As the winter chill settles in, Melbourne shines as a city of cosy indoor escapes, perfect for families seeking warm entertainment for the kids. From underwater wonders and scientific discoveries to cinematic thrills and cultural insights, there’s no shortage of fun winter activities for kids in Melbourne. So bundle up and embark on an indoor adventure this winter.
Sea Life Melbourne
Take a peek into an underwater wonderland at Sea Life Melbourne and explore the mesmerising world beneath the waves. Image from: Visit Victoria
Take a peek into an underwater wonderland at Sea Life Melbourne and explore the mesmerising world beneath the waves. With its vast array of marine creatures, including zebra sharks, eagle rays, rescued sea turtles and an abundance of tropical fish, Sea Life is one of the best kids activities in Melbourne.
Marvel at the breathtaking displays of bioluminescence in the Oceanarium, a vast marine habitat brimming with sea creatures big and small, or get up close to the charming and waddling residents of the Penguin Playground. You can also suit up into Antarctic snow gear and go out on the ice to meet the colony of sub-Antarctic penguins on the 45-minute Penguin Passport tour.
Scienceworks
Unleash your inner scientist at Scienceworks, an interactive science and technology museum. Image from: Scienceworks Facebook Page
Unleash your inner scientist at Scienceworks, an interactive science and technology museum to challenge curious minds of all ages. Located in the historic Pumping Station in Spotswood, Scienceworks offers an immersive exploration of science, technology, and innovation. From launching rockets and designing robots to exploring the wonders of space and electricity, kids can engage in interactive exhibits and experiments to understand the mysteries of the universe and our everyday lives.
Head to the Lightning Theatre, where you can see spectacular demonstrations of high voltage equipment such as the giant Tesla Coil. While inside the Scienceworks Planetarium, you can take a trip to the far reaches of space on a guided tour through the cosmos. With state-of-the-art technology and out of this world visuals, the Planetarium offers a thrilling stargazing experience under the big dome, regardless of the time of day.
IMAX Melbourne
When it comes to the big screen, nothing comes close to IMAX. Image from: Visit Victoria
When it comes to the big screen, nothing comes close to IMAX. With the towering seven-storey high screen and heart-starting surround sound, there’s no other cinematic experience quite like it. The unique curved screen is wider and higher than your field of view, making you feel like you're part of the onscreen action. Sit back and experience the thrill as larger-than-life images transport you to distant worlds and epic adventures.
Choose from a diverse lineup of blockbuster films, exclusive IMAX documentaries and fascinating educational programs - IMAX Melbourne offers something for every movie enthusiast. Dive into the magnitude of the ocean, venture into vast outer space, or witness the miracle of nature up close. The immersive IMAX experience is sure to captivate audiences of all ages.
Melbourne Museum
Among the top indoor activities for kids in Melbourne, is the impressive Melbourne Museum, a treasure trove of history, culture and science. Image from: Visit Victoria
Among the top indoor activities for kids in Melbourne, is the impressive Melbourne Museum, a treasure trove of history, culture and science. Embark on a journey through time and space and discover the wonders of the natural world from towering dinosaurs to ancient civilisations. See the massive skeleton of a majestic blue whale, and wander through the tranquil Forest Gallery, the living heart of the museum that’s home to tall trees and wildlife.
Delve into the mysteries of the human brain in the intriguing Mind and Body Gallery, and don't miss the Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre, which celebrates the rich heritage and living culture of Koorie people and other cultures from around Australia. Through storytelling, artwork, and artefacts, gain a deeper understanding of Australia's First Nations people and their enduring connection to the land.
Where to stay
After an energetic day out indoors with the kids, you’ll find a range of cosy accommodation options in and around Melbourne, from boutique hotels and heritage-style apartments to family friendly hotels.