When it comes to creating memories that will last a lifetime, you can’t beat a Melbourne family holiday!

You probably already know that Melbourne is a vibrant city renowned for its world-class coffee, sporting, artistic and culinary experiences. But did you know it is also a fantastic destination for families looking to create lasting memories with their children?

Whether you want to experience the Royal Botanic Gardens, tour the iconic MCG or splash around on Brighton Beach, there are plenty of things for families to do in Melbourne to keep you entertained and engaged.

To help you plan out all your options, we’ve compiled a list of 15 fun, family-friendly sites and attractions to enjoy in Melbourne with kids. It doesn’t matter if you are a first-time visitor from overseas or regularly pop into The Settlement from country Victoria; these exciting options will make your family vacation in Melbourne one to remember.

Best Time to Visit Melbourne

Putting aside your children’s school commitments, the best time to visit Melbourne with kids largely depends on your family’s preferences and tolerance for weather conditions.

However, generally speaking, the most favourable time to take a family trip to Melbourne is during the spring and autumn months – which fall between September and November and March and May, respectively.

During these seasons, the weather in Melbourne is quite agreeable, generally staying within a couple of degrees on either side of 20°C. You may need a jumper at night but should be fine in a T-shirt during the day. 

These temperatures make sightseeing and outdoor leisurely pursuits much more comfortable for children. It is also a lovely time of year to see the colours of nature – whether that be blooming gardens or stunning autumn foliage.

In Australia, school holidays typically occur in late December to early February and late June to mid-July. These periods are ideal for families as there are numerous kids’ activities in Melbourne at this time. However, remember that these peak holiday seasons can be more crowded, and accommodations will be pricier, so booking in advance is essential.

Subsequently, if you’re looking for a quieter and budget-friendly experience, consider a Melbourne family holiday in the winter months of June to August. Although the weather will be cold, the city’s attractions and family-friendly offerings are available year-round, and the queues will also be much fewer.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Melbourne with kids is a personal choice. But whenever you decide to go, you will surely be in for a fantastic time.

Getting Around in Melbourne

If you are concerned about how you will navigate Melbourne with children, don’t be. The city has an extensive and efficient public transport network that makes visiting its various suburbs and attractions very straightforward. This public transport system includes trams, buses, and trains, all managed by Public Transport Victoria (PTV).

The Myki card is your ticket to accessing these services, which are not only affordable but also family-friendly. When travelling with children, you can obtain a discounted child Myki card for kids aged 4 to 16. (Children under four years old travel for free.)

In terms of getting around Melbourne, while the trains and buses will take you to pretty much anywhere in the city and surrounding suburbs, trams are the most fun mode of transportation for kids as they offer a unique view of the city from their large windows.

Public transport is safe, clean and well-connected, making it easy to reach popular family attractions, museums, parks, and shopping districts. Furthermore, trams in the CBD are FREE, making it the easiest way to get around in the city centre.

The other great thing about Melbourne is that its central areas, especially the CBD, are pedestrian-friendly. Many of the city’s key attractions, such as Federation Square, the Melbourne Aquarium and the Royal Botanic Gardens, are within walking distance of each other. Walking can be a great way to explore at a leisurely pace with children in tow, allowing you to stumble upon charming laneways, street art and hidden gems.

Alternatively, if your family enjoys cycling, Melbourne offers an expanding network of bike lanes and bike-sharing services. You can rent bicycles through Melbourne Bike Share, and this can be a fun, eco-friendly way to explore the city, particularly for families with older children who can ride independently.

While public transport is efficient, some families prefer the flexibility and convenience of renting a car, especially if they plan to explore areas outside of the city limits. Most car rental companies are available at Melbourne Airport and throughout the city.

Just remember that Melbourne’s traffic can be busy, and parking in the city centre can be expensive and challenging. If you rent a car, consider whether you’ll need it for your entire stay or just for specific day trips. Check car hire options here (Southern Cross train station can make a good alternative city pick up point rather than the airport).

If you like the idea of driving around the city but prefer not to do so yourself, rideshare services like Uber and Ola are readily available in Melbourne. They can be a convenient option to reach a specific destination quickly.

Overall, your choice of transportation depends on your family’s preferences and the places you plan to visit. But rest assured that you can easily explore Melbourne while travelling with children.

Where to Stay in Melbourne with Kids

When choosing where to stay on your Melbourne family holiday, you’ll want to consider a balance between proximity to family-friendly attractions, ease of transportation, and accommodations that cater to the needs of families. Thankfully, Melbourne has many suitable options you can pick from.

One of the best is Southbank, an ideal suburb for families due to its proximity to many popular attractions, including the Melbourne Aquarium and Crown Entertainment Complex. 

You’ll be able to enjoy picturesque views of the Yarra River and easy access to public transport if you decide to stay here. Especially at the Crown Towers Melbourne – a luxurious, family-friendly hotel in Southbank, offering spacious rooms and suites, a heated indoor pool, a cinema complex and a kids’ playroom.

Another good option is the Docklands. This suburb is located near the CBD and offers modern waterfront accommodations and access to attractions like the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel and the Docklands Park. 

If you want to self-cater during your time in the city, the Docklands Private Collection offers family-friendly serviced apartments. They come with multiple bedrooms, a fully-equipped kitchen and access to communal amenities such as a gym and swimming pool.

If you prefer to stay by the beach, St Kilda is a delightful coastal suburb, perfect for families looking for a relaxed atmosphere. St Kilda Beach and Luna Park are the primary draws here. At the same time, the Novotel Melbourne St Kilda is an excellent, family-friendly choice of accommodation. The hotel features comfortable rooms, a heated outdoor pool and easy access to the beach and nearby trams.

Fitzroy and Collingwood are also worth considering if you want to stay in a more eclectic and artsy neighbourhood. They offer a range of boutique hotels and Airbnb accommodations, a good selection of shops and family-friendly eateries. A very good place to stay here is at the Adelphi Hotel in the heart of Fitzroy. It is known for its funky, candy-coloured interiors and terrific outdoor rooftop pool.

Several caravan parks and camping options are available for those travelling with a caravan or campervan, starting from about a 20-minute drive out of the city. They include the following:

BIG4 Melbourne Holiday Park: Located in Coburg, this holiday park provides caravan sites, cabins and amenities like a heated pool, mini-golf and a jumping pillow.

Discovery Parks – Melbourne: Situated in Braybrook, this park offers a variety of accommodation options, including powered caravan sites and cabins. It features a pool, BBQ area and a games room.

Crystal Brook Tourist Park: Located in Doncaster, this venue provides a peaceful setting for caravanners with powered sites and excellent facilities, including a heated pool, spa and tennis courts.

As you can see, Melbourne offers a range of accommodation options and budgets. So, whether you prefer the convenience of the city or the charm of the suburbs, you are sure to find something suitable for your needs on your family trip to Melbourne.

15 Best Things to Do in Melbourne For Families

You are spoilt for choice when it comes to family things to do in Melbourne as the city offers a wide range of activities and attractions to keep everyone entertained. Here are 15 options you should add to your itinerary:

1. Visit Melbourne Zoo

If your family loves animals, the Melbourne Zoo is a captivating destination.

Situated in Parkville, it provides an engaging experience with animal encounters, educational exhibits, and daily shows. Overall, more than 300 animal species reside at the zoo. Children can get up close to kangaroos, koalas and lions, as well as many other species.

2. Polly Woodside Tall Ship & Museum

Located on the South Wharf, the Polly Woodside tall ship is one of the most underrated things for families to do in Melbourne. A beautifully restored 19th-century tall ship built in Belfast to transport coal and wheat between the UK and South America, you can explore the ship’s decks and cabins on a guided tour.

The museum also offers interactive exhibits and engaging displays about Australia’s maritime heritage. If you can, visit there on the first Sunday of each month – or Pirate Day. At this time, kids can enjoy many pirate-themed activities like hunting for treasure, swabbing the deck and various games.

3. Enjoy Scienceworks

This interactive science museum in Spotswood is perfect for inquisitive young minds.

It features hands-on exhibits, planetarium shows and immersive experiences that make learning about science and technology fun.

Again, it’s another excellent option to keep up your sleeve for a rainy or very hot day.

4. Visit the National Sports Museum

If your kids love sports, a trip to the National Sports Museum is an absolute must!

Situated at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), this engaging museum celebrates Australia’s rich sporting history through a captivating collection of memorabilia, interactive exhibits, and immersive displays. From exploring the MCG itself to testing your skills in various sports, the museum will captivate any sports lover in your family.

Overall, it’s a fantastic place to immerse yourself in Australia’s sporting heritage and dream of becoming your country’s next superstar.

5. Play at St Kilda Adventure Playground

Should the kids need to run around and let off some steam, there is no better place to go in Melbourne than the St Kilda Adventure Playground.

A veritable paradise for kids,  this whimsical playground boasts towering slides, flying foxes and sprawling play structures that will entertain for hours. 

Children can let their imaginations run wild while exploring its creative and adventurous spaces. With ample picnic areas and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s an ideal spot for families to spend a day.

6. Discover the Melbourne Museum

The Melbourne Museum – not far from Carlton Gardens – is another good place to visit with kids. It offers diverse exhibits, ranging from cultural history and ancient artefacts to natural sciences and immersive displays.

This museum provides an attractive option for families because it features a dedicated children’s gallery, interactive installations and a massive IMAX theatre. So there is plenty for your little ones to see and do here.

7. Experience the Royal Botanic Gardens

If you fancy taking a break from the frenzy of sightseeing, the Royal Botanic Gardens is a good place to visit.

Families can explore lush greenery, serene lakes and a diverse collection of plants. They can also discover native wildlife, enjoy picnics, or simply take in the scenic beauty of this iconic garden – making it a perfect family outing.

8. Take a Ride on Puffing Billy

One of the best things to do with kids during your Melbourne family holiday is to take a ride on the Puffing Billy. This historic steam train, located just outside Melbourne in the Dandenong Ranges, winds its way through lush forests and over bridges.

Kids will love the open-air carriages where they can dangle their legs and enjoy the scenic ride. The train runs daily during school holidays, other times of the year Friday to Sunday.

9. Explore SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium

One of the most popular family things to do in Melbourne is to visit the SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium. It offers an immersive experience for families with various marine life, including sharks, rays and brilliantly coloured fish.

Whilst there, you can walk through underwater tunnels surrounded by marine creatures and learn about ocean conservation efforts. With interactive exhibits, daily presentations, and a touch pool for hands-on encounters, it’s both an educational and entertaining attraction for all ages.

10. Explore the Melbourne Museum of Art and Science

Centrally situated in Federation Square, this museum offers a fascinating range of art and science exhibits. It features a regular programme of kid-friendly exhibitions and interactive displays the whole family should enjoy.

11. Go to Luna Park

St Kilda’s Luna Park is a historic amusement park that has been thrilling families for generations.

Offering classic rides, carnival games, delicious treats and a sense of nostalgia, it’s a must-visit destination in Melbourne for good old family fun.

12. Stroll Along Brighton Beach

If you fancy some time down on the sand, Brighton Beach is one of the best places to go. 

It will take about half an hour to get there from the Melbourne CBD, but once you are there, you can sunbathe on golden sand, build sandcastles or collect seashells. You’ll also be able to check out and photograph the iconic and colourful beach boxes, which create a picturesque backdrop for a walk or swim in the refreshing waters of Port Phillip Bay.

13. Visit the Collingwood Children’s Farm

Located in Abbotsford, this working farm offers an opportunity for kids to get up close and personal with farm animals like cows, goats and chickens. They can also enjoy pony rides and other farm-related activities.

14. Take a Trip to Healesville Sanctuary

Although it is located about an hour’s drive from Melbourne, it is worth visiting this excellent wildlife sanctuary if you have never seen native Australian animals – including kangaroos, wallabies, wombats and platypuses – in their natural habitat before.

15. LEGOLAND Discovery Centre

Want to score some major brownie points with your children? Then, take them to Legoland. Undoubtedly one of the best kids activities in Melbourne, the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre is an indoor playground of LEGO-themed attractions in the Chadstone Shopping Centre.

Your kids will love the interactive rides, LEGO building zones and 4D cinema. There is even a MINILAND featuring iconic Melbourne landmarks made entirely from LEGO bricks.

Overall, it’s a must-visit destination for LEGO lovers and a terrific place to go on a rainy day or when the sun is scorching.

More Tips For Visiting Melbourne

• Melbourne is known as the city of four seasons in one day! On any day trip around town, we’d pack sunscreen to raincoats, no matter the time of year.

• Parking in the CBD is very expensive and may not be included in your accommodation cost; we’d recommend only hiring a car for day trips or when you’re ready to head out of town.

• Drivers should familiarise themselves with hook turns! The only city in Australia where you’ll find the need for this unique traffic maneuver due to the tram lines that dominate the city.

Don’t miss our complete collection of Aussie city guides for families:

ADELAIDE | BRISBANE | CAIRNS | CANBERRA | DARWIN | GOLD COAST | MELBOURNE | PERTH | SYDNEY

Continuing Your Aussie Road Trip From Melbourne

Given Melbourne’s location in the south eastern corner of Australia, it makes an exception launch pad to a driving holiday elsewhere in the country. Why not look up next:

• Our selection of the best journeys to make by car from Melbourne – 8 different Victorian road trips to try

• How to take on the iconic Great Ocean Road from Melbourne with our 2-day Great Ocean Road Itinerary

Bairnsdale

For most tourists, Bairnsdale is the first or last place you’ll visit on the Great Alpine Road drive in Victoria.

This charming town is steeped in history and boasts a stunning collection of heritage-listed buildings that offer a glimpse into its prosperous past. The picturesque Mitchell River flows through the town, providing opportunities for gentle walks, fishing along its banks and scenic picnics in the adjacent parks – which also have good playground facilities for children to run around.

Meanwhile, Bairnsdale’s tranquil ambience and tree-lined streets create an inviting atmosphere for exploration, making it a pleasant place to explore boutique shops, quaint cafes, fascinating cultural centres and art galleries.

Lakes Entrance

Where the Gippsland Lakes system and the Southern Ocean meet, Lakes Entrance is a picturesque seaside town known for its pristine lakes, meandering rivers and expansive beaches. So if you enjoy spending time on the water or are travelling with children, it’s worth visiting here.

The Lakes Entrance Coastal Reserve offers many birdwatching, fishing, sailing and kayaking opportunities. Congruently, the town’s iconic footbridge affords panoramic views of the azure waters where the Gippsland Lakes blend into the ocean – making it a delightful spot for a leisurely stroll.

As you might expect, Lakes Entrance is an excellent place to enjoy fresh seafood and local cuisine, given its proximity to the waterway. Its waterfront precinct boasts several restaurants and cafes, offering delectable dishes that feature the region’s abundant seafood harvest.

If you time your visit with the annual Lakes Entrance Fishing Festival in March, you’ll also get a taste of the town’s community feel and maritime culture. 

Omeo

A visit to Omeo takes you on a captivating journey to Australia’s gold rush era.

Steeped in history and surrounded by stunning alpine landscapes, the town’s well-preserved buildings, including the grand Oriental Claims Historic Area, provide a glimpse into the region’s golden heritage. 

Visitors can explore the Oriental Claims Interpretation Centre to delve deeper into the gold rush history and learn about the lives of those who once sought their fortunes in this rugged terrain.

Aside from its historical allure, Omeo offers plenty of outdoor adventures, with the nearby Snowy River being a haven for anglers, hikers, campers and nature lovers to explore its pristine beauty. In addition, scenic drives lead to lookout points with panoramic vistas of the high country, providing ample opportunities for sightseeing and photography.

Mount Hotham

Nestled in the heart of Victoria’s breathtaking High Country, Mount Hotham is renowned for its world-class skiing and snowboarding during the winter months, attracting visitors from all over Australia. However, its charm extends far beyond the snowy season.

In summer, the alpine landscape transforms into a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers. Miles of pristine trails wind through lush forests and meadows, offering opportunities for exploration and adventure. A panoramic vista of rugged peaks and deep valleys awaits at its summit, making it an ideal spot for hikers and photographers.

Families visiting Mount Hotham will find an array of kid-friendly activities, from snow-play areas with toboggan runs in winter to adventure parks with trampolines and ziplines in summer. The alpine village also offers a charming atmosphere with restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it a delightful place to unwind after a day of fun and exploration.

Bright

The quaint town of Bright is a picturesque destination that captivates visitors with its vibrant natural beauty.

Known for its breathtaking autumn foliage, Bright transforms into a mesmerising kaleidoscope of fiery reds and golden hues during this season – which aptly gives the town its name.

Bright is also a popular destination in summer when tourists and locals take a refreshing dip in the Ovens River or try canoeing, fishing or tubing along its flowing waters. At the same time, cyclists of all levels can explore the exhilarating trails at the nearby Mystic Mountain Bike Park.

Both spring and summer bring an explosion of colourful blooms to the many gardens and parks, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers.

Around Victoria, the town is also known as a foodie hotspot, boasting a vibrant dining scene and an excellent range of craft beers and fine wines. Bright also serves as a gateway to the Alpine National Park, where hiking, camping, and wildlife watching are popular activities.

Dinner Plain

Dinner Plain is a serene alpine village tucked away in the heart of the Victorian Alps that is the perfect destination for those seeking peace and natural beauty. 

Although it’s a destination you can visit all year round, the village is a snow-covered wonderland during the winter that invites visitors to partake in various activities, including cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. 

The village square, adorned with charming alpine architecture, features an excellent selection of boutique shops, upscale cafes and restaurants where you can savour warm beverages and delicious meals after a day of outdoor adventures.

As the snow melts, Dinner Plain unveils a different kind of beauty. Summer brings lush greenery, wildflowers, and a multitude of hiking and mountain biking trails that crisscross the surrounding alpine landscape. Families can enjoy picnics, explore the high country, or enjoy a digital detox within the crisp mountain air. 

Wangaratta

If you start driving the Great Alpine Road from Bairnsdale, your final port of call will likely be Wangaratta.

This captivating town is famed for its stunning parklands, including the magnificent King George V Gardens, where visitors can marvel at the colourful floral displays and tranquil water features.

The town centre exudes a friendly and welcoming ambience, with a vibrant café scene, boutique shops and local markets where you can enjoy artisanal products and fresh regional produce.

Wangaratta is also a gateway to the surrounding natural wonders of the nearby Warby-Ovens National Park, which offers hiking trails perfect for photography, wildlife, and birdwatching. Additionally, it provides excellent access to the Ovens and King Rivers, popular with anglers and kayakers.

Although a little further afield, Wangaratta provides a terrific base to explore the King Valley or the Rutherglen wine regions, where you can sample world-class wines and enjoy cellar-door experiences. The town is also known for its annual festivals and events, including the renowned Wangaratta Jazz and Blues Festival, which draws music lovers from across the country to its soulful rhythms.

Essential Tips When Driving the Great Alpine Road

• Carry essential items with you like a first-aid kit, maps, a GPS device, a flashlight and a fully charged mobile phone. Having a physical map in case of GPS signal loss is also a good idea.
• The section between Omeo and Harrietville is not considered suitable for towing caravans.
• If you start your road trip in Victoria in winter, hiring an SUV or 4WD is worthwhile. Snow chains are compulsory during the VicRoads declared snow season; (these can be hired one-way at either end of the drive from companies such as Hoys Skis, Rays Ski Shop or Ski Plus; pre-booking during weekends of ski season highly advisable)
• Check out the SnowSafe website for driving safety tips and tips for how to install your snow chains for yourself.
• See more winter driving safety tips if you’ll be tackling this journey in the colder months June to August.

Melbourne, often hailed as the cultural capital of Australia, is a city bursting with life, art, and creativity. But did you know that just beyond its boundaries lies a world of adventure waiting for you to explore?

In this article, we’ll guide you to some of the most captivating and diverse places to visit from Melbourne by car. From breathtaking coastal vistas and enchanting forests to charming towns and wildlife encounters, our list promises something for every kind of tourist.

So, whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or more extended road trips from Melbourne, plenty of adventures are just waiting for you.

Hiring a Car in Melbourne

It is pretty hard to embark on any of the best road trips from Melbourne if you don’t have access to a car. Thankfully, plenty of car hire companies are available throughout the city.

Renting a car in Melbourne gives you the freedom and flexibility to go where you want when you want. The type of vehicle you require will depend on what kind of Melbourne road trips you want to partake in. Typically, SUVs are more suitable for off-roading adventures and visits to national parks, while a compact car might be more practical and affordable if you plan to head to country towns.

Melbourne’s car rental services have covered you, whichever vehicle you choose. So, you can hit the road with the promise of exciting destinations ahead, in comfort and at your own pace.

Interesting Places to Visit from Melbourne

Hiring a car for your Melbourne day trips is one thing. But knowing where to go is another thing entirely.

Within a few hours’ drive of the city are a host of exciting, interesting, and beautiful places you can visit. Here are 8 destinations you should consider visiting.

Mornington Peninsula (M1 and Mornington Peninsula Fwy/Peninsula Link/M11) 

• Distance: 76 km 
• Driving Time: 1 hour

Located just an hour down the road towards the coast, the Mornington Peninsula is one of the best places near Melbourne to visit on a day trip. Stretching into the azure waters of Port Phillip Bay, it offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, coastal charm, and cultural experiences, making it one of the best Victoria road trips you can do.