Top Toddler-Friendly Spots in Melbourne: Where Dads Can Shine!

Hey there, dads! Are you on the hunt for some exciting and kid-friendly activities to do in Melbourne with your little ones while mum is home with the baby? Look no further! As parents, we all know the struggle of finding new and fun places to take our toddlers and preschoolers, especially when balancing the needs of a newborn. But fear not, Melbourne has a plethora of options for dads to entertain their curious and energetic toddlers. And don’t worry, this list is suitable for all caregivers who are looking for fresh ideas to keep little ones entertained. From interactive museums to outdoor adventures, my comprehensive guide has got you covered. So, buckle up and get ready to explore the best spots in Melbourne for unforgettable outings with your toddlers!

Free Things to Do with Toddlers in Melbourne

• Go for a Bushwalk – Explore the wonders of nature with your little explorer by going on a bushwalk. Search for treasures, feel the different textures, and draw patterns in the dirt.
• Visit the Library – Spark your toddler’s imagination with interactive sessions during the library’s storytime or simply search the shelves together to find a new favourite book. Yarra Plenty Regional Libraries publish their Storytime sessions here.
• Head out on Bikes or Scooters – Ready, set, roll! Strap on those helmets and hit the pavement with their bike or scooter for a fun-filled stroll around the neighbourhood or head to a nearby basketball court for traffic-free zooming around.
• Visit a New Playground – The local playground is great for a quick stop, but to up their excitement and adventure head to a new-to-you playground.
• Check out the NGV – Immerse your little art aficionado in a world of creativity and inspiration at the National Gallery of Victoria, with regular free exhibitions specifically for children. They also have self-guided activity sheets and family events.
• Water Play at a Playground – Make a splash and let them cool off at a playground with a water play area. Perfect for hot summer days, but even just mildly sunny is probably warm enough for your little one!
• Visit the Market – Explore the vibrant sights, sounds, and flavors of the local market. From fresh produce to artisan crafts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
• Go to the Beach – Build sandcastles, collect seashells and dip your toes in the waves at the beach. A great spot to visit year-round, but always plan for them to end up wet.

Low-Cost and Easy Things to Do in Melbourne with Toddlers

• Shop at Bunnings – Kid-friendly workshops run on weekends, but the indoor playground and cafe are an option all week. And with trolleys perfectly sized for your toddler, they’d love choosing a craft kit to bring home.
• Ride a Train – All aboard for adventure! Trains hold such fascination for toddlers, it doesn’t matter where you’re going when the journey to get there is so exciting.
• Visit the Melbourne Zoo – With an annual membership (also valid for Werribee Zoo and Healesville Sanctuary) you can dip in for a simple morning visit, letting your little one plan the agenda. And don’t forget Keeper Kids, with daily activities and a great indoor, imaginative play space.
• Swim at the Pool – With shallow toddler wading areas and family changerooms, local community indoor pools can be a great all-weather outing.
• Visit a Playcentre – Brave the screams of toddler excitement and let your kiddo loose in a Playcentre. Ball pits, slides and tunnels await for hours of active play.
• Stop in at a Cafe – The joys of a babyccino should not be overlooked. Some wonderful cafes even have a play area for kids.
• Visit a Farm – Experience the sights and smells of farm life, getting up close with friendly animals at a local community farm. Tractor rides and feeding the guinea pigs are firm favourites in my family. Farms around Melbourne include:
  • Bundoora Park Farm
  • Edendale Farm, Eltham
  • Collingwood Children’s Farm
  • Chesterfield Farm, Scoresby
• Visit a Roller Rink – Lace up your skates and glide across the rink for a session of fun and laughter. Enquire about assist frames for beginners.
• Ride a Miniature Train – Hop aboard a miniature train on a Sunday and embark on a delightful journey over short bridges and through petite tunnels, perfect for little locomotive enthusiasts.
  • Diamond Valley Miniature Railway, Eltham
  • National Steam Centre, Scoresby
• Indulge in Icecream – Watch their eyes light up as they consider all the flavours at your local icecream shop. Or, venture out to the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery where you can finish your visit with a wander through the grounds.

Fun Things to Do with Toddlers in Melbourne

• Explore the Museum of Play and Art – Spark your toddler’s imagination with immersive play experiences and artistic adventures at the Museum of Play and Art. Designed for children ages 1 to 7 years old to play, create and learn together.
• Go to the Aquarium – Dive into a world of wonder! Explore mesmerizing marine life up close and discover the magic of the ocean at the aquarium.
• Check out Scienceworks – Delve into interactive exhibits and hands-on experiments at Scienceworks. Ground Up: Building Big Ideas, Together is an exhibition designed specifically for kids 5 years and under for explore and touch.
• Visit the Melbourne Museum – Uncover the past, present, and future! From ancient artifacts to cutting-edge innovations, the Melbourne Museum is a treasure trove of knowledge and discovery for curious minds of all ages. Reserve your free timed entry to the wonderful Children’s Gallery when you book your tickets.
• Go to Legoland – Dive into a world of colourful bricks and endless possibilities at Legoland. With rides (Kingdom Quest has no height requirements) Miniland Melbourne and the Duplo Farm play space, their is plenty to inspire your little builder’s imagination.

So there you have it, dads! A list of fantastic spots in Melbourne where you can unleash your inner child and create unforgettable memories with your toddler. Whether you’re seeking adventure, learning, or simply some quality bonding time, Melbourne has something for every dad and little one to enjoy together. So, grab snacks, waterbottles, a spare set of clothes and get ready for some priceless moments of joy and discovery!