Arts Centre Melbourne (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Arts Centre Melbourne?
What makes it 71% Kids-Friendly: Kids up to 12 can explore the free Music Vault, Sunday craft market and school-holiday workshops (age 8+), but few hands-on options exist for under-8s and many shows finish late.
Positives:
- Pram and Wheelchair Access: All public foyers, lifts and toilets are accessible and welcome push-chairs.
- Free Exhibits: Australian Music Vault and costume room have no entry fee for families.
- On-site Snacks: Protagonist café and Sunday market offer kid-friendly food without leaving the venue.
Challenges:
- Age Limits on Tours: Guided Family Tour is best for children aged 8 and above; younger kids may find it long.
- Limited Play Space: The venue has no dedicated play area; kids must stay close during tours and exhibits.
What is Arts Centre Melbourne?
- A prominent performing arts complex on Melbourne’s Southbank comprising multiple theatres, concert halls and an outdoor arena
- Houses the spire-topped State Theatre, the acoustically celebrated Hamer Hall and a suite of adaptable studio venues
- Features a distinctive 162-metre metal-mesh spire that evokes a ballerina’s tutu as an icon of modern Australian architecture
What is so special about Arts Centre Melbourne for with kids?
- Free interactive Australian Music Vault lets kids mix and sing.
- Opera prop room offers costume dress-ups for fun photos.
- Guided tours reveal backstage stories and iconic spire views.
- Pram-accessible lifts and toilets make visits easy with strollers.
- Sunday market and café serve snacks without leaving the centre.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to explore the Music Vault and a short tour without tiring young kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Arts Centre Melbourne
Australian Music Vault:
Walk through free exhibits showcasing costumes, instruments and interactive displays of Aussie music history.
Tip: Let kids try the digital mixing station and karaoke booths to keep them engaged.
Basement Costume and Props Room:
Browse authentic opera props and try on replica costumes for fun family photos.
Tip: Bring a lightweight bag to carry small props and snap quick pictures.
Guided Family Tour:
Join a 45–60 min tour of Hamer Hall and Theatres building to hear backstage stories and see the iconic spire interior.
Tip: Book morning slots in advance; the tour includes a coffee and muffin to start the day.
Sunday Forecourt Market:
Stroll the Sunday market from 10 am–4 pm for crafts, snacks and street performances.
Tip: Arrive early to find kid-friendly stalls and grab a snack before it gets busy.
When is the best time to visit Arts Centre Melbourne (Melbourne, Australia)?
In summer, bring hats and sunscreen for outdoor performances in the forecourt. Check school-holiday workshops online for hands-on sessions available in January.
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Reviews of Arts Centre Melbourne (Melbourne)
Cara Loftus-Surguy
I love Hamer Hall for the acoustics, it's accessibility and the staff. More then that is how close I can get a wheelchair spot to the stage. I don't feel like an after thought.
Anita Atanasovski
How can you sit and enjoy the Ballet when there is a mouse running around under your seat?! Absolutely disgusting at a premium theatre.
Alan Kirke
It's in the heart of Melbourne so has the appeal of getting there and going for a stroll around Melbourne after. The show I went to was average. But the 5 stars are for the arts centre itself. Possibly a little dated and I'm sure some fancy architecture costing tens of millions could make it more " insert your art adjectives here". Seating was excellent and I had the cheap seats. If I went again t...
Ashlee Jayde
I was lucky enough to head along to the Art Centre for Horizons opening community performance and my god, I can not rave about it enough. If you ever get the chance to see a show from the Bangarra Dance Theatre take it. They have such a beautiful way of storytelling through dance that lights up a room. The Art Centre puts on so many amazing performance but the location itself is something to marv...
mustafa
It is located right next to the National Gallery of Victoria. At the top of the building is a large structure similar to the Eiffel Tower. There is a nice music exhibition on the ground floor. They exhibited some of the items used by old musicians on stage. I'm sure there were some great plays being watched on the stage inside. ambiance looked great.
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Guided Family Tour (2 adults) | AUD 50 |
| Protagonist snacks (family of 4) | AUD 26 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 76 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Arts Centre Melbourne
- Book Tours Early: Reserve guided tours online to secure morning slots when kids are fresh.
- Combine with Southbank Walk: After visiting, walk along Southbank for playgrounds and riverside views.
Map of Arts Centre Melbourne
Address: 100 St Kilda Rd, Southbank VIC 3004, Australia
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About Arts Centre Melbourne
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+61 1300 182 18310 BEST nearby Activities
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