Melbourne's top 10 Kids Activities & Attractions
Melbourne has Lots of fun Things to see & do for Children
Sep 20, 2009
Widely considered the Events, Shopping, Culture and Coffee capital of Australia, Melbourne has a lot to offer both tourists and natives alike. No surprise then that it also caters exceptionally well for children. From the koala-loaded zoo and shark-centred aquarium to its myriad beaches and stores specially designed for children, Melbourne boasts endless family-friendly activities and attractions, so keeping kids amused in the Victorian capital is child's play. Below are the top ten activities for kids in Melbourne.
Get Active in St Kilda with Rollerblading, Riding the Rollercoaster in Luna Park or Swimming on the Beach
Although known to frighten very young kids, the laughing face entrance to Luna Park puts a smile on the faces of most kids before they even enter this landmark theme park. An historic theme park in bayside suburb St Kilda, Luna Park was built in 1912 and is now one of Melbournes highest icons to date. Hugely popular between 3 – 12 year-olds, the fairground has some thirty rides, from the ghost train to the famous rollercoaster. Complete with fairyfloss and food stands, it's a veritable haven for kids. Admission to the park is free and a 10-ride ticket costs $30.
As a suburb built entirely on leisure, St Kilda is also a great spot to take the kids rollerblading or cycling. Running for miles north and south, the St Kilda Esplanade draws hundreds of weekend walkers, joggers, cyclists and skaters, desperate to get fir and have fun in the sun. Rollerblades for kids and any adventurous accompanying adults can be hired on Fitzroy St, St Kilda and cost $15/hour.
For a bit of rest and relaxation, why not hit one of Melbourne's local beaches? One of the most popular and centrally located sand strips, St Kilda beach is a big attraction, packing in tourists and locals alike at the weekend. Always a winner with children, the beach is the perfect place for the kids to take a swim, play volleyball or just laze around in the sand.
Get Creative at Artplay, Comfy at the Cinema or Starstruck at the 'Neighbours' Set
Artplay runs workshops and art classes for budding Picasso's between the ages of 5 and 12 years. Located along the creative hub of Birrarung Marr on the banks fo the Yarra River, these outdoor workshops are ideal for kids creatively-inclined, especially during the summer months. It also offers a picturesque view for parents. Places are limited so it's recommended to book your childs place in advance.
Another highlight for kids in Melbourne is the large number of shops devoted entirely to children. A popular haunt, Bernard's Magic Shop (211 Ellis St), is Australia's oldest and finest. Packed wtih practical jokes, from whoopee cushions to fake dog poo, it's ideal for a laugh.
To expand the litte ones minds, hit Readings (309 A fave of Melburnian bookworms, this bookstore has a fantastic range of books, cd's, dvd's and a very inviting atmosphere. A special kids corner with comfy beanbags to boot makes it ideal to while away a few hours.
An old reliable, the cinema is a child and adult-friendly activity, perfect for those wet days or evenings. But don't just go any day – 'Tightarse Tuesday' is the best day to hit the flicks in Melbourne with all mainstream cinema tickets on sale for a mere $10. Try the 'Jam Factory' on either Chapel St, Prahran or at the Crown Casino, Southbank.
By far one of the most popular tourist attractions, the 'Official Neighbours Tour' is the best way to visit the set of Australia's iconic soap opera and is ideal for both kids and closet adult fans alike. Fans will take great pleasure in visiting 'Ramsay Street' and its surrounds and will delight in meeting a star from the show. Ranging from $40-65, the Neighbours Tour is very popular so pre-booking tickets is recommended. For more info, click on Hit 'The Neighbours Tour' & 'Neighbours Night'.
Go Wild for Animals at the Melbourne Aquarium & Melbourne Zoo
One of the city's most popular tourist attractions, the Melbourne Aquarium is a particular favourite amongst kids. The best and safest way to go stingray and shark-spotting, the aquarium is both educational and fun for children of all ages. Conveniently located along Southbank, between Flinders St and Queenswharf Rd, the ocean-centric attraction is open 9.30am - 6pm and admission is $22 for adults, $12 for kids.
And if the sea creatures have left the kids craving more from the animal kingdom, why not have a family day out at Melbourne Zoo? Established in 1861, it's Australia's oldest zoo and one of the city's most popular attractions, especially amongst kids. Home to native kangaroos as well as the more usual suspects, the zoo is set in beautiful spacious gardens, with enclosures that emulate the animals' natural habitat. The result is a very interesting visitor experience, from a stroll through the bird enclosure to a wander through the gorilla's stomping ground. Located at Elliott Avenue, North Melbourne, the zoo is open 9am-5pm and costs $18 for adults, $9 for kids.
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