30 FREE Things to do in Melbourne with Kids
Finding free, low cost and budget friendly things to do in Melbourne with kids that are genuinely fun is easier than you think. Not every outing needs to cost a fortune to be fun. Some of our best days out as a family have actually been the simplest ones, where the kids can explore, run around and just enjoy being kids without us thinking about the price of everything.
Whether you are planning a weekend adventure, looking for something easy after school, or trying to fill the school holidays without blowing the budget, this guide is packed with ideas that actually work for families.
Our favourite free and low cost things to do in Melbourne with kids
These are the free and low cost things to do in Melbourne with kids that we come back to again and again!
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1. State Library
One of our go to stops in the city is the State Library especially when we need a break. The Pauline Gandel Children’s Quarter is perfect for younger kids, with a two level play space, reading nooks and thousands of books. We often pop in between other activities, and it always ends up being a highlight.
Make sure to check out their weekly events like Story Time and Baby Bounce, and also their popular school holiday programs. Best of all, it is all FREE!
2. City Circle Train
If your kids love transport, this is an easy win. The City Circle Tram is completely free and loops around the main attractions, with commentary along the way. It is a simple way to explore the city without walking too much and feels like a fun activity on its own.
3. NGV (National Gallery of Victoria)
Even if your kids are not into art, this is surprisingly engaging with large scale installations and open spaces. There are often free exhibitions and family friendly displays, so it is worth popping in when you are nearby.
4. Royal Botanical Gardens – Children’s Garden
One of the best free Located in the Royal Botanical Gardens near St Kilda, it is a gorgeous spot to bring the whole family for a picnic and play. outdoor spots for kids in Melbourne. The Ian Potter Children’s Garden has water play, climbing areas and plenty of space to explore. Perfect for a picnic and a few hours where kids can just run around and get a bit messy.
5. Hosier Lane and Melbourne street art
This is always a hit with kids and feels like a free outdoor gallery. The artwork is constantly changing, so every visit is different. Easy to combine with a city day out and great for older kids too.
6. ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image)
One of the best free museums in Melbourne for older kids and teens. It is interactive, modern and focused on film, games and digital culture, so it actually keeps their attention. Located at Federation Square, it is an easy add on to a city day.
7. Shrine of Remembrance
The Shrine of Remembrance is a well known Melbourne landmark, but also surprisingly engaging for kids. There are often free family activities, including scavenger hunts and interactive experiences. Worth adding into a city day if your kids are a bit older.
8. Royal Park Nature Playground
This is one of Melbourne’s best playgrounds and very popular for a reason. It is big, open and designed for climbing, balancing and exploring. Feels more like an outdoor adventure than a typical playground and works really well for older kids too.
9. Federation Square
Right in the heart of the city, and there is often something happening. From free events and pop ups to space for kids to run around, it is an easy place to stop while exploring. Check what is on before you go as there are often family friendly events during school holidays.
10. Fitzroy Gardens
A beautiful spot for a relaxed day out, the Fitzroy Gardens is one of the most beautiful gardens in Melbourne. It has some stunning landscapes and a large dragon themed kids playground. Families can visit Cook’s Cottage, and learn about the life of Captain James Cook and his voyages. One of those easy options when you want something simple but still feels like a proper outing.
11. Yarra River Walk & Southbank
One of the easiest free activities in Melbourne. Walk along the river, watch the boats and street performers and just enjoy the atmosphere. Great to pair with Federation Square or the city laneways.
12. ArtPlay Melbourne
ArtPlay has a range of activities ranging from puppetry to creative writing, music to drawing. Located along the Yarra near Fed Square, ArtPlay runs creative workshops for kids throughout the year. Some sessions are free and it is worth checking what is on, especially during school holidays.
13. Melbourne Tram Museum, Hawthorn
The Melbourne Tram Museum is a hidden gem, especially for kids who love trains and transport. You can explore the trams, ring the bell and even sit in the driver’s seat.
It is a great place to visit for a morning or afternoon and what’s great about it is that it is virtually free, your entry requires only a gold coin donation.
14. Riverslide Skate Park
Right in the middle of Alexandra Gardens, just steps from the CBD, you will find Australia’s only full time managed skate park, Riverslide, a free activity for kids and families. Bring your own skate board or scooter and burn off some energy, fun place to spend the morning and afternoon.
15. St Kilda Penguins
Most people who live in or visit Melbourne take a day trip from Melbourne or even a weekend to visit the famous penguin parade in Phillip Island, but did you know that there are penguins in St. Kilda which are completely free?
The penguins can be seen at the end of St Kilda pier almost every night of the year. For the best views, head to the pier around sunset and wait to hear them coming in. Careful not to use flash if taking photos, and don’t try to touch them, they are protected after all.
16. Queen Victoria Market
One of the most iconic places in Melbourne and one that is free to visit is the historical Queen Victoria Market where you can find fresh produce, souvenirs, and other diverse products.
There is always plenty on during the school holidays with special activities for kids. And a great time to visit is from November to April when every Wednesday night you can find live music, and a range of food stalls.
17. Follow the sculpture trail
Throughout the city you can see these amazing colourful sculptures, three of which by Deborah Halpern, who studied in Melbourne. You can find many throughout the city, but our favs are on the Southbank Promenade and near the Exhibition centre.
18. Docklands playground and area
Docklands often has free activities, public art and space for kids to run around. The playgrounds here are great and there is usually something happening during school holidays. It is also a good spot for scooters or bikes along the waterfront.
19. Crown Towers
Crown Melbourne, right in the heart of Melbourne is the perfect place for a day out with the family. There are plenty of free activities throughout the year especially during the Christmas holidays when they host the Crown Christmas Spectacular. Just a walk through the complex and out onto Southbank can fill your morning or afternoon.
20. Street performers in Bourke Street Mall / Southbank
Simple but kids love it. There is usually something happening, especially on weekends. Costs nothing and adds a bit of excitement to a city visit.
21. Yarra Bend Park and the Flying Foxes
One of the best spots in Melbourne to see wildlife in the wild. Head to Yarra Bend Park at dusk and you can watch thousands of flying foxes take off from the trees along the river.
It is a pretty amazing experience for kids and feels a bit different to your usual park visit. There are also walking tracks, picnic spots and open space, so it is easy to turn into a full afternoon out.
22. Serendip Sanctuary, Lara
If you want to see wildlife without paying zoo prices, this is a great option. You can spot kangaroos, emus and plenty of birdlife. Easy for a day trip and there is a picnic area near the carpark which has free undercover picnic tables, barbecues and toilets.
23. RAAF Museum
The RAAF Museum is one of the coolest free things to do in Melbourne for kids who love planes. Learn about the history of Air Force training and military aircraft, and check out the air missiles, mirage jet, and other planes in the museum.
There are plenty of open days with flying displays where you can see the aircraft in flight and learn all about flying. If you get lucky you may even see an aerobatic display.
24. Seville Water Park
If you are looking for free water play, take a road trip to the Seville Water Park. The water park itself has some of the most powerful jets of water we’ve seen in Melbourne! It’s safe for the little ones to explore, and thrilling for the bigger kids. Sure, it’s not as big as the adventure parks such as Gumbuya Park and Adventure Park, but it is free, and the little ones love it.
25. Junior Ranger Programs
If you have little ones who love to explore, one of the best free activities to do in Melbourne is to participate in the Junior Ranges program. These are special programs organised throughout the year, many during the school holidays.
They offer a range of different ranger-guided activities including, walks and talks to discover different animals and environments such as rockpools and caves. There are environmental craft and games sessions, opportunities to learn about the environment and explore ecosystems.
26. Story Time at Local Library
Most libraries in Melbourne have free activities and events throughout the year, and story time is a popular one. Usually held once or twice a week, it allows parents to meet up and listen to stories, and interact. You will need to check with your local library to see which dates and times they are held.
27. Wildlife spotting
Melbourne has an abundance of wildlife and you don’t have to go too far to get up close to the Australian icons. Apart from the Melbourne Zoo’s (Where children can visit free on weekends and school holidays), check out our list of the best places to see kangaroos and koalas in the wild around Melbourne.
28. Explore a New Playground
Sometimes the easiest and best option is simply heading to a playground. If you don’t want to spend money, pick one that is different to your usual local and make it feel like a mini adventure.
Kids always love a new playground, even if it is just across the other side of Melbourne, and it is an easy way to get them outside and moving without any cost. Check out our favourites here>>>
29. National Parks
Melbourne is blessed to be surrounded by national parks such as the Dandenong Ranges, Yarra Valley, the Grampians, and the Otways. There are plenty of walks, hikes, and waterfalls nearby within a couple of hours from the city. If you are looking to get out of the city for the day, check out list of the best waterfalls around Melbourne and our family travel guides to the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges.
30. Picnic or Swim on the Beach
Melbourne has some beautiful beaches which are of course free to visit and great for the whole family all year round. During the Summer pack your bathers and head down for a swim, or in the Autumn and Spring months, bring a picnic rug, have some lunch, and let the kids play in the sand. Check out our list of the Best Beaches in Melbourne.
Things to do in Melbourne with Kids for Free or on a Budget
There are so many free and low cost things to do in Melbourne with kids. Along with the list above you can check out a range of Melbourne’s beaches, playgrounds, and skate parks that won’t cost you a thing. If you know of any other things to do in Melbourne for free let us know!
For more family travel inspiration around Melbourne check our main post Melbourne for Kids. Follow our FACEBOOK or INSTAGRAM page, or join our community group of Melbourne Mums!
