Spring in Melbourne, Best Things to do for Families
Spring in Melbourne is one of the most magical times of the year. The days get longer, flowers are blooming, and the weather is perfect for getting out and about with the kids, especially after a long winter!
There are lots of family activities to enjoy throughout the term and also spring school holiday activities going on too. Whether you want to explore the city, head to the beach, or escape into nature, here are some of our favourite things to do in Melbourne in spring with kids.
15 Things to do in Melbourne in Spring with Kids
Spring in Melbourne: Our top things to do with kids.
1. See the Tulips at Tesselaar Tulip Festival
Nothing says spring in Melbourne like a field of colourful tulips. The Tesselaar Tulip Festival is a must-do for families, with thousands of blooms, live entertainment, market stalls, and special themed weekends for kids. It’s a photographer’s dream and a great way to enjoy the warmer weather. We go every year and it’s always a hit for all ages.
Read More>>> Tesselaar Tulip Festival
2. Stroll Through the Royal Botanic Gardens
Spring is the perfect time to explore Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens. Flowers are in full bloom, the lakes glisten in the sun, and there’s plenty of space for kids to run around. The Ian Potter Foundation Children’s Garden is right there too for little ones. We love to pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxed family day out.
Read More>>> Royal Botanic Gardens
3. Take a boat ride on the Yarra River
See Melbourne from a whole new perspective with a family-friendly boat ride along the Yarra River. In spring, the weather is mild and sunny, making it ideal for cruising past iconic landmarks like Federation Square, the MCG, and Southbank. You can hire your own electric picnic boat such as a GoBoat, (no licence required), they are great fun, our kids loved having a turn at being captain! Or you can also join one of the Melbourne River Cruises which are great fun.
4. Visit a Children’s Farm
Meet the animals, try your hand at feeding some animals, and enjoy fresh produce at one of Melbourne’s Children’s Farms. In spring, there are often new baby animals to meet, and the gardens are green and lush. It’s a lovely way for kids to connect with farm life without leaving the city and it always makes a fun day out.
Read More>> Animal Farms in Melbourne
5. Have Fun at the Melbourne Royal Show
If you’re in Melbourne in late September during the Spring school holidays, the Royal Melbourne Show is a highlight. With rides, animal shows, showbags, live entertainment, and delicious food, it’s a full day of family fun. Spring weather means you can enjoy it all without the summer heat.
6. Spend the day at Fitzroy Gardens
Fitzroy Gardens is one of Melbourne’s prettiest green spaces, and in spring it comes alive with colourful flower beds, shady trees, and fragrant blossoms. We love it here when the sun is out! You can enjoy a picnic on the lawns, wander the paths to discover fountains and sculptures, visit Cooks cottage, the Fairies’ Tree or the huge dragon playground which are always a hit with kids. The mild spring weather makes it perfect for both exploring and relaxing.
7. Enjoy the Spring Racing Carnival’s Family Days
The Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival isn’t just for adults, many race days include free kids’ entertainment, petting zoos, pony rides, and activities. It’s a unique family day out with a touch of Melbourne tradition.
8. Check Out the Cherry Blossoms
Blue Hill bursts into a pink paradise during blossom season. Families can wander among the trees, take stunning photos, and enjoy cherry-inspired treats. The mild spring days make it an ideal outdoor activity for kids.
9. Visit the Heide Museum of Modern Art and Gardens
The Heide isn’t just about art, it’s surrounded by stunning gardens that come alive in spring. Families can picnic on the lawns, explore sculpture trails, and enjoy creative workshops for kids.
Read More>> Heide Museum
10. Ride Puffing Billy Through the Dandenongs
Step back in time aboard Puffing Billy, the historic steam train. In spring, the Dandenong Ranges are filled with fresh greenery and colourful blooms, making the ride extra scenic. Our kids love dangling their legs out the opensided carriages as the train chugs through the forest.
Read More>>> Puffing Billy
11. Go Wildlife Spotting at the Zoo
The Melbourne Zoo’s are amazing year round, but spring brings comfortable temperatures for both animals and visitors. Enjoy a safari tour, spot giraffes and rhinos, and let the kids burn off energy in the African village play space. There is also the Hippo splash park at Werribee Open Range Zoo for the warmer days too.
12. Explore Melbourne’s best picnic spots
There’s nothing better than packing a basket, grabbing a blanket, and enjoying a picnic in Melbourne’s beautiful parks and gardens. With wide open spaces, shady trees, and plenty of playgrounds, Melbourne has some great options for a family day outdoors.
Read More>> Melbourne’s Best Picnic Spots
13. Take a Day Trip to the Mornington Peninsula
The Mornington Peninsula is gorgeous in spring, with beaches, gardens, and family attractions like Enchanted Adventure and Peninsula Hot Springs. The warmer days mean you can enjoy outdoor adventures without the summer crowds.
Read More>> Things to do Mornington Peninsula
14. Day Trip to Geelong & Eastern Beach
Just over an hour from Melbourne, Geelong is perfect for a sunny spring escape. Stroll along the vibrant waterfront, ride the vintage carousel, and let the kids enjoy the playgrounds and swimming enclosure at Eastern Beach. In spring, the foreshore gardens are in full bloom, and there are often weekend markets to browse. It’s an easy, relaxed day out with plenty of family-friendly dining options.
15. Check out one of Melbourne’s Fun Theme Parks
Spring is the perfect time to head out for the day at one of Melbourne’s theme parks! Luna Park is one of our favs right in the city and so easy to get to. Gumbuya World is great if you don’t mind a drive, there are rides, a wildlife park and also some waterslides if the weather is warm enough. Funfileds in the north is great fun too. For little ones, check out Fairy Park in the South West.
Read More>> Best Theme Parks Melbourne
Tips for Enjoying Melbourne in Spring for Families
Melbourne as it really starts to come alive in Spring with the warmer weather and can be really colourful Make sure you pack sunscreen and hats, but also bring a light jacket as Melbourne weather can still surprise you!
Looking for more things to do in Melbourne?
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