St Kilda is jam-packed with fun for kids and kid-dults of all ages. To help keep your tribe entertained, we’ve put together a list of our top family activities in the local ‘hood.
Luna Park
This iconic theme park must be the top of the list. From gentle train rides to death-defying rollercoasters, there’s something for tiny tots, adrenaline junkies and everyone in between. You can purchase either single ride tickets or unlimited ride passes, with family passes offering good value for families of four. But make sure you plan your visit – Luna Park is open on weekends, school and public holidays, and on Thursday and Friday evenings in the warmer months. Hot tip: it’s often open for another week after school holidays if you want to skip the queues.
St Kilda Botanical Gardens
Open every day from sunrise to sunset, the St Kilda Botanical Gardens is a local mini-eden. Spend an afternoon playing chasey through the blossoming gardens, or hide-and-seek in the glass conservatory. Here, you can challenge your older kids to a game of chess on the giant chessboard, or enjoy a picnic while the younger ones clamber over the park’s playground.
St Kilda Adventure Playground
Hidden away on Neptune Street is a local Wonderland for children. This unique adventure playground features trampolines, go-karts, a huge flying fox, a cubby house, an enormous teepee, a wooden castle full of nooks and crannies to explore, and more. There’s tea and coffee for the grown ups, and you’re welcome to bring your own picnic if you’re thinking of staying a while (which the kids will want to – trust us). It’s open seven days a week, but the hours can vary, so it’s best to call beforehand (03 9209 6348). [Google Map]
Pony Rides in Catani Gardens
Held every Sunday, these super cute pony rides take place in the Catani Gardens by the St Kilda foreshore (just to the right of the pier). One ride costs $10 and makes for a great Sunday treat after a paddle or a picnic on the beach.
Fairy Penguins at St Kilda Pier
Every night, just after dusk, you can spot adorable little penguins coming home to roost at the end of St Kilda Pier (past the pavilion). There are volunteers and guides to talk about the seabirds and answer any of your questions. Summer’s the best time to spy a ‘waddle’ of penguins, as there aren’t as many in the winter months. For a cuteness overload, the peak time to spot baby chicks is during November and December.
School Holiday at the Espy
Round up your mini-mes because the Espy School Holiday Program is back, bigger and better than ever, over 4 jam-packed days in April.
- Craft Classes in the balcony
- Magic Show in Espy Kitchen
- Kids Disco in the Gershwin
Visit their website for more info and booking.
Acland Street Dessert Walk
After a long day of fun at Luna Park or the beach, take the family for a stroll down Acland Street for a tour of the many famous bakeries and patisseries. Share flaky pastry treats over a latte and a babycino from one of these long-standing establishments. Some of our favourites are Monarch Cake Shop, which first opened way back in 1934, Europa Cake Shop, and Le Bon Continental.
St Kilda is a short tram ride to Melbourne CBD and Docklands, ask our friendly reception team of how to get to the CBD.
Stay with us!
Looking for a family-sized room to use while you’re taking in all the sights? We’ve got you covered. From the budget-friendly Family Room through to our well-appointed Two-Bedroom Apartment, the Cosmo has a room type to suit your needs.
