Weekend in Melbourne
This weekend itinerary for Melbourne is designed for budget-conscious families with children aged 3-12, offering a fantastic blend of free exploration and engaging paid attractions. It leverages the last day of the Victorian school holidays on Friday, October 3rd, and includes major events like the Melbourne Royal Show, enriching experiences at Melbourne Zoo and Scienceworks, and thrilling fun at Gumbuya World, alongside relaxed free activities. Remember to book ticketed attractions online in advance for the best prices and guaranteed entry. Always check specific event websites closer to the date for any program changes.
Friday Evening - Royal Show Fun & Kids Eat Free
Friday, October 3Royal Show Fun
Dive into the excitement of the Melbourne Royal Show, which concludes this weekend!
Enjoy hundreds of free things to see and do, including livestock shows, the brand-new Lego Duplo Farm, a world-class Illusionist show, and hands-on activities at the Little Farmers Field where kids can feed baby animals, shear sheep, and ride a Kubota tractor. Consider the Farm Animal Pin Trail for a fun, interactive way for kids to collect souvenirs. Stick around for the fireworks in the evening.
Perfect for all ages (3-12+). Kids will love the animal interactions, the Lego Duplo Farm, and the general vibrant atmosphere. Pram-friendly with accessible toilets available throughout the venue. Allow 2-3 hours for exploring the free attractions and shows before dinner. Children under 4 are free for general admission.
Accessible via Tram No. 57 (stops at Showgrounds Village Shopping Centre, a 3-minute walk from Gate 1) or train to Melbourne Showgrounds station. Limited parking is available on site, but public transport is highly recommended.
Kids Eat Free Dinner
Enjoy a delicious family dinner at Kickin' Inn Highett, where kids under 8 eat free all day, every day!
They offer a unique Cajun seafood experience served in a bag, with options like prawns, mussels, and crab, alongside sides. Bibs and gloves are provided for a fun, hands-on meal.
Ideal for families with younger children (under 8) who qualify for the free meal. The interactive dining style is fun for kids, and the early timing is perfect before bedtimes. High chairs are available, and the atmosphere is relaxed. Check their menu for kid-friendly options like pasta or chicken tenders for those not keen on seafood.
Located about a 30-minute drive from Melbourne CBD. Ample parking is usually available in the suburban location.
Saturday - Wildlife & Nature Fun
Saturday, October 4Melbourne Zoo Visit
Spend the morning exploring Melbourne Zoo, home to amazing wildlife from around the world.
Kids aged 0-15 years get free entry on weekends, making it a budget-friendly option for families. Wander through Lion Gorge, visit the Gorilla Rainforest, and discover Australian wildlife. The zoo also features playgrounds to help energetic kids burn off steam.
Perfect for all children, with diverse animal exhibits and plenty of walking. Toilets and baby change facilities are widely available. Stroller-friendly paths throughout. Allow 3-4 hours. Consider bringing a packed snack or two.
Easily accessible by public transport (train and tram services connect to the zoo). Limited paid parking is available on-site.
Picnic & Gardens Play
Enjoy a relaxed picnic lunch amidst the beauty of the Royal Botanic Gardens, followed by free play at the Ian Potter Foundation Children's Garden.
This unique garden encourages kids to connect with nature through water play, a bamboo forest, and a gentle stream. It's a wonderful space for imaginative and hands-on exploration.
Excellent free activity for all ages within the 3-12 range. The water features are a highlight, so consider bringing a change of clothes if it's warm! There are nearby public restrooms and plenty of space for strollers. Allow 1-2 hours for lunch and play.
Various trams stop near the Royal Botanic Gardens. Paid street parking or nearby car parks are available. It's a pleasant walk from many central Melbourne locations.
Farmers Market Wonders
Immerse yourselves in a local community atmosphere at the Coburg Farmers Market.
Browse stalls filled with fresh produce, artisan goods, and delicious local treats. It's a great opportunity for kids to see where food comes from and perhaps try a new snack.
A free browsing activity, but budget for some affordable treats. It offers a sensory experience with sights, sounds, and smells. Pram-friendly, and often has space for kids to wander (under supervision). The market runs until 1 PM, so arrive closer to 2:30 PM for a less crowded experience, or shift the schedule earlier to arrive before noon. Alternatively, the South Melbourne Market is also open Saturdays until 4pm.
Accessible by tram or bus to Coburg. Limited street parking might be available nearby, but public transport is recommended for ease.
City Playground Play
Wind down the day with some active play at ArtPlay Playground, conveniently located near Federation Square.
This playground offers a creative and engaging space for children of all abilities and ages, featuring rock and rope climbing, tube slides, and swings.
Excellent free option for kids to burn off any remaining energy before dinner. Suitable for a wide age range. Nearby public restrooms are available. The central location makes it easy to combine with other city activities.
Centrally located, easily accessible by tram to Federation Square. Paid parking available in nearby city car parks.
Sunday - Science & Adventure Finale
Sunday, October 5Scienceworks Exploration
Embark on an educational and fun adventure at Scienceworks, a hands-on science museum.
With interactive exhibits, children under 16 get free entry! Explore topics like space, electricity, and technology. Consider adding a Planetarium or Lightning Room show for an extra immersive experience.
Highly engaging for ages 3-12 with interactive displays like the Air Playground (for ages 2-8). Pram-friendly and autism-friendly resources are available. Toilets and a cafe are on-site. Allow 2-3 hours, plus time for any shows.
Accessible by train (Werribee and Williamstown Lines to Spotswood, 10-minute walk) or ferry from Southbank. Limited free on-site parking is available, but incurs an $8 fee on weekends.
Library Play & Read
After a morning of science, enjoy a quieter, free activity at the Pauline Gandel Children's Quarter at State Library Victoria.
This purpose-built space offers reading nooks, a play area, craft stations, building blocks, and a two-story children's castle, perfect for various ages.
A fantastic free indoor option, ideal for a relaxed afternoon. Suitable for babies to pre-teens (up to 12 years). It has family-friendly facilities including baby change, child-height toilets, and pram parking. Daily drop-in activities are often offered in the afternoon on weekends. Children must be supervised by an adult.
Centrally located, easily accessible by tram, train (Flinders Street or Melbourne Central stations are a short walk), or bus. Paid parking is available in nearby city car parks.
Gumbuya World Adventure
Conclude your weekend with an exciting visit to Gumbuya World.
On Sunday, October 5th, the park is open from 11am-4pm, offering access to its Wildlife Trail and Outback Explorers (family rides). Encounter native animals, enjoy junior rides like Ray's Express and Desert Derby, and explore the kids' playground.
This is a great option for active kids aged 3-12. The Wildlife Trail offers animal encounters, and Outback Explorers has rides suitable for younger children. The water park (Oasis Springs) is typically closed until November, so focus on the rides and wildlife. Toilets and food options are available.
Approximately a 50-minute drive southeast from Melbourne CBD. Ample on-site parking is available. Consider carpooling if possible.
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