Family-Friendly Adventures in Carlton, Victoria!

Royal Exhibition Building

Why Visit?

Embark on a delightful family journey to the Royal Exhibition Building, one of Melbourne"s architectural crowns and a UNESCO World will Heritage site. Here"s how you can make the most out of your visit:

Morning Arrival

Start your day early and get to the Royal Exhibition Building located in Carlton Gardens. Easily accessible by public transport, you can take the tram (routes 86 or 96) and alight at Nicholson Street or use the free City Circle Tram. If you prefer driving, there are several parking facilities nearby.

Explore the Royal Exhibition Building

Begin with a guided tour, available at 2 pm daily. These tours provide a fascinating glimpse into the building"s grandiose architecture and rich history, including its role in the first Commonwealth Parliament of Australia in 1901. The intricate murals and expansive dome are especially captivating for children and adults alike.

Carlton Gardens Adventure

Post-tour, step outside to explore the surrounding Carlton Gardens. The children can have fun spotting various bird species, and you might even catch a glimpse of local wildlife like possums. The playground in the northeast corner of the gardens is perfect for kids to expend some energy.

Visit Melbourne Museum

Located just next to the Royal Exhibition Building, step into the Melbourne Museum. Here, your family can dive into Victoria"s natural environment, culture, and history. The Children"s Gallery is particularly engaging for younger visitors with its interactive displays.

Lunch and Reflect

Wrap up your visit with lunch at the Museum’s café, offering a variety of kid-friendly options and spaces to relax.

Interesting Fact

Did you know the Royal Exhibition Building was completed in 1880 for the Melbourne International Exhibition, which attracted over one million visitors in its first year?

Enjoy your educational and entertaining day out at the Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens, a true gem in Melbourne"s cultural landscape!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Healesville Sanctuary

Why Visit?

Embark on an unforgettable wildlife adventure at Healesville Sanctuary, a haven for Australian native animals nestled in the picturesque Yarra Valley, about an hour’s drive from Melbourne. Ideal for a family day out, the sanctuary offers a chance to get up close with some of Australia’s unique wildlife.

Start your day early

Arrive at the sanctuary when the doors open at 9 AM to make the most of the cooler morning hours. The Sanctuary is well-signposted from Healesville, and parking is available on-site.

Dingo Country

Begin your tour at Dingo Country to witness the iconic Australian dingoes. Learn about their role in the ecosystem and the sanctuary"s efforts in dingo conservation. Engage with educational talks and possibly see a feeding session, which is both informative and exciting for children.

Kangaroo Country

Next, wander over to Kangaroo Country to see these famous marsupials up close. The kangaroos at Healesville are very accustomed to visitors, and you might get the chance to pet them under the supervision of sanctuary staff.

Birds of Prey Show

By midday, head to the flight arena for the spectacular Birds of Prey show. Witness majestic birds like eagles and falcons in flight. It’s a breathtaking display of their hunting skills and an excellent opportunity for educational insights into their world.

Lunch Break

Take a break at the Sanctuary Harvest Café, which offers a range of delicious, locally sourced food and beverages with options for children.

Koala Forest

After lunch, stroll through the Koala Forest. These adorable creatures are mostly active during the cooler parts of the day. Learn about their diet, behavior, and the conservation challenges they face.

Platypus Show

Conclude your visit at the Platypus show to discover more about this mysterious and unique semi-aquatic mammal, a highlight for both kids and adults.

Before you leave, don’t miss the gift shop to pick up a memorable souvenir. Healesville Sanctuary not only provides a fun day out but also educates visitors about the importance of wildlife conservation.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Twelve Apostles

Why Visit?

Embark on a breathtaking family adventure to the Twelve Apostles, a collection of magnificent limestone stacks off the shore of Victoria"s Great Ocean Road. Begin your journey in Melbourne, renting a car for a scenic 4-hour drive along one of Australia"s most iconic routes, the Great Ocean Road. En route, stop at the seaside town of Apollo Bay for a family lunch and perhaps a quick dip in the ocean.

As you reach the Twelve Apostles Visitor Facility, take advantage of the ample parking and visitor amenities. Head to the viewing platforms for awe-inspiring views of the Apostles, best during sunrise or sunset for magical lighting. Engage the kids with fun facts: despite the name, there are only eight Apostles visible, as the others have succumbed to erosion over time.

Don"t miss the nearby Gibson Steps, where you can descend to the beach for a closer look at these geological giants and the towering cliffs. Ensure the kids understand the power of nature, as the steps may be closed during rough weather.

Next, drive a short distance to Loch Ard Gorge, named after a shipwreck in 1878. The site provides safe swimming conditions and a chance to explore the history through nearby informative panels. Let the kids play detective and discover the stories of the two teenage survivors.

For an educational twist, visit the Twelve Apostles Visitor Centre, where interactive displays explain the coastal geography and history, fascinating for both kids and adults.

Cap off your day with a picnic dinner watching the sun set over the Apostles, a perfect end to an unforgettable journey. Remember to check weather conditions and plan your visit outside of peak tourist seasons to enjoy a more relaxed experience. Drive safely back to Melbourne or stay overnight in one of the charming coastal towns to extend your Great Ocean Road adventure.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Federation Square

Why Visit?

Morning Start: Arrival at Federation Square

Kick off your family adventure at Federation Square, easily accessible by tram (routes 1, 3, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67, 72) or train (Flinders Street Station across the road). Start by marveling at the square"s unique architectural design, a stunning juxtaposition of sharp angles and textured surfaces, representing a modern heart in Melbourne"s historic surroundings.

Late Morning: Visit Ian Potter Centre

Located within the square, The Ian Potter Centre houses an impressive collection of Australian art. Engage the kids with the Indigenous and non-Indigenous art through interactive and educational programs specifically designed for younger visitors. Don"t miss the "NGV Kids" installations, which are tailor-made to stimulate young minds through art.

Lunch Time

Grab a bite at Time Out Café, where you can enjoy a family-friendly menu with views of the bustling square. Their burgers and shakes are a hit with the kids!

Early Afternoon: ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image)

Post-lunch, walk over to the ACMI which is a paradise for digital culture and media fans. Dive into the world of film, television, and digital culture. The kids will love the interactive exhibits where they can create their own mini-movies or play video games.

Late Afternoon: Yarra River Cruise

Conclude your visit by walking down to the nearby Yarra River for a relaxing cruise. Just a few minutes" walk from Federation Square, the cruise offers a scenic route that showcases iconic sights such as the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Herring Island Park. It"s a serene way to reflect on your bustling day at Federation Square.

Evening Wrap-up

Stroll back to Federation Square and enjoy a quick snack or a cup of coffee at one of the cafes while the kids run around in the open areas. Reflect on a day well-spent soaking in culture, art, and entertainment in Melbourne"s heart.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Yarra River

Why Visit?

Embark on an enchantive family adventure along Melbourne"s Yarra River, a vibrant hub that offers a plethora of activities suited for all ages.

Morning: Punting on the Lake

Begin your day at the Royal Botanic Gardens where you can enjoy a serene punt ride on the Ornamental Lake. This guided tour weaves through beautiful landscapes and offers a unique view of native plants and birds. To get there, take the tram from Flinders Street Station to the "Domain Road Interchange" stop, followed by a short walk to the gardens.

Lunch: Riverside Picnic

Pack a picnic and head to Yarra Bend Park, known for its natural scenery and ample picnic areas. Easily accessible by car or bus (246 from the city), find a spot by the river to enjoy lunch. Keep an eye out for flying foxes, which are often spotted in the trees.

Afternoon: Explore Federation Square

Post-lunch, stroll along the river back towards the city to Federation Square. This cultural precinct is perfect for families, offering the Ian Potter Centre with its Australian art collections, and ACMI, a museum dedicated to the moving image. Both venues offer interactive exhibits that will captivate children.

Evening: Yarra River Cruise

Conclude your day with a relaxing river cruise. Board at Southbank or Federation Wharf, and enjoy the sunset while learning about the river"s history and admiring the city skyline. It’s a gentle way to unwind and soak in Melbourne’s charm.

Interesting Fact

Did you know the Yarra River is affectionally termed "the upside-down river" because of its brown coloration, which is actually due to the clay soil it flows through?

This itinerary blends nature, culture, and relaxation, ensuring a memorable visit along the Yarra River for the whole family!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.