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things to do with kids in Melbourne

by william samuels

Melbourne is packed with family-friendly museums, parks, and attractions. many of the best experiences are free, and the tram network makes getting around with kids easy.

10

activities

2

free

4

categories

nature & animals

Melbourne Zoo

$$$

one of the world's oldest zoos with a trail of the elephants, butterfly house, and daily keeper talks.

Parkville·all ages

Royal Botanic Gardens

free

spacious gardens with a dedicated children's garden, lake, and wide paths perfect for prams and scooters.

South Yarra·all ages

Healesville Sanctuary

$$

native wildlife park where kids can see platypus, koalas, and wombats in natural bush settings.

Healesville·all ages

museum & learning

Scienceworks

$$

hands-on science museum with a planetarium, lightning room, and the brilliant Sportsworks gallery for active kids.

Spotswood·3+ years

Melbourne Museum

$$

natural history, dinosaurs, a rainforest gallery, and the children's gallery with hands-on nature play.

Carlton·all ages

National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)

free

free permanent collection plus family-focused exhibitions. the NGV kids programs run during school holidays.

Southbank·3+ years

attraction

Luna Park Melbourne

$$

heritage amusement park on the St Kilda foreshore with rides from toddler-friendly to thrill-seekers.

St Kilda·2+ years

Puffing Billy Railway

$$

historic steam train ride through the Dandenong Ranges — kids love dangling their legs over the open carriages.

Belgrave·all ages

indoor

SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium

$$$

walk through the underwater oceanarium, visit the penguin playground, and touch starfish in the rockpool zone.

Melbourne CBD·all ages

LEGOLAND Discovery Centre

$$

indoor LEGO experience with rides, build-and-play zones, a 4D cinema, and a miniland of Melbourne landmarks.

Chadstone·3–10 years

free things to do in Melbourne

  • Royal Botanic Gardens South Yarra
  • National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) Southbank

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things to do with kids across Australia

opening hours, prices, and availability may change. always check the venue's website before visiting. mini mode is not affiliated with any of the venues listed.