A Guide to Fun for All Ages
Melbourne is a playground for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re entertaining toddlers, tweens or teens, the city offers a wide range of family-friendly attractions, from hands-on museums to lush parks and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Here’s your guide to the best activities in Melbourne for families with children all guaranteed to create lasting memories.
1. Visit Melbourne Zoo
Just a short tram ride from the city centre, Melbourne Zoo is home to over 320 species from around the world. Kids will love the interactive keeper talks, Butterfly House, and Trail of the Elephants. There’s also a dedicated children’s zoo where they can get up close to goats, sheep and reptiles.
Best for: Ages 2–12
Tip: Bring a picnic or visit one of the family cafés inside
2. Explore Scienceworks
Located in Spotswood, Scienceworks is a wonderland of interactive exhibits, experiments and hands-on fun. From testing your reflexes in the Sportsworks zone to exploring space in the Planetarium, it’s ideal for curious minds of all ages.
Best for: Ages 5–14
Tip: Book Planetarium shows early on weekends
3. Ride the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel (Currently Inactive – Check Updates)
While currently not operating (as of early 2025), this giant observation wheel has historically offered spectacular city views and themed cabins. Keep an eye on updates as it may relaunch under a new experience.
4. Get Lost at LEGOLAND Discovery Centre
Located at Chadstone Shopping Centre, LEGOLAND offers themed rides, a 4D cinema, a Melbourne city mini-build, and endless building zones. Great for indoor fun and escaping bad weather.
Best for: Ages 3–10
Tip: Combine with a parent-friendly coffee stop at Chadstone
5. See the Penguins at SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
From Antarctic penguins to giant sharks and crocodiles, the aquarium delivers an immersive underwater experience in the heart of the city. Walk through a glass tunnel with stingrays and sharks swimming above you!
Best for: All ages
Tip: Book online to skip queues and save
6. Run Wild at the Royal Botanic Gardens & Children’s Garden
The Ian Potter Foundation Children’s Garden is a dedicated space for young kids to explore nature safely with bamboo forests, water features and climbing zones. It’s a peaceful escape that parents love too.
Best for: Ages 1–8
Tip: Pack towels in summer the water play areas are popular!
7. Jump, Climb and Bounce at an Indoor Play Centre
From Funtopia to Bounce Inc. and Ninja Parc, Melbourne has a growing number of adventure centres for energetic kids. Think climbing walls, trampolines, obstacle courses and high ropes indoors and year-round.
Best for: Ages 5–15
Tip: Weekdays are quieter for toddlers
8. Take a Ride on Puffing Billy
This iconic steam train through the Dandenong Ranges is a hit with every generation. Ride with your legs hanging out the carriage, wave at walkers, and enjoy forest views from Belgrave to Lakeside.
Best for: All ages
Tip: Book ahead it often sells out during school holidays
9. Enjoy a Beach Day in St Kilda
Build sandcastles, play on the beachside playgrounds, and grab an ice cream along Acland Street. If you stay until dusk, head to the pier to spot the colony of Little Penguins that call the breakwater home.
Best for: All ages
Tip: Arrive early on warm days parking fills quickly
10. Catch a Family Show or Festival
Melbourne hosts a variety of family-focused events throughout the year, from Moomba to the Melbourne International Comedy Festival’s kid-friendly shows. Keep an eye on Fed Square and Arts Centre programming too.
Best for: Varies by event
Tip: Follow major venues on social media for ticket releases
Final Word
Melbourne makes it easy for families to play, learn and explore together. With so many indoor and outdoor options, you’ll always have something new to try whether it’s a sunny Saturday or a rainy Tuesday.
