From free exhibitions to teen parties, festivals, arts and crafts. Rain, hail or shine, here’s our guide to the most entertaining activities for teens and kids in Melbourne. 

Free cinema exhibitions at ACMI 

Head to ACMI and experience the eight-channel video installation that is Memo Akten. Be immersed in AI musings of octopus-like digital beings that draw you in. While you’re at ACMI, swing by The Story of the Moving Image and get hands-on at this fun cinema showcase, with animation and sound effects to play with. Follow our guide for more more free museum exhibitions.

Dark room filled with screens of colourful SeaLife and an octopus.
ACMI: Memo Akten

Free program for young creatives  

For the aspiring creatives in the family, Signal is a must-try. The program offers young people aged 14 – 25 the opportunity to create art alongside professionals. Sign up and paint community murals, use digital programs to create unique pieces, try jewellery making and more.  

Science Gallery 

Melbourne's one and only Science Gallery is home to some of the most unusual art installations in town. Think live jellyfish and a machete-wielding houseplant. Discover fresh insights on science fiction with Mythologies Transformed. The new exhibition weaves together science fiction with ancient philosophy and mythologies are brought to light through the work of Asian and First Nations women artists and collectives.

Two people walking into big brick building with 'Science Gallery' sign outside.
Science Gallery

Shoot hoops at Emporium

Test out your new gear from Rebel Sport's Emporium store on the rooftop basketball court. Simply head up the stairs of the flagship store inside Emporium and be met with the Steph Curry inspired courts. The space includes interactive digital games and stunning city views.

Cheap ice-skating at O’Brien Icehouse 

Looking for a rainy-day activity for all your mates? O’Brien Icehouse has got you covered. Get down on cheap Tuesday’s and concession card holders can skate for just $17.50. Whether you’re a beginner or an ice-skating pro, the Olympic-sized rink offers an epic day of fun.  

Three women skating on ice rink laughing with each other.
O'Brien Icehouse

 Coin Booth Karaoke 

Get down to Kono Coin Karaoke and belt out your favorite tune in the disco-lit coin-operated singing booths. With a song library of artists like Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran, Olivia Rodrigo and a bunch of Kpop. Perfect for groups up to five per booth or practice you lines solo. Languages include English, Korean, Japanese and Chinese. 

Indoor sporting activities 

Trade the rocky mountains for an epic indoor climbing experience at Hardrock Climbing. If it’s your first time have no fear, climbers are taught everything they need to know by friendly instructors. There’s over 100 routes to try out, starting from beginner levels all the way up to expert. Work up an appetite and pop into Melbourne Central for a cheap lunch. 

Four people climbing indoor rock climbing wall in harnesses.
Hardrock Climbing

Print pics on film at cute photobooths 

Forget snapping some pics just for the gram, pop into one of Melbourne’s public photobooths and snap some for the mems instead. The old school photobooth on Flinders Street is open 24-hours. Pop in a coin, step inside, take a seat and wait for the cue before you strike a pose. Or head to Life4Cut Chinatown and enjoy the Korean inspired props and funky interactive booths.  

More fun things to do for teens

Glow Golf

Glow Golf

Good old-fashioned mini golf transformed into an amazing glow-in-the-dark-experience.

Saboteurs
Until

Saboteurs

An immersive, interactive space-themed game with a Moon base-themed play space.

Things to do in the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne

Things to do in the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne

Discover the best natural wonders, events and dining the RBG has to offer. 

The best free museums and art galleries in Melbourne

The best free museums and art galleries in Melbourne

Explore world-class museums, edgy artist-run spaces and blockbuster exhibitions for free.

The best free festivals in Melbourne

The best free festivals in Melbourne

The best free festivals you need to visit in Melbourne this year

Melbourne's best vintage shopping, thrift stores and op shops

Melbourne's best vintage shopping, thrift stores and op shops

Kick it old-school and browse these boutiques for one-of-a-kind treasures and thrifty bargains.

Free things to do with kids in Melbourne

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.

The best free and cheap family activities

The best free and cheap family activities

Find family-friendly fun and free events in Melbourne.

Last updated on Wed 28 Aug 2024

Only In The City

11 reasons to leave work on time

11 reasons to leave work on time

Get the best happy hour deals, cheap tickets to amazing shows and more.

How to spend 24 hours in Melbourne

How to spend 24 hours in Melbourne

From secret street art to seasonal events, you’ll find something for everyone.

GoBoat Melbourne

GoBoat Melbourne

Be your own captain by renting a picnic boat, with no boat licence required.

Discover more

Flash Forward

Flash Forward

Explore 40 city laneways that have been transformed by over 80 creatives.

Melbourne River Cruises

Melbourne River Cruises

Sit back and relax as your captain details the history of Melbourne on a river cruise.

The ultimate theatre guide to Melbourne

The ultimate theatre guide to Melbourne

What's on in Melbourne's theatres, clubs, cabaret bars and comedy spots.

The best hotels in Melbourne for families

The best hotels in Melbourne for families

Check out our list of family-friendly hotel stays