The Best Melbourne Attractions for Families
If you’re looking for an action-packed holiday, Melbourne has plenty of attractions to keep you busy. But what if you’re travelling with kids? Melbourne can be just as fun for families as it is for adults. In fact, there are many family-friendly attractions in Melbourne that will keep the little ones entertained for hours on end – you just need to know where to go!
Melbourne is one of the most family-friendly cities in the world, with plenty of attractions to keep both parents and kids entertained. From museums to tourist attractions, there’s something for everyone in Melbourne.
Here is our list of the top ten family attractions in Melbourne:
1. Melbourne Zoo
If you’re looking for a fun-filled day out for the whole family, look no further than the Melbourne Zoo! Home to over 320 species of animals, the zoo is a great place to learn about the natural world. Kids will love seeing all their favourite animals, from lions and tigers to giraffes and elephants. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot one of the resident koalas!
In addition to the animal exhibits, the Melbourne Zoo also has a range of interactive shows and educational programs. So there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained – whether you’re two or 92! Plus, with picnic areas and restaurants on-site, you can easily make a day of it.
So what are you waiting for? The Melbourne Zoo will surely be a hit with everyone in the family!
2. Royal Botanic Gardens
Just a stone’s throw from the city centre, the Royal Botanic Gardens are a must-visit for any family visiting Melbourne. The gardens span 38 hectares and offer a diverse range of plant life, from native Australian species to exotic flowers from all corners of the globe.
In addition to the beautiful landscaping, the gardens also offer an impressive array of interactive exhibits, including a Children’s Garden. Families can learn about the different plant species and the ecology of the gardens. You can even take part in hands-on gardening activities. The ‘Seek and Find Nature Cards’ adventure, which runs till Friday, 30th June 2023, will be loved by children of all ages.
With so much to see and do, the Royal Botanic Gardens will surely give your family a fun and informative day out.
3. SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is one of the city’s top attractions for families. Located in the heart of the CBD, the aquarium is home to a wide variety of marine life, from sharks and stingrays to seahorses and seadragons. Visitors can explore the different zones at their own pace, stopping to learn about the fascinating creatures that inhabit each one. The hands-on exhibits are particularly popular with kids, who can touch and feel starfish in the Mangroves and Rockpools zone. And for those who want to get even closer to the action, there’s the Glass Bottom Boat experience, which takes you on a journey through the reef tank. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is a must-see for any family looking for things to do with kids in Melbourne.
4. Eureka Skydeck
The Eureka Skydeck is another popular tourist Melbourne attraction for families. Located on the 88th floor of the Eureka Tower, it offers breathtaking views of the city skyline.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of interactive exhibits, such as the virtual reality experience and the glass-floored viewing deck. The Skydeck is also home to The Edge, a suspended glass cube that sits almost 300 meters from floor level.
Families with children will appreciate the Voyager™ Theatre experience, which takes guests on a discovery journey in 6-D pods. With so much to see and do, the Eureka Skydeck is sure to keep everyone entertained.
5. Yarra River Cruises
The Yarra River is one of Melbourne’s most beloved landmarks, and what better way to experience it than on a cruise? There are a variety of cruises to choose from, depending on your interests and budget. For families, the Melbourne City 2-hour Sightseeing Cruise is a great option. It includes a cruise along the Yarra, plus stops at several attractions on our list, including the Royal Botanic Gardens and Melbourne Cricket Ground.
For those looking for an evening cruise, there’s a 3-hr Melbourne Cruising Restaurant that offers a delicious buffet dinner as you cruise down the Yarra. No matter your choice, a cruise on the Yarra River will surely be a memorable experience for the whole family.
6. ArtVo Melbourne
ArtVo Melbourne is a one-of-a-kind art experience that is perfect for families. Located in the heart of the city, ArtVo features over 80 hyper-realistic 3D paintings spread across nine different zones. As you explore the different galleries, you’ll be able to take photos of yourselves interacting with the artworks. And if you’re feeling brave, you can even step inside one of the paintings for a truly unique perspective. With so much to see and do, ArtVo is the perfect place to spend a few hours with your family. And best of all, discounted tickets are available for families.
7. Dandenong Ranges National Park
The Dandenong Ranges National Park is a stunning natural wonderland and a great place to take the family for a day out. There are plenty of walking trails to explore and scenic lookouts to enjoy. The Dandenong Ranges are also home to a variety of native wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for kangaroos, wallabies and echidnas. After a day of fresh air and exercise, treat the kids (and yourself!) to a delicious Devonshire tea at one of the many tearooms in the area.
The Dandenong Ranges National Park is a great place to connect with nature and create some lasting family memories.
8. Scienceworks Museum
Melbourne’s Scienceworks Museum is a hit with kids of all ages. With interactive exhibits on everything from Plate Tectonics to Lightning, there’s something for everyone. The museum also has a Planetarium and several interesting temporary exhibitions. The staff are always on hand to answer any questions, and there are plenty of free activities to keep the little ones entertained.
If you’re looking for a fun day out for the family, Scienceworks is definitely worth a visit.
9. Australian National Aviation Museum (Moorabbin Air Museum)
The Australian National Aviation Museum is the perfect place for a family day out in Melbourne. Located in Moorabbin Airport, the museum houses an impressive collection of aircraft, from early biplanes to modern jet fighters. Visitors can also take a tour of the hangars and see how aircraft are restored. And for the kids, there’s a great playground where they can burn off some energy. The museum is open every day from 10 am to 4 pm (5 pm on weekends), and entry is just $20 for a family. So if you’re looking for an educational and fun day out, be sure to add the Australian National Aviation Museum to your list.
10. Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)
The MCG is a great place for families to enjoy a day out, especially if you have a budding Pat Cummins on your hands. Even if your kids aren’t mad cricketers, there is plenty of space for them to run around, and the grassy banks are perfect for picnicking.
The Museum of Cricket is also worth a visit, and there are often family-friendly events taking place at the ground. Best of all, entry to the MCG is free – however, for an unforgettable experience, we recommend taking a guided tour. So whether you’re a cricket fan or not, it’s definitely worth spending a day at this Melbourne landmark.
Conclusion
Melbourne is a great city for families, with plenty of fun and educational activities to enjoy. If you’re looking for some fun things to do in Melbourne with kids, be sure to check out our list of the 10 best attractions. From art galleries and museums to nature parks and cricket stadiums, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, your family will have a great time exploring everything Melbourne has to offer.
And best of all, you don’t have to search far to get tickets for these family attractions! You can get them all right here at Melbourne Private Tours.
So why not purchase a few tickets and enjoy a day out exploring everything Melbourne has to offer?
