Family activities in Melbourne to keep you entertained this summer

Summer is just around the corner. That means it’s time to get off the couch and make the most of the warm weather. What better way to enjoy the summer than explore the sights and sounds of Melbourne?

Whether you want to go on a gentle bushwalk, catch a few live street performances or play a round of mini golf – you’re bound to find something both you and the kids will love.

Check out these fun summer activities to make your holiday season extra special.

Ice Skating – O-Brien Group Arena, Docklands

Want to get fit and stay active but the idea of heading out for a run in 40-degree weather puts you off? I don’t blame you. Go ice skating in the 16°c ice rink at O-Brien Group Arena.

Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned pro, ice skating is a fun and accessible activity that provides hours of entertainment. The O-Brien Group Arena hosts casual skating sessions every day except Christmas Day. Everything you need to carve up the ice is here including skates for hire, thick socks, optional helmets and extra safety gear.

Even if ice skating is not your cup of tea – you’re welcome to watch from the sidelines. Keep in mind children under the age of six must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or older child.

GlowGolf – Docklands

GlowGolf is not your average miniature golf course. Featuring up to 18 holes, the venue delivers a visual sensation of colourful set pieces and bright neon lights – even the club and balls light up – and there’s creative street art for a gritty urban mood.

Regardless of the stunning visuals, GlowGolf delivers a short and sweet round of classic mini golf that’s fun for the whole family.

If you want to enjoy a 70s retro night, dress up in your brightest clothes and enjoy a colourful game of GlowGolf. For parents who want a night to themselves, the La Bar Europeen has a constantly rotating list of beverages.

Ace Karts – Albion

It’s the closest thing you’ll find to real racing – without having to wear a jumpsuit.

Whether you’re a Sunday driver or petrol head, Ace Karts delivers an authentic racing experience that anyone can enjoy. You can choose a Super, Rookie or 2-seater kart, so it’s easy to find a configuration that suits your needs and skill level.

Being an outdoor track, you are exposed to the elements – whether it be rain, hail, shine or night – so the racing is different each time you visit. And the 8m wide track means you can compete with the pack or drive at your own pace…without the fear of being bumped off the road.

Gumbuya World – Tynong

Do you have fond memories of visiting Gumbuya Park as a child? After a $50 million renovation, now you can take your own kids to this iconic park for a new and improved experience.

Gumbuya World combines everything that made the original great. But the variety is greater than ever before. From bush trails to theme park rides, an exhilarating water park and lots of beautiful scenery – you’re bound to find something to love.

For smaller thrill-seekers, the Outback Explorers section has a pirate ship, giant berries and big-rig trucks.

Up Unlimited – Moorabbin

Indoor climbing has seen a steady increase in popularity over the years and Up Unlimited is one of the best venues in Melbourne.

Climbers of all ages and skill levels are welcome. The venue has a range of different walls to climb that vary in theme, difficulty and execution. It’s easy and fun! All you need to do is clip onto the harness, climb to the top and let go to be gently lowered back onto the surface.

Each session block lasts for an hour and you can stay for multiple hours if you wish. If you want to shake things up you can always twist, squirm and scramble your way through 85+ meters of rocky terrain in the caving section.

St Kilda Festival – St Kilda

On every 2^nd Sunday of February, the streets of St Kilda are closed to traffic and replaced with live music acts, street performers, kid’s entertainment, food markets, workshops, sporting events and carnival rides.

Each year the St Kilda Festival offers a wealth of fun and engaging activities for the whole family. From circus performances to belly dancing, stilt walkers and live performances from the likes of Dan Sultan, Mia Dyson and Architecture in Helsinki. There’s something here for all musical tastes.

Who knows what St Kilda Festival 2019 will bring? Stay tuned for the full program announcement in January.

With school out, summer is the perfect time to bond with the kids, enjoy quality time and to create memories which will last a lifetime. So make sure you get out there and make the most of what’s expected to be a great Melbourne summer!