Family-friendly things to do in Melbourne
If you’re planning a family road trip in a campervan to explore Australia, then Melbourne is a must-add to your list.
Image: Visit Victoria
Why you should put Melbourne on your road trip itinerary
If you're planning a family road trip in a campervan hire, then we highly recommend adding Melbourne to your travel list! This vibrant city offers a plethora of things to do for the whole family, making it a great bucket list for family travel.
There are so many things to do in Melbourne city and in the areas around the city. From Melbourne attractions and cultural experiences, to natural wonders and culinary experiences, we’re sure the whole family will love visiting here.
To make the most of your Melbourne adventure, exploring in an Apollo campervan is a must. These campervans are equipped with all the essential amenities, offering comfort and convenience as you hit the road. You can enjoy the freedom of traveling at your own pace, finding hidden gems in the breathtaking Australian landscapes, and make life-long memories with the family.
The best 10 things to do in Melbourne with kids
Get a closer look at the Sea Life
The first family-friendly thing to do in Melbourne to grace our list is the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium, a fascinating underwater wonderland right in the heart of Melbourne.
This captivating aquarium is a must-visit for everyone, offering a delightful experience for visitors of all ages. The aquarium is home to a diverse range of marine creatures, showcasing mesmerising underwater ecosystems from around the world. From playful penguins to graceful rays, from colourful coral reefs to eerie sea dragons, the whole family will be enthralled by the beauty and diversity of marine life on display. Kids and adults alike can participate in interactive exhibits, such as touching starfish and other marine critters. The aquarium also offers exciting daily shows and feeding sessions where you can learn more about these incredible animals and their habitats.
For families, it's an ideal outing, as children can be entertained while learning about marine conservation and the importance of protecting our oceans. It's both educational and entertaining, making it a perfect destination for a day of family fun!
Image: Visit Victoria
Get your adrenaline going at Luna Park
Luna Park is another great family-friendly place to add to your family vacation travel itinerary. Luna Park is a vibrant amusement park located in the heart of the city, offering an electrifying experience for all ages.
As you step through the iconic entrance, you'll be transported to a world of laughter and thrills. There's a plethora of activities to keep your adrenaline pumping. Start with classic rides like the roller coasters that send your heart racing and stomach dropping. For a dose of nostalgia, hop on the charming carousel or take a spin on the Ferris wheel with breathtaking views. For a little family competition, then test your skills at the numerous carnival games and win fantastic prizes!
What makes Luna Park truly special is its appeal to the whole family. Little ones can enjoy gentle rides tailored for their age, while older kids and adults can take on more daring adventures. Parents and grandparents can relax and soak in the lively atmosphere, knowing everyone's having a blast in a safe environment.
Image: Visit Victoria
Meet the local wildlife at Melbourne Zoo
Animals lovers are going to love to visit the Melbourne Zoo! Located in the heart of the city, Melbourne Zoo is a haven for wildlife and a great place to spend a fun-filled day with the whole family.
The zoo spans across lush landscapes, creating a natural and immersive environment for its diverse inhabitants. You'll encounter a fascinating array of animals from all around the world, including lions, tigers, elephants, kangaroos, and koalas. Get ready to be awed by their charm and grace as you observe them up close. Kids will love the interactive exhibits and animal encounters, where they can learn about their favourite creatures while having a blast. For adults, the zoo offers informative talks by animal experts and opportunities to contribute to wildlife conservation efforts. You can explore the zoo at your own pace or join guided tours for a more in-depth experience. Plus, there are plenty of picnic spots and cafes to relax and refuel throughout the day.
Melbourne Zoo promises an unforgettable day out for the whole family, nurturing a love for wildlife and the environment in visitors of all ages.
Visit Collingwood Children’s Farm
Collingwood Children's Farm is an absolute family-friendly gem tucked away in the heart of Melbourne. This delightful farm offers a charming rural escape right within the city's bustle, making it a perfect outing for families seeking a fun and educational day out.
The farm itself is an idyllic slice of country life, complete with rolling green fields, friendly farm animals, and a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere. The whole family will be delighted to interact with adorable sheep, playful goats, cuddly rabbits, and many more farmyard friends. Plus, there are plenty of opportunities to feed and pet the animals, adding to the joy of the experience. Apart from animal encounters, Collingwood Children's Farm offers various engaging activities, including tractor rides, fishing in the dam, and exploring the vegetable gardens. Additionally, they often hold special events and workshops, providing hands-on learning experiences about sustainable farming and nature.
Whether it's a leisurely weekend picnic or an adventurous family outing, Collingwood Children's Farm is a fantastic destination that ensures fun-filled memories for everyone. It's the perfect place to unwind, connect with nature, and enjoy a wholesome day out with the whole family.
Have an interactive experience at Scienceworks
A visit to Scienceworks invites the whole family to a blast at this incredible science wonderland! Scienceworks is a science museum located in Melbourne, but it's not your typical museum – it's a place where science comes to life!
At Scienceworks, there's something for everyone. You can explore interactive exhibits, like the Planetarium where you can journey through the stars and galaxies. If you're a fan of hands-on fun, check out the Sportsworks zone where you can test your athletic prowess and learn about the science behind sports. The Lightning Room will show you how lightning works, plus there are live demonstrations, workshops, and mind-blowing shows that will keep the whole family entertained and enlightened.
Scienceworks is perfect for families because it makes learning exciting and engaging for kids and adults alike. You'll bond over interactive experiences, and share "Aha!" moments, and leave with a newfound love for science.
Get creative at Legoland Discovery Centre
Next on our list of family-friendly things to do while in Melbourne is to visit the colourful wonderland of Legoland Discovery Centre. This family-friendly indoor attraction is a LEGO lover's dream come true, promising a day filled with laughter and fun for the whole family.
At Legoland Discovery Centre get ready to embark on an interactive LEGO brick adventure! Test your engineering skills in the Build & Test zone, where you can construct and race your very own LEGO cars. Be amazed by the MINILAND, a jaw-dropping display of iconic cities built entirely from LEGO bricks. Join the Master Model Builder in workshops to learn top-notch brick-building techniques and create marvellous masterpieces. For the little ones, the DUPLO Farm and LEGO 4D Cinema offer delightful experiences. Kids can let their imaginations soar in the LEGO Friends Heartlake City, and there's even a thrilling LEGO-themed ride to enjoy.
Legoland Discovery Centre is perfect for the entire family, from toddlers to grandparents, everyone can bond over the joy of LEGO. It's an enchanting place to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Take a ride on Puffing Billy
Another delightful family adventure is to take a trip to Puffing Billy – Australia's iconic steam train. Puffing Billy is a charming heritage railway located in the stunning Dandenong Ranges, just an hour's drive from Melbourne.
This vintage beauty is a true blast from the past, dating back to the early 1900s. You'll be captivated by the rhythmic chug of the steam engine and the scenic beauty as you ride through lush forests, over historic trestle bridges, and past picturesque landscapes. The whole family will be captivated throughout the memorable 1.5-hour journey. Afterwards, you can explore the train museum, where railway history comes alive with intriguing exhibits, as well as indulge in some delicious food at the station cafes and picnic areas.
What makes Puffing Billy a winner for the whole family is its timeless appeal. It's not just a train ride; it's a wholesome experience that brings joy to kids and nostalgia to adults alike.
Learn the local history at the Melbourne Museum
The Melbourne Museum, in the heart of Melbourne, is a true gem for history buffs and families alike.
The museum building is striking, with its modern architecture mixed in with the historical Royal Exhibition Building. Then, inside, you'll find an amazing collection of exhibits, covering everything from the local Aboriginal culture to dinosaurs, and even some top-notch science stuff. While here, you can explore the immersive galleries, check out the incredible wildlife displays, and even catch a few live shows and events. Kids will love the interactive play areas and hands-on activities. Plus, they've got a mega IMAX theatre for jaw-dropping films.
There is something for the whole family here and a wonderful opportunity to learn together. You'll walk away with new knowledge and appreciation of Melbourne's history and its natural wonders.
Have an action-packed day at Funfields
Up next is Funfields, which promises the ultimate action-packed destination for a fun-filled day with the whole family. Nestled amidst picturesque surroundings, Funfields is a thrilling amusement park located just a short drive from the city.
Here, you'll find an exhilarating array of attractions that cater to all ages. Start your day with a rush of adrenaline on their world-class roller coasters, boasting heart-pounding loops and twists. If water adventures are more your style, head to their water park section and ride the waves in their massive wave pool or take the plunge on their thrilling water slides. For the little ones, they have a dedicated kids' zone with gentle rides and interactive play areas that will keep them entertained for hours. Additionally, the family can enjoy a friendly competition at the mini-golf course or take a leisurely paddleboat ride on the serene lake.
With a wide range of attractions and rides suitable for everyone, Funfields ensures that the whole family can bond, have fun, and create lasting memories together.
Unleash your inner artist at ArtPLay
Last on our list of family-friendly things to do in Melbourne is a visit to ArtPLay, the ultimate creative playground for all ages! ArtPLay is a vibrant art studio and activity centre designed to unleash your inner artist in the most enjoyable way possible.
Here, you'll find a plethora of exciting activities to explore your artistic talents. From traditional painting and drawing to modern digital art, they’ve got it all! Dive into their well-equipped studios with a variety of art supplies and tools, and let your imagination run wild. The friendly staff of art enthusiasts are always around to offer guidance and inspiration for the whole family.
ArtPLay is a family-friendly haven, perfect for spending quality time together. Engage in fun art workshops, where parents and kids can bond while crafting masterpieces side by side. Capture memories with their family photo sessions, turning them into personalised artwork.
Image: Visit Victoria
Ready to explore Melbourne with Apollo?
We hope this blog has inspired you to get out there and start exploring Australia with your family in an Apollo Camper. You can book your Apollo campervan online and then pick it up from any Apollo branch that are conveniently located around Australia, before starting your journey!