You will never hear someone in Victoria say that they’ve run out of things to do in Melbourne. It’s simply impossible. If you are looking for a day out in Melbourne that’ll keep the whole family entertained, there’s often something exciting around every corner.
That’s right, Melbourne has it all, and we can prove it. We’ve done the legwork for you, gathering a list of must-do activities that’ll keep the kids happy and the adults smiling.
Weekend time is family time, and you no doubt want to get out and about to make the most of it! When in Melbourne, these are some of the top picks for fun, a little bit of learning, a lot of culture, and the perfect template for great memories to be made.
If you’re keen on a family outing that’s as educational as it is engaging, the Immigration Museum Melbourne is a good option. This museum tells the stories of those who’ve made the journey to Australia from over 250 different countries. Through a mix of multimedia exhibits, personal artifacts, and interactive displays, the experiences of immigrants and the tapestry of cultures that have shaped modern Australia are brought to life. Your kids can explore what it means to leave one’s homeland, navigate new surroundings, and build a life in a new country—giving them a fresh perspective on the world.
The museum also features rotating temporary exhibitions, which often include hands-on activities and events designed to captivate younger audiences. Past exhibitions have spotlighted influential figures like Mahatma Gandhi and explored themes such as the immigrant experience through the lens of personal stories. Wander through the quiet galleries, watch a short film, or relax in the serene Tribute Garden; this is a place where history comes to life in a way that’s accessible and interesting for all ages.
Melbourne Zoo experiences are unique as the zoo is home to over 320 species from around the globe. This is a chance to get up close and personal with creatures big and small, from majestic lions to playful lemurs.
One of the best perks for families? Kids aged 0-15 get in for free on weekends and public holidays, making it a budget-friendly option for a day out! Just remember to pre-book your tickets online, as the zoo manages entry through timed tickets to ensure a smooth experience for everyone. With plenty of picnic spots and play areas, you can spend a whole day exploring and learning, making lasting memories with your little ones.
If visiting Melbourne, you can stay close to the zoo with Punthill, the group that recently delivered the first regional Punthill property in New South Wales. Punthill’s Essendon apartments are just a 15-minute drive from Melbourne Zoo, offering super easy access.
One of the most unique experiences Melbourne offers comes in the form of hands-on fun that’ll spark curiosity in kids (and even adults). Scienceworks is an interactive science and technology museum that offers a world of discovery where touching, experimenting, and exploring are all part of the experience. With ever-changing exhibitions, live demonstrations, and daily activities, there’s always something new to learn and enjoy. And if your little ones are fascinated by the stars, the Planetarium, with its impressive domed ceiling, offers a captivating journey through the night sky that will leave them wide-eyed.
Scienceworks turns learning into play. Kids can dive into the mechanics of the world around them, whether exploring the physics of movement, getting hands-on with robotics, or taking part in one of the many guided tours. It’s a playground for the mind, where science is brought to life in the most engaging way possible.
For a family outing that’s as creative as it is fun, ArtVo is the spot. Unlike traditional art galleries where you’re told to look but not touch, ArtVo flips the script. This immersive art gallery invites you to become part of the artwork, with life-sized, hand-painted murals that play with perspective to create mind-bending optical illusions. Ride a giant swan, teeter on the edge of an iceberg, or stare down King Kong on a cliff; ArtVo’s interactive scenes are designed for you to jump in, strike a pose, and capture the moment.
Each Artvo room is a new adventure, and with murals that appeal to all ages, it’s the perfect way to spend a few hours unleashing your inner artist. Everyone Is encouraged to ham it up in front of the camera lens, making ArtVo a unique and unforgettable experience in Melbourne.
Punthill’s apartment hotels offer prime locations that put you right in the heart of the Melbourne action. With Punthill, you’re never far from the city’s top attractions. Options like our Punthill Flinders Lane, Punthill Little Bourke and Veriu Queen Victoria market offer comfortable, well-equipped rooms and easy access to landmarks like Federation Square, the MCG, and Rod Laver Arena, Punthill makes it easy to experience all that Melbourne has to offer.
The Old Melbourne Gaol is a bluestone building and courtyard next to Melbourne’s City Courts buildings, which can be found at 377 Russell St, Melbourne.
One of Melbourne’s best indoor play centres is Welcome to Lollipop’s Playland & Cafe, where kids can run, jump, climb and slide all day long. It can be found at 4/23 Bell St, Preston.
