Family Activities In Melbourne

Whether it's a foodie find or a magical night market, Melbourne’s serving up another weekend of top-tier happenings. 

Whether you’re looking to burn off some energy, escape the rain or simply get out of the house for a couple of hours before nap time, these Chapel Street spots are up to the playdate challenge. 

After finding huge success in major cities across the world (we're talking London, New York and Milan), the Bubble Planet Experience is bringing light, colour and play for all-ages to Melbourne this April. 

If your idea of a great night out involves big vocals, bigger dance numbers and a soundtrack you probably know by heart, this one’s for you.

Think you’ve tried some crazy bites? Unless you’ve been to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, think again.

Fancy a kid-friendly weekend at a waterfront beach house with a gated pool? Or sneaking away to the hinterlands for a farmstay filled with horses and cows? You decide.

With the ocean at your fingertips, coastal long lunches on the cards and plenty of boutique accommodation to choose from, we know we’d scoop out some of our precious annual leave for a Noosa vacay in a heartbeat.

Consider this your sign to book a trip that taps straight into your childhood joy.

You don’t have to be at an athletic level to get involved; you don’t even have to run. The festival isn’t just for the Strava heroes anymore.

If your heart is saying Euro summer but your bank balance is firmly saying “stay at home”, consider this your sign to look closer to home

Love the thought of a weekend getaway in Victoria but worried about leaving the dog behind? You don’t have to, as Urban List has been hard at work digging out the best pet-friendly accommodation for you and your furry family member.

With a line-up of five-star resorts, incredible foodie experiences, and bucket list-worthy activities, this Singapore playground is the real deal. 

Winter is no time to stay indoors. In the darker months, rural Victoria comes alive with festivals and events across the state.

Here are the best bush walks on the Gold Coast, from a quick stroll to a full day in the wilderness.

Melbourne’s best pubs are redefining family-friendly dining—with proper playgrounds, delicious food  and cocktails to top you off. We’ve hunted down the 20 spots where kids go feral in enclosed play zones, teens disappear into arcades and parents finally get to enjoy a meal while it’s still hot. Genius? Absolutely. Long overdue? Even more so.

Fine diners, comfort cuisine and family-friendly feasts: here's every restaurant rolling out the red carpet for Mother's Day.

Once again May has crept up on us out of nowhere, bringing with it one very important day. It’s that one thing you should be prepared for, yet every year it comes as another suprise. That’s right, it’s Mother’s Day. 

It’s a fast-changing economy right now, but for Melburnian first-home buyers or builders who’ve saved their deposit, it’s looking good.

If you’ve ever felt personally victimised by a limp bag of spinach in the bottom drawer of your fridge, or the leftovers you swore you’d eat (but didn’t), you’re not alone. 

Buying your first home is one of the biggest investments you'll ever make—these are the questions you should ask yourself first. 

The all-new show features high-flying acrobatics, stunning costumes and timeless tales.

We're breaking down five of the most common hurdles first-home buyers face, and how to tackle them like a pro.

The funniest time of the year is nearly back upon us, you guessed it, The Melbourne International Comedy Festival is once again gracing the city with its slew of wisecracking, sarcastic, irreverent, and just plain wild comedians from all over the globe. 

If your Easter countdown starts when hot cross buns hit bakery shelves, then this Aussie bakery is about to make your year. 

Whether you’re here to eat your way across hawker centres, chase hidden bars, dive into the arts scene, or swap skyscrapers for jungle trails before lunch, there’s no shortage of ways to fill an itinerary.

As the action revs up on the track, we'll show you how to ace the off-track scene

Autumn’s no time to fall into a funk—so we’re getting you out of the house and into the country.

Go karting is a timeless activity. The almost child-like pursuit of speed and reckless endangerment is a thrill that you can’t (and shouldn’t) get driving to coles. With many tracks and karts around town, all with their own different bends and different levels of engine CC’s, it can be a little difficult to know where exactly you should burn rubber. 

Need a present like… yesterday? Our edit of the best gift cards proves last-minute can still be thoughtful. 

Townsville is your launchpad for every kind of thrill, from reef and rainforest day trips to red dirt adventures. 

New year, new you? There's no better way to find yourself than heading on an adventure abroad—thankfully Singapore Airlines is making it easy with their Picture Perfect Travel Deals. 

We've wrapped up some top bub, toddler and kid gift ideas so you can relax and enjoy the fairy bread at the next birthday party without lingering pressie stress.

Before you surrender to the stress and spiral, we’ve got a scientifically sanctioned happiness hack: Fiji.

Ready to hit the skies in 2026? Us too. From pristine Greek islands and sandy beaches of Sri Lanka to the neon-lit streets of Seoul, here's where we're heading (and why) this year. 

Looking for the best things to do with kids in Melbourne? We’ve rounded up the top family-friendly activities across the city.

Turns out you don’t need a plane ticket to feel worlds away from Melbourne—a short drive to the Yarra Valley will do it.

On the hunt for the best cafe in Melbourne? It's a tough one, simply due to the sheer volume of options. The standard the city has set has been replicated all over the world, and it's no surprise as the quality of our coffee is world-class and our brunch is unbeatable.

When life’s going at full pelt, the sweetest escapes are the ones that turn everything down a notch. These slow-down towns turn rest, stillness and a wander to the local bowlo the whole itinerary.

Craving a slice of country hospitality this summer? Us too. 

When TV personality, podcast presenter and dad of two Matty Fahd locked in his family’s first trip together, it turned out to be one for the books.

Your go-to guides for beauty-lovers, adventure-seekers and everyone in between.

Kicking off in December is the City of Melbourne’s Christmas Festival—a must-do for the silly season. 

Fill your home with fresh pine by buying a real Christmas tree this year. 

When it comes to Secret Santa, nailing the brief is an art form. This edit proves you can find something thoughtful and cool without blowing the $50 budget.

Where heart-thumping adventure meets slow, sun-drenched relaxation, Lake Macquarie is the under-the-radar coastal destination that strikes the perfect balance. 

Whether you’re planning a honeymoon or anniversary, massive family reunion or fun getaway with the crew, Singapore delivers for every special occasion

We’ve uncovered a luxurious lineup of local road trips that feel like a slice of Italy, the Alps and beyond.

According to Burnt Ends chef Dave Pynt, even a quick stop in Singapore is enough to get out and see the best of the city. 

Steeped in culture and brimming with world-class hotels, Michelin-starred street eats, a vibing nightlife and sun-kissed islands, Singapore is worthy of so much more than just a few hours between flights.

The Formula 1 Exhibition is finally racing into town—and it’s the first time this global phenomenon has hit Asia-Pacific.

 From meticulously designed neighbourhoods to world-class eats, buzzing cultural hubs, and effortless transport, every moment in Singapore counts. 

What does a MasterChef cook in their own home? We asked Alex Crisp for a look inside her kitchen. 

PowerPlay has just opened its newest electric go-karting track in Braybrook, Melbourne, and it's waiting for you to take the wheel.

Victoria is introducing a new move this summer that will give your Myki (and your wallet) a well-deserved break.

Broadway’s hit MJ The Michael Jackson Musical lands in Melbourne. From electrifying dance numbers to emotional storytelling, here’s why it feels like being front row at a Michael Jackson concert.

No, it's not just you—eBikes are everywhere right now.

Fed up with the dreaded “Are we there yet?” echoing from the back seat? If one more car journey soundtracked by cocomelon and the smudge of a ketchupy finger on your last clean device is your final straw, we’ve got you. It’s time to swap screen time for scene time.

Dogs love water just as much as we do, from chasing garden hose streams to splashing in shallow pools. Watching your pup frolic in the waves at Melbourne’s best dog-friendly beaches is pure joy. However, not all beaches welcome furry friends. We've curated the top dog beaches in Victoria for 2026 so you and your best mate can enjoy the coast together. Here are Urban List's picks for the best dog-friendly beaches in Victoria.

Let’s cut straight to the chase, Melbourne. After a few years of chaotic fixture changes and interstate envy, the question on every footy fan's lips as we look to the future is: where are we watching the holy grail of Australian sport in 2025?

A melting pot of rich culture, incredible cuisine and plenty of fun, Singapore is the ultimate getaway for families. 

If you’re chasing the van life but want to skip the epic endurance test, the half lap might be your new ultimate travel hack.

Astro-tourism is the latest travel craze. From dark-sky parks to luxury bubble retreats, explore family-friendly stargazing spots across Australia. 

Perfect for family holidays, solo sojourns, or a getaway with your mates, Flight Centre just dropped a stack of Singapore hotel deals, so get planning on your next overseas getaway.

Your go-to guide for maximising your time on-board.

Whether you’ve been out at one of Melbourne’s best restaurants and require an equally excellent dessert or just have a craving for sugary goodness that warrants an excursion, Melbourne is home to plenty of dessert bars, patisseries and other sweet offerings that are sure to tickle your fancy. 

Geelong, it's only an hour away from Melbourne but it's a whole new world and there's plenty of things to get around. Here's the local inside scoop on where to eat, drink, play and stay when you're in The Pivot.

Arguably Melbourne’s most picturesque regional city, Ballarat was founded in 1838 and was the centre of the gold rush in Victoria—and very briefly one of the wealthiest cities in the world. It’s come a long way since then and it’s not just about gold rush history anymore—there’s more things to eat, drink, do and see than ever before.

If you're planning on cosying up and leaving home only for the most impressive events this winter you're in luck, because Firelight Festival is set to return bigger and brighter than ever. 

Consider this your Melbourne bucket list that covers both tourist attractions and local haunts. There are endless things to do, see, eat and drink but sometimes it's difficult to know where to start. Like all good city guides, we’ve divided our hit list into a compass-like fashion to help you navigate your way around Melbourne’s best activities. So this is your chance to discover something new in your suburb or dare to venture into an unfamiliar area.

Rainy day? School holidays? Just need to get the kids out of the house before they climb the walls (or you do)? Melbourne’s packed with indoor play centres that go way beyond your average ball pit. 

Looking for Melbourne's best mini golf? Whether you're after a glow-in-the-dark party, coastal views with your putts or the ultimate obstacle courses, we've teed up the city's top spots for unforgettable rounds. 

Hold onto your hearts, Melbourne—the world’s most adorable gang is about to make its grand entrance! The long-awaited Hello Kitty and Friends Cafe, after much speculation, has finally swung open its doors, bringing the whimsical world of Sanrio to life in an Australian first-of-its-kind immersive dining experience. And yes, it’s as adorable as it sounds.

It’s Mother’s Day every day at Brunetti Classico for sous-chef Alexandra Di Biaise. She and her two children Davide and Nicole are all chefs in the kitchen at the Lygon Street institution—which turns 40 this year.

So you’re ready to take the leap and buy your first home? Here’s how to find the right place to fit your lifestyle, your future, and your community.

The suburbs are back and they’ve had a major glow-up, blending state-of-the-art design, liveability, affordability, and modern convenience like never before.

For those on the hunt for a cultural experience rich with all things history, people, stories, and nature, Auckland (Tāmaki Makaurau) should be top of the list. 

The moment every foam-footed fanatic has been impatiently waiting for is finally here – Crocs is opening its first Australian flagship store at Melbourne Central this April, and it's about to rewrite everything you thought you knew about comfortable footwear. 

Winter just got cheesier. From 15 May to 22 June 2025, Fed Square transforms into a snow-dusted French alpine village for Fondue Chalet—the city’s most indulgent winter pop-up from the team behind Melbourne’s cult-favourite Raclette Igloo.

We asked mum and midwife Lauren Brenton for the hacks every toddler parent needs to know. 

Patience, young padawan LEGO Star Wars: The Exhibition will be knocking down blast doors and arriving in Melbourne on 4 May at Melbourne Museum.

As the temperature rises and summer holidays get into full swing, it’s time to hit the pool. Here’s our list of the best places to make a splash this summer.

Ever been at the kids’ play centre and thought, ‘I wish there was a little more here for me?’ Well, you’re not the only one. Hoopla has opened as Australia’s first ‘parent’ focused kids indoor play centre and family outing spot (read: there’s a grown-ups menu). 

Returning to where it all started Jurassic World: The Exhibition is pipelining for Melbourne with some raving reviews following its massive season in Sydney. 

The sight of the blossoming purple flowers of the Jacaranda trees is a friendly reminder that the true frosty season is over and there are warmer climates ahead. The Jacaranda is typically earmarked with the coming of summer and Christmas (according to the jingle). The floral tree is an Australian icon in the plant community and a welcome beacon to the tail end of the year. 

Melbourne certainly has no shortage of restaurants being home to some of the country’s best hospitality. However, every parent knows fine dining is not always synonymous with kid-friendly.

It’s that time of year again where Melbourne welcomes Moonlight Cinema back for its 28th summer. Returning to their usual turf—the Botanic Gardens Friday 29 November 2024. This annual cinematic tradition has multiple flicks to feast your eyes on. 

Tucked away in the lush, tranquil Otway Ranges, just a stone’s throw from the legendary Great Ocean Road, there’s a slice of nature that feels like it’s been plucked straight from a fairy tale

Everoyne's favourite train is running a late timetable this spring, with Twilight Trains choo chooing us into the balmy evenings ahead and making room for plenty of Instagrammable moments. 

If you’re up the top end of the Sunshine Coast and looking for things to do in the bustling hub that is Noosa, we’ve got you covered.

Marking the end of Broome's pearl harvest season when the fortunes of the pearl farmer are told, Shinju Matsuri celebrates this unique blend of cultures with a jam-packed schedule of events in August.