10 Free* Activities with Kids in Melbourne: Ultimate Family Adventures Guide
- Mrs. Nomadic
- Feb 2
- 5 min read
Melbourne, Australia, isn’t just about coffee shops and street art. This vibrant city offers a wealth of family-friendly activities and hidden gems. From gardens to interactive museums, Melbourne provides experiences that ensure kids of all ages have a blast. Whether you’re a local or visiting, these ten adventures promise unforgettable memories and quality time together.
*By free we mean free for children under 16. Some of the items on this list are completely free for the whole family, some require renting a car (obviously not free) and some are free for children only.
1. Fitzroy Gardens
First on the list is the iconic Fitzroy Gardens, a lush oasis in the heart of the city. With sprawling green lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, and shaded pathways, it's a fantastic place for kids to explore. The gardens also feature Cook's Cottage, a small-scale model that brings history to life and is sure to pique your child's curiosity.
Children can enjoy the playground, which boasts swings, slides, and climbing frames. Additionally, the gardens are home to an array of ducks and other wildlife. Free for the whole family.
2. National Gallery of Victoria
Art is made fun at the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV). This museum houses over 70,000 works, covering a range of cultures and time periods. Kids will particularly enjoy the interactive displays and exhibitions specifically for them in the Children's Gallery. With grand architecture and captivating art pieces, a visit here becomes an adventure through imagination while fostering a love for culture. Open daily and entry is free for adults and children.
3. Queen Victoria Market
No visit to Melbourne is complete without exploring the historic Queen Victoria Market. This bustling marketplace features over 600 stalls selling fresh produce, artisan goods, and a variety of delicious food options from around the world. The Market is closed on Mondays and Wednesdays and entry is free.
Kids will love wandering through the colorful stalls, sampling goodies like donuts or local cheeses. Keep an eye out for the market’s resident kangaroo, which is a huge hit with families! Seasonal events often include activities such as face painting and live performances that are perfect for young adventurers.
4. State Library of Victoria
The State Library of Victoria is more than just a library; it's a treasure trove of stories, knowledge and architecture. Walk into the stunning reading room, and you’ll be mesmerized by the towering bookshelves that reach for the sky.
Throughout the week, kids can participate in storytelling sessions and hands-on workshops. Additionally, the library has a stunning children's section with cozy nooks to read in and games that capture the imagination, this library sparks a lifelong love of reading and learning for children. Open seven days a week and entry is free.
Queen Victoria Gardens
Located across from the National Gallery of Victoria; enjoy a picnic with ducks after your stroll through the Gallery. The park also offers monuments, ornamental gardens, a floral clock, and MPavilion. Be sure to visit MPavilion for its stark contrast to its surroundings and to experience different cultural programs throughout the year. Both the gardens and MPavilion are free for the whole family.
6. Melbourne Museum and Royal Exhibition Building
Families interested in culture and science should definitely visit the Melbourne Museum and the Royal Exhibition Building. The museum features interactive displays and numerous dioramas that capture the wonders of natural history and Aboriginal culture.
Children can explore the children’s section, which is particularly engaging. With hands-on experiences and rotating exhibitions, your kids will be entertained and educated. Afterward, relax in the beautiful gardens surrounding the Exhibition Building with a picnic lunch. Open daily, children 16 and under are free.
7. Scienceworks
For a day of fun and science, head over to Scienceworks. This interactive museum is geared towards young explorers and features exhibits ranging from a planetarium to a lightning room. Kids can engage in hands-on experiments and enjoy live science demonstrations.
Whether watching a rocket launch in the planetarium or interacting with science exhibits that explain everyday mechanics, Scienceworks offers a thrilling environment that inspires curiosity and wonder. Open daily, children under 16 are free.
8. Yarra Valley
For a memorable day trip, venture out to the picturesque Yarra Valley. Known for its stunning landscapes and wineries, families can partake in exciting activities like hot air balloon rides.
Healesville Sanctuary is a must-visit, allowing kids to see kangaroos, koalas, and other native wildlife up close. They have numerous play spaces both indoors and outdoors. *Children are free on weekends and Victorian Holidays.
After an adventurous morning, enjoy a picnic amid the beautiful countryside. The Yarra Valley offers a peaceful backdrop, promoting relaxation and quality family time.
9. Great Ocean Road Trip
This would be another day trip from Melbourne; however, is a must-do in our opinion. The Great Ocean Road is a 240 km (151 miles) picturesque road with numerous stopping points. This road also serves as a memorial to World War 1 soldiers. People typically start their road trip in Torquay, which is just over an hour from downtown Melbourne.
Make sure not to miss must-see stops such as Lorne Beach, Twelve Apostles, Gibson Steps, The Grotto, and Loch Ard Gorge.
10. Southbank Boulevard Play Space or Rocks on Wheels Playground
Finally, don’t miss this creative, innovative work of engineering mastery. This 'risky' playground features boulders on wheels, slides on skateboards, and rebar formed climbing structures. This has to be one of the most unique playgrounds we have ever seen. The kids loved its uniqueness and I'm happy to report there were zero injuries. This is a public playground located near the National Gallery of Victoria.
Also be sure to keep an eye out for tiny figurines that are hidden throughout the playground. This also brought a totally different and fun aspect to this playground and the kids's loved exploring the space looking for these!
Final Thoughts
Melbourne is a city bursting with activities that cater to families. From the tranquility of Fitzroy Gardens to the educational wonders of the State Library, there are unique experiences awaiting every visitor.
Make plans to explore these fantastic (mostly) free activities with your kids. So pack your bags, and get ready for a family adventure in one of Australia's most vibrant cities. Each outing offers opportunities to create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.