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Australia/Things to Do in Melbourne, with kids

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria - Melbourne Gardens (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria - Melbourne Gardens?

90%Kids-Friendly
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What makes it 90% Kids-Friendly: Kids up to 12 get a fenced Ian Potter Children’s Garden with water play, climbing logs and tunnels, free nature hunt cards and a hop-on Explorer bus; toilets and change tables exist, but supervision near ponds is vital.

Google
Reviews4.8/ 5
(from 17,920 reviews)
[4k] Melbourne Gardens Tour | Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria tour | Melbourne Botanic Garden
15 min
Start from:
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[4k] Melbourne Gardens Tour | Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria tour | Melbourne Botanic Garden
9K views • 3 years ago
8500 species of plants from around the world in Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne | ఎన్ని వేల చెట్లో
9 min
Start from:
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8500 species of plants from around the world in Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne | ఎన్ని వేల చెట్లో
1.8K views • 1 year ago

Positives:

  • Free Entry: Gardens entry is free and many activities like the walking tour and scavenger hunt have no cost.
  • Stroller Access: Wide, paved paths allow easy pram or stroller movement throughout the Gardens.
  • Rest Spots: Water fountains and shaded benches are available for regular breaks.

Challenges:

  • Seasonal Closure: Ian Potter Children's Garden is closed mid-July for annual maintenance.
  • Large Grounds: The 36-hectare area can tire young children; plan rest stops and limit your route.
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What is Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria - Melbourne Gardens?

  • A 36-hectare botanic garden on the south bank of the Yarra River, established in 1846
  • Collections that showcase thousands of native and exotic plant species, from fern gullies to rose gardens
  • A historic landscape that integrates ornamental lakes, grand avenues, and Victorian-era specimen trees

What is so special about Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria - Melbourne Gardens for with kids?

  1. Interactive play at Ian Potter Children's Garden
  2. Guided 30-min Explorer bus tour with live commentary
  3. Fun scavenger hunt with Seek and Find Nature Cards
  4. Picnic spots by the lake with cafe support
  5. Free entry and stroller-friendly paths

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for the Children's Garden, a guided tour, and a family picnic.

(View Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria - Melbourne Gardens on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria - Melbourne Gardens

Ian Potter Children's Garden:

Nature play area with water features, sandpit, climbing logs and a bamboo tunnel.

Tip: Visit Wed–Sun and during school holidays; bring a change of clothes and check winter closure.

The Explorer Family Minibus Tour:

30-minute open-top bus tour with live commentary on the Gardens’ highlights.

Tip: Book at the Visitor Centre; costs AUD 10 per adult; children ride free in school holidays.

Seek and Find Nature Cards:

Collect free cards at the Visitor Centre and hunt for plants and creatures across the Gardens.

Tip: Pick up cards on arrival and set a hunt goal to keep kids engaged.

Picnic on the Lawns:

Family-friendly lawns near the lake perfect for picnics with nearby cafés.

Tip: Bring a blanket and snacks; arrive before midday for shaded spots under the trees.

When is the best time to visit Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria - Melbourne Gardens (Melbourne, Australia)?

Children's Garden closes for winter maintenance (mid-July); spring brings wildflower displays; check school holiday dates for daily openings.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Melbourne on Trip.com

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Reviews of Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria - Melbourne Gardens (Melbourne)

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Garett Butler

Garett Butler

Jul 2025

Perhaps one of the best botanical gardens I have ever visited. We visited during off-season, June. It was a walk-through with no guide or pre-planning. The garden is well laid out, has a wide variety of flora and fauna, and just a pleasant place to visit. I wish we had more time to explore further or perhaps enjoy a picnic lunch. Highly recommended, even if only a short visit.

Taylor Gilbert

Taylor Gilbert

Jun 2025

I went on a solo day trip. The location is accessible easily from the tram. It was a rainy day but that gave me an amazing opportunity to see everything I wanted to without a crowd. Even in the winter season it was beautiful. I had a quick lunch in the sensory garden, I enjoyed all the little paths off the main path, and the endangered species garden was lovely.

Jason

Jason

Jun 2025

I walked pound these incredible Gardens for a few hours they're very well looked after the number of species of trees that you see are endless and I thoroughly enjoyed it there's also a large range of birds around to give the botanic gardens that authentic Forest feeling. The lakes are coupled really well with background of Melbourne and skyscrapers

Clairen Cook

Clairen Cook

May 2025

This garden is unreal. I have visited multiple times and I will keep spending as much time there as I can. Everything is beautifully maintained, and lush, brimming with botanical beauty. A national and world treasure 🪙 💎 such a pleasure to visit. The gift shop also has a nice selection.

Ulyana Oz

Ulyana Oz

May 2025

Another beautiful walk through the Botanical Gardens. This place has its own unique atmosphere and calming vibe. Strolling through the gardens feels like a peaceful escape from the city’s noise and rush. There’s a charming little cafe by the lake, where you can sit and watch the gondola glide by as birds sing in the background. The whole experience is stress-free and incredibly relaxing — nature ...

Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Family Explorer TourAUD 20
Café snacks or ice creamsAUD 30
Total EstimatedAUD 50

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

How to Maximize Your Visit to Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria - Melbourne Gardens

  1. Early Start: Begin at the Children's Garden at opening time (10:00) to avoid crowds and secure parking.
  2. Plan Your Route: Use the Visitor Centre map or audio QR codes to choose nearby highlights and save walking time.
  3. Pack Essentials: Bring hats, sunscreen and refillable water bottles for sunny days.
🚗 Planning to explore multiple Melbourne attractions? A rental car often costs less than daily taxi trips. Check Trip.com for deals. New users save up to 8% OFF.

Map of Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria - Melbourne Gardens

Address: Melbourne VIC 3004, Australia

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Looking for other Things to Do besides Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria - Melbourne Gardens (Melbourne)?

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About Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria - Melbourne Gardens

Opening Hours

Monday:7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Tuesday:7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Wednesday:7:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Thursday:7:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Friday:7:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Saturday:7:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Sunday:7:30 AM – 3:00 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+61 3 9252 2300

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