When school’s out and the energy levels are through the roof, it’s time to get the crew out and about! Melbourne turns it on for the winter holidays with a heap of family friendly fun that’ll keep the kids buzzing and the grownups smiling. Whether your little legends are into wild animals, LEGO-building or theme parks, the city’s bursting with things to do. So, pack the snacks, chuck on your cosiest puffer, and get ready to make some top notch memories with the fam. Here are our fave picks to keep the good times rolling these school holidays.

Our top 5 picks for family activities these school holidays:

Dive into deep sea fun at SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium

If the kids are obsessed with sea creatures or you’re just looking to spend time inside on a rainy Melbourne day, SEA LIFE Melbourne is a school holiday saver. Right in the heart of the city, this underwater world is packed with all kinds of creatures, we’re talking penguins waddling about, sharks gliding overhead in the glass tunnel and stingrays giving you a massive undersea grin. You’ll get face-to-fin with the most exotic sea creatures; you may even meet Nemo himself. There’s plenty of interactive exhibits, hands-on learning zones, and loads of “wow” moments for the little ones and grownups alike. Best part? It’s all indoors and nice and warm, which is a win when Melbourne’s weather is doing its usual winter thing.

Website: https://www.visitsealife.com/melbourne/
Tickets: from $51 (adult), $37.50 (child)

Get wild at Luna Park Melbourne

You can’t go wrong with an old school theme park, and Luna Park is about as iconic as it gets. Sitting right across from St. Kilda beach, this place has been dishing out fun for over 100 years! The big smiling (slightly creepy) face at the entrance is your cue for a day full of rollercoasters, carnival games and plenty of fairy floss. They’re iconic Great Scenic Railway never disappoints and is the perfect way to soak up the vibes and laughter of the park. Luna Park Melbourne is ideal for all ages, from toddlers to teens, and yep, even the adults will cop a bit of nostalgia. Go for the rides and stay for the memories (and the hot chips).

Website: https://lunapark.com.au/
Tickets: Family of 4 unlimited ride ticket $170, or $55 (adult), $45 (child)

Build, play and imagine at LEGOLAND Discovery Centre

Let the kids go full brick-mode at the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre inside Chadstone Shopping Centre. It’s got over 2 million LEGO bricks, which means there’s no chance of getting bored, even if the rain’s coming in sideways. There’s something for every tiny builder here, including building zones and the epic MINILAND Melbourne made entirely of LEGO. Also, make sure to check out the 4D cinema and the fun rides like Kingdom Quest. For all ages, this place is a top pick to keep the kids entertained (and you off your phone). Just be warned: they might not want to leave.

Website: https://www.legolanddiscoverycentre.com/melbourne/
Tickets: From $36

Monkeys, meerkats and more at Melbourne Zoo

Fancy a little safari without leaving the city? Melbourne Zoo has you covered. Just minutes from the CBD, it’s home to over 300 species of animals from around the world. The kids will go wild (literally) for the lions, elephants, meerkats and monkeys. There are great spots to stop for lunch and picnic if you’re packing snacks, or you can grab a hot choccy from one of the cafes. These school holidays, there are usually extra keeper talks, special events and hands-on activities to get the kids involved. Plus, it’s mostly outdoors so you can let them burn off that mid-year energy, just rug up and you’re good to go.

Website: https://www.zoo.org.au/melbourne
Tickets: From $53 (adult), free (child) on weekends and holidays

All aboard! Puffing Billy Railway

This one’s a must for train lovers of all ages. Puffing Billy is an old steam train that chugs its way through the stunning Dandenong Ranges, and yep, you can still sit on the sills with your legs dangling out (safely, of course). The lush forest scenery, old-school whistles and fresh mountain air make it a full-on adventure, without going too far from the city. You can grab a bite at the Lakeside Visitor Centre or just bring your own snacks for the ride. It’s a slower pace, but that’s part of the charm. Old school fun never goes out of style.

Website: https://puffingbillyrailway.org.au/
Tickets: from $64 (adult), $32 (child)

Lock in your family’s winter HQ at ATVM

So now that your holiday gameplan is all sorted, all that’s left is locking in the perfect place to stay, and that’s where Airport Tourist Village Melbourne (ATVM) comes in. We’re just around the corner from the airport, an easy drive to Melbourne’s biggest attractions, and stacked with family-friendly cabins for the whole gang to spread out. For whatever attraction or activity that you want a slice of during the break, it’s all a breeze from here. Book your stay these school holidays and turn your Melbourne getaway into a memory the kids will be raving about all term!

👉 Book your school holiday stay at ATVM – you’ll be stoked you did.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

When are Melbourne school holidays 2025?

Autumn holidays: 5 April – 21 April

Winter holidays: 5 July – 20 July

Spring holidays: 20 September – 5 October

Summer holidays 20 December – 26 January

What are the best things to do with kids in Melbourne during the July school holidays?

There’s heaps to keep the little ones busy in Melbourne this winter. From watching sharks cruise by at SEA LIFE to building the ultimate LEGO creations, cuddling koalas at the zoo, or riding the iconic Puffing Billy steam train, there’s something for every kind of family adventure. Just rug up and get out there!

Is Melbourne a good destination for a winter family holiday?

Absolutely! Melbourne comes alive in winter with loads of indoor fun, school holiday specials, and epic family friendly events. There’s no shortage of things to do that’ll keep the crew entertained all day long, even when it’s chilly out.

How can I keep kids entertained on rainy days in Melbourne?

No worries, Melbourne’s got your rainy day plans sorted. Hit up indoor gems like LEGOLAND Discovery Centre, SEA LIFE Aquarium, or Luna Park (some rides are undercover!). There are also museums, bowling alleys, indoor playgrounds and more.

Are there affordable family accommodation options near Melbourne attractions?

You bet! Airport Tourist Village Melbourne is a ripper spot for families looking to stay comfy without blowing the budget. We’ve got roomy cabins, space for the kids to run around, and we’re just a short drive (or train ride) from all the city’s top attractions. Plus, parking’s a breeze and the airport’s right next door.

How far is Airport Tourist Village Melbourne from Melbourne’s family attractions?

We’re just 20–30 minutes from the CBD by car, which means quick access to places like Melbourne Zoo, SEA LIFE Aquarium and LEGOLAND. Whether you’re zipping into town or heading out for a scenic adventure, ATVM makes a great home base for school holiday fun.