Melbourne - top things to do with kids...

[4gotoindia]

We're going to be visiting my sister in Melbourne for 3 weeks in May. We have an almost 6 yo and a 2yo, and she has a 9month old. Can any Melbourne MNers give me their list of best things to do with kids? So far we want to see kangaroos, and ride on Puffing Billy (for the kids), and visit some wineries for the grown-ups. We're coming from small-town India, where there isn't so much as a decent park or playground, so will be very easily pleased.
Many thanks!
Mrs4

[lulalullabye]

Well, we have not been in Melbourne long, but as the lovely Melbourne MNers did for me, I will extend the offer to come and meet me and anybody else if they are around .

Where are you staying ? The aquarium has a really great penguin display, real ice !!! Melbourne is full of playgrounds, they are all great and around every corner, so wherever you stay you will be close to one.

[echt]

Collingwood Children's Farm is lovely, and near the centre of town.

Melbourne Zoo is nice.

If you want see wild kangaroos, you'll need to drive in rural areas after dark, but then they jump out in front of your car. Not good.

Healesville Sanctuary is wonderful; all native species. You can stroke a kangaroo.

[lulalullabye]

I will second Healsville,so peaceful !

Hijak....How are you echt ?

[wilbs]

Hi, Melbourne Museum is always fab, there is a children's section which will keep them entertained, it is free for kids, and about $8 for adults, well worth it.
There is also a playground next to the museum, plenty of space for them to charge around!
Agree with Lula & Echt, the Aquarium and Zoo are both worth a visit too

[ninedragons]

Shame you'll be there in winter - there is one of those fountains that shoots jets of water out of the pavement near the casino (or was when I stayed at the casino maaaaannny years ago). It was always full of squealing delighted children.

If you rent a car, I would recommend driving down to Philip Island for the fairy penguins - they're just enchanting. Lots of little native animal zoos on the way down, too.

[ninedragons]

Rug up if you do decide to go to see the penguins - it's blimmin cold even in summer.

[esselle]

Hello Mrs4. There is loads to do in Melbourne and as mentioned there literally are playgrounds everywhere so finding good one won't be a problem.

We have been here for about 18months and have so far found the places I have linked below are great. We have been to most of them a few times, especially the Zoo.

Phillip Island is great and I highly recommend visiting it - we have taken a few visitors there. Phillip Island The little penguins are so cute and you must see them if you go there. Also the koala sanctuary is fab!!

Scienceworks museum

Melbourne Zoo and Healsville Sanctuary

Botanical Gardens

Eating out is great here, restaurants are very family/child friendly I have found and have decent kids menus. Southbank is great for eating out.

Fab shopping to be had here too. Either in the city or at one of the many huge shopping centres. I imagine your sister is probably clued up on that tho.

Puffing Billy is great - we went there for a Thomas the Tank engine day and it is in such a beautiful scenic area.

If you get the chance to check out the Great Ocean Road it is beautiful and pretty amazing too. As long as it isn't raining the kids can have a good charge around at the beach. There are also some great playgrounds in the small towns along the way too - perfect for picnics or fish & chips.
Great Ocean Road

I hope this is helpful - I will keep thinking tho and add more if I think of any!

[echt]

Hijack response - hello lula, though ask me tomorrow after a mammoth parents' evening!!

Still, hols coming up so perhaps we could meet?

[lulalullabye]

Hijack re response - A meet up would be great. Maybe we can do the beach thing ?

4go, where are you staying in Melbourne ??

[echt]

Yairs - will phone.