearings for further exploration is by jumping on a tram, which is actually free to ride within an inner-city grid. While the modern trams are all sleek and air-conditioned, the vintage trams on the circle line around the city are a little more evocative (and also free).

Jump off on Flinders Street and head down Hosier Lane to discover a world of colour. Now, while we don’t encourage writing on walls, there is no denying that Melbourne’s graffiti and street art is a must see, and this laneway is one of the best (Flinders Lane, Degraves Street and AC/DC Lane also hold their own). Impress on the kids that they shouldn’t do this at home and then let them work through the layers of artworks that cover every brick here.

Street art on Hosier Lane.

Another thing the city is famous for is its lovely shopping arcades, the grand dame of which is The Royal Arcade on Bourke Street; you’ll love browsing the fashion and giftware boutiques, and the kids will love Koko Black for chocolates.

Federation Square is full of attractions to entertain the whole family.

Federation Square is a parent’s dream come true when it comes to high-density attractions with little walking needed. The first stop should be the newly revamped ACMI, which pays homage to moving images of all kinds. There are interactive displays, regular movie screenings and big-ticket visiting exhibitions. If you can’t score a table at ACMI’s new destination diner HERO, then HERO Grab & Go Kiosk is a good option.

Don’t miss the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art.

Another great way to entertain the family while they learn something is at the Koorie Heritage Trust, which celebrates the rich cultures and traditions of Victoria and southern NSW’s Koorie peoples and communities. There are exhibitions, events and cultural education programs including the Birrarung Wilam guided walk along the Birrarung, the Wurundjeri name for the Yarra River, visiting art installations, places of cultural significance and hearing the stories of the river.

Learn something new as a family at the Koorie Heritage Trust.

Flinders Lane is the place to be when it comes to eating out in Melbourne, lined as it is with some of the best eateries in town. It’s fun to walk its length in the early evening to see the hustle and bustle of restaurants coming to life and preparing for the evening ahead. And because there are so many choices, from Mexican to Italian to Japanese, you are sure to hit on something everyone will be happy with. Whatever you choose from, afters is taken care of: try Brunetti for bite-sized Italian sweets and cakes and PIDAPIPO around the corner on Degraves Street for gelato.

Try PIDAPIPO on Degraves Street for gelato.

Jump a tram and chart a course for Melbourne’s lovely Botanic Gardens, which have their very own kids’ garden for the little ones to explore. The Ian Potter Foundation Children’s Garden is designed for children to interact with plants and with dirt so you might want to take a change of clothes with you. Another fun thing to do while you’re here is punting between the bays and islands of the Ornamental Lake on a guided boat cruise (available from 10.30am to 5pm daily).

Ride Melbourne’s famous trams.

The inner-city suburb of Thornbury (just over half an hour by tram from the CBD) is home to the architecturally stunning and culturally significant Islamic Museum of Australia. There are five permanent galleries exploring Islamic Faith, Islamic Contribution to Civilisation, Islamic Art, Islamic Architecture and Australian Muslim History as well as a roster of visiting exhibitions. Arrive in time for lunch and take a seat at an outdoor table at IMA Café for a sujuk and haloumi wrap before heading inside.

Head to Thornbury to visit the Islamic Museum of Australia. (Image: Christian Pearson/Misheye)

Chinatown Melbourne, located in the heart of the city on Little Bourke Street and its surrounds, is Australia’s oldest Chinatown and is filled with action and colour day and night. You will be spoilt for choice when it comes to where to eat. See what all the fuss is about at the famed Flower Drum (the menu is seriously extensive) on Market Lane or opt for dinner and a show at Hutong Dumpling Bar: the kids can watch as nimble-fingered dumpling masters fill and twist dumplings into shape in the kitchen before digging into the little hot and steaming delicacies.

Melbourne is home to Australia’s oldest Chinatown.

The kids will love the funky hipster suburb of Fitzroy, which presents like one giant canvas daubed with everything from bug-eyed cats to an iconic (and now heritage-listed) work by the late contemporary artist Keith Haring. You’ll find this mural on Johnston Street, not far from Das T-Shirt Automat, where the kids can pick up the T-shirt they custom designed online from a tiny window. With a serious concentration of cafes here as well, this is a great place to come for breakfast before browsing the shops along Brunswick Street.

Get a custom-designed T-shirt from Das T-shirt Automat.

Explore the funky shops and eateries along Brunswick Street.

It takes less than 20 minutes by train from Flinders Street Station to get to the suburb of Hawthorn in order to visit the Melbourne Tram Museum. But of course you can catch the tram, too. Housed in the heritage-listed Hawthorn Tram Depot, the museum, which is open two Saturdays per month, with a gold coin donation upon entry, traces the history of trams and impact they have had on the city since 1885. The collection includes a number of elegant vintage trams to explore.

Back in the city, hop a tram bound for St Kilda to spend the afternoon riding the dodgem cars at Luna Park, before heading to the St Kilda Pier to watch the sky over Port Phillip Bay turn shades of russet, orange and yellow as the sun sets. Hang around for dinner at one of the many (many) restaurants; head to Acland Street for lots of choice.

St Kilda Beach and Pier is a Melbourne highlight.

St Kilda’s Luna Park.

Another day, another great inner-city Melbourne suburb to explore; today it is Collingwood, home to a brand of quirky creativity that kids will find compelling. There’s a burger joint housed in an old train carriage that is perched on top of a building (Easey’s), and Japanese-inspired trinkets to peruse at CIBI. And at To Be Frank Bakery you can munch on freshly baked breads and pastries (and sip more good coffee) while sitting on a milk crate out front next to a mural.

If you are from out of town and have an AFL or cricket fiend in the family they are sure to want to visit the MCG while you’re here. But these aren’t the only games that make headlines in Melbourne. The city is the venue for the first Grand Slam tennis tournament of the year, the Australian Open. If you have a tiny tennis star in the making, you can book them into Tennis World’s Australian Open Guided Tours at Melbourne Park to gain behind-the-scenes access to training areas, changing rooms, the player lounge and the underground paths leading to the courts.

Catch a game or take a tour at the MCG.

It’s a five-minute walk from the MCG and tennis centre to Southbank and the Australian Centre For Contemporary Art, with its iconic rusted-steel facade designed by local architects Wood Marsh. Spend an hour or so viewing the interesting art that is sure to intrigue your little ones, before walking to Collins Street for burgers at Royal Stacks.

Strolling Southbank.

Neighbourhoods

Melbourne’s Little Italy has a village vibe, with students from the nearby universities mingling with locals and visitors to the suburb come in search of a heart-starter espresso (this is where Melbourne’s café culture started), dolce treats and pizza and pasta. Let the kids loose in the heritage-listed Carlton Gardens while you soak up the sunshine.

Nestled next to St Kilda, the suburb has long been home to Melbourne’s Jewish community. Head here for great bagels – Glicks on Carlisle Street is an institution – and a multicultural roster of restaurants that stretches from Turkey to Greece to Vietnam to China. And, of course, there’s good coffee – did you really need to ask?

Another inner-city neighbourhood where eating and drinking coffee (or hot chocolate for kids) are two of its major drawcards. Then there’s shopping to be done: Bridge Road is home to factory outlets and seconds stores for the likes of Gorman and Bonds.

Getting from A to B

Melbourne is well serviced with public transport, with its trams and trains delivering you to just about everywhere you want to go. Make the most of the free tram zone in the city centre, and to go further afield get yourself a myki to tap on and off to pay for your ride. There are train stations across the city, the busiest being Flinders Street Station, which is also the universal meeting place for Melburnians.

Read more family travel tips on the Ultimate parents’ guide to our amazing Aussie cities.

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One Comment

I am a frequent traveller but have never had the opportunity to visit Melbourne. I would love to enjoy a ride on the city’s tram service. I would also love to savour the unique dishes served in the restaurants of this city. When I visited Kenya, I did the kenya airways booking through Cleartrip. Hope there is a similar convenient option for booking online tickets to Australia. Thanks for sharing this post!

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Things to do in Melbourne with kids

10 Day Trips From Melbourne By Train For A Family Day Out

Just a short train ride away from Melbourne CBD and its surrounds lies a treasure trove of diverse and picturesque destinations waiting to be explored for locals and tourists.

In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the best day trips from Melbourne by train, particularly for families. No need to worry about parking, navigation, or traffic—simply hop on a train, enjoy the convenience and comfort and let the adventure begin! 

Note you’ll need a Myki card and it can be used for Victoria’s regional trains ( V/line ) as well. That means you can travel directly to your destination for less than $10 per person.

Best Day Trips By Train From Melbourne

1. ballarat.

Step back in time with a train trip to Ballarat , a city steeped in gold rush heritage. 

Explore the Sovereign Hill outdoor museum and immerse yourself in the 1850s gold rush experience – read our extensive review of Sovereign Hill for tips on how to make the most of your day. Pan for gold, take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage and get your olde worlde portrait taken. If you’re there in winter, don’t miss the Winter Wonderlights  – read our review of Sovereign Hill’s Christmas in July festivities. 

When visiting Ballarat with kids don’t forget to visit the Ballarat Wildlife Park , home to a wide variety of native Australian animals and check if there are children’s activities on at Ballarat Art Gallery . Kryal Castle , a medieval castle experience, is also a 15-minute taxi ride away (read our Kryal Castle review ). 

Read more tips on things to do in Ballarat with kids . 

To discover Ballarat’s rich history, catch a train from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station to Ballarat. The journey takes approximately 90 minutes. Upon arrival in Ballarat, you can explore the city on foot or use local buses or taxis to reach specific attractions.

Looking for where to stay in Ballarat ? Check out the accommodation options to suit your budget on Booking.com .

2. Dandenong Ranges

For a refreshing escape into nature, catch a train to Belgrave in the picturesque Dandenong Ranges. 

At Belgrave see a movie at the independent Cameo Cinema (they even have an outdoor cinema in summer) or visit the Belgrave Big Dreams Market that happens on the second Sunday of every month.

Don’t miss the iconic Puffing Billy Steam Railway , a heritage train that chugs through the beautiful forested landscapes. It heads to Emerald Lake where you can alight and ride a floating cycle bike, swim in the swimming pool in summer an explore the Emerald Lake Miniature Railway exhibition.

To explore more of the Dandenong Ranges you’ll need to travel by bus from Belgrave train station. For instance, marvel at the stunning panoramic views from the SkyHigh Mount Dandenong lookout (the 694 bus will take you there from Belgrave station), go bushwalking in the lush national parks, and explore the cute mountain towns of Olinda and Sassafras for tea shops, gifts, galleries and gardens.

To get to Belgrave take a train from Melbourne’s Flinders Street Station or Parliament station. The train journey takes around an hour. From Belgrave, you can easily access various attractions within the Dandenong Ranges, including the Puffing Billy Railway . Buy tickets to Puffing Billy Railway

Looking for where to stay in Dandenong Ranges? Check out the accommodation options to suit your budget on Booking.com .

 3. Werribee

If you’re looking for a day trip from Melbourne that offers exciting wildlife encounters and family-friendly attractions, Werribee is the perfect destination. 

Once you arrive in Werribee, head to Wyndham Park for two stunning playgrounds along the Werribee River. Stroll or scoot along the Werribee River Trail and spot native wildlife and enjoy the tranquillity of nature.

Werribee Open Range Zoo is the big drawcard attraction in Werribee. Just note that the train station is not near the zoo so you’ll need to take a bus or taxi to get there. The award-winning zoo offers an immersive safari experience where you can encounter animals from Africa, including lions, giraffes, zebras, and more. You can even book a Werribee Zoo Deluxe Safari Adventure Experience for an up-close-and-personal encounter!

While you’re in the Werribee Park precinct , visit the Werribee Mansion and State Rose Garden . Explore the grand mansion, stroll through the stunning gardens, and enjoy a picnic on the picturesque grounds.

If your kids are water enthusiasts, head to the Werribee Outdoor Pool during summer, equipped with slides, splash zones, and shallow pools perfect for little swimmers. 

Wyndham Cultural Centre hosts a variety of family-friendly performances, including theatre, dance, and music events. Check the schedule in advance to see what shows or activities are available during your visit.

To reach Werribee, catch a train from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station to Werribee Station. The train journey takes approximately 35 minutes, making it a convenient option for a day trip with younger kids.

Looking for where to stay in Werribee? Check out the accommodation options to suit your budget on Booking.com .

Escape to the coast and discover Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula, which offers a delightful blend of coastal beauty and cultural experiences. 

Victoria’s second-largest city is easily accessible by train, and once you’re there stroll along Geelong’s picturesque waterfront precinct, soak in the atmosphere at Eastern Beach and visit the impressive cultural institutions such as Geelong Art Gallery and the National Wool Museum . 

Read more tips on things to do in Geelong with kids . 

For a day trip to Geelong, take a train from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station to Geelong. Trains to Geelong take approximately 1 hour 15 minutes and run frequently, allowing for flexibility in planning your itinerary. Once in Geelong, you can easily explore the city’s attractions on foot or catch a local bus to further destinations on the Bellarine Peninsula. On the Bellarine, you can explore the stunning beaches, go for a swim or surf, and explore the charming seaside towns of Queenscliff and Portarlington .

Looking for where to stay in Geelong? Check out the accommodation options to suit your budget on Booking.com .

Bendigo is a city brimming with culture, art, and architecture. 

Catch a train from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station to Bendigo for a journey that takes approximately 2 hours. 

On arrival, explore the awesome Discovery Science Centre , a hands-on science museum for kids. 

Also take the time to visit the renowned Bendigo Art Gallery and the surrounding Arts Precinct, delve into the city’s gold rush history at the Central Deborah Gold Mine or visit the Golden Dragon Museum to learn about Bendigo’s Chinese heritage. 

Or just take a leisurely stroll through the heritage streets, stop for a play at Rosalind Park and soak up the charm that this regional gem has to offer.

Read more tips on things to do in Bendigo with kids .

Looking for where to stay in Bendigo? Check out the accommodation options to suit your budget on Booking.com .

6. Frankston

Arrive in Frankston and you’ll be greeted by stunning beaches. Take a leisurely stroll along the Frankston Waterfront and enjoy picturesque views, relax on the beach with a picnic overlooking Port Phillip Bay and the nearby Frankston Foreshore Playground is sure to delight children. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try watersports such as kayaking or paddleboarding!

Frankston Arts Centre hosts a range of exhibitions, performances, and events throughout the year and Frankston City Centre is where you’ll find a diverse array of shops, cafes, and markets.

To visit the beautiful beachside town of Frankston just catch a train from Melbourne’s Flinders Street Station to Frankston. The train journey takes approximately 50 minutes, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing day out. 

Read more tips on things to do in Frankston with kids .

Looking for where to stay in Frankston ? Check out the accommodation options to suit your budget on Booking.com .

7. Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail

The Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail is a former rail corridor that’s been transformed into a walking and cycling path. The full 38km (24 mile) route goes past farmland, native forests, the Yarra River and several small towns, with food options and old-fashioned pubs en route. 

Trains run to Lilydale from Melbourne’s Flinders Street station. Bus 683 from Lilydale to Warburton generally follows the trail, so you can walk some of the way, starting from Lilydale and then take the bus back to the start when needed. Read more tips on things to do in the Yarra Valley with kids .

Looking for where to stay in Melbourne? Check out the accommodation options to suit your budget on Booking.com .

Woodend is a gorgeous town in the Macedon Ranges and is easily accessed from Southern Cross Station. The train ride takes about 1 hour 10 minutes. 

Upon arrival in Woodend, you’ll be greeted by a charming town surrounded by natural beauty. Start your adventure by visiting the Woodend Children’s Park , a delightful playground where your little ones can climb, slide, and swing to their hearts’ content. The park also has picnic areas, making it an ideal spot for a family lunch, or head to the family-friendly Holgate Brewhouse .

To finish, make sure to stop by the Woodend Ice Cream Company , offering delectable artisanal ice cream flavours made with locally sourced ingredients.

About a 10-minute taxi ride from Woodend is Hanging Rock Reserve . Hanging Rock was made famous by Joan Lindsay’s novel Picnic at Hanging Rock which was later turned into a film and TV series. After browsing its displays the Discovery Centre, climb the path to the top of the rock for magnificent views. 

Read more tips on things to do in Woodend with kids .

Looking for where to stay in Woodend ? Check out the accommodation options to suit your budget on Booking.com .

Another Macedon Ranges town worth visiting is Kyneton , the administrative and cultural heart of the shire region. It is also easily accessed from Southern Cross Station and the train ride takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. 

Start by exploring the picturesque Piper Street, lined with boutique shops, cafes, and galleries. Try some delicious treats or a leisurely lunch at one of the family-friendly eateries.

For a dose of nature and outdoor fun, head to Kyneton Botanic Gardens . Let the kids run free in the expansive parklands, have a picnic and enjoy the farm-themed playground where kids can swing, slide and climb.

Read more tips on things to do in Kyneton with kids .

Looking for where to stay in Kyneton ? Check out the accommodation options to suit your budget on Booking.com .

10. Castlemaine

Start your adventure by visiting the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens . Explore the lush greenery, enjoy a picnic by the lake, and let your kids run and play in the open spaces. The gardens also feature an award-winning playground with swings and slides, ensuring that your little ones have a fun-filled time.

To immerse yourselves in Castlemaine’s history, take a stroll through the town centre. Explore the historic streets, admire the beautiful architecture, and drop into Castlemaine Art Museum , which often hosts family-friendly exhibitions and interactive programs.

If your family enjoys outdoor adventures, head to Kalimna Park . This natural reserve offers walking trails, rock formations, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. It’s a perfect spot for a family hike or a picnic surrounded by nature.

To reach Castlemaine , catch a train from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station to Castlemaine Station. The train journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Read more tips on things to do in Castlemaine with kids . 

Ready to explore Melbourne and Victoria? Book your stay at one of Melbourne’s best family hotels !

Looking for where to stay in Castlemaine ? Check out the accommodation options to suit your budget on Booking.com .

Melbourne’s best train experiences Visit the Melbourne Tram Museum

About Joyce Watts

Joyce Watts is a former intellectual property, IT and media lawyer turned serial entrepreneur.

As well as being the founder of TOT: HOT OR NOT she helps businesses with their SEO, email marketing & social media as BrightSmart.com.au; she owns an online bike store CycleStyle.com.au and develops and produces creative experiences for families via WheelieGoodFun.com. She used to publish another popular lifestyle and food blog called MEL: HOT OR NOT The decisive guide to Melbourne.

She lives in inner-city Melbourne with her husband, two children and seven bikes.

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31 Best Day Trips from Melbourne Victoria (+ Weekend Getaways!)

By: Author The Aussie Tourist

Posted on Last updated: 09/27/2023

Categories Victoria (Vic)

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If you are looking for the best day trips from Melbourne look no further!

We have you covered with the best places to go near Melbourne (within a 3 hour drive) and also places that are up to a 4 hour drive that you can take on weekend trips from Melbourne.

We have done the hard research for you! 31 TOP places to visit near Melbourne right here.

While in Melbs, see also:

• Things to do in Melbourne at Night
• Romantic Things to do in Melbourne
• Best Breakfast Melbourne CBD
• Romantic Restaurants in Melbourne
• Melbourne bucket list
• Best Day Spas in Melbourne

Need Melbourne Car Rental? We have secured a further 5% discount code with Bargain Car Rentals for our readers off their lowest rates!

31 Day Trips from Melbourne (+ a few Weekend Trips from Melbourne)

Williamstown (25 minutes from melbourne cbd).

Located 25 minutes from Melbourne on Port Phillip Bay, Williamstown is a nice relaxing place for a quick getaway. The first port settlement is teeming with museums, historical landmarks, quaint shops, and restaurants, providing a little for everyone!

If city life is not your cup of tea, there are plenty of parks for a walk or relaxing at the Williamstown Beach. This port side town is a perfect place for a day trip along the water, but not straying too far from home. One of the best attractions near Melbourne to visit.

Want to stay overnight? Quest Williamstown is a nice spot!

Image credit: Visit Melbourne

Queenscliff (1 hour, 30 minutes from Melbourne CBD)

The small seaside resort town of Queenscliff, has a lot to offer. The picturesque views can be seen from every part of the peninsula, creating a very serene and relaxing atmosphere.  Victorian architecture, wide boulevards, and museums make Queenscliff a haven for new and established history buffs.

Family friendly activities, are also in abundance, such as the Queenscliff Music Festival, snorkelling, surfing and various river cruises. This day trip will surely be one to remember!

Fancy an overnight hotel with spa bath? Why not stay and make it a romantic getaway from Melbourne at Vue Grand Hotel 

Lake Mountain (2 hours north from Melbourne CBD)

Snow sports are the main attracting at Lake Mountain. Located two hours north of Melbourne, Lake Mountain is home to the most popular cross country ski resort in Australia. There are plenty of snow related activities such as a tube run, tobogganing, and even snowboard lessons for kids.

Playing in the snow, is just one of the benefits to this mountain, because there are also bushwalks, mountain bike trails, and a zip line, if warm activities are more your speed! This family friendly place, brings a little something for everyone and is sure to make everyone happy.

Geelong (1 hour south west from Melbourne CBD)

Geelong is a small city southwest of Melbourne. This small port city has many attractions along its bay side area including the Waterfront esplanade, the 19 th century carousel, and the art deco boardwalk. The vibrant artistic scene ensures a historic and unique experience for all visitors.

The Geelong Botanic Garden and Eastern Beach provide opportunities to explore nature close to home! A day trip to Geelong, will leave visitors entranced by the vibrant life and history of this port city! One of the best easy day trips from Melbourne!

Hanging Rock Reserve, The Macedon Ranges (1 hour from Melbourne CBD)

Sacred pre-historic volcanic rocks are the main attraction at Hanging Rock Reserve. Home to some of the best food and wine places in the areas, Hanging Rock is not just home to outdoor activities. There are opportunities to explore the artistic mediums of the people who live here, along with cultural experiences, such as plays, musicals, and even concerts!

Each of these activities use the Hanging Rock Reserve as its background, where adventurers can experience hiking trails and opportunities to learn the history of the volcanic rock formation. The Macedon Ranges has something for everyone!

Lorne (2 hours from Melbourne CBD)

There are plenty of popular tourist activities in Lorne to make any family day trip memorable. Many outdoor adventure activities populate the town, such as, swimming, surfing, pier fishing, and even some hiking. All of these activities provide splendid views of the Great Ocean Road and picturesque nature views.

Lorne is host to many cultural festivals that make it an appealing artistic venue for locals. Any trip to Lorne will be sure to leave you excited and awe inspired by the many opportunities this place has.

Wilsons Promontory National Park (3 hours from Melbourne CBD)

Reconnecting with nature and experiencing wildlife in its natural habitat, are just a few of the unique opportunities Wilsons Promontory National Park offers. The winding trails lead hikers from the Tidal River to the beautiful white quartz sand of Squeaky Beach, ensuring you will feel rejuvenated.

The nearby Mount Oberon, provides scenic views of the Bass Straight and nearby islands; while the Lightstation provides a unique historic glimpse back to the 19 th century.

Bendigo (1 hour, 50 minutes north from Melbourne CBD)

The historic gold rush town of Bendigo lies an hour and 50 minutes from Melbourne. Each unique tourist experience, such as the tour of the Central Deborah Mine or the Golden Dragon Museum, allows you to learn and appreciate the history of Bendigo.

The award winning wine region offers a wide variety of food and drink, and are heralded for their Shiraz. So no matter what your poison, Bendigo offers experiences for everyone!

Grampians National Park (3 hours from Melbourne CBD)

Grampians National Park is home to the Brambuk Aboriginal Cultural Centre, bringing to light the local Aboriginal history and rock art. Around the centre is a sprawling nature reserve, home to echidnas and wallabies. The winding trails lead to waterfalls and scenic overlooks of the Victoria Mountain Range. While, Halls Gap Zoo, the largest regional zoo in Victoria, exhibits over 160 native and exotic animals.

This unique park, even offers an award winning wine village and glamping experiences. Each activity will be sure to keep you and your family engaged with all aspects of nature.

Ballarat (1 hour, 30 minutes from  Melbourne CBD)

As the third largest city in Victoria, Ballarat is home to a diverse tourist market. Each award winning attraction and unique experience provides a day trip visitor an experience they will never forget. The Ballarat Wildlife Park offers a relaxing atmosphere allowing humans and animals to interact one on one to create memorable moments.

Kyral Castle offers kids the opportunity to experience medieval activities and broaden their imagination. Kids and adults alike will be clamouring to go back!

Yarra Valley (1 hour from Melbourne CBD)

The wine region of the Yarra Valley, boasts a cool climate known for producing Chardonnay. But there are family friendly activities for all day trippers! Many wineries in the area provide activities for children, while adults experience the luxury of the wineries. Along with wine, a unique experience that is a must do in the Yarra Valley, is the sunrise hot air balloon experience with Global Ballooning Australia. The spectacular views of the Yarra Valley are on display as you gaze at the beautiful sunrise.

Great Ocean Road (1 hour and 20 minutes from Melbourne CBD)

The 664 kilometre stretch of The Great Ocean Road, provides spectacular views of the coast of Australia, along with plenty of new experiences. The Great Ocean road can be a multiple day trip, or be shortened to one day. All along this winding war memorial, are surfing spots and spectacular sights, such as the 12 Apostles. These iconic rock formations dot the coastline, and ensure a unique experience for any traveller.

Each town The Great Ocean Road passes through, there are award winning and unique food destinations any foody will love! No matter how long or short your trip is on The Great Ocean Road, you will make memorable moments!

The Dandenong Ranges (1 hour from Melbourne CBD)

Adventure awaits at The Dandenong Ranges. The vibrant and exotic fauna and flora of the ranges, provide a magical and magnificent adventure away from the city. The cool Climate Garden offers visitors the ability to learn and study a wide collection of rare plants. Gumbuya World, Melbourne’s largest theme park, boasts an assortment of wildlife along with adventures for all types of thrill seekers. The Dandenong Ranges provide something for everyone to explore the wonders and joys of nature.

Mornington Peninsula (1 hour, 10 minutes from Melbourne CBD)

Home to the Wine Food Farmgate Trail, Mornington Peninsula is a treasure trove of wonderful food and wine. Between food/wine stops, visitors enjoy the activities and attractions that populate the area. Historic garden hedges and mazes provide inspiration for the visitor, while activities, such as paddle boarding, at the beach provide relaxation. Each attraction on the peninsula provides something for everyone, leaving the entire family begging for more.

Daylesford (1 hour, 30 minutes from Melbourne CBD)

The unique landscape of Daylesford provides an opportunity to explore the area of an extinct volcano. Utilizing the mineral springs in the area, the town is home to many natural healing therapies and spas, helping a weary traveller to find relaxation and peace. The region is also home to many walking trails and camp grounds, allowing any visitor the opportunity to explore the lush greenery of the area.

Phillip Island (2 hours south of Melbourne CBD)

Philip’s Island is best known for its Little Penguins that come into shore around sunset. Spectators gather for this unique opportunity once a day at Summerland Beach to see this ‘Penguin Parade.’ The wildlife residing on Philip’s Island makes each day a new opportunity to see something new. If wildlife is not your interest, then there are also beaches, fantastic eateries, and the Philip Island Circuit (a legendary track for racing).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CyVRl1owBXw

Pentridge Prison (30 mins from of Melbourne CBD)

The Victorian Heritage Register has protected many of the buildings located at Pentridge Prison. The prison is home to various art exhibits as well as some spooky ghost tours. Some of the buildings are currently under restoration to be made into housing, retail, and open spaces for the public. Today, you can go to Pentridge and visit the prison and learn about its historic nature.

St Kilda (20 mins from of Melbourne CBD)

Excitement and adventure can be found at nearly every corner in St Kilda. The beachside town is known for its beachside activities and promenade. Only being twenty minutes from Melbourne, windsurfing, kitesurfing and sailing is abound. Each shopping and eating experience holds new opportunities and experiences to explore St Kilda’s diverse culture. A vibrant culture teeming with artistic talent makes this beachside town a perfect day trip.

Bellarine Peninsula (1 hour, 30 minutes from Melbourne CBD)

The abundance of food and wine located on the Bellarine Peninsula is a foodie’s paradise. The fresh bounty along the Bellarine Peninsula Taste Trail, ensures you and your car will not go home empty. The serene views and distinctive landscape allow for adventures of both the land and sea variety. Art galleries, festivals, and eco-adventures populate the area ensuring each person will find something amazing to do on this day trip adventure.

Healesville (1 hour from Melbourne CBD)

Healesville lies close to the Yarra Valley making this a nice day trip for those interested in a variety of activities. The boutique shops and art galleries provide new inspiration for budding artistes; while the Glassblowing Studio gives visitors the opportunity to witness the historic art of glassblowing. An Animal Sanctuary and park walks allow you to experience nature one on one and explore the lush greenery of the region.

Flinders (1 hour, 30 minutes from Melbourne CBD)

Flinders offers a unique architectural experience, with a preserved streetscape and historic shops. Lying on the coast of the Bass Strait and Westernport Bay, Flanders is home to Cape Schanck and the cleanest air in the world. The coastal walk among the bluestone boulders along the Flinders Blowhole Walk, ensure a beautiful view of the ocean coastlines and native animals.

Kyneton (1 hour from Melbourne CBD)

The gold rush brought the thriving village of Kyneton to life. If you enjoy history and picturesque views, Kyneton may be the place for you. Adventurous wine tastings, are sure to leave you raving about the wine of the region; while the bushwalks and village tours allow you to experience the history and natural beauty of the region.

The festivals and other artistic events held here every year are vibrant and diverse, allowing for new interests and activity to excite visitors!

Marysville (1 hour, 30 minutes from Melbourne CBD)

The beautiful town of Marysville is an outdoor adventurer’s paradise. The distinct Yarra Ranges National Park is located here, and provides visitors with the opportunity to explore the beauty of nature.

After rebuilding from a raging bushfire, Marysville is a picturesque town rebuilt from the ashes. This small town serves as a launch pad for people who would like to visit the Alpine Resort in winter or a place for hungry hikers to get a bite to eat.

Image credit: Visit Victoria

Weekend Trips from Melbourne Getaways

Bright (3 hours, 30 min from melbourne cbd).

Lying at the base of Mount Buffalo National Park and Alpine National Park, Bright is a region known for its fall foliage and unique experiences. Bright is a place to visit during warm and cold times of year. There are plenty of biking and hiking trails in Bright, along with skiing and snowboarding on Victoria’s Alps. Not only are there plenty activities but they have a world class foodie scene. Boutique restaurants and wineries line the streets, making this the perfect place for a long weekend getaway.

Mount Buller (3 hours from Melbourne CBD)

Mount Buller is a winter resort village situated three hours from Melbourne. The snowy ski slopes and terrain parks, make this an opportunity you cannot miss. Mount Buller is also home to the National Alpine Museum, chronicling the history of Australian’s winter sports.  A sports lover’s paradise, Mount Buller, ensures all adrenaline junkies will find an activity that suits them no matter the time of year.

Beechworth (3 hours from of Melbourne CBD)

A historic and charming town, Beechworth is home to many natural experiences. The hiking and biking trails around the area provide serene views of the valley and historical knowledge.  This once gold rush town, now has an artistic scene connected to nature, along with historic buildings. This long weekend getaway is made for those who like to enjoy nature, while also experiencing life in a small town.

Rutherglen (3 hours from of Melbourne CBD)

Along the Murray River, Rutherglen is known as one of premier wine regions in Victoria. Populated with wineries, this popular place makes for a great long weekend getaway. Along with winery tours, there are plenty of biking and hiking trails. This little slice of paradise, will appeal to the wine lovers and adventure seekers allowing you to have a weekend you will never forget!

Metung (3 hours, 30 min from of Melbourne CBD)

If an escape to the coast is your wish, Metung may be the destination for you! The relaxed village atmosphere is perfect for all the water sport activities and experiences any adventurer will love. Fresh seafood and farm to table restaurants create a unique dining experience. At the foot of the Great Alpine Road, this vacation village is a nice break from the hustle and bustle of the road and allows you to explore the Gippsland Lakes from land and water!

King Valley (3 hours from Melbourne CBD)

A slice of Italy in Victoria, awaits you in King Valley. Wineries and Italian eateries line the valley and create the Prosecco Road. Festivals in June have local wineries open their doors to visitors and do winery walkabouts. Liking wine is a must, when visiting this area. The locally grown grapes and ingredients make the food and dining experience different from any other area of Australia.

Apollo Bay (3 hours from of Melbourne CBD)

On the Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay is a well-known surfing spot for the surfing aficionado. The pristine coastal waters allow for any water sport fanatic to find something to do. Art, farmers markets, and pristine hikes, allow for fantastic views of the Great Ocean Road, while celebrating the culture of Apollo Bay. This getaway is certain to provide diverse experiences and have something for everyone!

Mildura (6 hours from of Melbourne CBD)

Mildura is the centre of Victoria’s Food Bowl, growing most of the citrus fruits in the region. The beautiful sunsets and clear night skies make Mildura a nice relaxing getaway. There are activities for the whole family, including an Aquacoaster and various biking activities. This historical region even has a vibrant art scene and boutique retail stores, making the region a unique and interesting place for the long getaway!

Don’t forget to end your trip with some epic Australian Quotes !

Tip: If you bring a kid on the trip don’t forget safety first! If you need a new carseat, check out our guide one the best narrow carseats Australia

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Melbourne family-friendly travel guide

About melbourne.

Widely regarded as Australia’s arts and culture capital, the Victorian capital of Melbourne keeps families pouring in with a range of great family attractions and events year-round.

Its hidden side streets and various suburbs are filled with trendy cafes and boutique shopping, while its stunning parks and museums also have lots to offer.

Melbourne facts

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Helpful information

Where to go, best time to go to melbourne, getting in and around for families, food and drinks that kids will love, electricity, safety and health precautions, most photographed places, old melbourne gaol.

As well as housing some of Australia’s most infamous offenders, including the one-and-only Ned Kelly, the   Old Melbourne Gaol  is also one of Melbourne’s oldest buildings. Kids will love the ‘escape’ activity, which requires families to solve various clues and makes for a great bonding exercise.

Melbourne Museum

Kids will love a visit to the dinosaurs and blue whale skeleton and, after saying a quick hello to the taxidermied Phar Lap upstairs, heading to the dedicated Children’s Gallery at Melbourne Museum . It includes both an indoor play area and outdoor garden with a water feature, sand pits to dig for fossils and little hidden creatures to discover.

Surrounding are the World Heritage-listed Carlton Gardens – be sure to a snap a pic in front of the fountain!

LEGOLAND Discovery Centre

A visit to Australia’s first  LEGOLAND Discovery Centre  in Chadstone Shopping Centre is a must. The indoor LEGO playground is a cornucopia of brick delights, with incredible attention to detail. Plus, you can enjoy a hit of retail therapy after.

SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium

Located within a stone’s throw of iconic Flinders Street Station, Melbourne’s SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is home to a beautiful array of marine creatures the kids will love discovering. Our favourite is the Gentoo penguin enclosure!

Fitzroy Gardens

Drop by  Fitzroy Gardens  to find Captain Cook’s Cottage, play on the dragon slide and climb on the dolphin fountain. With a little exploring, you’ll also find a carved fairy tree and miniature Tudor village, all in the one park.

If you’re visiting from up north, you’ll find Melbourne is a touch cooler than some of Australia’s other sunny capitals. In summer, this can make a great escape from the oppressive humidity, if that’s not really your style. But whenever you visit, you’re bound to be delighted by Melbourne’s endless array of attractions, with plenty of indoor ones for the wet weather days. 

December to February, with average high temperatures of around 25 degrees Celsius and an average five days of rain per month.

March to May, with average high temperatures of around 21 degrees Celsius and an average six days of rain per month.

June to August, with average high temperatures of around 14 degrees Celsius and an average eight days of rain per month.

September to November, with average high temperatures of around 19 degrees Celsius and an average eight days of rain per month.

Major airport

Melbourne’s major airport is Melbourne Airport . It’s serviced by all domestic carriers and most international. There’s a regular bus charter that goes directly to Southern Cross Station in the CBD, from which you can catch a range of buses, trams or trains to nearby locations.

Getting around

Melbourne is well serviced by public transport. In the inner city, the trams are frequent and within the CBD they are free (the free zone is bordered by Spring Street, Flinders Street and La Trobe Street). 

Heading further out, there are lots of buses and trains. You can also hire your own car, or hail the easily identifiable yellow taxis.

A big foodie hotspot, Melbourne caters for all shapes and sizes – including your little ones. Whether they’re a mini gourmet or the picky eater, there is sure to be something that will tickle their fancy.

Families on the go will be pleased to hear that Melbourne has hundreds of options dotted through the city that do the trick when it comes to hangry toddlers. All the usual child-friendly chains are present, and places like Din Tai Fung take special care to cater to pint-sized patrons in the form of plastic cutlery for little ones and plentiful high chairs. If you’re shopping up a storm in the Emporium, their food court is well worth a sticky beak, particularly as it has a parents room with all the essentials close by.

Famous for their coffee and their cafes, a trip to this city would not be complete without checking out some local businesses. Fortunately, there are lots of places that appreciate that you might have tots in tow and have catered accordingly. In Armadale you’ll find Cubbyhouse Canteen, a cute brunch spot sandwiched between two playgrounds with a great kids’ menu. To turn a coffee date into a real outing, take a trip to The Farm Cafe in Collingwood. Their menu is divine with plenty of kids options, and the chickens wandering in from Collingwood Childrens’ Farm are always a source of delight.

As you’d expect, the arts and culture capital of Australia has some of the best shopping in the country. The perfect activity for when the famously unpredictable weather hits, there is something for everyone: manicured shopping centres, eclectic boutiques, narrow arcades and op-shops galore.  

Bourke Street Mall is a one-stop-shop for all your favourite outlets with lots of great places to stop for a snack. There are a number of skilful buskers playing rain or shine and the street is only open to pedestrians and trams, easing the stress if you have little ones in tow. An added bonus: the tram stops right outside, making it a hassle-free journey for visitors. The Emporium is another option, a mall with a luxe upgrade that has all the best designer brands on hand.

It wouldn’t be a trip to Melbourne without visiting one of the many vintage and op shop areas in the city, not to mention their one-of-a-kind boutiques and the famous laneways. The renowned lanes and arcades are a great place to start for an off-the-beaten-path shopping spree where Centre Place provides some chic shops, great coffee and street-art eye candy. The Block Arcade is a another must-visit with Renaissance architecture and fan-favourites like Crabtree & Evelyn, or you can visit its sister, Royal Arcade, which is the oldest arcade in Australia. When it comes to scoring vintage bargains, take to the streets of trendy suburbs Fitzroy and Brunswick to search through piles of second-hand gems. Brunswick and Smith Streets get a special mention for a high density of quirky store fronts and beloved thrift shops.  

If you prefer to spend in the relaxed setting of a market Melbourne has you covered there too with the famous Queen Victoria Markets an obvious recommendation for those who feel like a browse. Camberwell Market is the biggest market for pre-loved wares and a great place to score some bargain antiques, and the annual Finders Keepers market is not be missed for lovers of artisan crafts and handmade goodies.

Tipping is appreciated, but not expected in Australia.

What to wear

Melbourne will famously require that you are prepared for four seasons in a day. Don’t trust your window! Always check the forecast, and be prepared with warmer and cooler layers alike.

Mains voltage in Australia is 230V AC, 50Hz. Use a  two-pin (shaped like a “V”) or  three-pin adaptor (different to British three-pin adaptors).

Health precautions

No special immunisations or vaccinations are required to visit Australia unless you have come from, or have visited, a yellow fever infected country within six days of your arrival. However, regulations and medical advice can change at short notice, so check with your doctor and the   Australian Department of Health  before you leave home.

Tap water is generally safe to drink in Australian cities.

By and large, Melbourne is considered a safe destination, although still exercise regular safety precautions as you would at home.

Eureka Skydeck 88

As the highest viewing platform in the Southern Hemisphere, it’s easy to figure why   Eureka Skydeck 88 is a great photo op. If you dare, The Edge even looks down straight through a glass door – we wouldn’t recommend this if you’re afraid of heights!

Phillip Island

A day trip to Phillip Island won’t disappoint, because the parade of fairy penguins is truly a sight to behold. These super-cute feathered friends certainly deliver on the “aww” factor – bonus points if you catch a snap with the sun setting over the water.

National Gallery of Victoria

Just near Flinders Street station, the National Gallery of Victoria is  Australia’s oldest and most visited public art museum. The fountains out front and huge water wall are a Melbourne photo fave, plus there is a dedicated interactive kids’ space.

Accommodation

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The 6 best day trips from Melbourne without a car

Sep 21, 2024 • 7 min read

A couple sit on the top of Hanging Rock in the Macedon ranges © FiledIMAGE / Shutterstock

Victoria may be perfectly suited to a good old-fashioned road trip , but visitors to Melbourne without their own set of wheels don't have to miss out on seeing the best of what this great Australian state has to offer.

Melbourne's excellent public transport connections mean travelers based in the city can hop on a train or bus to swap the buzz of busy streets for forest walking trails, spa towns and stream train rides – all without worrying about finding a parking space. Here's our guide to the best day trips from Melbourne.

1. Go for a picnic at Hanging Rock

Travel time: 1 hour

North of the city of Melbourne and a sacred site for the Wurundjeri people (the traditional custodians of the land here), enigmatic Hanging Rock rises dramatically from the plains around it – the result of a volcanic eruption that created a multi-headed mound of lava.

Hanging Rock was made famous by Joan Lindsay’s novel describing the mysterious disappearances of Victorian-era schoolgirls on Valentine’s Day 1900. Picnic at Hanging Rock was later turned into the 1975 film by Australian director Peter Weir and the 2018 TV series starring Natalie Dormer and Yael Stone.

Hanging Rock also makes for an excellent day trip from Melbourne: it’s the perfect place for, well, a picnic. The Discovery Centre will fill you in on the area’s history and geology. After browsing its displays, climb the path to the top of the rock. For refreshments afterward, grab a snack or a beer at the popular Holgate Brewhouse in Woodend on the journey back.

How to get to Hanging Rock from Melbourne: Hanging Rock is located to the northwest of Melbourne and trains run to Woodend from Southern Cross Station in central Melbourne. From Woodend, it’s an 8km (5 mile) walk or cycle (BYO bike) or a 10-minute cab ride to Hanging Rock Reserve.

2. Cycle or walk the Warburton Rail Trail

At its height, Victoria ’s passenger train network stretched into every nook and cranny of the state. Sadly, that reach has long since gone, but over the last decade or so many of the former rail corridors have been transformed into "rail trails" – walking and cycling paths that cut through beautiful scenery and join up towns. The resulting trails are easy to walk or cycle making them an accessible, family-friendly day out.

The easiest rail trail to access from Melbourne is the Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail . Stretching from Melbourne’s eastern edge into the Upper Yarra Valley, it’s a delightful 38km (24 mile) route that winds past farmland, native forests, the Yarra River and several small towns, with plenty of food options and charming old-fashioned pubs. Bring your own snacks and water for the main trail walk.

How to get to the Warburton Rail Trail from Melbourne: The trail starts in Lilydale on the eastern edge of Melbourne. Trains run to Lilydale from the center of the city. Bus 683 from Lilydale to Warburton mostly follows the trail, meaning you can hike a smaller section of the route and hop on the bus back to the start if you get tired.

3. Go off-roading on French Island

Travel time: 2 hours

French Island lies just beyond Melbourne’s southeastern suburbs, in the center of Western Port Bay. Named by a French exploring expedition in 1802, it has maintained an air of mystery to mainlanders.

The local population and farming activities have waxed and waned over the centuries, and nowadays the islanders live largely off the grid. Considering that 70% of the island is a national park, and there’s no bridge from the mainland and no local transport services, it’s been difficult for visitors to get to grips with its history and landscapes.

Today, however, Naturaliste Tours does a regular tour of the island, with members riding aboard a chunky ex-mining vehicle that can handle the rough tracks that drive into its interior. Highlights include a visit to the Pobblebonk Swamp with its resident frogs, a drive through an abandoned chicory farm with its eerie deserted buildings and koala-spotting among the trees on the island, with the tour culminating in a visit to the French Island General Store , the island’s only shop. Lunches, bike hire and accommodation are also available here.

How to get to French Island from Melbourne: French Island is located southeast of Melbourne. To reach it, catch a suburban train to Frankston, then change to a V/Line train to Stony Point. From here the French Island ferry sails at approximately two-hour intervals.

4. Step back in time at Sovereign Hill in Ballarat

Travel time: 1 hour, 25 minutes

The regional city of Ballarat was the epicenter of the Gold Rush of the 1850s – one of the greatest the world has ever seen. Over the following decades, the rough-and-tumble miners’ town grew into a graceful city, with plenty of frontier excitement along the way.

Those heady days are relived at Sovereign Hill , a historical village constructed around a former gold mine in the city’s suburbs. It’s an impressive place, with the streets lined by painstakingly researched replicas of buildings from the Gold Rush era, from pubs to Chinese temples. Many of these demonstrate crafts and trades of that period. There are several places to eat on-site, from the Hope Bakery to the dining room of the United States Hotel.

Family-friendly activities include gold panning, horse-and-carriage rides and a tour of an old mine shaft. To add to the fun, costumed actors regularly stage entertaining (and historically correct) performances throughout the site. If you have time, other local attractions worth a visit in the region are the Ballarat Wildlife Park and the acclaimed Art Gallery of Ballarat .

How to get to Ballarat from Melbourne: Ballarat is situated to the west of Melbourne. Trains run direct from Southern Cross Station in central Melbourne to Ballarat Station.

5. Soak in mineral springs in Daylesford and Hepburn Springs

Marketed as the "spa center of Victoria," these conjoined towns are hugely popular as a weekend getaway for Melburnians. Set among the scenic hills, lakes and forests of Central Highlands, it's a fabulous year-round destination where you can soak away your troubles in warm, mineral-rich waters and dine in some of regional Victoria's best eateries. The local population is an interesting blend of New Agers, urbanites and down-to-earth farmers and it's incredibly LGBTIQ+ friendly.

The health-giving properties of the area’s mineral springs were first claimed in the 1870s, attracting droves of fashionable Melburnians. The well-preserved and restored buildings show the prosperity of these towns, as well as the lasting influence of the many Swiss-Italian miners who came to work the tunnel mines in the surrounding hills. Aside from the various springs and bathhouses, there are also picnic spots, BBQ areas, children's playgrounds and walking trails to enjoy.

How to get to Daylesford from Melbourne: The quickest way to get to Daylesford is to catch a train from Southern Cross Station in central Melbourne to Woodend, then hop on a bus to Daylesford.

6. Tour the Dandenongs on the historic Puffing Billy steam train

Taking a train to take a train ride sounds like a strange way to spend a day, but then Puffing Billy is no ordinary train. Holding fond memories for many Melburnians, the Puffing Billy is an iconic restored steam train that toots its way through the Dandenong mountain range from Belgrave to Emerald Lake Park and Gembrook on a five-hour return trip.

It's possible to hop on and hop off en route to enjoy a picnic or walk and it's a great day out for younger travelers and train enthusiasts especially. A diesel locomotive replaces the steam engine on total fire ban days (these are days in Victoria when the heat is extreme and fires are not allowed to be lit anywhere).

How to get to Puffing Billy Railway from Melbourne: The Puffing Billy Railway is located to the east of the city. The easiest way to reach it is by train from Parliament Station in central Melbourne to Belgrave Station.

This article was first published Jan 9, 2019 and updated Sep 21, 2024.

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7-Day Melbourne Itinerary: The Ultimate Guide for First-Timers

Welcome to Melbourne ! Known for its vibrant culture, eclectic food scene, and stunning landmarks, Melbourne is a city that offers endless adventures. This 7-day Melbourne itinerary is tailored for first-time visitors, ensuring you experience all the must-sees and hidden gems this fabulous city has to offer.

Day 1: Exploring Melbourne’s Heart

Start your journey in the heart of Melbourne.

Flinders Street Station & Federation Square

Take a stroll around Flinders Street Station , one of Melbourne’s iconic landmarks. Opposite the station is Federation Square , where you can visit the Ian Potter Centre and the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI).

St. Paul’s Cathedral

Just a short walk from Federation Square, St. Paul’s Cathedral offers stunning architecture and a peaceful retreat in the city center.

Street Art in Hosier Lane

Right next to Federation Square, you’ll find Hosier Lane , famous for its vibrant street art. It’s a must-see spots for photography enthusiasts.

Day 2: Discovering Melbourne’s Cultural Side

The national gallery of victoria.

Spend your morning at the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), Australia’s oldest and most visited art museum. Explore its extensive collections of European, Asian, Oceanic, and American art.

Royal Botanic Gardens

In the afternoon, head to the lush Royal Botanic Gardens for a relaxing walk. These gardens span over 38 hectares and feature a diverse collection of plants from around the world.

Southbank and Crown Entertainment Complex

Conclude your day with a visit to Southbank, where you can enjoy riverside dining and entertainment. The Crown Entertainment Complex offers a variety of restaurants, a casino, and live shows.

Day 3: A Journey Through Melbourne’s History

Old melbourne gaol.

Begin your day at the Old Melbourne Gaol , where you can learn about the city’s early penal history and infamous inmates like Ned Kelly.

Melbourne Museum & Royal Exhibition Building

Next, visit the Melbourne Museum and the adjacent Royal Exhibition Building . Here, you’ll discover exhibitions on natural history, science, and the culture of the indigenous Koorie people.

Lygon Street – Little Italy

End your historical day with dinner on Lygon Street , known as “Little Italy.” Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine at one of the many traditional restaurants.

Day 4: The Great Ocean Road Adventure

Day trip overview.

Embark on a full day trip along the Great Ocean Road . This scenic drive is one of Australia’s most famous routes, offering breathtaking coastal views.

Twelve Apostles

The highlight of the Great Ocean Road is the Twelve Apostles , majestic limestone stacks rising from the ocean. Don’t forget to bring your camera!

Other Stops

• Bells Beach – A surfer’s paradise.
• Great Otway National Park – Rainforest and waterfalls.
• Loch Ard Gorge – Stunning coastal scenery.

Day 5: Fun and Festivities in Melbourne

Queen victoria market.

Start your morning at the Queen Victoria Market , a vibrant spot for fresh produce, gourmet food, and unique souvenirs. Don’t miss the delicious food stalls.

Fitzroy Gardens & Captain Cook’s Cottage

Fitzroy Gardens is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Visit Captain Cook’s Cottage within the park, a piece of history transported from England.

Melbourne Zoo

In the afternoon, take a trip to the Melbourne Zoo . Home to over 240 species, it’s an exciting spot for families and animal lovers.

Day 6: Sports and Recreation

Melbourne cricket ground (mcg).

Begin your day with a tour of the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), one of the world’s most iconic sports stadiums. Learn about Australia’s sporting history.

Yarra River Cruise

In the afternoon, relax on a Yarra River Cruise. Enjoy the views of the city skyline and famous landmarks.

Chinatown Melbourne

For dinner, head to Chinatown Melbourne , the oldest Chinatown in the Southern Hemisphere. Try some delicious Asian cuisine.

Day 7: Relaxation and Farewell

Spend your final day in the laid-back suburb of St Kilda. Visit the famous Luna Park , relax at St Kilda Beach , and enjoy the vibrant café scene.

Brighton Beach Huts

Take a short trip to Brighton Beach to see the colorful beach huts, a perfect spot for some last-minute photos.

Evening at a Rooftop Bar

Conclude your Melbourne adventure with a drink at one of Melbourne’s chic rooftop bars. Enjoy the stunning views of the city as you reflect on your trip.

Travel Tips for First-time Melbourne Visitors

• Public Transport: Melbourne has an efficient tram system. Purchase a Myki card for easy travel.
• Weather: Melbourne weather can be unpredictable. Dress in layers and carry an umbrella.
• Accommodation: Stay in central areas like the CBD, Southbank, or Fitzroy for easy access to attractions.
• Booking: Plan ahead and book popular attractions and accommodation early to avoid disappointment.

Melbourne is a city that has something for everyone, from its rich history and vibrant culture to its stunning landscapes and world-class food scene. This 7-day Melbourne itinerary ensures you capture the essence of this beautiful city and create unforgettable memories. Enjoy your trip to Melbourne!

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32 Best Dog-Friendly Days Out Around Melbourne

Looking for a fun day out with your dog around Melbourne ? No matter if you’d prefer to head to the beaches or the mountains, stay close to the city or head out on a road trip, I’ve got plenty of ideas for dog-friendly day trips all around Melbourne, all within a 2 hour drive of the city centre. Which one of these fun ideas will you next tick off with your pup?

1. Explore Melbourne’s Street Art

Melbourne is deservedly world famous for its street art. And spending a few hours exploring it on foot is actually a fabulous activity to do with your pup. Unlike art galleries, there’s no rules against pets walking down laneways!

The most well-known destination for street art in Melbourne is Hosier Lane in the city centre, not far from Federation Square. I also highly recommend the nearby ACDC Lane and Duckboard Place, which are generally less crowded. Combine a wander on foot with your dog with a visit to a dog-friendly cafe, whether in one of the city laneways or along the banks of the Yarra.

If you’d prefer to not head all the way into the city centre, there’s also lots of great examples in other inner city suburbs, ideal for combining with brunch at a cafe or a drink at a local pet-friendly pub. 

Find out more about staying in the Melbourne CBD with your dog

2. Go Hiking in the You Yangs

If you’d prefer a walk amongst nature rather than gritty alleyways, one of the best destinations to head to just outside of Melbourne is the You Yangs Regional Park . Located less than an hour from the centre of Melbourne, this regional park welcomes dogs to join you, as long as they stay on a leash.

The You Yangs were named after the local Aboriginal word for “big mountain in the middle of the plain”. The most popular walking track in the park heads to the summit of Flinders Peak. From the top of this granite outcrop there’s superb views back towards Melbourne and across the Bellarine Peninsula. The 3.5km return walk takes about an hour to complete, with lots of steps along the way. 

There’s also a variety of both shorter and longer walks, including some flatter options. One easier option is the 800m circuit around Big Rock. Don’t also miss the short walk to the top of this granite outcrop, just a 100m stroll from the carpark. There’s also plenty of picnic areas in the park. 

3. Enjoy a Pugichino and Treats at Miss Drew’s

A cute destination to visit on a weekend day trip from Melbourne, that your pup will simply love, is Miss Drew’s Bakery and Dog Cafe on the Mornington Peninsula. Located behind the Tyabb Packing House and surrounded by antique shops, the dog cafe is open on Saturdays and Sundays. (It’s best to double check the opening hours in advance.) 

On the menu are a range of treats for your dog, from pugichinos to muffins and cookies. Perhaps order one of their meal deals for your dog and enjoy it at one of the many tables. There’s also a shop selling treats and toys, and the option to order dog birthday cakes.

While there aren’t any human options on the menu, instead step across the path to the Rattling Red Cafe opposite and grab your own takeaway coffee. 

4. Spend the Day at St Kilda

St Kilda has long been a popular day trip destination in Melbourne, and it’s also a terrific destination to visit with your pup. While your dog won’t be allowed on the rides at Luna Park amusement park, instead take a walk along the pier (where dogs are allowed on a leash) and enjoy the surrounding beaches. 

The closest dog-friendly beach at St Kilda is on the western side of the pier, near Pier Road until the draining channel. Here dogs are allowed off-leash all day long, year round. To the eastern side of the pier dogs are only allowed on the sand during winter. Dogs are also allowed year round on the sand at St Kilda West, except for the sensitive dune area, plus in between Brooks Jetty and the northern end of the St Kilda Marina car park. 

If you visit St Kilda on a Sunday, make sure you check out the market stalls along the Esplanade. Plus make sure you detour over to Grey Street and visit Chez Misty . This French creperie has a whole menu of crepes and puppyccinos just for dogs, as well as savoury galettes and sweet crepes for humans. Out the back are couches for canines, while there is also an indoor off-leash relaxing room.

5. Enjoy Paddle & Brunch at St Kilda

Chez Misty isn’t just a dog-friendly creperie, they also offer Paddle and Brunch events for adventurous pups. You’ll first of all enjoy a 1-hour Stand Up Paddleboard session with your pup, then breakfast together back at Chez Misty.

Over the 2022-23 summer, Paddle and Brunch ran on multiple days per month, a mixture of Saturdays and weekdays. Keep an eye out for the 2023-24 calendar. Groups are kept to a small size of four humans and dogs, plus life jackets are included and a SUP lesson from Karen from SUPs for PUPs. Naturally, plenty of photos are also taken!

Want more opportunities to learn paddleboarding with you pup? Check out the wide variety of lessons offered by SUPS for Pups , both at Bayside and the Mornington Peninsula. They even offer dog swimming lessons for less confident pups!

6. Go Punting in the Botanic Gardens

A wonderful dog-friendly destination in the centre of Melbourne are the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria – Melbourne Gardens. Leashed dogs are welcome to join you for a stroll around the gardens, whether around the ornamental lake, through the fern gully or past the “volcano”.

Another highlight of a visit to the Botanic Gardens is enjoying a punt on the lake . Private guided punt tours generally last 30-minutes, and run between September and May. The punts can hold up to six passengers, and well-behaved dogs can join you for free. There’s even an Instagram account devoted to the dogs on the punt tours! 

It’s best to book in advance, at least during holiday periods. The punts depart from the landing in front of the Terrace Cafe. 

7. Head to Altona Dog Beach

Another popular dog-friendly beach in Melbourne is Altona Dog Beach , just west of the city and Williamstown.

Dogs are allowed off-leash all day long, year round, both on the beach and in the adjacent fenced PA Burns Reserve off-leash park. However, dogs need to be on leash in the carpark area and on the paths to the beach, plus stay completely out of the conservation areas.

It’s best to visit at low tide, when it’s possible to wade with your dog a long way off-shore. Afterwards, make use of the dog wash-down area next to the carpark, with multiple spraying taps at different heights for all sizes of dogs. 

For more dog-friendly beaches, check out my selection of the best dog-friendly beaches in Victoria

8. Explore Yarra Bend Park

Yarra Bend Park is only 4km northeast of Melbourne’s CBD, but is home to the largest area of natural bushland left in the inner suburbs of Melbourne. The park is situated on both banks of the Yarra River, which takes a meandering 12km path through the park.

There’s a wide variety of walks on offer in the park, from the 850m-long Bushland Circuit Trail to the 9.5km-long combined Dights Falls Trail and Westfield Extension. For a listing, download the visitor guide from the website . There’s also multiple picnic areas. 

Dogs are permitted in most areas of Yarra Bend Park, although there are some areas where they are excluded. There are also a number of off-leash areas – check the signage, and make sure you always carry a leash. The best spot for a doggie swim in the river is just below Deep rock.

Interested in taking your pup out on the river? Head to the Fairfield Boathouse , where you can rent boats, canoes and kayaks, and bring along your pup. The outdoor tables at the tea rooms are also dog-friendly.  

9. Stroll Around Lake Daylesford

Daylesford is a popular weekend destination from Melbourne, but it’s also close enough for a day trip, with the drive from the centre of Melbourne taking about 80 minutes. Renowned for its mineral springs and fine dining, the top dog-friendly activity in Daylesford is taking a stroll around Lake Daylesford.

It takes about an hour to complete the full circuit around the lake, which is largely flat and just under 3km long. There’s multiple carpark options along the way, at Foreshore, Fulcher Street and Wombat Flat, or else it’s an easy walk from the centre of town. Note that dogs need to be kept on a leash. 

Along the way, stop and sample some of the local spring water.  Take a short detour down to Central Springs Reserve, where there’s an historic hand pump you can use to fill up your bottle, or stop at the Wombat Flat Mineral Spring. 

Find out more about taking a  dog-friendly getaway to Daylesford

10. Enjoy High Tea in Olinda

A gorgeous spot in the Dandenong Ranges is the Olinda Tea House . Situated high in the ranges, this architecturally stunning tea house serves up delightful high teas, and not just for humans.

There’s also a special afternoon tea for four-legged guests, featuring a range of treats including peanut butter cookies and cranberry chews, as well as a puppacino. While humans will enjoy the savoury and sweet options including bottomless scones.

After licking up all the crumbs, enjoy a walk through the historic flower gardens and forests that surround the tea house. During summer days when the weather is fine, there’s also the option of upgrading to a picnic experience in the gardens or the garden gazebo.

11. Go Picnicking at Hanging Rock

Just over an hour north of Melbourne is Hanging Rock , made famous by the novel and subsequent film, “Picnic at Hanging Rock”. 

The reserve contains large picnic grounds, perfect for a picnic with your pup. There’s also multiple walking tracks, including the popular walk to the summit of Picnic Rock. Note however that dogs are not allowed to ascend to the rock itself on the Summit Walk, so stick to the lower parts of the walk or instead follow the 1.8km-long Base Walk or the 2.3km-long Creek Walk.

Note that the reserve charges an entry fee, either per vehicle or per individual if you enter on foot. Pets are not allowed on major event days, otherwise they simply need to stay on a leash. 

12. Or Climb to Camel’s Hump

Another park with dog-friendly walking trails close to Hanging Rock is the Macedon Regional Park , situated just to the south and containing the forested heights of the Macedon Ranges. There’s a wide variety of walking trails in the park, from the 200m stroll to Memorial Cross from next to the tea rooms to the 30km loop track that links all the major sites in the park.

One of the best short dog-friendly walks is the short hike up to Camels Hump, the highest point in the Macedon Ranges. It’s a moderate hike through bushland with beautiful views from the lookout at the summit, across to Hanging Rock and the surrounding countryside. However, it’s only 1km, so can easily be completed in 20-30 minutes. 

Before or after, enjoy a picnic with your dog in one of the many picnic grounds, or explore the other dog-friendly attractions of the Macedon Ranges . Make sure you keep your dog on a leash in the park. 

13. Ride an Historic Train

There’s multiple historic train rides located not that far from Melbourne where you can enjoy a ride with your dog. 

Probably the closest option to Melbourne is Puffing Billy in the Dandenong Ranges, departing from Emerald Station, just over an hour east of Melbourne. However, dogs are only permitted on board the Puffing Billy Dog Express that runs one or two days a month and quickly sells out.

Alternatively, head north to Castlemaine and ride on the Victoria Goldfields Railway, taking the 45 minute journey to the historic village of Maldon. Dogs are permitted on the Excursion Class carriages, at the discretion of the Station Master, but not the First Class carriages.

Walhalla is about 2.5 hours drive east of Melbourne, but well worth the longer drive. The historic gold mining town is home to the Walhalla Goldfields Railway, with trains running on Wednesdays, weekends, public holidays and school holidays. It’s a scenic 4km ride through a narrow gorge each direction.

There are also more historic dog-friendly train rides at Daylesford and Queenscliff, on the Bellarine Peninsula. For more information, see my guide to dog-friendly historic train rides in Australia . 

14. Go Underground at Walhalla

While Walhalla is closer to 2.5 hours drive from the centre of Melbourne, like I mentioned above, it’s well worth the slightly longer road trip, as the historic train rides aren’t the only dog-friendly attraction in this historic gold mining town.

Well-behaved dogs are also welcome to join you on the underground tour of the Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine . Once one of the highest producing gold mines in Australia, these days you can take a 45-minute tour through the original workings, hearing fascinating stories from your guide along the way. Tours run daily, with a single tour on most weekdays but multiple tours on weekends, public holidays and during school holidays.

It’s also worthwhile taking a wander through the historic town centre of Walhalla, reading the many signs explaining the town’s history. If you have time, follow the Tramline Walkway with your pup, which starts opposite the old post office, then runs for 700m to the entrance of the Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine.

Find out more about visiting Walhalla with a dog

15. Visit McClelland’s Sculpture Park

For an arty dog-friendly experience on the edge of Melbourne, head to McClelland’s Sculpture Park near Frankston. While dogs are not allowed inside the galleries also located on the site, leashed dogs are welcome to join you for a stroll around the sculpture park.

The sculpture park is surprisingly large, with nearly 100 sculptures installed in the bushland setting. Make sure you pick up one of the brochures with maps, so that you explore the far reaches of the site, as well as the large kinetic sculptures on the front lawn. For more information, download one of the free audio guided tours.

Note that there is a small admission charge, which covers both the sculpture park and the galleries. There’s a small cafe onsite, as well as plenty of room to enjoy a picnic. 

16. Go Leash-Free at the Briars Community Forest

If you keep on driving past Frankston, you’ll arrive at the Mornington Peninsula proper. While I didn’t find this popular weekend destination on the edge of Melbourne that dog-friendly (most of the beaches don’t allow dogs, especially during summer), it is home to a superb off-leash dog park.

The Briars Community Forest takes off-leash dog walking in a fenced area to the next level, and is a must-visit for dogs on the Peninsula. This huge bushland reserve on the edge of Mount Martha is entirely fenced and contains multiple walking tracks, even a creek swimming spot. Perhaps head here after a visit to Miss Drew’s Bakery and Dog Cafe (see #3)?

The best spot to park is on the Nepean Highway opposite Balcombe Grammar School, where there’s a rough car park, rubbish bin and a double-gated entrance. Search for the “Community Forest Fenced Dog Park” pin on Google Maps. 

Find out more about dog-friendly attractions on the Mornington Peninsula

17. Stroll Along the Geelong Foreshore

It’s an easy 80-minute drive the opposite direction from Melbourne to Geelong. While Geelong is often overlooked in favour of the Great Ocean Road that starts just past it, it is home to a beautiful waterfront that makes for a great dog-friendly stroll.

From the visitor information centre at the Carousel, it’s a flat 950m walk to Eastern Beach. Dogs are allowed on the sand and in the water at Eastern Beach, as long as they are kept on a leash. Along the way, perhaps detour onto the recently opened Wangim Walk. This 440m-long Wave Attenuator partially enclosing the yacht club is a chance to walk on water!

Just past Eastern Beach are the Geelong Botanic Gardens , located in the larger Eastern Park. Dogs are welcome in the gardens, as long as they are kept on a leash, including at the outdoor tables at the small tea house. The gardens are home to many heritage-listed trees and avenues, as well as a new 21st Century Garden.

All over Geelong, don’t miss spotting the colourfully decorated bollards, with over 100 installed in between Limeburners Point and Rippleside Park.

18. Head to Fisherman’s Beach in Torquay

While leashed dogs are allowed on Eastern Beach in Geelong all year round, during much of the year it’s worthwhile driving a little further past Geelong to Fishermans Beach in Torquay, for a fabulous beach day trip with your dog.

Between December and February, plus over Easter, dogs are only allowed on the beach before 9am and after 7pm. However, during the rest of the year dogs are allowed all day long on this wonderful ocean-facing beach.

The beach is large enough for a beach stroll, plus for your pup to enjoy a doggie paddle with plenty of space. Before or after, drop into the Salty Dog Cafe located right next to the beach access track. This cafe is very popular with dog owners, with dogs welcome at the outdoor tables and plenty of water bowls on hand. 

19. Visit Forest Glade Gardens

During the Autumn months, Mount Macedon is a popular destination for viewing its colourful Autumn leaves and enjoying its cooler climate. However, Mount Macedon is also worthwhile to visit anytime of year with your dog, thanks to the dog-friendly Forest Glade Gardens .

These privately owned gardens are open daily and were gorgeous on the late spring day that we visited. Allow an hour or more to stroll around the many gardens, including the Japanese-style gardens that are a particular highlight. 

Make sure you bring cash for the entry fee, plus also respect the owners of the property, keeping your dog on a leash and cleaning up after it. Car parking is on the side of Mount Macedon Road and can be difficult on busy days. 

20. Hike to Toorongo and Amphitheatre Falls

About a two-hour drive east of Melbourne is the Toorongo Falls Reserve at Noojee. While dogs aren’t allowed in the Yarra Ranges National Park to the north, dogs are allowed at Tooroongo Falls Reserve (including off-leash, as long as they are under effective control).

The highlight of a visit to the reserve is the Toorongo Falls Circuit Walk , that visits the viewing platforms for the close-by Toorongo Falls and the more distant Ampthitheatre Falls. The entire track is 2.2km long and takes about an hour, passing through beautiful rainforest.

While the dog-friendly falls are best viewed after periods of rain, note that the track can get muddy and slippery underfoot, so make sure you pack a towel to clean off your pup.

21. Go Wine Tasting in the Yarra Valley

There’s multiple superb wine regions on the doorstep of Melbourne, but one of the best and the most dog-friendly is the Yarra Valley, the oldest wine region in Victoria. 

It’s just over an hour’s drive to the Yarra Valley, with most vineyards scattered around the towns of Coldstream, Healesville and Yarra Glen. Many of the cellar doors are open daily, and also welcome well-behaved dogs to join you, either outside or even inside. 

To take the hassle out of organising a wine tasting tour, I recommend booking a dog-friendly private winery tour with a company such as Pooches and Pinot . They can organise an itinerary for you, taking into account your tastes and recommending the best dog-friendly wineries, with both half-day and full-day options available. 

Find out more about visiting the Yarra Valley with a dog

22. Or Take a Dog-Friendly Winery Bus Tour

Another option for a dog-friendly day tour where you don’t need to drive are the Gourmet Pawprints Tours on Bella the Dog Welcoming Bus.

Gourmet Pawprints operates tours to multiple wine regions, including the Mornington Peninsula, and the Yarra Valley. They also operate an increasing variety of other tours, from city exploration tours to picnic days out. Check out the latest calendar .

On each tour, there is a charge per human, plus a small charge per dog – up to $25. On board the bus are dog seat belts, seat covers and blankets, plus facilitated dog socialisation before boarding. On winery tours, dogs will also enjoy their own treats, water and a movie over lunch.

23. Explore the Ruins of Maldon

It’s an easy 1hr 40 minute drive from central Melbourne to the former gold mining village of Maldon. Australia’s First Notable Town, after being classified by the National Trust in 1966, it’s a great destination for a dog-friendly day trip.

Take a wander through the main street of the historic town, which is largely unchanged since the 19th-century. There’s plenty of small boutiques and cafes that line the main street. Many of the cafes have dog-friendly tables out the front, or else the beer garden at the Maldon Hotel is pet-friendly.

Don’t also miss exploring the gold ruins adjacent to the township, within the Maldon Historic Reserve, including around the Beehive Mine Chimney immediately to the north. Make sure you pick up a brochure with a map in town. It’s also possible to visit Maldon on the pet-friendly Victorian Goldfield Railways departing Castlemaine (see #12).

24. Visit a Former Gold Mine in Bendigo

Maldon isn’t the only dog-friendly gold mining town in central Victoria, with the city of Bendigo a superb dog-friendly destination and under 2 hours drive from Melbourne. Along with the dog-friendly Vintage Talking Trams, one of the highlights of a visit to Bendigo is visiting the Central Deborah Gold Mine .

While dogs are not surprisingly not permitted on the underground mine tours, they’re welcome to join you on leash in exploring the surface of the former gold mine for free, including ascending halfway up the poppet head along the trestle way (if they can be carried up the stairs). View the original change rooms, blacksmith’s shop and engine room, although staff ask you to minimise time in the museum with your dog.

To explore more of Bendigo’s gold mining heritage, head to the Victoria Hill Historic Mining Reserve. A popular spot for dog walking, the reserve contains a number of old mining relics, including some open cut mines. Park at the carpark on the Calder Highway, where entrance is open from 9am to sunset (during daylight savings time) or 5pm (the rest of the year). 

25. Explore the Western World’s Largest Stupa

The sights of Bendigo aren’t limited to gold mining ruins. One of the most surprising attractions just outside of town is the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion , the largest stupa in the Western World.

Currently under construction about 15 minutes west of Bendigo, the stupa is based on the Gyantse Stupa in Tibet and is surrounded by the Peace Park Gardens, which contains many monuments from a variety of faiths.

Another surprise is that pets are welcome to join you in visiting the stupa, both outside and even inside. (Although this may change once the construction of the interior is complete.) The stupa is open daily, entry by donation, and there is a cafe onsite with plenty of dog-friendly tables.

Find out more about visiting Bendigo with a dog

26. Enjoy a Cruise on the Yarra

To view Melbourne from a different viewpoint, take a relaxing cruise along the Yarra River. And you don’t need to leave your dog behind, with Melbourne River Cruises permitting dogs on board their public Yarra River Cruises . (Note that dogs aren’t permitted on other cruises, including dinner and special event cruises.)

Choose between a one-hour cruise up or down river, visiting either the Port and Docklands or River Gardens precinct, both departing from the Southbank Promenade. Alternatively, combine both together on a 2-hour Melbourne Highlights Cruise. Twilight and sunset cruises are also available during summer.

Cruises operate seven days per week, multiple times per day. Make sure your dog stays on a leash and is well behaved.

27. Or Hire Your Own Boat

If you’d prefer to drive your own boat in Melbourne with your dog on-board consider hiring one of the pet-friendly picnic boats from GoBoat .

Accomodating up to eight people and not requiring a boat license, the luxury electric picnic boats can be hired for between one and three hours, with optional extras including cheese boards and esky hires. BYO picnic and drinks!

GoBoat Melbourne is located on the northern side of the Yarra River, on Banana Alley near Sandridge Bridge. If bringing your dog along, considering packing a doggie life-jacket. Alternatively, it’s easy to attach your dog’s leash to the base of the picnic table.

28. Visit an Historic Botanic Garden

In the latest 19th century, it became the fashion that any well-to-do town in Victoria would have their own botanic garden, both for the propagation of European plant species and a place for locals to spend their leisure time. Many of these are still wonderfully-maintained, and also welcome leashed dogs to join you.

Some of the best historic botanic gardens to visit around Melbourne include fine examples in Kyneton, Malmsbury, Daylesford and Castlemaine. Pack a picnic and hop into your car with your pup to enjoy a country outing at any of these gardens.

The Kyneton Botanic Gardens contains many large National Trust-listed trees, plus are adjacent to the Campaspe River with a wonderful riverside walk. At Malmsbury, don’t miss the views of the grand Malmsbury Viaduct, located at the southern edge of the gardens. The Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens in Daylesford contain a short scenic drive loop, plus the dog-friendly Wombat Hill Cafe. 

29. Hike the George Bass Coastal Walk

For a scenic dog-friendly walking track along the coast, head just over 90 minutes southeast of Melbourne to the George Bass Coastal Walk, located near Phillip Island .

The 7km-long walking track is accessible from either end. Either head to the Shelley Beach Carpark just off the Bass Highway at Kilcunda or to the end of the unsealed Punchbowl Road near San Remo. It takes about 4 hours to complete the entire 14km walk, or else just walk partway and then return along the same route.

While dogs are permitted on leash and it’s well-known as a dog-friendly walk, keep an eye out for signs about 1080 baiting. Baits had been recently laid at the Punchbowl Road end when we visited in November 2021, although there were no signs at the other end. This likely only occurs once a year. 

30. Watch a Movie by Moonlight

Every year, the Moonlight Cinema sets up its screen at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne. And if you have a well-behaved pooch who can stay quiet while watching a movie, they’re welcome to join you on your picnic rug. Dogs are welcome in all sections, including premium areas.

With screenings starting at sundown, I know my dog would likely sleep through most of the screening! Just remember to keep your dog on a short leash, and clean up after them. Sometimes special canine-themed movies are even screened throughout the season, which runs from November to March – check the program when its released.

31. Go on a Puppy Pub Crawl

Melbourne is home to plenty of dog-friendly pubs, so why not take your pup on a pub crawl? Puppy Pub Crawl organises group pub crawls for dogs and their owners, visiting some of the best pet-friendly establishments around Melbourne. The pub crawls are also a great opportunity to socialise, both for the pups and the humans.

Regular pub crawls take place all over Melbourne, from St Kilda to Footscray, Collingwood to Prahran. Dogs are provided with doggie cocktails and treats at each venue, with drinks specials and snacks available for humans.

The latest dates are all listed on their Eventbrite page , where you can make a booking for you and your pup. Or stay up to date with the latest announcements on their Facebook page .

32. Chill at a Beach Club

During the long days of summer, a hip place to hang out with your pup is at West Beach Pavilion at St Kilda West Beach. Dogs are allowed on this stretch of sand all day long, but why just laze on the sand when you can rent a sun lounge at the beach club?

The beach club is daily during the summer, from September to March. The sun lounges are suitable for up to four people sitting or two people laying.

Bookings are taken, plus walk-ins are welcome, subject to availability. No booking fee applies, although there is a no show fee. There are also cabanas and party lounges available for larger groups for a booking fee.

Although the beach club is closed over the winter months, the West Beach Pavilion stays open year round until at least sunset, with dogs welcome in outdoor areas.

You May Also Like

• Top Dog-Friendly Short Walks in Victoria
• Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in Victoria
• Beautiful Dog-Friendly Gardens in Victoria to VIsit
• Fun Dog-Friendly Things to Do in Country Victoria

About the Author

Shandos Cleaver is the founder of Travelnuity: Dog-Friendly Travel. She has travelled extensively with her Miniature Dachshund, Schnitzel, including to 33 countries across Europe, every state and territory of Australia except Tasmania, and 10 of the United States. She’s passionate about providing inspiration and information to others wanting to travel with their dogs, whether close to home or internationally.

1 thought on “32 Best Dog-Friendly Days Out Around Melbourne”

I love reading about all the great places to go with my dog around Melbourne! Thanks for sharing!

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The best day trips from Melbourne

Need a break from city life? These nine day trips offer beaches, mineral springs, wineries, wildlife and more

If you're looking for a break from the inner-city grid, there's no better cure than a day trip from Melbourne. The state of Victoria is full of friendly neighbourhood towns, whether you're in the mood for  a winery tour , a road trip or a national park to explore. These one-day escapes are just what the doctor ordered, so get out there and explore Melbourne's beautiful backyard. 

Keen to stretch your legs? These are the best day hikes from Melbourne. Looking for somewhere to stay? Here are five road trip-worthy motels.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best day trips from Melbourne

1.  daylesford.

There’s a reason that Daylesford is known as a haven of relaxation. Eighty per cent of the country's mineral springs are in this region, which makes it perfect for spa treatments and for growing high-quality produce, which you can enjoy at one of Daylesford's top restaurants. The region is extremely popular with weekenders from Melbourne, and once you visit you'll soon realise why many of them decide to make the tree change. 

If you have the cash to splash and you want the best of the best, there is one restaurant you must visit:   Lake House , perched on the titular body of water. The multi-course menu changes all the time, depending on what is in season and what nearby Dairy Flat Farm, owned by the Wolf-Taskers and part of the Lake House mini-empire, is growing at the time. Everything is fresh and treated with the utmost respect, with a vegetable-forward menu that heroes local produce but is the opposite of ascetic.

For a breakfast of champions,  Cliffy's Em porium   is very popular with locals, and for good reason. The small café does all the breakfast favourites, often with a vegan twist. Cliffy Hauser's original 1950s general store is now a providore, offering local produce, smallgoods, the region's justly famous mineral water, preserves and specialty groceries.

Thirsty? Make sure you stop into   Daylesford Cider , which makes traditional and not-so-traditional cider onsite from the onsite heritage apples. Owners Mackie and Clare are serious about cider, and they make numerous drops in both sparkling and still varieties. Many are traditional English ciders made using traditional methods, but there are also a few that are just for fun. Paddles are the most popular way to taste all the ciders on offer at the venue, which is also dog-friendly.

We can’t (and won’t) stop raving about   Radio Springs Hotel . Don't resist the pull of sipping whisky in the bric-a-brac-filled dining room, and if you’re here on a Thursday, the kitchen takes a break from serving impressive pub fare and invites a Thai chef to create a feast.

You’re here to relax, so begin your getaway by visiting arguably the most famous spa in the region,  Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa .

Similarly, t he best time to take in art is when you’ve got the mental space – so head to  the Convent Gallery  and spend time with work from all manner of historical periods and styles. 

Luxury can be found at  Peppers Mineral Springs Retreat ; a grand ’30s guesthouse transformed into a mineral spa and hotel. You could also stay here and not leave for days: there are open-air mineral pools, fine dining at the Argus Dining Room and huge, elegant rooms.

If you only do one thing...   For a simple slice of tranquillity, pick up some picnic goods at the gourmet food shops on the main street and head to the pristine  Lake Daylesford . You can take a walk around the lake or make a meal of your picnic on a bench. Keep an eye out for birdlife. 

2.  Phillip Island

Known for its colony of Little Penguins, Phillip Island is an island packed with coastal wildlife experiences, cultural events and a growing food and wine scene.

There are plenty of good food options on the island, and we'd highly recommend stopping in at  Wild Food Farm and Café  in Rhyll for breakfast or lunch. The property is a labour of love by Jude Mayall, whom you may know as the founder of bushfood company OutbackChef (and author of a cookbook of the same name). The farm grows native bush tucker like wattleseed and lemon myrtle, which is then used in the café as well as being packaged and sold online, in the gift shop and wholesale to chefs, distillers and brewers all over Australia. Fresh, native ingredients make the food here sing, and you can have a wander through hectares of native bushland and carefully cultivated bush tucker plants before or after your meal. 

At the   Westernport Hotel , we’d suggest grabbing a drink (preferably a locally brewed Furphy) and enjoying it as you catch views across to the island.

It’s always busy, but nothing beats the   Penguin Parade .   Every day at sunset, hundreds of little penguins waddle in from the sea on Summerland Beach.

If you're looking for a relaxing and bucolic place to stay,  Five Acres  farm stay could be just the place to unwind. Spanning the titular area, the farm has views across fields to the sea and friendly chickens, goats, sheep and two highland cattle, Rory and Ivy. The guesthouse is fully equipped with everything you need, including breakfast provisions procured from the farm's resident chickens. 

If you do one thing... t he 5km return  Pyramid Rock to Berrys Beach walk  is well worth your time. The clifftop walk offers pretty spectacular views, and the path is wide, mostly flat and easy to navigate. There are a few steps and undulating terrain, but for the most part, it's easy on the calves. The Berrys Beach end of the walk is along a paved road, but most of it traverses grassland. Keep an eye out for wallabies and the ubiquitous Cape Barren geese.

3.  Castlemaine

The coast gets all the glory, with its shining vistas and its glittering seascapes. But central Victoria should be your next weekend away destination, particularly the arty hub of Castlemaine. In recent years, Castlemaine and its surrounding towns have developed a reputation for being home to artists, musicians, writers and creatives. Castlemaine punches way above its weight when it comes to cultural festivals and activities – not to mention restaurants that are well worth the drive north. 

In what used to be the ice-creamery of the Theatre Royal, you'll find  Bistro Lola , a snug, two-tier restaurant with clusters of small tables and booths. With its low-lit charm and simple posies of flowers, it’s perfect date material. Indeed, Bistro Lola goes above and beyond quick bites before the movie or concert starts next door – this menu’s designed by head chef Sarah Curwen-Walker for destination dining. You might try an entrée of orange and coriander seed-cured Spanish mackerel, cucumber, currants and almonds, with green chilli oil; or a main such as Yapunyah chicken involtini with haricot beans, sage, porcini and speck.

Looking for a chill, feel-good place to enjoy a beer? One of the three owners of  the Taproom  is Doug Falconer of Hunters and Collectors, so there’s plenty of music booked on Sundays and most Fridays (not to mention Falconer hosts the karaoke, comedy and trivia nights), and there’s no door charge. 

Head to  the Mill , an  1875 woollen mill given a new lease of life when it was taken over in 2014 by a biodynamic sheepfarmer and a GP and transformed into a giant hub for food and artisan manufacturing. The biggest drawcard is the giant   Vintage Bazaar , open seven days a week and packed full with groovy clothes and homewares. They’ve thought of everything: as you browse the furniture makers and artist spaces, kids can be kept amused by the ping-pong and fussball tables, not to mention the Ice Cream Social’s hole-in-the-wall good times. The Mill is also home to the cellar door of the   Boomtown Winemakers Co-op , traditional Viennese coffeehouse   Das Kaffeehaus , and   the Taproom , a haven of craft beer. Make sure you stop by   Cabosse & Feve Chocolates  on your visit to stock up on artisan chocolates that are as pretty as they are tasty.

Those who do not stay at  the Empyre Hotel  stand outside and take photos. The Empyre was built in the late 1800s and is an exemplar of gold-rush architecture with its lace balconies and stained-glass windows. This boutique hotel offers a full breakfast and has its own luxurious bar. There are its gardens to explore, but it’s also mere metres away from Castlemaine’s loveliest sights, such as the Theatre Royal of the same era. There’s off-street parking, too. It's luxe, but you have to treat yourself now and again, no?

If you only do one thing...  Do you know how to have a gouda time? Sorry, sorry, no cheese puns here – the people at  the Cheese School in Castlemaine  take the dairy arts very seriously, as well they should. Not one but two experienced French cheesemakers, Ivan and Julie Larcher, have upped sticks from the French countryside to Castlemaine to open Australia's first ' university of cheese '. The school aims to teach cheesemakers and mongers traditional French techniques to create and sell the most delectable artisan cheeses in the Australian market. Although primarily aimed at industry professionals, the school also offers classes for laypeople to better appreciate cheeses (yes, there are tasting classes), as well as half-day or two-day intensive courses in home cheesemaking. 

4.  Mornington Peninsula

With beaches, wineries, parks, gardens and spas, Mornington Peninsula boasts an embarrassment of getaway riches. These diverse attractions are best discovered by car, and it’s an easy 90-minute drive south of the CBD. Not to mention the views overlooking Port Phillip Bay are nothing short of amazing.

You’ll find excellent examples of barbecue, banana pudding and good ol’ southern hospitality at Red Gum BBQ , a stellar barbecue restaurant inside a former machinery shed on Arthurs Seat Road. If you’re after something a little more luxe, Laura is the fine diner of the Mornington Peninsula to try, located at Pt Leo Estate.

A produce-led, fantastic restaurant, a fascinating sculpture garden and delightful wines crafted with care – Mornington Peninsula wineries don't get much better than Montalto . If you’re more of a cocktail fan, head to Flaggerdoot , the fancy design-driven cocktail bar at Jackalope Hotel .

It’s often packed with visitors, but the Peninsula Hot Springs   is definitely worth a visit if you’re in the mood for a soak. There are also   dolphin and seal swims , which  take you out into Port Phillip Bay, and a wonderful hedge maze in which to lose yourself at   Enchanted Adventure Garden .

It is not an exaggeration to say the Jackalope Hotel has changed the Mornington Peninsula. The cutting-edge, ultra-luxe hotel is what you might expect to find in New York's uber-hip Meatpacking District, not set among rolling hills and gently swaying vines.

If you don’t want to shell out $650 a night, try the Lindenderry at Red Hill . It sits on almost 14 hectares of vineyards and gardens and inside it feels like one big, glam country house with all of the elegance but none of the kitsch.

If you do one thing...   go for a walk down the   Bushrangers Bay Trail   at Cape Schanck. This coastal clifftop walk boasts picturesque vistas over Bass Strait.

5.  Yarra Valley

It’s kind of hard to believe that the Yarra Valley is less than an hour’s drive from Melbourne’s CBD. One minute you’re in the CBD, then next it's suburbia, and all of a sudden you’re surrounded by rolling hills covered in vines and paddocks with cows aplenty. The region’s world-renowned producers of cool-climate wines have helped put the Yarra Valley on the map. So pick your designated driver and get rolling.  

Giant Steps   do excellent charcuterie and cheese platters that you can match with fresh drops from the vineyard. Or hop across the street to   Innocent Bystander   for delicious wood-fired pizzas and moderately priced   moscato.

Visit   TarraWarra Estate ’s cellar door where, for $20 a person, guests can sample wines with winemaker Adam McCallum. Try the Single Block and Reserve ranges – the best chardonnay and pinot noir produced on the estate. There’s also   Yering Station , one of Yarra Valley’s oldest wineries, which is a favourite with visitors to the region.

If you think the Yarra Valley resembles a pastoral wonderland from the ground, imagine how it looks from up in a hot air balloon.   Global Ballooning Australia   runs a   one-hour sunrise tour over the Yarra Valley   for those looking to see the bucolic landscape from a bird’s eye perspective. Finish off with a visit to   the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery   for chocolate balls, blocks and many scoops of ice cream.

Glamping in a winery? Why the hell not. The historic   Balgownie Estate   has glamping accommodation just steps from the cellar door. Here you’ll have all the fixings of home – including a queen-size bed, split-system air con and a mini bar.

If you do one thing...  get some cheese from   Yarra Valley Dairy . These handmade farmhouse cheeses pair all too well with the local drops. 

6.  Great Ocean Road

It’s a Victorian icon for a reason – this windy stretch of road snakes all along the south-west coast of the state, starting at Torquay (1.5 hours from the CBD) and finishing up just before Warrnambool. It’s about a four-hour drive without stops, but heed our warning: you’ll definitely want to stop. There’s just too much happening along the coast not to, especially for those who like nature and native Australian animals. 

It’s the beach, so fish and chips are a must. Get yours from   Salty Dog Fish and Chippery  in Lorne and remember to ask for lots of chicken salt. They even do a deep-fried Mars bar, if you’re game.

The   Aireys Pub  is where it’s at. This much-loved watering hole regularly hosts live music sets, and it’s a great place to kick back with a bevvy post-swim. The pub serves up a great parma as well.

The Great Ocean Road runs right past the cool, temperate rainforest of the  Great Otway National Park , meaning you’re close to some of the country’s best native flora and fauna. Get close to animals in their natural habitat – the   Koalas in the Wild Tour   is great for spotting out eucalyptus-loving friends.  If you can bear getting up early, watching the sunrise at the   Twelve Apostles   is well worth the effort.

If you want to stay the night, head deep into the Otways towards the   Great Ocean Ecolodge and Conservation Ecology Centre . This entirely solar-powered centre boasts comfortable country style-rooms and access to local wildlife – your next-door neighbours could be kangaroos, wallabies and (if you’re very lucky) adorable tiger quolls.

If you do one thing…    try surfing ! There are plenty of places along the coast to do it; we’d suggest Anglesea if you like your waves friendly but not frisky.

7.  Bellarine Peninsula

The Bellarine Peninsula has stood in the shadow of its eastern cousin for too long. Travellers are starting to realise that the rugged coastal region has just as much to offer as the Mornington, and it’s considerably less expensive. Whether you’re looking for wineries, beaches, luxury accommodation or great food, the Bellarine is ready to assist. 

W e’d suggest a meal at Merne , which has carved out its own chunk in the region’s epicurean scene. For something more casual, try the Queenscliff Brewhouse which, yes, is a brewery, but it’s also a pub, bistro, tasting room, whisky bar and hotel.

Take your pick from some of the peninsula’s best wineries including Jack Rabbit Vineyard , Curlewis Winery , Basils Farm and Scotchmans Hill . Switch up your winery visits with a trip to the Whiskery , a whisky and gin distillery. 

Animal lovers will love a visit to Jirrahlinga , a sanctuary for Australian native wildlife like kangaroos, echidnas, reptiles, dingoes and more. In the summertime, when the weather is fine, be sure to stop over at Adventure Park for some exhilarating water slide fun. If all else fails, you won’t be disappointed with a swim or surf at Ocean Grove beach. 

If you want to stay the night, you can go all out at the French chateau-looking Campbell Point House or whisk away your troubles at the seaside Lon Retreat . For a more boutique stay, try the Nest Point Lonsdale .

If you do one thing… cycle the coast. The relatively flat terrain of the Bellarine makes it ideal for a little two-wheeled tourism. The main track cyclists will want to try out is the Bellarine Rail trail – a 35-kilometre track that follows the old railway line and winds past many of the region’s attractions. You can even take your bike over on Port Phillip Ferries which travels daily between Melbourne and Portarlington on a schmick two-floor catamaran.

8.  Ballarat

If Sovereign Hill is all you know about Ballarat, it’s time for another visit to this historic gold rush town. From art galleries to winning dining destinations, this historic regional town is bursting with fun activities, especially during the colder months. The best part? VLine trains from Ballarat to Melbourne roughly run on the hour, and it takes less time than driving (about an hour and 20 minutes).   

You’ll need to keep your energy up during your Ballarat adventure, so we suggest hitting up   L’espresso   for a strong coffee and a hearty breakfast. If you need a pick me up, head to   Vegas and Rose   for cakes and macaroons.

Try   Hop Temple , a cosy food hall that serves a vast array of craft beers, ciders and wines, as well as OTT burgers, gluten-free salads and pizzas for one.  

Grab a coffee and walk down Sturt Street to the   Art Gallery of Ballarat . One of the oldest and biggest regional art galleries, the space boasts a huge collection of Australian art as well as running exhibitions throughout the year. A stand out is the   Ballarat International Foto Biennale , a month-long exhibition that features workshops, screenings, portfolio reviews, discussions and social events.

If you’re thinking of staying overnight, you can’t go past   the Provincial Ballarat . This 1909 building is heritage listed but was renovated in 2015, so it’s a happy mix of cosy old-world charm and stylish modern fixings.

If you do one thing...   you can't pass up a visit to   Sovereign Hill . This outdoor museum recreates what Ballarat was like ten years after the discovery of gold in 1851. Pan for gold nuggets, dress up in old-school garb and definitely take home some raspberry drops – they're really good.  

9.  High Country

There is so much more to do in the Victorian High Country than ski and snowboard (though of course, the region is justly famous for its snowfields), and it's a perfect destination for a week or long weekend any time of year. Roughly three hours drive from Melbourne, the High Country region has award-winning craft beer, wine, spirits and produce, a rich history to explore and hundreds of kilometres of breathtaking scenery to walk, cycle or even paddle through.

There are no shortage of places to dine in this beautiful part of the state. Ox and Hound Bistro in Beechworth is a great smart casual option, or level up to Provenance for a real fine dining experience. Bright Brewery and Tomahawks (also in Bright) are consistently nominated as must-dos by regular visitors and residents alike. Get the chargrilled broccoli at Tomahawks – you will not regret it. 

The High Country is home to a surprising number of craft breweries. If you're partial to a pint, check out Bridge Road Brewers in Beechworth, or Bright Brewery in Bright. You can follow the High Country Brewery Trail to make a day of it – it's a good way to find some smaller, local makers.

It would truly be rude not to set aside a portion of your visit to traverse the stunning winery landscapes of the High Country. Brown Brothers , Campbells , Boynton's and Ringer Reef are some of the must-sees – but that's truly only scratching the surface. 

There's also a tonne of fun historical stuff to see and do in the region. Check out the Old Beechworth Gaol tour and learn about Ned Kelly, or explore the historic precinct for enthralling (and sometimes gross) facts about the town's gold rush era.

Our Place at Bright is made up of four houses that cater from two to 28 guests. The houses are light and airy and in a really central location – perfect for a weekend getaway where you don't want to spend too much time in the car. Or for a Beechworth alternative, try the 1860 Luxury Accommodation cabin. Built in 1860, the venue has been lovingly restored with period details that turn the cabin into a gorgeous retreat not shy on modern comforts.

If you do one thing...  

Eat and drink. The produce in the High Country is truly second to none – time spent exploring breweries, distilleries, wineries and restaurants is time well spent. 

Turn it into an overnighter

The best victorian campsites near melbourne.

There are plenty of places a stone's throw from the CBD where you can lawfully pitch a tent – take a look at the best here.

Explore something closer to home

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If you've seen everything there is to see at the Royal Botanic Gardens, it might be time to stop and smell the flowers at these unsung gardens around Melbourne.

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