Looking for ways to keep the kids entertained over the long summer school holidays? Melbourne is bursting with exciting school holiday activities, creative workshops, action-packed camps and family-friendly attractions to help keep boredom at bay.

Whether you've got little adventurers, budding scientists, creative kids or future performers in the house, there's plenty to keep them busy over the Christmas break. From confidence-building public speaking workshops and coding camps to wildlife encounters, theme park thrills and hands-on museum experiences, here are our top picks for the best school holiday activities in Melbourne this summer.

Table of Contents

Holiday Camps & Workshops

• Speaking Schools Australasia
• Melbourne's First Adventure Camp
• Code Camp
• Fizz Kidz School Holiday Workshops
• Kids in Motion Holiday Program

Attractions & Adventures

• Luna Park Melbourne
• Gumbuya World
• Timezone and Zone Bowling
• Prison Island

Family Days Out & Experiences

• Scienceworks
• Puffing Billy Railway
• Metartworld
• Museum of Play and Art (MoPA)
• Melbourne Zoo
• Fitzroy Gardens Outdoor Adventure
• Deep Blue Hot Springs

Holiday Camps & Workshops

Speaking Schools Australasia

Give your child the confidence to speak up, share their ideas and find their voice with Speaking Schools Australasia. The award-winning team has helped more than 30,000 students develop their public speaking and debating skills through fun, engaging and age-specific workshops.

With small groups of no more than nine students per coach, children get plenty of opportunities to practise, ask questions and receive individual feedback. Workshops cater to students from Year 1 through to Year 10, with introductory and mixed-experience programs available. Whether your child is keen to overcome nerves, learn to debate or sharpen their presentation skills, there's a workshop to suit.

The January 2027 program includes everything from introductory public speaking and debating to more advanced presentation and persuasive speaking intensives. Four-day combination workshops are also available for children wanting to develop both skills.

Where: Box Hill Campus, Realus Education, 36 Prospect Street, Box Hill
When: 5-15 January 2027, depending on the workshop. Sessions run from 10 am-4 pm
Cost: From $270 per two-day workshop (early-bird price), $370 for three days and $522 for four-day combo programs. Early-bird discounts end 22 November 2026
More info: Speaking Schools Australasia

Melbourne's First Adventure Camp

If your kids are happiest outdoors, Adventure Camp is a great way to keep them moving, exploring and making new friends over the summer holidays. After more than 12 years of getting Sydney kids outside, this action-packed camp brings a screen-free adventure experience to Melbourne.

Designed to build confidence, resilience and teamwork, the program is filled with outdoor games, challenges, exploration and plenty of opportunities to try something new. It's a brilliant option for kids who love being active and parents who would love a little less screen time these holidays.

Where: Beaumaris Life Saving Club, Beaumaris
When: 21 December 2026 - 20 January 2027
Age: 6-11 years
Cost: Summer pricing to be confirmed.
More info: Check the website for bookings and upcoming dates

Code Camp

Let Code Camp inspire your children to get creative with technology these holidays, learn valuable new skills, have fun and make new friends. With a wide range of in-person camps and online programs available, there's something for every budding tech whiz.

Choose from beginner to advanced coding camps, robotics, stop-motion animation, DJing, video production and more. Little Coders introduces children aged 5–7 to the basics of coding, while Spark is a popular starting point for ages 7–12, using drag-and-drop coding to create their own arcade-style games.

There are also plenty of creative camps to get stuck into, including Minecraft Engineers, Minecraft Masters, Roblox Legends, Animation Camp, YouTube Creators and Robotics Camp. Older kids can even try AI Camp, Drone Camp and DJ Camp.

For a different kind of creative experience, Code Camp also offers tech-free crafting programs, including crochet, knitting and macrame, giving kids a chance to put their screens aside and get hands-on.

Where: Various locations throughout Melbourne, plus online programs
When: Throughout the summer school holidays. Check individual camp dates
Age: Programs generally cater to children aged 5–13, depending on the activity
Cost: Varies depending on camp type and duration
More info: Code Camp Melbourne

Fizz Kidz School Holiday Workshops

For crafty kids who love getting their hands messy, Fizz Kidz is a fun-filled creative experience with plenty of opportunities to make, experiment and take home their creations.

From colourful slime and bath bombs to science-inspired activities and hands-on craft projects, the workshops are designed to keep little makers entertained while encouraging creativity and imagination. With structured, supervised holiday sessions, it's also a handy option for parents looking for a drop-off activity.

Programs cater to children aged 4-12, with different activities and themes depending on the holiday schedule.

Where: Essendon and Balwyn, Melbourne
When: Summer holiday program dates to be confirmed
Age: 4-12 years
Cost: Check the website for summer workshop prices and session availability
More info: Fizz Kidz

Kids in Motion Holiday Program

Got an energetic kid who loves to climb, jump, tumble and move? Kids in Motion offers a fun-filled holiday program designed to get children active while building confidence, coordination and physical skills.

The Port Melbourne movement studio runs structured sessions for children aged 4–15, with a mix of physical challenges, movement activities and coach-led experiences. It's a great way to keep kids active, try new skills and make friends over the long summer break.

Families can choose from half-day and full-day options, making it a flexible option for busy holiday schedules.

Where: 4/11–15 Rocklea Drive, Port Melbourne
When: Summer holiday dates to be confirmed
Age: 4–15 years
Cost: From $74 for a half day and $145 for a full day
More info: Kids in Motion

Attractions & Adventures

Luna Park Melbourne

There's nothing quite like a day at Luna Park! Melbourne's iconic seaside amusement park is bringing classic carnival fun to the summer school holidays, with unlimited rides, showbags, games and plenty of thrills for the whole family.

From the iconic Great Scenic Railway and Carousel to the Twin Dragon and other favourite rides, there's something for little adventurers and thrill-seeking teens alike. When it's time for a break, grab an ice cream or slushie, try your luck at the carnival games or explore the park's food stalls.

The summer program includes weekend, weekday and selected public holiday opening dates, plus extended summer nights on selected evenings. Popular dates can sell out, so it's worth booking ahead.

Where: Luna Park Melbourne, 18 Lower Esplanade, St Kilda
When: Selected dates throughout the summer school holidays
Cost: Unlimited ride tickets and family passes available. Check the website for current ticket prices and opening dates
More info: Luna Park Melbourne

Gumbuya World

If you're planning a full day out these school holidays, Gumbuya World has plenty to keep the whole family entertained. Less than an hour from Melbourne, this sprawling theme park combines thrilling rides, family attractions, wildlife encounters and water park fun all in one place.

Little animal lovers can get up close to native wildlife, while bigger kids can tackle the rides and attractions. And when the summer temperatures start climbing, the water park is the perfect place to cool off, with slides, splash zones and pools for different ages.

It's an easy option for a full family day out, with plenty to keep everyone busy from morning to afternoon.

Where: 2705 Princes Highway, Tynong North
When: Check seasonal opening days and summer holiday hours
Cost: Ticket prices vary by age and ticket type. Book online for current prices
More info: Gumbuya World

Timezone and Zone Bowling

For those days when the kids need to burn off some energy (and you need an easy win), Timezone and Zone Bowling deliver plenty of family fun. Whether your crew loves arcade games, chasing strikes or laser tag battles, there's something to keep everyone entertained.

At Timezone, load up a game card and let the kids loose on arcade favourites, prize machines and interactive games. Over at Zone Bowling, families can combine bowling with laser tag, arcade games and food for an action-packed outing.

It's a great rainy-day option or an easy way to fill a few hours when the summer heat gets too much.

Where: Various Timezone and Zone Bowling locations across Melbourne
When: Selected venues open throughout the summer holidays. Check individual locations
Cost: Varies by games, bundles and activities. Check online for current deals and family packages
More info: Timezone and Zone Bowling

Take a Trip to Prison Island

Looking for a school holiday adventure with a twist? Prison Island at The District Docklands takes escape rooms to the next level with 34 thrilling challenge cells to conquer.

Unlike traditional escape rooms, this action-packed experience combines brainpower, teamwork and physical skill. Families and friends can race against the clock to solve puzzles, navigate laser mazes, test their reflexes and tackle coordination and strength-based challenges.

With 90 minutes on the clock, the aim is to complete as many cells as possible and climb the leaderboard. It's a brilliant option for competitive kids and families who love a challenge.

Where: 440 Docklands Drive, Docklands
When: Open throughout the summer holidays. Check session availability
Age: Recommended for ages 7+
Cost: Check the website for current session pricing
More info: Prison Island

Family Days Out & Experiences

Scienceworks

This summer, Scienceworks is the ultimate destination for curious kids and families looking for hands-on fun and an action-packed day of scientific discovery.

The big drawcard is Colour: See the World in a New Light, an interactive exhibition where children can explore colour, light, vision and optical illusions through 21 playful exhibits. Perfect for curious kids aged 5-14, it's a wonderfully colourful way to spend a summer day indoors.

There's plenty more to explore, too, including the Sportsworks exhibition, interactive displays, planetarium shows and the ever-popular Lightning Theatre. Families can also check out the daily shows and activities on the program, with plenty of opportunities to experiment, discover and learn through play.

Where: Scienceworks, 2 Booker Street, Spotswood
When: Open daily, 10 am-4.30 pm. The Colour exhibition runs until 26 January 2027
Cost: General museum entry is $15 for adults, with children aged 16 and under FREE. The Colour exhibition is an additional ticketed experience, from $10 for children and $25 for adults
More info: Scienceworks

Jump Aboard the Puffing Billy Railway

All aboard! A ride on the historic Puffing Billy Railway is one of Melbourne's most memorable family experiences and a brilliant way to spend a summer day.

Travelling through the magnificent forests and fern gullies of the Dandenong Ranges, this century-old steam train takes passengers on a scenic journey through some of Victoria's prettiest countryside. The open-sided carriages are part of the fun, with the famous legs-dangling-out tradition making it a hit with kids and grown-ups alike.

Choose a shorter journey or make a day of it with a longer trip to Lakeside, where you can explore the surrounding Emerald Lake Park.

Where: Belgrave Station, 1 Old Monbulk Road, Belgrave
When: Services operate throughout the summer holidays. Check the timetable for available journeys
Cost: Fares vary depending on the journey and ticket type. Book online ahead of time
More info: Puffing Billy Railway

Metartworld

If you're looking for something a little different (and a lot of fun), Metartworld in Port Melbourne is one giant interactive playground where art, imagination and hands-on fun collide.

First up is the world's largest indoor scrap-metal art gallery, featuring towering superheroes, dinosaurs, cars and movie characters, all made from recycled metal. Kids can get up close to the sculptures, explore the displays and snap some seriously cool photos.

Then things get even more immersive upstairs with the Starry Sky exhibition, where mirror mazes, glowing tunnels and light-filled rooms feel like stepping into another universe. Don't miss the 9D Flying Cinema or the VR theme park, where kids can battle it out in games and ride virtual rollercoasters.

For creative kids, there's also an Art Lab with hands-on workshops and interactive painting experiences.

All up, you're looking at a colourful, high-energy experience that's perfect for families wanting something a little unexpected these summer holidays.

Where: 155 Boundary Street, Port Melbourne
When: Check the venue's summer opening hours and holiday workshop schedule
Cost: Check the website for current admission prices and activity packages
More info: Metartworld

Spend a Day at the Museum of Play and Art

With locations in both Melbourne and Geelong, the Museum of Play and Art (MoPA) offers a wonderful day out for little explorers and creative minds.

This children's museum is dedicated to engaging and immersing kids through play, imagination and hands-on discovery. From interactive installations and creative art spaces to soft play areas and imaginative experiences, there's plenty to keep little ones entertained.

It's a particularly good option for younger children, with opportunities to explore, create, experiment and learn at their own pace. Bookings are essential, and sessions can fill quickly during school holidays, so plan ahead.

Where: MoPA Melbourne, 247 Bay Road, Sandringham | MoPA Geelong, 51 McKillop Street, Geelong
When: Check session times and availability throughout the summer holidays
Cost: Check the website for current admission prices
More info: Museum of Play and Art

Take a Trip to Melbourne Zoo

For a classic family day out, it's hard to beat Melbourne Zoo. Located just minutes from the CBD, the zoo is home to an incredible range of animals from around the world, with plenty of opportunities for little animal lovers to get up close and learn about wildlife conservation.

Wander through the elephant trail, discover the big cats, visit the penguins and seals, and explore the zoo's many habitats and exhibits. There's plenty of space to roam, shaded spots for a picnic and lots to discover along the way.

Even better, children under 16 enjoy FREE entry on weekends, public holidays and throughout Victorian school holidays, making it a great-value family outing.

Where: Elliott Avenue, Parkville
When: Open daily, 9 am-5 pm
Cost: Adults $42; children under 16 FREE during Victorian school holidays
More info: Melbourne Zoo

Fitzroy Gardens Outdoor Adventure

If you're after a free school holiday activity that gets the kids outdoors, head to the beautiful Fitzroy Gardens for a family adventure.

This free activity invites families to explore the heritage-listed gardens while completing a fun scavenger hunt. Collect a map and set off on a quest to answer 12 questions scattered throughout the gardens, encouraging kids to look closely, explore their surroundings and discover some of the garden's hidden gems.

There's also a seek-and-find activity for younger children, making it a lovely option for families with mixed ages. Pack a picnic, explore the gardens and make a morning of it.

Where: Fitzroy Gardens, Wellington Parade, East Melbourne
When: Check seasonal activity availability and visitor information
Cost: FREE
More info: City of Melbourne

Deep Blue Hot Springs

For an experience that feels like a treat for the kids and a little break for the parents, spend a family day at Deep Blue Hot Springs in Warrnambool.

Turn the summer holidays into a mini coastal escape where kids can splash, explore and soak while parents get a chance to slow down. Daytime sessions at the sanctuary welcome children aged five and over, with families able to wander between geothermal rock pools, sensory caves and cleansing waterfalls.

Make a full day of it with a meal at Tides Café, Restaurant & Bar, or turn your visit into a coastal mini-break with onsite accommodation. For even more holiday fun, pair your hot springs visit with a run around nearby Lake Pertobe Adventure Playground, packed with giant slides, a flying fox, maze and plenty of space to burn off energy.

Where: Worm Bay Road, Warrnambool
When: Check summer session times and availability
Cost: Check the website for current family and child admission prices
More info: Deep Blue Hot Springs

 

—

About ellaslist

ellaslist is a trusted local guide for families across Sydney and NSW, written by parents and family lifestyle editors who understand what makes an outing with kids genuinely work. Our team researches and curates the best family-friendly events, attractions, playgrounds, restaurants and school holiday activities, with practical details on age suitability, accessibility, parking, public transport, facilities and family-friendly tips.

More Family Fun in Melbourne

Fun Family Events
Free Things to Do in Melbourne
Melbourne's Best Kids Shows

Have you signed up for our newsletter? Join ellaslist to get the best family and kid-friendly events, venues, classes and things to do NEAR YOU!