Family Fun in Melbourne: 2-Day Itinerary

Tuesday, September 12: Exploring Melbourne City

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Melbourne. In the morning, head to the Melbourne Museum, located in the beautiful Carlton Gardens. This family-friendly museum offers interactive displays, exhibitions on natural history, and a children's gallery. Spend the afternoon at the SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium, where you can marvel at the underwater world and even walk through a glass tunnel surrounded by sharks and stingrays. In the evening, visit Federation Square, a bustling cultural hub, and enjoy the free entertainment, street performers, and stunning views of the city skyline.

• Melbourne Museum: Estimated cost $25 per adult, $0 per child (under 16), Estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium: Estimated cost $40 per adult, $22 per child (3-12), Estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• Federation Square: Free, Estimated time spent 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, try Hardware Societe, located in Melbourne CBD. This cozy cafe offers a delicious menu of French-inspired dishes such as croissants and baked eggs. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
• For lunch, head to Degraves Street, a vibrant laneway filled with trendy cafes and restaurants. One popular choice is Pellegrini's Espresso Bar, known for its Italian-style sandwiches and traditional pasta dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
• For dinner, immerse yourself in Melbourne's famous food scene at Chin Chin. This modern Asian fusion restaurant in Flinders Lane offers a range of dishes from Thai curries to grilled meats. Average cost for a meal is about $40 per person.

Wednesday, September 13: Melbourne Zoo and St Kilda Beach

Start your day by visiting the Melbourne Zoo, a perfect place for families to get up close and personal with a variety of animals. Explore the spacious enclosures, watch captivating wildlife shows, and even have a picnic in the beautiful gardens. In the afternoon, head to St Kilda Beach, a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the esplanade, build sandcastles, and take a ride on Luna Park's iconic Ferris wheel. As the evening sets in, grab some dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants and catch the beautiful sunset.

• Melbourne Zoo: Estimated cost $40 per adult, $20 per child (3-15), Estimated time spent 3-4 hours
• St Kilda Beach: Free, Estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• Luna Park: Estimated cost $5 per person (entry), $10 per person (rides), Estimated time spent 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you're looking for off the beaten path attractions and places loved by locals, make sure to visit the Royal Botanic Gardens. This lush oasis in the heart of Melbourne offers beautiful landscapes, diverse plant collections, and serene picnic spots. Another hidden gem is the Scienceworks Museum, where kids can engage in hands-on science experiments and explore the wonders of technology. For a unique experience, take a stroll along the iconic Brighton Bathing Boxes, charmingly painted beach huts that have become an iconic symbol of Melbourne's coastline.

Don't forget to check here for the best hotel and flight prices for your Melbourne trip!