autumn school holidays in Melbourne
two weeks of fun during the april break. mild weather makes it perfect for outdoor adventures and indoor activities alike.
free things to do
Melbourne Museum
freeThe Dinosaur Walk is the obvious highlight, but the Children's Gallery for under-5s is genuinely well done. Free entry for kids.
ages: all agesRoyal Botanic Gardens
freeNature play areas, open lawns for picnics near the Yarra, and free guided walks. Bring a ball and a picnic blanket.
ages: all agesACMI
freeFree interactive exhibitions about film, games and digital culture at Federation Square. Holiday workshops run most days — check the website.
ages: 5+National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)
freeFree permanent collection plus kids' exhibitions and holiday trails. The water wall out the front keeps toddlers entertained for ages.
ages: all agespaid activities & attractions
Scienceworks
paidHands-on science playground, planetarium, and the Lightning Room (book that first — it sells out). Holiday workshops are worth booking in advance.
ages: all agesMelbourne Zoo
paidTrail-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.
ages: all agesLEGOLAND Discovery Centre
paidFully 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.
ages: 3-10Collingwood Children's Farm
paidFeed the animals, milk a cow, and let the kids run around the gardens. Genuinely affordable family day out — $15 per adult.
ages: all ageslooking for playgrounds in Melbourne?
browse our directory of parks and play spaces — perfect for burning off energy during the holidays.
Melbourne playgrounds