Melbourne Museum Sleepover with Kids
Ever wanted to sleep at a museum surrounded by dinosaurs? The Melbourne Museum sleepover makes that childhood dream a reality, and it’s one of the most unique family experiences you can do in Melbourne.
We took part in the Older Family Museum Sleepover with our kids 11 and 13 years old over the school holidays. This event is designed for families with older kids and teens. It was such a fun, memorable way to experience the museum after hours. There were no crowds, no rushing, just exploring, learning and staying up late! Our kids absolutely loved it.
What Is the Melbourne Museum Sleepover?
The Melbourne Museum Sleepover is an overnight experience that gives families exclusive after-hours access to the museum, guided activities, an IMAX movie and the chance to sleep inside the galleries.
There are generally three sleepover options available:
- Younger kids sleepovers (ages 6–12 with adults)
- Older family sleepovers (ages 10–16 with adults)
- Adults-only sleepovers (18+)
While the structure is similar for each age group each time, the times are a little different (earlier for the younger ones) and the exhibitions and IMAX movie change each term, making every sleepover slightly different depending on what’s on at the museum.
Our Older Family Sleepover Experience
Here’s what to expect at the Family Sleepover at the Museum.
After-Hours Museum Access
Our evening kicked off at 6.15pm where our family of four checked in and met our guide. Once the museum closes to the public the whole place feels completely different. Exploring the galleries at night instantly adds excitement.
For our session, the featured activity was the Star Wars exhibition. Having time to explore without crowds meant the kids could properly engage with the displays and interactive elements.
Torchlight Dinosaur Tour
Next up was our dinosaur tour, a definitely highlight for all of us. Walking through the dinosaur galleries at night is really cool. Seeing the massive skeletons in near-darkness, guided only by torches, makes it feel adventurous without being scary for young ones. The guides also make it interesting too, and kept the kids engaged the whole time.
IMAX Movie Night
Next up, around 8.30pm for the older kids (a little earlier for the younger group) IMAX theatre for a late-night movie. First off to the Candy bar for late night snacks! (Popcorn, drinks and an ice-cream.) Our screening was Avatar 3, but the movie changes each term depending on current releases.
Sleeping in the Museum
When it’s time for bed, mattresses are set up inside the museum galleries, literally where you usually walk around the exhibits! Sleeping with views of the dinosaurs is exactly as exciting as it sounds and easily the most memorable part of the night for the kids. The room is dark but slightly lit up with coloured lights so you can see them glowing in the night.
We got a little gift bag with an eye mask, ear plugs, water and snack too which was a nice touch.
Morning and Breakfast
Breakfast is included the next morning before checking out. We had bacon and eggs, and French toast with coffees and juice. Museum entry for the day is included too if you want to explore some more.
Tips Before You Go
- Dinner is not included, so eat before arriving.
- Snacks are included before the IMAX movie
- Breakfast is provided in the morning
- Bring warm layers, the museum can be cool overnight
- Check the current exhibition and movie before booking, as these change each term
- Overnight parking is included, don’t forget to pick up your validation ticket
Is the Melbourne Museum Sleepover Worth It?
If you’re looking for a unique family activity in Melbourne that older kids will genuinely enjoy, the Melbourne Museum Sleepover is absolutely worth considering. Although it is a bit pricey, the inclusions are great and you learn so much with a guided tour, so it’s different to a standard museum visit. Sleeping under dinosaurs? That alone makes it unforgettable.
Details
Location:
Melbourne Museum
Dates:
Vary each term, check website for details
Website:
https://museumsvictoria.com.au/melbournemuseum/whats-on/museum-sleepovers/
More Family Fun
For more family fun check out these posts:
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