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Top 15 Family-Friendly Activities in Melbourne for Kids
Planning a family trip to Melbourne or simply looking for fresh ideas to keep the kids entertained? Melbourne, known as one of the world’s most liveable cities, offers a wide variety of family-friendly attractions, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. Whether you are a local family or visiting on holiday, you will find engaging activities for children of all ages — from toddlers to teens.
Here’s our ultimate guide to the Top 15 Things to Do with Kids in Melbourne, featuring iconic tourist spots, free experiences, indoor attractions for rainy days, and outdoor adventures that will keep the whole family smiling.
Top 15 Family-Friendly Activities in Melbourne for Kids – TABLE OF CONTENTS
• Melbourne Zoo
• Melbourne Museum
• National Gallery of Victoria
• ACMI
• SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
• Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria
• Melbourne Street Art
• Melbourne Skydeck
• Puffing Billy Railway
• Fed Square
• Luna Park Melbourne
• Shrine of Remembrance
• Collingwood Children’s Farm
• iFLY Indoor Skydiving Melbourne
• ArtVo
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1. Melbourne Zoo – Wildlife Adventure for Families
Just 10 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD or a short train ride from Flinders Street Station, Melbourne Zoo offers an unforgettable wildlife experience with over 300 animal species from around the world. Wander through themed habitats like Lion Gorge, where big cats like the Sumatran Tiger and Snow Leopard roam; Trail of the Elephants, home to the zoo’s Asian Elephant herd; and Wild Sea, featuring penguins and seals. Younger kids will love the Butterfly House and Keeper Kids, an indoor play space where they can dress up and learn what it’s like to care for animals.
Tip: Book online to skip the queues and check the daily Keeper Talk schedule to catch animal feeding times and presentations.
Location: Melbourne Zoo, Elliott Ave., Melbourne
2. Melbourne Museum – Discover Science, Nature & Culture
Families can discover everything from towering dinosaur skeletons to intricate insect displays at Melbourne Museum. Little ones will love the interactive play-based learning in the Pauline Gandel Children’s Gallery, designed especially for kids aged 0–5. For older children and teens, the Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre offers an immersive look at Indigenous culture and storytelling, while the Science and Life Gallery showcases natural wonders like fossils, bugs, and minerals. Finish your visit with a larger-than-life experience at IMAX Melbourne, where family-friendly 3D documentaries bring science and nature to the big screen.
Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and head straight to the Children’s Gallery, as it can fill up fast. Don’t forget to check the museum’s website for current temporary exhibitions and school holiday programs.
Location: 11 Nicholson Street, Melbourne
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3. National Gallery of Victoria – Art Fun for Kids
The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) is housed within two magnificent buildings: NGV International and NGV Australia. They both offer a diverse range of international and local artists, exhibitions, programs, and events spanning contemporary art, major historic showcases, fashion, design, and more. Be sure to visit the NGV Kids Gallery, which features FREE kid’s exhibitions throughout the year.
Tip: Check ahead for special kids’ exhibitions – they often include sensory-friendly sessions.
Location: 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne
4. ACMI – Explore Screen Culture
Perfect for curious young minds, ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image) invites families to explore the world of film, television, animation, and video games. The free exhibition The Story of the Moving Image is packed with interactive displays, hands-on activities, and nostalgic moments for parents too. Kids can create their own flip books, experiment with green screen effects, and step into scenes from their favourite shows and games.
Tip: Don’t miss the Games Lab section where kids can try out classic and modern video games — it’s a hit with all ages.
Location: Fed Square, Melbourne
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5. SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium – Explore Marine Worlds
Families can journey through vibrant coral reefs, come face-to-face with a giant saltwater crocodile, and explore the icy habitats of King and Gentoo penguins. One of the highlights for kids is meeting Pesto, the adorable King Penguin chick born at SEA LIFE Melbourne. The newly renovated Night on the Reef transforms the Oceanarium into a glowing, bioluminescent underwater wonderland.
Tip: Plan your visit around feeding times to watch sharks, rays, and penguins in action. Book online to save on entry and skip the queues. Don’t miss the daily talks to learn more about marine conservation and life behind the scenes.
Location: corner of King and Flinders Street, Melbourne
6. Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria – Outdoor Fun & Nature Play
The Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, Melbourne Gardens is a short walk from the CBD. The gardens have a collection of over 8,500 plant species from around the world, including camellias, rainforest flora, and succulents. Be sure to visit the Ian Potter Foundation Children’s Garden, educational activities in the Arid Garden, and the whimsical Fallen White Oak seating area.
Tip: The Explorer mini-bus is free for kids during the school holidays.
Location: Birdwood Avenue, Melbourne
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8. Melbourne Skydeck – Panoramic Views
For those unafraid of heights, Melbourne Skydeck offers a thrilling experience high above the city! Melbourne Skydeck provides an immersive and educational adventure suitable for all ages, boasting the Southern Hemisphere’s highest observation deck, and cutting-edge virtual and augmented reality technology.
Tip: Time your visit for sunset to see the city light up.
Location: Riverside Quay, Southbank, Melbourne
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9. Puffing Billy Railway – Steam Train Fun
If you are looking for an adventure in the Dandenong Ranges, Puffing Billy Railway, Australia’s beloved steam train is just an hour east of Melbourne. Families can experience the timeless allure of steam train travel as you traverse the original mountain track between Belgrave and Gembrook, winding through rolling hills, valleys, and forests.
Tip: Wear comfy clothes and bring snacks – food options are limited on the line.
Location: 1 Old Monbulk Road, Belgrave, Melbourne
10. Fed Square – Culture & Events Hub in the CBD
Fed Square is home to ACMI, NGV Australia, and Koorie Heritage Trust, and hosts a jam-packed calendar of free family events like The Little Food Festival, Candlelight Concerts, and Christmas Square.
Location: corner of Swanston Street & Flinders Street, Melbourne
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11. Luna Park Melbourne – Iconic Amusement Park
Luna Park has been a favourite spot for Melbourne families for over a century. The park offers a mix of heritage attractions and new thrill rides. Its most famous ride, the Roller Coaster – The Great Scenic Railway, is the world’s oldest continuously operating wooden roller coaster, providing heart-stopping dips and stunning views of Port Phillip Bay. Throughout the year, Luna Park hosts numerous family-friendly events such as Easter Egg Hunts and Halloween celebrations.
Tip: Go mid-week to avoid long queues, and don’t miss the iconic Scenic Railway.
Location: 18 Lower Esplanade, St Kilda
12. Shrine of Remembrance – Interactive History Walks
The Shrine of Remembrance is the Victorian state memorial honouring Australians who served in war and peacekeeping missions. In its commitment to remembrance and education, the Shrine offers Shrine Kids – Explorer Kits available for borrowing from the Visitor Centre. These kits include four engaging activity cards that provide children with an immersive and educational experience during their visit.
Tip: Bring hats and water – the outdoor areas have limited shade.
Location: Birdwood Avenue, Melbourne
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13. Collingwood Children’s Farm – Feed, Pat & Explore
Collingwood Children’s Farm is a lovely inner-city farm to visit with kids. For over 40 years, it has been a key part of the urban landscape through education and community programs. Families can wander around the farm interact with the animals and enjoy a picnic. The farm also hosts family-friendly events like the Winter Solstice Bonfire and NAIDOC Day celebrations. All entry fees support the farm’s initiatives.
Tip: Arrive early to take part in animal feeding (usually 10 – 10:30 am).
Location: 18 St Heliers Street, Melbourne
14. iFly Melbourne – Big Thrill for Brave Kids
Situated just 16km north of Melbourne CBD at Essendon Fields, iFLY Indoor Skydiving Melbourne offers the thrill of soaring like a bird in the city’s first 14ft diameter iFLY wind tunnel. Whether flying solo or with the family, iFLY ensures a safe and exhilarating experience for all ages. Flyers as young as 3 are welcome, with those under 17 requiring a parent or guardian’s waiver signature.
Tip: Book a weekday session for lower prices and shorter wait times.
Location: 2 Burns Street, Essendon Fields, Melbourne
15. ArtVo: 3D Immersive Art Gallery
Australia’s first immersive ‘trick-art’ gallery, ArtVo is located at The District. This self-guided experience offers endless photo opportunities and unbelievable illusions suitable for all ages and group sizes. Spanning over 1400 square meters with over 80 new artworks, visitors can interact with wild animals, conquer rocky crevasses, and more. Unlike traditional museums, ArtVo encourages patrons to become part of the art by striking poses for photos, with friendly staff on hand to assist and ensure a memorable visit.
Tip: Staff are happy to help you line up the perfect photo.
Location: 26 Star Cres, Level 1, The District, Docklands
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Tips for Families Visiting Melbourne:
- Free Tram Zone: Melbourne’s CBD trams are free — ideal for getting to museums, galleries, and parks without spending extra.
- Weather Ready: Melbourne weather can change quickly. Pack layers and a rain jacket just in case.
- Public Toilets & Parent Rooms: Use the National Public Toilet Map to plan ahead for baby change facilities and accessible toilets.
- Myki for Families: Kids under 5 travel free on public transport. For older kids, grab a Child Myki card at stations.
- School Holiday Programs: Many venues like NGV, ACMI, and Fed Square run free or low-cost school holiday workshops — check their websites closer to the date.
This guide is based on real-life experiences exploring Melbourne with kids. Save it for your next family adventure or share it with friends planning a trip.
Want more ideas? Follow Kiddiehood on Instagram or Facebook for school holiday updates, new playgrounds and the best kid-friendly events in Melbourne.
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We try our best to provide accurate information on kid-friendly events around Victoria but do recommend parents check details directly to confirm dates, times, prices as some details may be subject to change.
