Complimentary summer school holiday activities in Melbourne and Victoria

Take your family on an adventure to a natural swimming hole, visit one of the top beaches in Melbourne, let your dog play at an off-leash beach, or embark on an exciting coastal walk.

Always remember to practice water safety, including applying sunscreen, supervising children, and swimming between the flags.

Discover a new playground

We’ve compiled a list of the finest playgrounds in regional Victoria and around Melbourne so you can enjoy your time!

Whether your kids are into pirate ship-themed playgrounds, musical play equipment, challenging obstacle courses, or simply enjoying swings and slides, playgrounds offer the ideal setting for free outdoor enjoyment.

Host a family baking day

Do you have a little chef in your household? Gather the kids for a kitchen adventure and let their creativity shine with delicious homemade treats.

Try some kid-friendly recipes from the RACV Club Kitchen, including this salted caramel choc-chip cookie recipe, the popular mini pancake cereal, or this simple chocolate mousse cake recipe.

Enjoy a scenic hike

Take advantage of the pleasant weather by discovering the scenic walks and hikes around Melbourne and Victoria. Whether you’re interested in chasing waterfalls, seeking family-friendly paths, exploring fun dog trails, or nature hikes throughout the state, there’s always a new path to traverse.

Two of our preferred family-friendly routes are the 1000 Steps (Kokoda Track Memorial Walk) in the Dandenongs and a relaxing walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne.

Get on your bikes and ride

Dust off those bicycles and embark on a family ride in your neighborhood. It’s free, enjoyable, and a healthy way to appreciate the great outdoors.

If you’re interested in exploring a new area, check out these family-friendly bike routes, ranging from a solar system-themed path along Port Phillip Bay to a fun ride past the zoo and parklands on the Capital City Trail. 

Be sure to familiarize yourself with the latest cycling road rules here.

Explore libraries, galleries, and museums

Did you know that many of Victoria’s top libraries, galleries, and museums offer free entry and activities during the school holidays?

The NGV, ACMI, Australian Music Vault, Immigration Museum, and Australian Sports Museum all feature free entry, while kids under 12 can also visit The Heide Museum of Modern Art, Scienceworks, and The Melbourne Museum at no cost.

We’ve compiled a list of our favorite libraries and their amenities here, along with our recommendations for the best modern art galleries in Melbourne and regional Victoria.

Many of these attractions can be reached by public transport. Plan your journey using the route planning app arevo.

Free day trip guides

Explore greater Victoria without overspending. Check out our guides for enjoying a fun, free day out in the Yarra Valley, Ballarat, Mornington Peninsula, and even right here in Melbourne.