National Gallery of Victoria for Kids

The National Gallery of Victoria or NGV is a great museum for kids and one of the best free things to do in Melbourne and the designated kids area makes it a great family activity.

NGV – National Gallery of Victoria

The NGV is always a special place for kids starting with making wishes in the outside fountain (don’t forget to bring a few spare coins) and sticking little fingers into the waterfall wall at the front door.

The Children’s Gallery is just to the right of the front entrance so very east access with plenty of room for prams.

KIDS NGV is always promoting learning through play and hand on art experiences throughout the year.

There are also family restrooms with change tables, quiet feeding space and microwave right next to the Children’s Gallery.

If you and the kids want to explore more of the galleries don’t forget to grab an NGV Kids Activity Sheet to take with you.

The main collection has a little something for everyone. You will find everything from Victorian clothing to examples of rocking chairs. There are contemporary paintings and classic sculptures.

If you need a little rest break head into the Great Hall and have a lay down on one of the comfy ottomans to take in the glorious stained-glass ceiling by Leonard French.

When the kids need to run of some energy, head outside to the sculpture garden complete with plenty of chairs and tables for outside dining and a climbing structure.

There are many child friendly food options at the Gallery Kitchen and Tea Room on site. You are also welcome to bring a picnic to eat outside.

No food or drink is allowed to be consumed inside the galleries. There are also loads of restaurants, cafes and ice cream shops just steps away on Southbank along the river.

There is limited street parking and in the Arts Centre car park but with Flinders Street Station right across the bridge, public transport is the easiest way to go.

Details

Address:
NGV – 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne
Opening Hours:
10am–5pm daily
Current Kid’s Exhibit is Making Art: Imagine Everything is Real until 9 OCT
Current Main Exhibition is The Picasso Century until 9 October
Cost:
General Entry including the Children’s Gallery is Free and no ticket is required.
Special Collections require tickets.
Website

*Guest contributor: Clara Batton Smith, Melbourne