13 Things To do in Echuca with Kids

Looking for things to do in Echuca Moama area? Echuca, in northern Victoria, is a family holiday location along the Murray River steeped in rich history and bustling with family-friendly activities. Here is a list of our top things to do in Echuca with kids during your visit.

Things to do in Echuca with Kids Families

Echuca, Victoria

Echuca is nestled on the Murray River in the northern part of Victoria on the border of New South Wales and the town of Moama. It is renowned for its heritage as a vibrant 19th-century river port along the Murray River in Victoria, Australia.

Its historic wharf and beautifully preserved paddle steamers offer a glimpse into the past, while its modern attractions and natural landscapes make it an ideal destination for families seeking a blend of history and fun.

I can’t count how many times we have visited Echuca with kids and before we had them. A few of our family actually own cabins in various holiday parks in the area so it’s a great excuse.

The best thing about Echuca if you live in Melbourne, is that you can escape for a warmer climate, it is usually 3-4 degrees warmer in Echuca.

Here we have put together a great list of things to do in Echuca and Moama. Whether you are looking to dive into the towns history, head out to one of the nearby wineries, go for a bike ride or spend your time on the water there lots of fun things to do in Echuca for families.

13 Things to Do in Echuca with Kids

After visiting Echuca countless times over the years, here are our top Echuca attractions and things to do in Echuca for families.

1. Paddle Steamer Cruise

Paddlesteamers things to do Echuca with Kids

Number one on our list of Echuca attractions and one of the best things to do in Echuca with kids or without, is to hop aboard an iconic paddle steamer for a leisurely cruise along the Murray River. It’s a great way to experience the waterway and learn about river life in the 1800s.

There are various different paddle steamers to board. For families we recommend a 1 hour family friendly cruise such as the PS Canberra with Murry River Paddle Steamers. We did this with a large group of 16 people including 6 kids and it was great.

Steering the paddle steamer things to do Echuca with Kids

This beauty isn’t just a paddle steamer; it’s a time machine to the river trade glory days. With its historic charm and authentic design this paddle steamer offers an immersive journey into the rich maritime history of the region.

The commentary on board is great and the kids even got to head down and steer which was a highlight. For families eager to dive into Echuca’s riverboat past, a ride on the PS Canberra is a must for a hands-on history lesson with a whole lot of charm.

2. Port of Echuca Discovery Centre

Port of Echuca Discovery Centre things to do

Located in the heart of the town the Port of Echuca Discovery Centre is like a time capsule, throwing open the doors to Echuca’s river port history. You can explore the interactive displays and heritage buildings, discovering the pivotal role the port played in Australia’s history. Kids will enjoy the audio-visual exhibits and paddle steamer displays.

There’s lots of information about those iconic riverboats that once ruled these waters. From the bustle of the old port to the secrets of the river trade, this place spills all the fascinating tales. It’s not your average museum, it’s a hands-on journey back in time that’ll leave the whole family buzzing with newfound Murray River knowledge.

3. Bike Riding Along Murray River

Things to do Echuca with Kids Bike Rides

Echuca and Moama have some great bike trails, both on and off-road, that can take you around the towns also into the nature.

You can bring your own, or rent bicycles and explore the scenic Murray River trails, offering picturesque views and a chance to soak in the natural beauty of the region.

Bike rides are best in the early mornings, late evenings, or on cooler days. As mentioned Echuca can get quite warm, especially in the middle of the day.

4. Wine or Port Tastings

Echuca is famous for its renowned wineries and one of our favourites places for wine and port tastings in the centre of town is St. Anne’s winery which is great for wine enthusiasts but also casual sippers.

Unwind and savour a unique tasting experience in our original carriage builder’s workshop, now adorned with colossal heritage barrels cradling 3000 litres of aged port.

Open daily, you can indulge in a full range of wines and ports, and the best thing is that these tastings are free of charge so you can taste before purchasing your favourites!

We tasted a range of wine and port, and it was impossible to leave without a few purchases!

5. Billabong Ranch Adventure Park

One of the best things to do in Echuca with kids is head out for the day to the Billabong Ranch and Adventure Park. This is great for all ages, even adults will love it too.

You can engage in a whole range of family-friendly activities like horse riding, mini-golf, and animal encounters. There are also paddleboats and a range of adventure trails to explore too.

6. Murray River Walk

Take a scenic stroll along the river, ideal for family bonding and enjoying the tranquil surroundings. Because of the heat during the summer months, you will often see walkers in the early mornings heading out for a walk before it gets too hot.

Start your day early if you can. No matter where you are staying there will be a trail nearby, or just follow the river.

7. Great Aussie Beer Shed and Heritage Farm Museum

Discover the history of beer in Australia and explore the extensive collection of vintage beer cans and memorabilia. The heritage farm museum also offers insights into rural life and makes a great activity in Echuca for kids and adults of all ages.

8. Echuca Mini Golf

Challenge the family to a round of mini-golf, perfect for friendly competition and fun moments. Mini Golf is great fun for the kids and adults and makes a great day out. Rich River Mini Golf offer the option of 9 or 18 holes. For enthusiasts there is the classic golf and also accommodation onsite too.

9. Stand up paddleboarding or kayaking

One of the most popular things to do in Echuca is get out on the water and a great way to get out on the river is on a paddleboard or kayak. If you have your own, bring it along, otherwise you can hire boards and kayaks from Echuca Moama Stand Up Paddle SUP Echuca Boat Canoe Hire.

Just take note of the current as it can be quite strong. Most people will get dropped off at one end of the river and paddle back, it makes it easier as paddling against the current can sometimes be a challenge if you aren’t experienced.

10. Boating

If you love boating, then this is the perfect spot. There’s nothing quite like the thrill of being on the back of a boat, or jetski. Or if you and the kids are adrenaline junkies you can try wakeboarding, or water skiing. It is great fun for all ages.

11. Relax on a river beach

Things to do Echuca River Beach with kids

While not a coastal beach, there are plenty of little river beaches on the Murray River. You can even swim in the shadow of the iconic bridge that links New South Wales and Victoria. It is the perfect place for swimming or a picnic on the river. There is the sandy beach and also a great grassed shady area too with picnic benches and public BBQ’s. Make sure to wave to the paddle steamers chugging past.

12. Go Fishing

Things to do in Echuca with kids fishing

The Murray River, weaves through Echuca and is rebound for its diverse fish species and serene landscapes. Fishing can be a great experience for families and kids. With any luck you will catch a Murray Cod, Yellow Belly, Bream or Redfin. However fishing on the Murray just casting lines, it’s a chance to bond over shared experiences. Teach your kids the art of angling or simply enjoy a peaceful day by the river.

13. Twisted Science

Perfect for curious young minds, this science and discovery centre offers interactive exhibits and workshops to inspire and educate. One of the best things to do in Echuca for kids on a rainy or windy day and it is a great learning experience for them too.

14 Relax in the botanic gardens

The Moama Botanic Gardens are set in the Echuca Moama Recreation Reserve and were officially opened in November 2020. Given the young age of these gardens, you should expect to see quite a few young plants, rather than the really tall and old European and Asian trees you’ll often see in other botanic gardens. For the kids, there is a large adventure park right next to the gardens where they can play for ages.

Is Echuca worth visiting with kids?

Echuca is a great family-friendly destination and worth visiting with kids. It is well known for its river-related activities on the Murray River and the paddle-steamers which are a big hit for all ages.

There are some great family holiday parks and other types of accommodation to suit families especially and because it is only a 3 hour drive from Melbourne it isn’t a huge drive and can be done with little ones easily with a stop on the way.

Echuca with Kids

There are lots of things to do in Echuca with kids of all ages. Echuca, with its blend of history, natural beauty, and family-friendly activities, promises an enriching and enjoyable experience for families seeking adventure and relaxation alike.