Insider Guide: Melbourne with the kids

It feels like the school holidays have just passed, but the next break is just around the corner. Don’t let them sneak up on you this time around — get ahead of the game and keep these places up your sleeve to help you plan your next stay in Melbourne with the family.

MCG Tour

Brunton Avenue, Richmond

mcg.org.au

Does your tribe love AFL? With footy finals just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to get into the spirit and learn about how the game became what it is today with a tour of the MCG, followed by a visit to the National Sports Museum. Go behind the scenes and step inside the players’ change rooms, walk onto the arena just like your favourite player and check out what is known as the heart and soul of the Melbourne Cricket Club, the Long Room. Being able to admire the ’G, sans the crowds and noise, is an extraordinary experience that’s sure to make your family trip a memorable one. After your tour, check out the National Sports Museum and reflect on Australia’s rich sporting history. Walk through the Football Hall of Fame, and its cricket equivalent, while the kids enjoy the Game On interactive gallery. It’s not just about footy and cricket though — be sure to check out the displays and memorabilia from other sports including netball, soccer, tennis and, of course, the Olympics.

ArtVo — Immersive Gallery

26 Star Crescent, Docklands

artvo.com.au

Get creative with the kids while banking up some priceless snaps for your Instagram feed at Artvo, where you’ll become a part of the art. This ‘trick gallery’ consists of different scenes that make the impossible appear possible. With photo ops that make you look like you’re trapped in a wine glass, to those that make it appear as though you are taming a tiger, it’s sure to be a family experience full of fun and laughter. There are 11 wondrous zones for your family to explore, each as unbelievable as the last. The best part? There are signs on the ground at each photo point that give you tips on how to get the best shot, so even if you’re not great behind the lens, you’ll go home with some picture-perfect memories of your visit.

Sea Life Melbourne

King & Flinders Streets

melbourneaquarium.com.au

Take the family on an under-the-sea adventure at SEA LIFE Melbourne. Be enchanted by the wonders of the ocean, including seahorses, sharks, stingrays and more. Come face to face with king and gentoo penguins, or Pinjarra, the saltwater crocodile. For something extra special, book in for one of SEA LIFE Melbourne’s exclusive experiences, like the Penguin Passport, where you’ll be suited up in special polar gear to visit the penguins inside their exhibit. You’ll also get a behind the scenes peek at how SEA LIFE looks after these incredible animals, from food preparation to the veterinary side of things.

Scienceworks

2 Booker Street, Spotswood

museumvictoria.com.au/scienceworks

Take your kids on an adventure at Scienceworks, for an experience that is both educational and fun! This place is full of interactive displays on a broad range of fascinating topics, from engineering to outer space, sports to meteorology. Book in for a show at the Melbourne Planetarium and be fascinated by the universe, in a theatre featuring a 16-metre domed ceiling and comfortable reclining seats for your comfort. Choose from a selection of screenings, including the fascinating Black Holes or Tycho to the Moon, which is perfect for little ones aged three to eight. Be sure to check out the Melbourne Planetarium schedule ahead of time, to ensure your show of choice is screening during your visit.

LEGOLAND Discovery Centre

Chadstone Shopping Centre, 1341 Dandenong Road, Chadstone

legolanddiscoverycentre.com.au

Calling all LEGO lovers! Have you heard about the recently opened LEGOLAND Discovery Centre? Boasting two LEGO-themed rides, a 4D Cinema, plus impressive builds — including a LEGO mini Melbourne — it’s hard to see how any kids (or adults) wouldn’t enjoy themselves. Explore the various build-and-play zones with the kids, who’ll be able to create with the legendary building block to their hearts’ content. If you have younger ones in tow, they’ll love the DUPLO Farm where they can build with these softer, bigger bricks. For the perfect souvenir that is sure to be cherished for years to come, don’t forget to check out the LEGO Shop before you leave. Here, you'll find the latest and greatest in LEGO, including limited-edition items.

Melbourne Zoo

Elliot Avenue, Parkville

zoo.org.au

Get in touch with your wild side and head to Melbourne Zoo to visit the thousands of beautiful animals that call it home. Getting through the zoo in one day is no mean feat, so we suggest planning your journey in advance to make the most out of your time and ensure everyone leaves happy. Some of the amazing animals you may like to include on your zoo itinerary include the endangered Sumatran tigers, the cheeky meerkats, the awe-inspiring Asian elephants, or the peculiar African wild dog. Don’t forget the main attraction — the lions! If there’s a particular animal you and your crew really love, Melbourne Zoo also offers close-up encounters where you'll come face to face with your chosen animal while a friendly zoo keeper shares their knowledge and assists with any moments you would like captured on camera.