winter school holidays in Melbourne
keep the kids entertained during the june-july break. plenty of cosy indoor options and crisp winter outings.
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