Top Unique Experiences And Things To Do in Melbourne with Family

Melbourne, Australia's vibrant and bustling metropolis, offers a plethora of activities and attractions that cater to families. From cultural experiences to outdoor adventures, the city ensures that every family member, young and old, finds something exciting to do. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Melbourne with family.

Places to Visit in Melbourne That You Can Enjoy with Your Family

Discover the Royal Botanic Gardens

The Royal Botanic Gardens are a green oasis in the heart of Melbourne. Spanning 94 acres, these gardens are perfect for a family day out. The beautifully manicured landscapes, diverse plant collections, and tranquil lakes offer an ideal setting for picnics and leisure.

The Ian Potter Foundation Children’s Garden

Specifically designed for children, this garden encourages kids to interact with nature. They can climb trees, explore the bamboo forest, and splash around in the water features. It’s an educational and fun experience, making it a must-visit.

The Royal Botanical Gardens

Explore The Scienceworks Museum

Traveling is a nice opportunity for your children to explore the Scienceworks museum. The Scienceworks is a museum that makes learning fun. It features interactive exhibits, demonstrations, and a planetarium. Children can engage with exhibits that cover topics from physics to space exploration.

Lightning Room and Planetarium

The Lightning Room offers live demonstrations of lightning and electricity, which are both thrilling and educational. The planetarium provides awe-inspiring shows about the cosmos, captivating both children and adults alike.

Visit the Melbourne Zoo

Home to over 320 animal species, the Melbourne Zoo is a world of wildlife and a fantastic place for families. Located just minutes from the city center, the zoo provides an immersive experience with animals from around the world.

The zoo offers children various educational programs and interactive exhibits. Kids can learn about animal conservation, participate in feeding sessions, and even get up close with some of the animals. The Trail of the Elephants and the Orangutan Sanctuary are particularly popular.

The Melbourne Zoo

Wander Around Federation Square

Federation Square in Melbourne is a dynamic cultural hub perfect for a family outing. At its heart is the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI), where kids can engage with interactive exhibits like Screen Worlds, which showcases the history of film and digital culture through hands-on displays and games. Families can participate in creative workshops and enjoy regular screenings of family-friendly films. The square itself is often bustling with live performances, street artists, and a variety of festivals, offering plenty of free entertainment. With numerous cafes and open spaces to relax, Fed Square provides a rich and diverse experience that captivates visitors of all ages.

Have Fun At Luna Park

One of the other things to do in Melbourne with family is visit Luna Park. Located in St Kilda, Luna Park is a historic amusement park that has been delighting families for over a century. With its iconic entrance and classic rides, it offers a nostalgic yet thrilling experience.

Luna Park features a mix of traditional and modern rides. The Scenic Railway, the world's oldest continually operating roller coaster, is a highlight. There are also carousels, bumper cars, and a variety of games and attractions suitable for everyone.

Luna Park

Enjoy The Melbourne Aquarium

SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium takes visitors on an underwater journey through various themed zones. From the Penguin Playground to the Coral Atoll, families can discover marine life from different parts of the world. Pre-book tickets for popular attractions such as the Melbourne Zoo, SEA LIFE Aquarium, and Puffing Billy Railway to avoid long queues and potential disappointments.

The aquarium offers interactive experiences such as shark dives and behind-the-scenes tours. Kids can also participate in touch pools where they can safely interact with some of the marine creatures.

Take a Ride on the Puffing Billy Railway

A ride on the Puffing Billy Railway offers families a delightful blend of historical charm and scenic beauty. This century-old steam train, one of the world's best-preserved heritage railways, travels through the picturesque Dandenong Ranges, allowing passengers to experience early 20th-century train travel with open-sided carriages. As the train winds through lush forests, fern gullies, and valleys, families can enjoy breathtaking views, including the iconic Monbulk Creek Trestle Bridge. The nostalgic journey, complete with the thrill of dangling legs over the sides, provides a unique and memorable adventure that captivates both children and adults.

Puffing Billy Railway

Stroll Along the Yarra River

The Yarra River flows through the heart of Melbourne, offering a variety of things to do in Melbourne with family along its banks. Families can enjoy a leisurely walk, rent bikes, or even take a river cruise.

Travelers can also visit the Southbank Promenade, which is lined with restaurants, cafes, and street performers. It’s a great spot to relax, enjoy a meal, and take in the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

Discover Phillip Island

A short drive from Melbourne, Phillip Island is renowned for its natural beauty and wildlife. Families can enjoy pristine beaches, scenic coastal walks, and wildlife encounters.

Penguin Parade

The Penguin Parade is a highlight, where families can watch as hundreds of little penguins return to shore at sunset. The island also offers other attractions such as the Koala Conservation Centre and the Churchill Island Heritage Farm.

Phillip Island

Enjoy the Beaches

Melbourne boasts several family-friendly beaches. St Kilda Beach is popular for its sandy shore and lively atmosphere. Brighton Beach is famous for its colorful bathing boxes, providing a picturesque setting.

These beaches offer a range of activities, including swimming, beach volleyball, and kite flying. They are equipped with amenities such as playgrounds, picnic areas, and nearby cafes, ensuring a comfortable visit.

Travelers can refer to the 7 Top-Rated Beaches in Melbourne.

Tips for Families While Traveling In Melbourne

Traveling with family can be an enriching and enjoyable experience, especially in a vibrant city like Melbourne. To make the most of your trip, consider these practical tips designed to ensure a smooth and memorable adventure for everyone.

Plan & Book In Advanced

Before your trip, research the top attractions and activities that appeal to your family. Above we have listed some activities to do in Melbourne to enjoy with your family. For more references, travelers can explore some signature attractions in Melbourne. Next, create a flexible itinerary to include must-see destinations and downtime. This helps manage expectations and ensures you don’t miss out on key experiences.

Remember to book family-friendly accommodations well in advance, especially during peak seasons. Consider options like apartments or hotels with kitchen facilities to make meals easier.

Consider to research and booking in advance to ensure a smooth trip

Getting Around

Public Transport

• Myki Card: Purchase a Myki card for each family member for convenient access to Melbourne’s public transport system, including trams, trains, and buses.

• Free Tram Zone: Take advantage of the Free Tram Zone in the city center for easy and cost-effective travel.

Car Rentals

• Family-Friendly Vehicles: If you prefer driving, rent a family-friendly vehicle with enough space for car seats, luggage, and comfortable seating.

• Navigation: Use GPS or navigation apps to plan routes and avoid traffic. Melbourne can be busy, especially during rush hours.

Staying Safe

• Ensure younger children have identification with contact details in case they get lost. This can be a bracelet or a card in their pocket.

• Emergency Numbers: Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers. In Australia, dial 000 for police, fire, or medical emergencies.

• First Aid Kit: Carry a basic first aid kit with essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any necessary medications.

Conclusion

Exploring these activities with your beloved family in Melbourne is a promising adventure filled with memorable experiences. Plan your vacation ahead of time, be flexible, and consider the requirements and interests of each family member to ensure a smooth and pleasurable trip. Whether you’re exploring the city’s cultural hubs, engaging in outdoor activities, or simply enjoying a meal together, Melbourne offers endless opportunities for family fun and interactions.