Melbourne is packed with awesome educational activities for kids. Whether your little ones are into science, art, history, or nature, there’s something here to spark their curiosity and keep them entertained. Let’s dive into some of the best kids activities in Melbourne that combine fun with learning.
Science and Discovery
Scienceworks
Scienceworks is a must-visit for families. This interactive science museum makes learning fun with hands-on exhibits. Kids can explore space, experiment with electricity, and even play sports science games.
- Highlights: Lightning Room shows, Planetarium, Sportsworks exhibits
- Location: 2 Booker St, Spotswood VIC 3015
- Website: Scienceworks
Melbourne Museum
The Melbourne Museum offers a deep dive into natural and cultural history. Kids will love checking out the dinosaur skeletons, exploring the Bugs Alive! exhibit, and wandering through the Science and Life Gallery. The Children’s Gallery is perfect for younger kids with its interactive displays.
- Highlights: Dinosaur Walk, Bugs Alive!, Children’s Gallery
- Location: 11 Nicholson St, Carlton VIC 3053
- Website: Melbourne Museum
Art and Creativity
National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)
The NGV has tons of family-friendly activities. Kids can explore art from different times and places, join workshops, and create their own art in the kids’ space.
- Highlights: Kids exhibitions, Art workshops, School holiday programs
- Location: 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne VIC 3006
- Website: NGV
ArtPlay
ArtPlay is a creative arts centre where kids can get hands-on with different art forms. From painting and drawing to theatre and music, there’s something to ignite every child’s imagination.
- Highlights: Art workshops, Creative play sessions, Performances
- Location: Birrarung Marr, Melbourne VIC 3000
- Website: ArtPlay
History and Culture
Old Melbourne Gaol
Step back in time at the Old Melbourne Gaol. Kids can learn about Melbourne’s criminal history and the justice system of the 19th century through interactive exhibits and guided tours.
- Highlights: Guided tours, Interactive exhibits, Night tours
- Location: 377 Russell St, Melbourne VIC 3000
- Website: Old Melbourne Gaol
Immigration Museum
The Immigration Museum tells the stories of people who have migrated to Australia. Kids can engage with interactive displays and storytelling sessions that highlight Melbourne’s diverse cultural heritage.
- Highlights: Immigrant stories, Interactive displays, Cultural workshops
- Location: 400 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000
- Website: Immigration Museum
Nature and Environment
Royal Botanic Gardens
The Royal Botanic Gardens is a fantastic place for kids to learn about plants and nature. The Ian Potter Foundation Children’s Garden is designed for kids to explore and connect with nature through interactive play and educational activities.
- Highlights: Children’s Garden, Guided tours, Nature play
- Location: Birdwood Ave, South Yarra VIC 3141
- Website: Royal Botanic Gardens
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
At SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium, kids can discover the wonders of the underwater world. The aquarium features a variety of marine life exhibits, interactive displays, and educational talks.
- Highlights: Shark encounters, Penguin playground, Coral atoll
- Location: King St, Melbourne VIC 3000
- Website: SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
Technology and Innovation
ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image)
ACMI offers a mix of education and entertainment focused on the moving image. Kids can explore the history of film, TV, and digital culture through interactive exhibits and workshops.
- Highlights: Screen Worlds exhibition, Interactive workshops, Film screenings
- Location: Federation Square, Melbourne VIC 3000
- Website: ACMI
LEGO Education Centre
For kids who love building, the LEGO Education Centre offers workshops and activities that combine fun with learning. These sessions help develop problem-solving skills and creativity.
- Highlights: LEGO workshops, Robotics classes, Creative building sessions
- Location: 1 Billabong Way, Rowville VIC 3178
- Website: LEGO Education Centre
Melbourne is full of educational activities that can captivate and inspire kids. From museums and art galleries to botanical gardens and aquariums, there are countless opportunities for children to learn and grow while having fun. These top educational activities in Melbourne will not only keep your kids entertained but also spark their curiosity and love for learning.