10 Top Activities For Toddlers In Melbourne

Welcome to Melbourne, a vibrant and bustling city that offers endless entertainment options for children of all ages. However, if you have a toddler in tow, it can be challenging to find appropriate activities that cater to their needs and interests. Fear not, because we've got you covered! In this article, we'll be unveiling 10 top activities for toddlers in Melbourne that are sure to provide a fun-filled and memorable experience for your little one. From indoor play centres to outdoor parks and museums, there's plenty of options to keep your toddler entertained and engaged throughout your stay in Melbourne. So, let's dive in!

Melbourne Zoo

Taking your little ones to the Melbourne Zoo can be a wonderful experience for the whole family. With over 350 different species of animals from around the world to see, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Before heading to the zoo, make sure to plan your visit ahead of time. You may want to consider bringing snacks and drinks for your children, as well as any necessary items such as sunscreen, hats, and comfortable shoes. It can also be helpful to map out what you want to see in advance and plan your route accordingly.

Once you arrive at the zoo, make sure to grab a map and schedule of feeding times and special events. This will help you make the most of your day and ensure that you don't miss any of the highlights.

One of the best things about the Melbourne Zoo is its focus on education and conservation. In addition to seeing the animals up close, your little ones can learn about their habitats, diets, and natural behaviors. This can help foster a love and appreciation for nature that will last a lifetime.

Some of the must-see exhibits at the Melbourne Zoo include the Wild Sea, where you can watch penguins, seals, and sea lions at play, and the Trail of the Elephants, where you can observe these magnificent creatures in their habitat. The Butterfly House is also a popular attraction, where visitors can walk amongst hundreds of different species of butterflies.

Another great feature of the Melbourne Zoo is its play areas. The Growing Wild area is perfect for toddlers, with sandpits, climbing frames, and water play equipment. The Zoo Twilights events offer live music and dancing, lawn games, and food and drinks for the whole family to enjoy.

Overall, the Melbourne Zoo is an ideal destination for families with toddlers. With plenty to see and do, it is sure to be a day to remember.

SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium

Visiting Melbourne with toddlers is an exciting adventure, and one attraction that should be on your must-visit list is the SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium. A perfect destination for little ones who adore sea creatures and marine life, this aquarium offers a whole range of activities and learning opportunities in a safe, fun, and engaging environment.

First and foremost, the SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is home to over ten thousand marine animals, and your toddlers can get up close and personal with them. You can explore stunning exhibits that feature some of the most exotic marine life, including seahorses, sharks, stingrays, penguins, and many more. Marvel at the intricate details of various underwater creatures as you journey through the aquarium's diverse ecosystems.

One of SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium's highlights is the 'Penguin Playground' that lets kids experience and get close to various species of penguins. The exhibit allows the little ones to engage in interactive games and hands-on experiences to learn more about the habits and biology of these fascinating creatures.

If you're on the lookout for an aquatic adventure, SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium should undoubtedly be at the top of your Melbourne itinerary with toddlers. Your kids will have the chance to engage and educate themselves about marine creatures while having heaps of fun. Remember, it's essential to book your tickets ahead of time, so you save money, time, and avoid waiting in long queues, especially during peak periods.

Melbourne Museum

Visiting Melbourne with Toddlers: A Guide to Exploring Melbourne Museum

Melbourne is a beautiful city that offers an array of attractions for families with young children. One of the must-visit places during your trip to Melbourne with toddlers is Melbourne Museum. The museum is located in the Carlton area and offers an exciting and interactive learning experience suitable for all ages, including the little ones. Here’s what you need to know about visiting Melbourne Museum with toddlers.

Getting There

Tickets

Exhibits

The exhibitions at Melbourne Museum are diverse and engaging. There's something for everyone in the family. Toddlers will love the discovery center, where they can play, imagine and interact with science, nature, and culture in a safe and fun learning environment. Don't miss the Bug Lab exhibit, where you’ll get up close and personal with some of the coolest insects.

Food and Drinks

Final Thoughts

Scienceworks

Melbourne is a wonderful city for families with young children. There are plenty of toddler-friendly destinations in and around the city that provide an educational and entertainment experience for both parents and toddlers. One of the top destinations in Melbourne for toddlers is Scienceworks.

One of the most popular exhibits for toddlers at Scienceworks is the “Nitty Gritty Super City”. It is a mini-city designed for young kids to explore and investigate five different discovery zones. Some of the zones include the water zone, energy zone, construction zone, and transport zone. These interactive exhibits are built to encourage children to use their curiosity, imagination, and problem-solving skills.

Another highlight of Scienceworks is the “Sportsworks” exhibit, which is perfect for toddlers who love physical activities. This exhibit is designed to show the science and physics behind various sports. Toddlers can test their balance, throwing accuracy, reaction time, and time their sprints.

For parents who want to help their toddlers unleash their creativity, the “Think Ahead” exhibit is just the place. This exhibit allows toddlers to explore their curiosity and creativity with various workshops such as the Clay Animation Workshop, where they can learn how to make clay characters come to life, and the Design Technology Workshop, where toddlers can learn how to design their own products.

In conclusion, Scienceworks is a must-visit destination for parents with toddlers in Melbourne. This museum provides a unique opportunity to engage toddlers in exciting and educational activities that will stimulate their curiosity, imagination, and creativity. With plenty of interactive exhibits, workshops, and shows, Sciencework is the perfect place for toddlers to explore, learn, and have fun.

Royal Botanic Gardens

Melbourne is an excellent family-friendly destination for a memorable vacation with the little ones. If you're looking for a relaxing and fun-filled activity in the city to enjoy with your toddlers, look no further than the Royal Botanic Gardens. This sprawling garden is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy nature with your little ones. Here are some of the reasons why the Melbourne Royal Botanic Gardens is an excellent place to visit with toddlers.

Stunning Scenery

The gardens are gorgeous, spread over 38 hectares and offering an extensive collection of plants. As you stroll through the gardens, you'll find over 8,500 plant species and a vast collection of Australian native plants. Children will love the colors and textures of the flowers and plants. They will also enjoy the sounds of the birds chirping in the trees overhead. The gardens provide a perfect sense of calm for you and your little ones. It's a great place to escape busy life and enjoy quality time with your family.

Fun Things to Do

The Royal Botanic Garden provides great activities that will keep your little ones entertained during your visit. Children can participate in the Dino Trail, a unique experience where your toddlers can discover a dinosaur-themed adventure throughout the garden. Kids can also spend their time playing at the Ian Potter Foundation Children's Garden, a playground designed especially for children. There is magical woodland, bamboo forest, waterway exploration, and many other outdoor play spaces where kids can get their hands dirty and play. It's sure to be a fun-filled day for you and your family.

Picnic Spot

The Royal Botanic Gardens is an ideal spot to have picnic and relax with your family. The gardens offer multiple picnic areas with seating options. You can bring a basket of snacks, sandwiches, and beverages to enjoy while you sit and take in the mesmerizing view of nature. The gardens are surrounded by magnificent sites, including ornamental lakes, sweeping lawns providing plenty more options to set up a perfect picnic spot.

In Conclusion

If you’re looking for a relaxing day with your toddlers, the Royal Botanic Gardens is an outstanding destination. Children can immerse themselves in nature, explore various plants and animals, enjoy outdoor activities, and also have some fun along the way. Bring your picnic supplies, and the memories you make in the gardens will last a lifetime. You will cherish every moment you spend with your family in the beautiful Melbourne Royal Botanic Gardens.

Collingwood Children's Farm

Characteristic	Description
Name	Collingwood Children's Farm
Type	Children's farm in Abbotsford, Australia
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.4 / 2,046
Address	18 St Heliers St, Abbotsford VIC 3067, Australia
Phone	+61 3 9417 5806
Hours	Sunday - 9:30 AM–4:30 PM Monday - 9:30 AM–4:30 PM Tuesday - 9:30 AM–4:30 PM Wednesday - 9:30 AM–4:30 PM Thursday - 9:30 AM–4:30 PM Friday - 9:30 AM–4:30 PM Saturday - 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
Profiles

Melbourne is a great city to explore with toddlers. With its vast number of parks, playgrounds, museums, and attractions, there is never a shortage of family-friendly activities. One of the best places to take your little ones is the Collingwood Childrens Farm.

Located just a few kilometers from the CBD, the Collingwood Childrens Farm is a working farm that offers a unique opportunity for kids to learn about life on the farm. The farm is open every day of the year, except for major public holidays, and offers a range of activities, including animal feeding, pony rides, tractor rides, and milking cows.

A visit to the Collingwood Childrens Farm offers an excellent opportunity for kids to interact with animals. There are cows, sheep, horses, goats, pigs, rabbits, and chickens. Feeding the animals is a favorite activity for young children, and they can see how their food is grown and prepared. The farm also runs regular programs, workshops, and events, including wool spinning, hayrides, and farm tours that are perfect for toddlers.

The Collingwood Childrens Farm also has a large playground and sandpit for kids to play in. It is an excellent place for kids to burn off some energy while parents grab a coffee at the farm's cafe. The cafe serves delicious food and drinks, including homemade cakes, sandwiches, and soups. There are also several picnic areas, making it an ideal spot for a family picnic.

The farm is easily accessible by public transport, and there is plenty of free parking available. It is open from 9 am to 4.30 pm, and admission fees are minimal. Adults pay $10, children $5, and toddlers under three years old enter for free. The entry fees go towards the upkeep of the farm, and the animals are well-cared for.

In conclusion, the Collingwood Childrens Farm is an excellent place to take toddlers in Melbourne. Its unique setting allows kids to get up close and personal with animals and to learn about farming. Plus, the playground, sandpit, and picnic areas ensure that there is something for children of all ages. All in all, it is an excellent day out for families with young children.

Luna Park Melbourne

Characteristic	Description
Name	Luna Park Melbourne
Type	Amusement park in St Kilda, Australia
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.1 / 7,391
Address	18 Lower Esplanade, St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia
Phone	+61 3 9525 5033
Hours	Sunday - 11 AM–6 PM Monday - Closed Tuesday - Closed Wednesday - Closed Thursday - Closed Friday - Closed Saturday - 11 AM–6 PM
Profiles

Melbourne is a great place to visit with toddlers, as there are plenty of activities and attractions that cater specifically to their age group. One such attraction that families with toddlers should consider is Luna Park Melbourne.

Located in St Kilda, just a short tram ride from the city center, Luna Park Melbourne is an amusement park that has been entertaining families for over 100 years. The park features a range of rides and attractions, from gentle carousels and kid-sized roller coasters to heart-pumping thrill rides for the older family members.

For toddlers, the highlight of Luna Park Melbourne is the kids' rides section, which features a range of pint-sized rides that are perfect for their little legs. There's the Silly Serpent, a friendly snake-themed roller coaster that lets little ones experience the thrill of a coaster ride without being too scary. The Crazy Wave is another fun ride that swings back and forth, giving toddlers a sensation of flying as they try to reach for the sky.

While the rides are the main attraction for most toddlers, there are plenty of other activities to keep them entertained. The park has a dedicated area called Silly Central, where toddlers can play with giant building blocks, ride on toy animals and dance along to kid-friendly music. There are also face painting and balloon twisting stations, where little ones can transform into their favorite characters for the day.

Parents can rest assured that their toddlers will be looked after while at Luna Park Melbourne. The park staff is trained to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all guests, with strict safety protocols in place for each ride. There are also plenty of facilities for parents, such as baby change stations and nursing rooms.

All in all, Luna Park Melbourne is a fantastic attraction that families with toddlers should not miss. It offers a great mix of rides, entertainment, and activities that are perfect for this age group. So, pack some snacks, sunblock, and head to Luna Park Melbourne for a day of family fun!

The Big Goose

Characteristic	Description
Name	THE BIG GOOSE
Type	Farm
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 635
Address	233 Mornington-Tyabb Rd, Moorooduc VIC 3933, Australia
Phone	+61 459 911 549
Hours	Sunday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Monday - Closed Tuesday - Closed Wednesday - Closed Thursday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Friday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Saturday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM
Profiles

If you're visiting Melbourne with toddlers, there's plenty of fun activities you can do with them, and one perfect example is visiting The Big Goose. This popular attraction is located on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula, about an hour's drive from Melbourne's city center.

When arriving at The Big Goose, you'll be greeted by friendly staff who will give you a quick overview of the site and what to expect. The farm's location is perfect for a family day out, giving visitors a great opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and to enjoy the natural environment at their own pace.

One of the most popular attractions at The Big Goose is the petting zoo, where young children can touch and feed a range of friendly farm animals including ducks, pigs, cows, goats, sheep, and alpacas. The staff at The Big Goose are on hand to provide guidance and answer any questions, making this part of the visit both fun and educational.

The farm also offers guided tours, which gives visitors an insight into the history of the site and the daily workings of the farm. During the guided tour, visitors will learn about a wide range of farm activities, including cropping, livestock management, and sustainable farming practices.

Children who love to play will also be pleased with the range of attractions available at The Big Goose. These include a giant jumping pillow, a giant slide, a mini-golf course, and a maze. There's a dedicated play area for toddlers and a café serving delicious refreshments for when parents need a sit-down and a break.

Visiting The Big Goose with toddlers is a fantastic experience that allows them to learn about farming, animals, nature, and also have lots of fun in the process. With its great location, friendly staff, and range of attractions, The Big Goose is the perfect destination for a family day out.

Puffing Billy Railway

Melbourne with Toddlers: Puffing Billy Railway

Melbourne, the coastal capital of Victoria, is a perfect destination for travelling with toddlers. The city offers delightful experiences for everyone - from art galleries to beaches to museums and heritage sites. However, what truly excites children and parents alike is a ride on the iconic Puffing Billy Railway.

The Puffing Billy Railway is a century-old steam train that shuttles through the picturesque landscape of Dandenong Ranges. It is a narrow-gauge railway, which makes it an attractive adventure for children. The train travels through mountain forests, fern gullies, and pristine countryside, offering a scenic view of the lush vegetation and spectacular surroundings. Toddlers will undoubtedly be fascinated by the steam locomotive and blowing of horns and whistles.

The railway has a variety of options that cater to families, including observation carriages, open-window carriages, and covered carriages. These different options make it easier for parents to choose based on their preference and the weather conditions. Additionally, there are plenty of railway stations for a stopover, where families can get down and explore the region. There are scenic spots to take photos, and children can also feed the birds and see wildlife.

Perhaps one of the best elements of the Puffing Billy Railway experience is the volunteers who take on the roles of engineers and conductors and provide a historical perspective of the train's journey. They add a touch of nostalgia through tales and anecdotes of the train's past, which can be an exciting learning opportunity for children.

While the railway ride is mesmerising, there are some safety measures to keep your toddlers safe. Parents should ensure that their children sit comfortably in their seats or on their laps while on the train. The steam train can get hot, and surfaces can be slippery. Parents should accompany toddlers when getting on or off the train and hold their hands while walking around the platforms.

In conclusion, Melbourne and the Puffing Billy Railway offer a unique and enjoyable experience for families with toddlers. From the nostalgic train ride to the endless fields of greenery, it is an adventure that everyone will cherish. It is an experience that will create memories that your child will remember for years to come.

ArtPlay

Characteristic	Description
Name	ArtPlay
Type	Art center in the City of Melbourne, Australia
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 79
Address	Birrarung Marr, Russell St Ext, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
Phone	+61 3 9658 7880
Profiles

Melbourne is a city with endless opportunities for families with toddlers to explore and have fun. If you're looking for an indoor activity that is both entertaining and educational, then ArtPlay is the perfect spot for you. ArtPlay is an interactive studio space where children can let their creativity run wild and learn new skills through various workshops and activities.

Located in the heart of Melbourne, ArtPlay features multiple rooms and outdoor spaces where your little ones can get lost in imaginative play. The studios are open every day and cater to children aged 0-12 years, so parents can let their toddlers enjoy quality time creating and exploring.

Some of the popular workshops for toddlers at ArtPlay include the "Little Sparks" series, where children aged 0-5 years can explore art-making with their caregivers. In "Little Sparks," children can sing, dance, play and create with other toddlers while building their motor skills and having fun.

Another favorite class for toddlers is "Squish, Squelch, Splat," where children aged 0-18 months can discover a world of texture through various materials. This workshop encourages sensory exploration and helps little ones develop their sense of touch.

In addition to workshops and programs, ArtPlay also holds seasonal events, such as their "Digging Sticks Festival," which is held during the summer months. This festival celebrates Indigenous Australian culture and features hands-on workshops and performances for the whole family.

Overall, ArtPlay is an excellent spot for parents with toddlers to explore and play. With its creative workshops and programs, children can explore their imagination and develop new skills while having fun. So if you're looking for a fun indoor activity for your little ones, ArtPlay is worth checking out.

Frequently asked questions