How to have a family-friendly day in Melbourne’s CBD

Are you planning a family day outing in Melbourne? The central business district of Melbourne has much to see and explore for both adults and kids alike.

But with the city being large, it can be a touch overwhelming to plan a family day out and know exactly what to do and see.

That's why we've prepared this helpful article, which will help you by narrowing down some of the choices for family-friendly activities in this bustling city. So, continue reading to learn more about fun activities in Melbourne.

Start with breakfast

You'll want to start your big day out in Melbourne with a healthy, hearty breakfast, preferably at a cafe with play area in Melbourne.

This way, mum and dad can enjoy a coffee and a warm breakfast, the kids can have something to eat, and then go and play while mum and dad soak in the morning rays and each other's company before the big day ahead.

You'll all be loaded up with energy from a big meal and be ready to explore this vibrant and busy city.

Visit the Australian Centre for the Moving Image 

Known as ACMI for short, this excellent cultural destination allows you and your kids to explore the world of intersecting film, TV, video games, and art.

ACMI also caters to kids with fun kids' movies, school holiday workshops, interactive exhibitions, and educational programs.

Entry is free, but some films, exhibitions, and experiences are ticketed. 

Fitzroy Gardens Fairies' Tree

Perfect for kids into all things mystical, magical, and fae, the Fitzroy Gardens Fairies' Tree is worth a visit.

Artist Ola Cohn transmuted the old red gum back in the 1930s by carving Aussie animals, birds, and bush spirits into the trunk.

This will charm the kids who are into this sort of thing, and then stopping by KereKere cafe for a coffee is a must-do for the grown-ups. 

The Lego Store in Melbourne Central

Located within the Melbourne Central shopping centre, the certified Lego Store is worth a visit for those block-mad kids and adults, too.

You can grab most of the latest and greatest Lego releases, build your own personalised mini figure and check out the amazing huge Lego creations at this spot. 

Visit Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium

If your kids have any interest in aquatic life, it's definitely worth a visit to the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium.

They'll experience an interactive ocean adventure filled with wonder and amazement. In the tunnels and walkways, they'll see sharks, rays, fish, jellyfish, and much more. There is even a saltwater crocodile on display.

A heads up - tickets and food are expensive here. We recommend finding a deal or coupon and packing your own lunch. 

Visit Archie Brothers Docklands

If you're looking for a fun and enjoyable Melbourne destination for a family-friendly activity, look no further than Archie Brothers in Docklands.

This electric circus is a wonderland of fun and activity, perfect for letting the kids run wild and enjoy themselves. 

With a wide variety of arcade games, both kids and adults will have an excellent time here. Also featured are ten-pin bowling, immersive VR experiences, dodgem cars, laser tag and more.

With a fully stocked bar capable of mixing some delicious cocktails, beer on tap, and a kitchen churning out delicious burgers and other food, the adults will enjoy themselves, too.

Although they're expensive, we recommend getting the kids the loaded milkshakes, which come topped with whipped cream, candy-encrusted rims and a cookie on top - delicious! 

Saboteurs Docklands

If your kids have ever talked about the video game Among Us, this is the place to visit for a fun family activity.

Basically, the experience is a hybrid of laser tag, an escape room and murder in the dark. The premise is that you are a member of a crew on board an interstellar space station, and you need to complete certain “tasks” assigned to you.

However, there is a secret killer among you who picks off crew members one by one and tries to kill everyone before they are uncovered as the imposter and then ejected from the ship. Your kids will find this familiar if they have played the famous game. 

Note that all "kills" are via laser tag, but this is something to be mindful of, depending on your family's personal sensibilities. 

Holey Moley Crown Melbourne

What's a family day out without a match of mini golf? With 18 wildly themed holes to conquer, all with excellent decor and aesthetics, both the adults and the kids will enjoy this experience located at Crown Casino. 

Painting at Pigment Squad

You and your kids can paint your own sculpture at Pigment Squad! This is an incredibly fun indoor adventure in the heart of Melbourne, perfect for kids.

In the large, open, bright space, you will first select your sculpture, then pick your paints, and finally sit and allow your inner artist to emerge as you paint your sculpture. 

In terms of amenities, aprons, a sink, a drinks fridge, and bathrooms are on hand to keep you comfortable for as long as you need to make your masterpiece.

After you're finished, take your sculpture home to be displayed on the mantelpiece or in another position of pride. 

A city adventure summary

This helpful article has shared how you can have a family-friendly day in Melbourne's CBD. We've covered some excellent activities, some free, that you and the kids can engage in and have an absolute ball of a time.