Fun Outdoor Activities to do for Families and with Kids around Melbourne and VIC
Melbourne’s school holidays are the perfect excuse to get outside and explore with the kids. Whether you’re chasing fresh air, wild adventures, or just a good old-fashioned picnic, there’s something magical about unplugging and letting little legs roam free.
From lush bushland to animal encounters and epic playgrounds, we’ve rounded up our favourite outdoor spots that are fun, affordable, and family-approved.
Ready to build your next adventure list? Let’s go!
Best outdoor activities in Melbourne’s inner suburbs and CBD
You don’t need to leave the city for an outdoor escape. These inner-Melbourne parks, gardens, and playgrounds are perfect for a quick adventure, picnic pitstop, or full day out with the kids. Expect a mix of heritage vibes, water play, wild animal encounters, and fun around every corner.
Royal Botanic Gardens – Melbourne
📍 Birdwood Ave, South Yarra VIC 3141
🌿 Punting, gardens, and kids’ water play
This iconic garden has something for every age—from peaceful walks and shady picnic spots to the enchanting Ian Potter Children’s Garden, which includes a sandpit, plant tunnels, and a mini splash zone for hot days. You can also book a relaxing punting tour on the lake, gliding past black swans and tropical plants. It’s the ultimate city escape, just minutes from the CBD.
St Kilda Botanical Gardens – St Kilda
📍 11 Herbert St, St Kilda VIC 3182
🌳 Tranquil gardens, pond, and hidden playground
A lush, peaceful spot just a short walk from the beach. Stroll through rose gardens, feed the ducks, and find the gated kids’ playground tucked away near the back fence. Great for a relaxing morning or post-Luna Park breather.
Fitzroy Gardens – East Melbourne
📍 Wellington Parade, East Melbourne VIC 3002
🪴 Historic gardens, conservatory, playground
These formal gardens are full of surprises for little ones. Wander through flower beds, visit the fairy-tale Cooks’ Cottage, explore the greenhouse-style Conservatory, and let the kids run wild in the themed playground.
Rippon Lea Estate – Elsternwick
📍 192 Hotham St, Elsternwick VIC 3185
🎟️ Entry fees apply, check website for open days
Step into another era with this stunning heritage mansion and gardens. There’s space to roam, explore the fernery, and spot the ducks on the lake. It’s a lovely mix of nature and history for families wanting something special.
Albert Park – Albert Park
📍 23 Aughtie Drive, Albert Park VIC 3206
🚴♀️ Walking paths, lake views, playgrounds
A sprawling inner-city park known for the Formula 1 Grand Prix but loved year-round for its lake, BBQ spots, birdlife, and space to scoot, ride, or play. You’ll find multiple play areas dotted around the lake loop.
Carlton Gardens – Carlton
📍 1-111 Carlton St, Carlton VIC 3053
🦋 World Heritage-listed, near Melbourne Museum
A leafy space with lots of lawn to sprawl on and play, surrounded by beautiful old trees and fountains. It’s right next to Melbourne Museum and IMAX, making it a perfect combo day out.
Treasury Gardens – East Melbourne
📍 2-18 Spring St, East Melbourne VIC 3002
🌿 Serene, central gardens with city skyline views
A favourite picnic spot for families who want to escape the bustle. Shady trees, wide lawns, and paths that are ideal for scooters. Great for a break between city adventures.
Parliament Gardens – East Melbourne
📍 489/531 Albert St, East Melbourne VIC 3002
💦 Home of Coles Fountain – splash-friendly
A hidden gem beside Parliament House, with a modern water fountain the kids can dip their toes in during summer. Bring a change of clothes and snacks for a little lunchtime break.
Como House & Gardens – South Yarra
📍 Corner Williams Rd & Lechlade Ave, South Yarra VIC 3141
🏛️ Historic mansion with manicured gardens
Perfect for a peaceful walk with pram-friendly paths and picnic lawns. Kids can explore the gardens while grown-ups soak in the heritage charm. Special events and tours often pop up here during holidays.
Melbourne Zoo – Parkville
📍 Elliott Ave, Parkville VIC 3052
🎟️ Entry fees apply
A classic for a reason. With wild animals, shaded trails, play spaces, and picnic zones, the Zoo is always a hit. Be sure to check out Keeper Talks and book ahead during school holidays.
Collingwood Children’s Farm – Abbotsford
📍 18 St Heliers St, Abbotsford VIC 3067
🎟️ Entry fees apply
A working farm in the middle of the city where kids can pat goats, feed chickens, and meet cows. Set along the river trail, it’s a great mix of nature, education, and old-school fun.
Luna Park – St Kilda
📍 18 Lower Esplanade, St Kilda VIC 3182
🎡 Entry is free, rides priced individually
Iconic and full of retro charm. Perfect for thrill-seekers and carousel lovers alike. The park is right by the beach and gardens, so you can make a full day of it.
Birrarung Marr Playground – Melbourne
📍 Birrarung Marr, Melbourne VIC 3000
🧗♂️ Slides, climbing, and riverside fun
A fun inner-city playground nestled near the Yarra River. There are climbing frames, grassy banks, and sculptures to explore. Easily walkable from Fed Square.
Flagstaff Gardens Playground – West Melbourne
📍 Cnr William Street and Abeckett Street, West Melbourne 3003
🌳 Central city playground with lots of shade
Great for a quick energy burn if you’re near the Queen Vic Market. Big trees, plenty of space, and an enclosed play zone make it toddler-friendly.
Docklands Park Playground – Docklands
📍 1-91 Harbour Esplanade, Docklands VIC 3008
🛝 Slides, trampolines, balance beams
A modern play space in the heart of Docklands with climbing nets, in-ground trampolines and water play. Good coffee nearby and perfect for prams.
Lincoln Square Playground – Carlton
📍 Corner of Lincoln Square & Bouverie Street, Carlton
🦕 Dino-themed playground
Newly revamped with dinosaur sculptures, natural play elements, and water features. Fully fenced and a local fave for toddlers and preschoolers.
Boulder Risk-Play Park – Southbank
📍 Southbank Boulevard & Kavanagh Street, Southbank VIC 3006
🧗 Adventure-style climbing for older kids
This isn’t your average playground—it’s made for risk-takers! Great for confident climbers aged 6+ with huge boulders, ropes, and imaginative play features.
Ron Barassi Snr Park – Docklands
📍 500 Docklands Drive, Docklands VIC 3008
⚽ Footy oval, playground, BBQs
A big open space with a play area, footy goals, basketball half-court, and walking paths. Dog-friendly and usually quieter than other city parks.
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Best outdoor adventures in Melbourne’s east and south-east
From massive water slides to hidden farms, dinosaur gardens and wild botanic parks—this side of Melbourne is packed with school holiday fun. Whether you’re after a half-day local explore or a full-blown theme park experience, there’s something here for every kind of little adventurer.
Gumbaya World – Tynong North
📍 2705 Princes Hwy, Tynong North VIC 3813
🎟️ Entry fees apply
The ultimate combo of water park, wildlife, and theme park fun all rolled into one. There’s a wave pool, epic slides, Aussie animals, and rides for all ages—plus it’s under 90 minutes from the CBD.
Officer District Park Playground – Officer
📍 Lansell Ave, Officer VIC 3809
🛝 Huge slides, climbing towers, skate park
A mega playground with towering slides, nature play, flying foxes, and even a pump track. Plenty of seating and shade, and right next to a big open oval.
Inflatable Fun Park – Dandenong South
📍 29 Brindley St, Dandenong South VIC 3175
💦 Seasonal inflatable water park
This summer spot is full of inflatable fun, now with water slides instead of the dino theme. Book online and get ready to bounce, splash, and burn off serious energy.
Myuna Farm – Doveton
📍 182 Kidds Rd, Doveton VIC 3177
🎟️ Entry fees apply
A hands-on urban farm where kids can feed goats, ride the train, and meet native animals. Lots of shade, pram-friendly paths, and a relaxed, nostalgic feel.
Crystal World Exhibition Centre – Devon Meadows
📍 13 Olive Rd, Devon Meadows VIC 3977
🦕 Free entry
See giant geodes, dino statues, and Rosie the Great White Shark! A quirky, fossil-filled treasure trove with plenty of free things to explore outside.
Brompton Estate Pump Track – Cranbourne South
📍 40S Edgar Ave, Cranbourne South VIC 3977
🚲 Pump track & mini circuit
A great open space for scooters and BMX bikes. Best for confident riders, and there’s a small shaded playground nearby too.
MSTEC National Steam Centre – Scoresby
📍 1200 Ferntree Gully Rd, Scoresby VIC 3179
🚂 Mini trains on Sundays for $4
A fascinating space full of old steam engines, with friendly volunteers and working displays. Miniature train rides run every Sunday and are a hit with kids of all ages.
Mooroolbark Miniature Railway – Mooroolbark
📍 Cardigan Rd, Mooroolbark VIC 3138
🎟️ Sundays only
Run by local volunteers, this charming railway offers scenic rides and plenty of smiles. Check their schedule online as opening days can vary.
Box Hill Miniature Steam Railway – Mont Albert North
📍 Corner of Elgar and Belmore Roads, Mont Albert North VIC 3129
🎟️ 3rd Sunday of each month (2nd in Dec)
A long-time favourite among train lovers. Rides loop through trees and tunnels, and there’s a shaded picnic area too. Low-cost and high fun.
Springvale Live Steamers – Springvale South
📍 Alex Nelson Reserve, Harold Rd, Springvale South VIC 3172
🎟️ 3rd Sunday of the month (closed Dec & Jan)
Another brilliant miniature train experience, this one tucked away in the southeast. Kids can ride all afternoon, and there’s a playground and BBQs on-site too.
Point Ormond Lookout – Elwood
📍 Point Ormond Rd, Elwood VIC 3184
🌊 Stunning views and picnic spot
A gorgeous place for a sunset view or scoot along the foreshore. Bring a kite or a ball and soak in the sea breeze with the city skyline in the distance.
Beaumaris Bay Fossil Site – Beaumaris
📍 Beach Rd, Beaumaris VIC 3193
🦴 Coastal walk with ancient secrets
A real-life fossil site where kids can spot ancient shells, coral, and sea creature remnants on the beach. It’s an easy stroll and perfect for curious little minds.
The Bramble Farm – Langwarrin
📍 25 Lyppards Rd, Langwarrin VIC 3910
🍓 Berry picking, pony rides, playground
An adorable, family-run farm offering seasonal berry picking plus ponies and a mini playground. Book ahead during summer—it’s a popular spot for local families.
Chesterfield Farm – Scoresby
📍 1221 Ferntree Gully Rd, Scoresby VIC 3179
🎟️ Online ticket bookings essential
Another hands-on farm experience with tractor rides, a baby animal nursery, and farm shows. Great for preschoolers and primary-aged kids who love animals.
Caldermeade Farm & Café – Caldermeade
📍 4385 S Gippsland Hwy, Caldermeade VIC 3984
🐄 Milking demos and large open space
Fresh scones, paddocks, cows, and a kid’s playground make this one a winner. You can even watch the cows being milked while enjoying a cuppa.
Cruden Farm – Langwarrin
📍 60 Cranbourne-Frankston Rd, Langwarrin VIC 3910
🌸 Gardens, lake walks, and storytelling events
Once home to Dame Elisabeth Murdoch, these private gardens are open to the public for walks, picnics, and seasonal family events. Beautiful, peaceful, and rich in history.
Royal Botanic Gardens – Cranbourne
📍 Ballarto Road & Botanic Drive, Cranbourne VIC 3977
✨ Lightfall experience (at a cost) is on every evening until April 20
An incredible natural playground with rock hop trails, dry creek beds, and a water splash zone. The Australian Garden is a fun sensory experience, especially for curious toddlers.
Outdoor adventures in Melbourne’s north
Melbourne’s northern suburbs are packed with hidden gems for a nature-filled, animal-loving, art-soaked day out. Whether it’s train rides, cow cuddles, or exploring historic artist communities, there’s so much to discover just a short drive from the city.
Montsalvat – Eltham
📍 7 Hillcrest Ave, Eltham VIC 3095
🎨 Artist colony and heritage gardens
Step into a fairytale world of stone buildings, art studios, and tranquil gardens. This historic artist village is great for wandering with kids, and often runs exhibitions and events during school holidays.
Haukhill Highlands – Whittlesea
📍 Beech St, Whittlesea VIC 3757
🐮 Private pat-a-cow sessions
A unique animal encounter where you can book in for one-on-one cuddles with the farm’s gentle Highland cows. It’s an unforgettable experience for animal lovers (booking is essential).
Funfields Theme Park – Whittlesea
📍 2365 Plenty Rd, Whittlesea VIC 3757
🎟️ Tickets required
A full-blown theme park packed with waterslides, rides, and thrill attractions for all ages. Best on warm days when the water park is open, and ideal for families who want a full day of action.
Diamond Valley Railway – Eltham
📍 Eltham Lower Park, 570 Main Rd, Eltham VIC 3095
🕰️ Open Sundays & school holiday Wednesdays
🎟️ $5 per ride, under 2s free
One of Melbourne’s most iconic mini train spots. Ride through tunnels, over bridges, and past bushland on beautifully detailed model trains. A true family favourite.
Living Legends – Greenvale
📍 Woodlands Dr, Greenvale VIC 3059
🐴 Meet retired racehorses
A peaceful countryside property where you can pat and feed champion ex-racehorses. There are garden walks, picnic spots and kangaroos nearby too. Great for a slower-paced outing.
Merri Creek Trail – Fitzroy North to Coburg
📍 Multiple entry points along Merri Creek
🚲 Bike, scooter, or walk
A scenic urban trail with birdlife, bridges, and native bushland along the way. Great for bikes or long walks with plenty of places to stop, snack and explore.
Edendale Community Farm – Eltham
📍 32 Gastons Road, Eltham VIC 3095
🐐 Small-scale, sustainable farm
A gentle, community-based farm perfect for little ones to meet chooks, goats, and more. There’s veggie gardens, compost education, and regular school holiday programs. Free entry, with small donation encouraged.
Bulla Hill Miniature Railway – Bulla
📍 15 Green St, Bulla VIC 3428
🕰️ 3rd Sunday of the month only
🎟️ $4 per ride
A lesser-known gem run by volunteers, featuring train rides and country charm. Great for a relaxed Sunday out in the hills just north of Melbourne.
Bundoora Park Farm – Bundoora
📍 1069 Plenty Rd, Bundoora VIC 3083
🎟️ Entry fees apply
A popular family destination with friendly farm animals, tractor rides, and a shaded café nearby. There’s also a heritage village to explore for curious little minds.
Edgar’s Mission – Lancefield
📍 81 Bridies Ln, Lancefield VIC 3435
🐷 Animal sanctuary for rescued farm animals
A bit more regional, but totally worth the drive. Edgar’s Mission is a haven for rescued animals and offers guided tours during school holidays. Inspiring, educational, and heartwarming.
Outdoor day trips in Melbourne’s west
West of the city, you’ll find wide open spaces, safari vibes, whimsical castles, and miniature trains. These family-friendly day trips are all about nature, adventure, and just the right touch of magic for curious little minds.
Werribee Open Range Zoo – Werribee
📍 K Rd, Werribee South VIC 3030
🎟️ Tickets required
Hop on the safari bus and spot giraffes, rhinos, zebras and more in this open-range African-style zoo. There’s a great indoor play space, splash pad, and plenty of shady picnic areas for a full day of animal encounters.
Werribee Park Mansion & Victoria State Rose Garden – Werribee
📍 K Rd, Werribee South VIC 3030
🌹 Heritage gardens and grand mansion
Pack a picnic and wander through the vast rose gardens, then explore the historic Werribee Mansion. There’s lots of space to run, lawn games to play, and hidden spots for family photos.
Anakie Fairy Park – Anakie
📍 2388 Ballan Rd, Anakie VIC 3213
🧚♀️ Entry fees apply
A magical mountaintop park filled with castles, fairy tale scenes, dragons, and gnomes. Kids can explore at their own pace, press buttons to hear stories, and climb to the top lookout for sweeping views.
The Bellarine Railway – Queenscliff
📍 20 Symonds Street, Queenscliff VIC 3225
🚂 Vintage train rides
Step back in time on a heritage steam or diesel train ride through the Bellarine Peninsula. They often run themed journeys too—like Day Out With Thomas or special events during holidays.
Altona Miniature Railway – Altona North
📍 1-21 Blenheim Rd, Altona North VIC 3025
🕰️ 3rd Sunday of each month
🎟️ Low-cost train rides
Run by passionate volunteers, this railway is full of charm. Kids can ride the tracks through bushy parkland while parents relax under shady trees with a coffee. A local fave!
Geelong Botanic Gardens – East Geelong
📍 Corner of Eastern Park Circuit & Podbury Dr, East Geelong VIC 3219
🌿 Tranquil walks, tea house, picnic spots
A peaceful escape on the Bellarine, perfect for families wanting a slower day out. Kids can explore winding paths, see tropical glasshouses, and enjoy a treat at the on-site café.
Melton Botanic Garden – Melton
📍 40 Lakewood Blvd, Melton VIC 3337
🌱 Native plants and nature trails
A lesser-known but beautiful garden space with walking trails, native flora, and a calm lake. Great for a morning wander, nature scavenger hunt, or quiet family time.
Magical escapes in the Dandenong Ranges
The Dandenong Ranges are pure storybook vibes—towering trees, fern gullies, and fresh mountain air. Just an hour from Melbourne, these lush hills are packed with family-friendly walks, scenic spots, gardens, and one very famous steam train.
Puffing Billy Railway – Belgrave
📍 1 Old Monbulk Rd, Belgrave VIC 3160
🚂 Bookings essential (especially in school holidays)
An absolute must-do! Ride an open-sided steam train through towering forest, swinging your legs out the carriage like generations before. There are different journey options, including picnic stops and lunch packages.
Burkes Lookout – Mount Dandenong
📍 Mount Dandenong Tourist Rd, Mount Dandenong VIC 3767
🌅 Perfect for sunset
A short walk rewards you with sweeping views over Melbourne, especially magical at golden hour. Bring snacks, a blanket and soak it in—kids love spotting landmarks from above.
SkyHigh Mount Dandenong – Mount Dandenong
📍 26 Observatory Rd, Mount Dandenong VIC 3767
🎟️ Entry fees apply for parking
Home to gardens, maze trails, and Melbourne’s best high-up view. The bistro is family-friendly, and the hedge maze and forest discovery trails are fun for younger kids.
Treetops Adventure – Belgrave
📍 Old Monbulk Rd, Belgrave VIC 3160
🧗 Climb, zipline, explore
An exhilarating outdoor experience with zip lines, rope bridges, and climbing challenges in the trees. There are junior courses for ages 3+, making it great for adventurous families.
Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens – Sherbrooke
📍 1A Sherbrooke Rd, Sherbrooke VIC 3789
🦆 Waterfalls, bridges, and garden paths
A dreamy garden filled with mossy paths, quaint stone bridges, and a gorgeous ornamental lake. Flat and pram-friendly in most parts, especially beautiful in autumn or spring.
1000 Steps Kokoda Track Memorial Walk – Upper Ferntree Gully
📍 Mt Dandenong Tourist Rd, Upper Ferntree Gully VIC 3156
🥾 Steep stair walk for older kids
A historic walking track and popular challenge for older kids or teens with energy to burn. It’s steep, shady, and rewarding with forest all around—best early morning to beat the crowds.
Dandenong Ranges Botanic Gardens – Olinda
📍 The Georgian Rd, Olinda VIC 3788
🌸 Massive gardens with seasonal colour
Formerly known as the National Rhododendron Gardens, this huge garden is bursting with blooms in spring and autumn. Wide paths, lakes, ducks and incredible floral displays make this a family favourite.
Cloudehill Garden & Nursery – Olinda
📍 89 Olinda-Monbulk Rd, Olinda VIC 3788
🌿 Garden art, blooms, and café
A peaceful, terraced garden full of nooks and curated plantings, plus a lovely café for lunch. It’s more of a slow stroll and sensory experience—ideal for calm family time.
Outdoor family adventures on the Mornington Peninsula
The Mornington Peninsula is a treasure trove for families who love a good day out. From steam trains and dinosaurs to lavender farms, coastal walks and natural hot springs—there’s something for every age and energy level.
Peninsula Hot Springs – Fingal
📍 Springs Lane, Fingal VIC 3939
💦 Family-friendly bathhouse area
Yes, even the littlies can enjoy a relaxing soak here! The family zone includes shallow pools, nature play and a giant hilltop pool with amazing views. Book ahead, especially during holidays.
Dinosaur World – Somerville
📍 1385 Frankston–Flinders Rd, Somerville VIC 3912
🦖 Open Fri–Sun + school holidays
🚂 Mini train ride included in entry
A dino lover’s dream! Wander through bush tracks full of roaring life-sized dinosaurs, plus enjoy a mini train ride, playground and fossil dig area. Great for under 10s.
Moonlit Sanctuary – Pearcedale
📍 550 Tyabb-Tooradin Rd, Pearcedale VIC 3912
🦘 Wildlife park with hands-on encounters
A peaceful wildlife park where kids can feed kangaroos, hold snakes, and meet endangered Aussie animals. There are keeper talks, close-up encounters, and a relaxed, shady setting that’s perfect for young families. Great for a half-day visit or pair it with a beach stop nearby (or book their after-dark popular tours to see all the nocturnal animals in action)
The Big Goose – Moorooduc
📍 233 Mornington-Tyabb Rd, Moorooduc VIC 3933
🐐 Farm animals, tractor rides, splash zone
This place is packed with kid-friendly fun—think pony rides, reptile shows, adventure playgrounds, and a seasonal splash park. You can feed goats, cuddle lambs, and jump on the giant jumping pillow. It’s a full day out with something for every age.
Sages Cottages & Farm – Baxter
📍 85 Sages Rd, Baxter VIC 3911
🐓 Free entry
This rustic little farm has chickens, sheep, a veggie garden and space to run. It’s quiet, calming, and a lovely stop for toddlers and preschoolers. There’s also a café on site.
Mornington Tourist Railway – Moorooduc
📍 460 Moorooduc Hwy, Moorooduc VIC 3933
🕰️ Runs Sundays + special events
Climb aboard a vintage train and take a ride through the scenic peninsula. The carriages are open-window style and full of character. A must-do for train-loving kids!
Cape Schanck & Pulpit Rock Walk – Cape Schanck
📍 Cape Schanck Lighthouse Reserve
🥾 Easy boardwalk with cliff views
An accessible walk with boardwalks, stairs and lookout points across dramatic coastlines. The blowholes and rock formations are fascinating for kids—just bring windproof jackets!
Arthurs Seat Eagle Gondola – Arthurs Seat
📍 1085 Arthurs Seat Rd, Arthurs Seat VIC 3936
🚠 Scenic gondola ride
Float above the treetops and take in the sweeping views from the sky. It’s pram-friendly and exciting for all ages. Pair it with a visit to the Enchanted Adventure right next door.
Enchanted Adventure – Arthurs Seat
📍 55 Purves Rd, Arthurs Seat VIC 3936
🌲 Tree surfing, mazes, tube slides
An all-in-one adventure park with mazes, canopy walks, giant slides and puzzles hidden throughout the gardens. Great for older kids and thrill seekers.
Red Hill Lavender Farm & Café – Main Ridge
📍 284 Main Creek Rd, Main Ridge VIC 3928
💜 Seasonal lavender blooms + kid-friendly café
A peaceful spot for a bite to eat, a walk among the lavender rows, and a bit of boutique shopping. Low key and lovely, especially during bloom season.
Montalto Sculpture Trail – Red Hill South
📍 33 Shoreham Rd, Red Hill South VIC 3937
🖼️ Art meets nature
A gentle walk through bushland and vineyards dotted with creative sculptures. Free for restaurant or wine-tasting guests, or small fee for trail-only access.
Boneo Discovery Park – Fingal
📍 695 Limestone Rd, Fingal VIC 3939
🌿 Wetlands walk, dino garden, hedge maze
This park blends nature with family fun—think giant games, train rides, wildlife wetlands, and dinosaurs dotted through the grounds. A full-day option for curious little explorers.
Fort Nepean – Portsea
📍 Defence Rd, Portsea VIC 3944
🧭 Explore tunnels, cliffs and cannons
A historical fort right on the edge of the peninsula. Kids can climb bunkers, walk the coastline, and spot the rip tide where bay meets ocean. Bring your bike or rent an (e)bike (recommended as it’s a big ride uphill!) or take the shuttle bus.
Ashcombe Maze & Lavender Gardens – Shoreham
📍 15 Red Hill–Shoreham Rd, Shoreham VIC 3916
🌸 Australia’s oldest hedge maze
Lose yourself (literally) in this beautifully maintained hedge maze, plus explore the circular rose maze, lavender fields, and garden café. Great for a slower-paced day that still feels magical.
Nature escapes in the Yarra Ranges
The Yarra Ranges is one of Victoria’s most scenic regions, and it’s absolutely packed with kid-friendly spots to explore. From snow-capped peaks in winter to waterfalls, berry picking, and enchanting redwood forests—this area is worth returning to again and again.
Mount Donna Buang & Rainforest Gallery– Warburton
📍 Warburton VIC 3799
❄️ Snow in winter, epic views year-round
Come for the tobogganing in winter or enjoy a summer bushwalk through the tall trees. Check Mountain Tucker on Facebook for real-time snow updates, and don’t forget gloves and a change of clothes for the kids.
Dinosaur Garden at Oasis Berry Farms – Steels Creek
📍 Steels Creek Rd, Steels Creek VIC 3775
🦕 Open until Easter, reopens in November
A mini dinosaur garden nestled in a berry farm—perfect for little dino fans. Walk among life-sized models and pick fresh berries when in season. Seasonal only, so plan your trip around their open days.
Healesville Sanctuary – Healesville
📍 Glen Eadie Ave, Healesville VIC 3777
🦘 Zoos Victoria wildlife park
One of the best places to get up close with native Australian animals. There are keeper talks, play areas, and even the chance to walk through kangaroo enclosures. Ideal for all ages.
Coldstream Station Pump Track – Coldstream
📍 1A Coldstream W Rd, Coldstream VIC 3770
🚲 Pump track for bikes and scooters
An open, modern pump track set beside a big grass area. Bring bikes, snacks, and enjoy a chilled out ride for confident riders and speedy toddlers alike.
Lilydale Lake – Lilydale
📍 435 Swansea Rd, Lilydale VIC 3140
💦 Walks, water play, and picnic spots
A family favourite with wide paths, a sandy lake beach, BBQs, and space to swim or paddle. Also has a separate water play area and playground—perfect for a warm day.
CherryHill Orchards – Wandin East
📍 474 Queens Rd, Wandin East VIC 3139
🍒 Seasonal cherry picking
Come during cherry season (usually November–January) to pick your own fruit straight from the trees. There’s also ice cream, tractor rides and shady picnic areas.
Warratina Lavender Farm – Wandin North
📍 105 Quayle Rd, Wandin North VIC 3139
💜 Lavender blooms, shop and café
A stunning spot when the lavender is in bloom (usually late spring to summer). Kids can run through the rows, and there’s a sweet little café and shop for a peaceful break.
Maroondah Reservoir Park – Healesville
📍 Maroondah Hwy, Healesville VIC 3777
🌿 Dam walks and forest views
Explore the dam wall, wander through forest trails, and let the kids roam the gardens. Lots of grassy space, BBQs and a fun mix of history and nature.
Redwood Forest – East Warburton
📍 Cement Creek Rd, East Warburton VIC 3799
🌲 Towering Californian redwoods
Step into another world beneath giant redwood trees. This forest is a favourite for photos, nature play and quiet exploration. Bring gumboots after rain and pack out what you pack in.
Warburton Rainforest Gallery – Warburton
📍 Acheron Way, Warburton VIC 3799
🛤️ Elevated rainforest boardwalk
A short walk with big rainforest feels. The gallery includes a tree-top platform, mossy paths, and interpretive signs—great for curious minds and accessible for prams too.
Badger Weir – Badger Creek
📍 Badger Weir Rd, Badger Creek VIC 3777
🦜 Nature walks and bird spotting
A peaceful picnic spot surrounded by mountain ash and fern gullies. Home to lots of native birds and easy bushwalks. Best visited after recent rains when the weir is flowing.
Seville Water Play Park – Seville
📍 20-28 Monbulk-Seville Rd, Seville VIC 3139
💦 Free splash park
A hit with local families, this water play zone features fountains, sprayers, and shaded seating. Combine it with a visit to the nearby bakery or café for a perfect low-cost day out.
Warburton Water World – Warburton
📍 Warburton VIC 3799
🌊 FREE outdoor pool with splash features
Open in summer only, this outdoor pool and splash zone is a great way to cool off after a forest walk or ride along the Warby Rail Trail. Low-key and great for kids of all ages.
Best outdoor day trips from Melbourne for kids
Planning a school holiday adventure? These family-friendly day trips are perfect for getting out of the city and soaking up nature, art, and fresh air. Each spot is packed with outdoor fun for little explorers—with waterfalls, giant sculptures, wild play spaces, and bushland magic just a drive away.
Steavenson Falls – Marysville
📍 Falls Road, Marysville VIC 3779
🕰️ Open daily
💧 Pram and wheelchair accessible
An easy and breathtaking walk to one of Victoria’s highest waterfalls. The main path is sealed and gentle, so it’s great for all ages (and prams). Go early to beat the crowds and watch the misty water cascade from 84 metres above.
Gallipoli Park – Marysville
📍 Marysville VIC 3779
🛝 Huge nature play space
This hidden gem of a playground is nestled in a quiet park with BBQs, toilets, and open space to run wild. There’s a timber fort, sandpit, flying fox, water play and more—plus it’s right near the town centre for coffee and treats.
Bruno’s Art and Sculpture Garden – Marysville
📍 51 Falls Road, Marysville VIC 3779
🎟️ Entry fees apply (kids under 5 free)
A whimsical wonderland of quirky sculptures hidden in lush rainforest gardens. Kids will love spotting the fairies, trolls, and magical creatures tucked between the trees. Bring your camera—this place is pure imagination.
Masons Falls – Kinglake
📍 National Park Road, Kinglake West VIC 3757
🥾 700m walk to viewing platform
A peaceful spot for a bushwalk and picnic. The Masons Falls lookout walk is short, shady, and offers gorgeous views of the cascading waterfall. There’s also a big picnic area with BBQs and toilets at the car park.
Wombelano Falls – Kinglake
📍 Captains Creek Road, Kinglake VIC 3763
🥾 1.5km return walk
A slightly more rugged bush track through tall gums, but a great intro to hiking for older kids. The viewing platform gives you a peek over the tall single-drop falls, especially beautiful after rain.
Mount Sugarloaf – Kinglake National Park
📍 Sugarloaf Road, Kinglake VIC 3763
🌄 Epic views, picnic tables
If you’re chasing a lookout with wow-factor, this is it. Panoramic views stretch across Melbourne’s northeast and on clear days you can spot the CBD skyline. Pack snacks and enjoy a peaceful mountaintop moment.
Bollygum Park – Kinglake
📍 Whittlesea-Kinglake Road, Kinglake VIC 3763
🛝 Inspired by the Bollygum book
A magical adventure park inspired by the children’s book Bollygum. Think forest animals, climbing logs, rope bridges, and quirky play zones. It’s got a sheltered BBQ area too, so it’s perfect for a whole-day outing.
Toorongo Falls – Noojee
📍 Toorongo Falls Road, Noojee VIC 3833
🥾 2km loop walk
A peaceful bushwalk with two stunning waterfalls: Toorongo and Amphitheatre Falls. The track is shady, well-signed, and doable for kids who are happy to walk a little further. Keep an eye out for lyrebirds!
Noojee Heritage Centre – Noojee
📍 15 School Road, Noojee VIC 3833
🎟️ Free entry, open weekends
This charming little museum celebrates Noojee’s rail and timber history. It’s interactive and family-friendly, and the volunteers are full of stories. Plus, it’s the perfect spot to park before your bridge walk.
Noojee Trestle Bridge – Noojee
📍 Park at the Noojee Heritage Centre, walk via School Road
🚶♀️ 45-minute return walk
A must-see! This massive wooden trestle bridge is one of the last of its kind and super impressive in person. The walk from the Heritage Centre is mostly flat and scenic—perfect for kids with snacks in hand.5
Final Tips for a Fun Day Out
✔️ Pack for all seasons – Melbourne weather is unpredictable, so bring layers, sunscreen, and a spare change of clothes (especially for splash zones and muddy trails).
✔️ Check opening hours – Some attractions only open on weekends or during school holidays, so double check before you go.
✔️ Bring snacks and water – While many places have cafés or kiosks, it’s always handy to have a few go-to snacks on hand (plus it saves money).
✔️ Book ahead when needed – Spots like Puffing Billy, Gumbaya World, or Peninsula Hot Springs can fill up fast during school holidays—booking online is your best bet.
✔️ Start early – Beat the crowds (and the meltdowns) by getting out early in the day. You’ll score better parking and more peaceful vibes.
Ready to explore?
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, riding miniature trains, cuddling cows or wandering through botanical gardens, there’s no shortage of family-friendly outdoor adventures in and around Melbourne. Save this guide, share it with friends, and start planning your next school holiday memory—because the best days are the ones spent outside, together.
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