Are you planning a family trip to Melbourne and wondering what baby-friendly activities the city has to offer? Look no further! Melbourne is a great destination for families with little ones, with plenty of child-friendly attractions, interactive learning spots, and outdoor adventures to enjoy.
Exploring the City Centre is a great way to start your family adventure in Melbourne. Visit the Melbourne Museum Children’s Gallery, where your little ones can learn about science and nature through interactive exhibits. Take a stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens and enjoy the beautiful scenery, or head to the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium to see marine life up close.
If you’re looking for Outdoor Adventures, Melbourne has plenty of options. Visit the Werribee Open Range Zoo to see animals in their natural habitats or take a trip to the Children’s Farm to meet some farm animals. For something more active, head to the Adventure Playground at the Royal Park Nature Play Space, where your little ones can climb, swing, and slide to their heart’s content.
Key Takeaways
- Melbourne has plenty of baby-friendly activities for families to enjoy.
- Exploring the City Centre, Outdoor Adventures, and Interactive Learning Spots are great options for families with little ones.
- Don’t forget to plan your visit ahead of time and check out Family-Friendly Eateries and Shopping options.
Exploring the City Centre
If you’re looking for baby-friendly activities in Melbourne’s city centre, you’re in luck. There are plenty of attractions that cater to families with young children. Here are a few places to check out:
Melbourne Aquarium
The Melbourne Aquarium (now known as Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium) is a great place to take your little ones. They’ll love seeing all the fish and sharks up close. The aquarium is stroller-friendly, so you won’t have to worry about carrying your baby around. There are also plenty of exhibits that are designed to be interactive, so your kids can get up close and personal with the sea creatures. You can easily reach the aquarium by public transport, with both trains and trams stopping nearby.
Melbourne Museum
The Melbourne Museum is another great option for families with young children. There are plenty of exhibits that are designed to be interactive and engaging for kids. The Pauline Gandel Children’s Gallery is particularly popular with families, as it’s a play space designed specifically for young children. The museum is also stroller-friendly, so you won’t have to worry about carrying your baby around. You can easily reach the museum by public transport, with both trains and trams stopping nearby.
Melbourne Library
The Melbourne Library is a great place to take your baby for some quiet time. There are plenty of books and toys available for little ones, and the library is stroller-friendly, so you won’t have to worry about carrying your baby around. The library is also a great place to meet other parents and caregivers. You can easily reach the library by public transport, with both trains and trams stopping nearby.
National Gallery of Victoria
The National Gallery of Victoria is a great place to take your little ones if you’re looking for some culture. There are plenty of exhibits that are designed to be interactive and engaging for kids. The gallery is stroller-friendly, so you won’t have to worry about carrying your baby around. You can easily reach the gallery by public transport, with both trains and trams stopping nearby.
Overall, there are plenty of baby-friendly activities to enjoy in Melbourne’s city centre. Whether you’re looking for fish and sharks at the aquarium, interactive exhibits at the museum, quiet time at the library, or culture at the gallery, there’s something for everyone.
Outdoor Adventures
Melbourne is a city that offers a plethora of outdoor adventures for families with babies and toddlers. Here are some of the best places to visit:
Melbourne Zoo
Melbourne Zoo is a fantastic place to take your little ones to see a variety of animals from around the world. You can see elephants, giraffes, lions, tigers, and many other animals. The zoo also has a special area called the Growing Wild exhibit, which is perfect for young children. It features a play area, a water play area, and a petting zoo where children can interact with farm animals.
Royal Botanic Gardens
The Royal Botanic Gardens is a beautiful park in the heart of Melbourne that offers a variety of activities for families with babies and toddlers. You can take a leisurely stroll through the gardens, have a picnic, or visit the Ian Potter Foundation Children’s Garden, which is a great place for children to play and explore. The garden features a bamboo forest, a kitchen garden, a wetland area, and a treehouse.
Collingwood Children’s Farm
Collingwood Children’s Farm is a unique farm in the heart of Melbourne that offers children the opportunity to interact with farm animals. You can see cows, pigs, sheep, goats, and other animals. The farm also has a cafe where you can enjoy a coffee or a meal while your children play in the playground.
Albert Park
Albert Park is a beautiful park located just south of the city centre. It offers a variety of activities for families with babies and toddlers, including walking paths, playgrounds, and picnic areas. The park also has a lake where you can rent paddle boats and enjoy the scenery.
Birrarung Marr Playground
Birrarung Marr Playground is a fun playground located on the banks of the Yarra River. It has a variety of play equipment, including swings, slides, and climbing structures. The playground also has a water play area, which is perfect for hot summer days.
St Kilda Beach
St Kilda Beach is a popular beach located just south of the city centre. It offers a variety of activities for families with babies and toddlers, including swimming, sandcastle building, and kite flying. The beach also has a playground and a variety of cafes and restaurants.
No matter which outdoor adventure you choose, Melbourne has something for everyone. From farm animals to beaches, there are plenty of opportunities to explore and have fun with your little ones.
Interactive Learning Spots
Melbourne is home to many interactive learning spots that are perfect for babies and toddlers. These spots offer a variety of play-based learning experiences that are both fun and educational. Here are some of the best interactive learning spots in Melbourne:
Scienceworks
Scienceworks is a popular interactive science museum that is perfect for kids of all ages. It has a range of interactive exhibits that cover a variety of scientific topics. The museum also offers workshops and shows that are designed to engage kids and teach them about science in a fun and exciting way.
Library at the Dock
The Library at the Dock is a modern library that offers a range of interactive exhibits and activities for kids. It has a dedicated children’s area that is filled with books, toys, and games. The library also offers regular storytime sessions and workshops that are designed to encourage a love of reading and learning.
Museum of Play and Art
The Museum of Play and Art is a unique museum that is dedicated to visual arts and play-based learning. It has a range of interactive exhibits that encourage kids to explore their creativity and imagination. The museum also offers workshops and classes that are designed to help kids develop their artistic skills.
Incinerator Gallery
The Incinerator Gallery is a contemporary art gallery that offers a range of interactive exhibits and activities for kids. It has a dedicated children’s area that is filled with art supplies and games. The gallery also offers regular workshops and classes that are designed to encourage kids to explore their creativity and learn about art.
Overall, Melbourne has a range of interactive learning spots that are perfect for babies and toddlers. These spots offer a variety of play-based learning experiences that are both fun and educational. Whether you’re interested in science, libraries, or visual arts, there’s something for everyone in Melbourne.
Special Activities for Little Ones
If you’re looking for some special activities to do with your little ones in Melbourne, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are a few of our top picks:
ArtPlay
ArtPlay is a fantastic children’s art studio located in Melbourne’s CBD. They offer a range of free and paid workshops and events for children aged 0-12 years, making it a great option for families with babies and toddlers. The studio is funded by the City of Melbourne and provides a safe and creative space for children to explore their artistic side.
Fairy Park
Fairy Park is a magical wonderland located just outside of Melbourne. It’s the perfect place for young children to explore and play, with plenty of fairy tale-themed attractions to enjoy. From castles and dragons to fairy gardens and enchanted forests, there’s something for everyone at Fairy Park.
Incy Wincy Babies
Incy Wincy Babies is a fun and interactive playgroup for babies and toddlers located in Melbourne’s south-eastern suburbs. The playgroup offers a range of activities and play areas designed specifically for young children, including sensory play, music and movement, and story time.
Legoland Discovery Centre
If your little ones are fans of Lego, then the Legoland Discovery Centre is a must-visit destination. Located in Chadstone Shopping Centre, the centre offers a range of Lego-themed attractions and activities, including a 4D cinema, a Lego factory tour, and plenty of opportunities for building and playing with Lego bricks.
Whether you’re looking for arts and crafts, train rides, or just some good old-fashioned playtime, there’s something for every little one in Melbourne. And with attractions like Legoland Melbourne and the Merlin Annual Pass, you can keep the fun going all year round. So why not plan a day out with your family and explore all that the southern hemisphere has to offer?
Family-Friendly Eateries and Shopping
When travelling with babies and toddlers, finding family-friendly eateries and shopping destinations can be a challenge. Luckily, Melbourne has plenty of options to choose from. Here are a few recommendations to help you plan your next family outing.
Playshed Cafe
The Playshed Cafe is a must-visit for families with young children. This indoor play centre and cafe offers a safe and fun environment for kids to run around and play while parents enjoy a coffee or a bite to eat. The cafe menu includes a range of snacks and light meals, as well as options for kids. The Playshed Cafe is located in Moorabbin, just a short drive from Melbourne CBD.
Melbourne City Shopping
Melbourne is known for its shopping scene, and there are plenty of options for families with young children. The Melbourne Central shopping centre is a great choice, with a range of shops and restaurants to choose from. The centre also offers a range of services for families, including baby change facilities and pram hire. For a more unique shopping experience, head to the Queen Victoria Market. This historic market offers a range of fresh produce, as well as clothing, souvenirs, and more. The market is pram-friendly, and there are plenty of food options available for families.
Overall, Melbourne has plenty of family-friendly eateries and shopping destinations to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a play centre and cafe or a unique shopping experience, there’s something for everyone.
Planning Your Visit
When planning your visit to Melbourne with your baby or toddler, there are a few things to consider to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here are some travel and transport tips and the best times to visit.
Travel and Transport Tips
Melbourne is a bustling city, but it is relatively easy to get around with your baby or toddler. Here are some tips to help you navigate the city:
- Public transport: Melbourne has an extensive public transport network, including trains, trams, and buses. You can purchase a myki card, which is a reusable smart card that you can top up with money to pay for your fares. Children under four travel for free on public transport.
- Trams: Melbourne has the largest tram network in the world, and many trams are accessible for prams and strollers. Look for the blue and white signs on the tram stops indicating which trams are accessible.
- Parking: If you’re driving to Melbourne, there are several parking options available. Some car parks offer discounted rates for families with young children.
- Cafes: Melbourne is known for its cafes, and many of them are baby-friendly. Look for cafes with high chairs, changing facilities, and play areas for children.
Best Times to Visit
Melbourne has something to offer year-round, but some times are better than others when travelling with a baby or toddler. Here are some things to consider when planning your visit:
- Weekdays: If possible, visit Melbourne on weekdays when the city is less crowded. You’ll have an easier time navigating the city and visiting attractions without the crowds.
- Weekends: If you’re visiting on a weekend, plan your itinerary carefully to avoid the busiest times. Many popular attractions, such as the Melbourne Zoo and the Melbourne Aquarium, can get very crowded on weekends.
- School holidays: If you’re visiting during school holidays, be prepared for larger crowds and longer wait times at popular attractions. However, many attractions offer special activities and events for children during school holidays, so it’s worth considering if you’re looking for something extra special to do with your family.
Overall, Melbourne is a fantastic destination for families with babies and toddlers. With a little planning and preparation, you can have a wonderful time exploring the city and all it has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some fun indoor activities for toddlers in Melbourne?
Melbourne has plenty of indoor activities to keep your little ones entertained. You can visit Artplay, a children’s art studio that offers free and paid workshops for children aged 0-12 years. Another great option is the Scienceworks museum, where your child can learn about science and technology through interactive exhibits. The Melbourne Museum is also a fun place to explore with your toddler, with its dinosaur displays and interactive play areas.
Where can I find baby-friendly classes in Melbourne?
If you’re looking for baby-friendly classes in Melbourne, there are plenty of options available. You can try baby yoga or baby massage classes, which are a great way to bond with your little one while also helping them develop their motor skills. There are also music classes for babies and toddlers, where they can sing and dance to their heart’s content.
What are some family-friendly activities to do at night in Melbourne?
Melbourne has plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy at night. You can take a stroll along the Yarra River and enjoy the city lights, or head to the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel to see the city from a different perspective. The Melbourne Zoo also offers night tours, where you can see the animals come alive after dark.
What are some great places to take a one-year-old in Melbourne?
There are plenty of great places to take a one-year-old in Melbourne. You can visit the Melbourne Zoo, where your little one can see all sorts of animals up close. The Royal Botanic Gardens is also a great place to explore, with its beautiful gardens and walking paths. If your little one loves trains, you can take them on a ride on the Puffing Billy steam train.
What are some fun things to do with a 10-year-old in Melbourne?
If you’re looking for fun things to do with a 10-year-old in Melbourne, there are plenty of options available. You can take them to Luna Park, an amusement park with rides and attractions for all ages. The Melbourne Aquarium is also a great place to explore, with its underwater tunnels and interactive exhibits. For a more educational experience, you can visit the Melbourne Museum and learn about the city’s history and culture.
What are some art play activities for babies and toddlers in Melbourne?
Artplay is a great place to explore art play activities with your little one. They offer a range of programs for babies, toddlers and children up to 12 years old. You can also try the Heide Museum of Modern Art, which offers art programs for babies, crawlers and their carers. Another great option is the NGV Kids program, which offers art activities and workshops for children of all ages.
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