The best free and cheap family activities
Need to keep your little mates entertained? Check out these awesome free events and fun adventures for an epic day of fun this Christmas. Some age limits may apply, check with venues before visiting.
When are the school holidays?
The school holidays in Victoria are from Monday 22 December 2025 to Wednesday 28 January 2026.
Driving in?
With more than 70,000 car spaces in the city, you’re never far from Melbourne’s best events. Book ahead at key parking providers to get the best deal.
Free Christmas fun for families
Myer Christmas Windows
Celebrating 70 years of the Myer Christmas Windows, open from Saturday, 8 November.
Let's Dance with Shenzhen Airlines
Show off your dance moves, and see the floor react in time with the music.
Koorie Krismas
Koorie Klaus is back to spread festive cheer at the Koorie Heritage Trust’s annual Koorie Krismas.
Deals, discounts and pop-ups
Archie Brothers
Under 18s can enjoy one game of bowling, a $25 game card, and one game of laser tag for $36.
Free family-friendly events
The Great Melbourne Bagpipe Bash
Calling all bagpipers to help smash the world record for the largest ever bagpipe ensemble.
Distraction
An exhibition that plugs into the torrent of content and places we go when craving distraction.
Making Memoir of a Snail
Explore handmade sets, props and characters from Adam Elliot's claymation film Memoir of a Snail.
Deaf Art Science Festival
A free festival for young people, families, members and allies of the Deaf community.
Go Family Football
Focusing on fun, fitness and building strong family connections, at Princes Park.
Free kids activities
Songbirds
Come along to East Melbourne Library on Thursdays for Songbirds: songs, rhymes and stories.
Fitzroy Gardens Outdoor Adventure
A free fun outdoor seek and find adventure around the Fitzroy Gardens.
Shrine Kids
Embark on a family adventure with this engaging program designed for discovery at every turn.
AlterCOP 30: Nature Play and Discovery
Enjoy a fun-filled morning of nature, learning and play at the Royal Park Nature playground.
For teens and older kids
The Story of the Moving Image
An ongoing exhibition that journeys through the past, present and future of the moving image.
Serene Terrarium: Workshop for Beginners
Create your mini plant world while enjoying a soothing cuppa and a calming environment.
Polymer Clay Workshop
Create beautiful pairs of earrings and necklaces using polymer clay in this fun workshop.
Riverslide Skate Park
The city's biggest skate park, overlooking the Yarra River and Birrarung Marr.
Hardrock Climbing
The ultimate indoor rock-climbing experience in Melbourne is at Hardrock Climbing.
Hama Film Self Photo Studio
A self-photo studio where you can take amazing photos in special concept rooms.
Hijinx Hotel
No beds here. Just ball pits, bold colours, brain-teasing challenges and a lot of laughter.
Archie Brothers
Archie Brothers delivers circus themed arcade charm, whimsical cocktails, and big-kid energy.
Holey Moley Golf Club
Holey Moley offers a mini golf course and bar with 27 themed holes plus a karaoke room.
Cheap Christmas activities
Bubble Show for Christmas
See stunning bubble displays in this Christmas adventure that is fun for the whole family.
Events under $20
Special occasion activities - $20 and over
Game Worlds
ACMI's new playable exhibition features more than 30 videogames from the 1970s to today.
BBL: Melbourne Stars v Adelaide Strikers
The Melbourne Stars take on the Adelaide Strikers at the 'G for the First Nations match.
LEGO Star Wars: The Exhibition
Step into a world of epic battles, spaceships and landscapes from a galaxy far, far away.
Chocolate Family Adventure Day
Enjoy an all-inclusive, stress-free family outing filled with fun, creativity, and delicious treats.
Family Mystery Picnic: Melbourne Laneways
Solve clues, taste and collect pre-paid gourmet food on this unique foodie adventure.
Monopoly Dreams
Enjoy a fully immersive and interactive Monopoly experience, featuring games and challenges.
House Down Under
Australia’s favourite inverted house photo experience brings topsy-turvy fun to Melbourne.
School holiday workshops
Melbourne Paint Lab Art Workshop
At Melbourne Paint Lab you can splash, splatter and drip paint to unleash your inner artist.
Festive Gingerbread Workshop
Create your own gingerbread house with festive drinks, food and guided fun for all ages.
Family-friendly attractions
Children's Gallery Melbourne Museum
This is a wondrous place for young children to explore, play and learn.
Melbourne Museum
Explore history, culture, science, and nature at this popular Melbourne attraction.
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
Discover thousands of aquatic animals in four enchanting worlds at this top Melbourne attraction.
Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia
The world’s first major gallery dedicated exclusively to Australian art.
Queen Victoria Market
This beloved Melbourne landmark is the largest open air market in the southern hemisphere.
Museum of Chinese Australian History
Museum preserving and displaying the history of Chinese immigration.
Last updated on Thu 6 Nov 2025
Christmas
Christmas things to do
The city’s wrapped and ready with magical moments, twinkling lights and festive fun.
Christmas eat and drink
Savour the city’s festive flavours with rooftop bars, laneways and menus made for merry moments.
Discover more
Free things to do with kids in Melbourne
Get the kids out and explore these free events and adventures for an awesome day of fun.
Book Fair Australia
Book Fair Australia is a literary festival that celebrates stories of all genres.
Stronger Families, Stronger Communities
Elevating the voices of nine First Nations men exploring themes of strength and cultural pride.