Melbourne’s summer guide: Family-friendly things to do with your kids
Summer in Melbourne hits different – long days, golden light, and something fun always around the corner. Whether you’re planning school holiday escapes, chasing icy treats with the kids, hitting up splash parks, or road tripping to coastal gems, this is your sign to make the most of it.
We’ve rounded up the best summer things to do across Melbourne and VIC – from kid-friendly events and day trips to shady playgrounds, cool cafés, and festive fun.
So grab your sunnies, slip, slop, slap, and let’s make this summer one to remember!
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What’s on in Melbourne this summer
From dazzling Christmas lights to musicals, exhibitions and pop-ups, Melbourne’s summer event line-up is bursting with fun. Whether you’re chasing festive magic, cooling off at a splash park, riding a themed train or catching a live show, there’s something new to explore every week.
Summer walks and pram & bike-friendly trails
📍 Diggers Heronswood, Dromana
Show-stopping heirloom blooms with a view of the bay.
Open daily. Entry: $15, under 16s free.
📍 Cornella Canola Walk
Vibrant yellow fields in full bloom make for golden hour perfection (check dates for seasonal open days).
📍 Duneira Estate, Mt Macedon
Historic gardens with old-world charm.
Open on select spring days.
📍 Forest Glade Gardens, Mt Macedon
One of Victoria’s finest private gardens, open weekends.
Entry: approx. $10.
📍 Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden
Cherry blossoms, rhododendrons and sweeping views.
Free entry.
📍 Alfred Nicholas Memorial Garden, Sherbrooke
Meandering paths, waterfalls and ornamental lakes.
Free entry.
📍 Royal Botanic Gardens, Cranbourne & Melbourne
Native landscapes and lakeside lawns.
Free entry, open daily.
📍 Fitzroy Gardens Conservatory
Seasonal floral displays in a historic greenhouse setting.
Free entry, open daily.
📍 Victoria State Rose Garden, Werribee South
Over 5,000 blooming roses set in beautifully manicured beds.
Free entry, open daily.
Whether you’re packing a pram, a picnic, or a playlist, these gardens are perfect for your spring bucket list. Don’t forget to tag us in your blossom-filled adventures!
And way more
Don’t forget to swing past a local playground while the sun’s out – here’s my top list of playgrounds with something for everyone.
Need a lunch spot with a play area? Check out my go-to eats with space for the little ones.
Keen for a grown-up lunch date or wine kind of day? Here are my favourite spots for adult.
Want more outdoor adventures? Click here.
Need indoor ideas just in case? Click here.
Summer has arrived – now go make it unforgettable!
Discounts & deals
Looking for ways to make your Melbourne adventures more budget-friendly?
Find exclusive discounts and special deals generously shared by local businesses, plus hand-picked savings to help you explore more while spending less.