school holidays in Melbourne

The Dinosaur Walk is the obvious highlight, but the Children's Gallery for under-5s is genuinely well done. Free entry for kids.

Hands-on science playground, planetarium, and the Lightning Room (book that first — it sells out). Holiday workshops are worth booking in advance.

Nature play areas, open lawns for picnics near the Yarra, and free guided walks. Bring a ball and a picnic blanket.

Trail-based exhibits mean kids are always walking to the next thing. School holiday keeper experiences cost extra but are worth it for animal-obsessed kids.

Free interactive exhibitions about film, games and digital culture at Federation Square. Holiday workshops run most days — check the website.

Fully themed LEGO experience with 4D cinema and a miniature Melbourne made from LEGO. Best for the 3-10 age range — older kids get bored quickly.