School holidays are here, and that means it’s time to get outdoors and enjoy the beautiful weather with the kids. With so many wonderful parks and reserves to explore and outdoor activities to choose from, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time with your kids in Melbourne this spring. So, pack a picnic, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to make the most of the school holidays without spending a dime!

1. Royal Botanic Gardens: The Royal Botanic Gardens is a must-visit park in Melbourne, especially in spring when the flowers are in full bloom. The expansive gardens offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, with picturesque landscapes, tranquil lakes, and diverse plant collections to explore.

Set your young ones on an adventure exploring the wondrous scenery, plants and creatures of Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne with their Seek and Find Nature Cards and go on an adventure to explore the different landscapes and living collections as you search for all things big and small.

2. Yarra Bend Park: Yarra Bend Park is a sprawling natural oasis located along the Yarra River, just a stone’s throw from the city centre. The park features abundant walking trails, picnic areas, and open spaces, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking to enjoy the beauty of spring.

Visit Dights Falls Reserve to take in the freshness of the falls or Bellbird Picnic Area, which has a large barbecue area and shelter to watch the colonies of grey-headed flying foxes in the nearby canopy of trees. For something more adventurous, head to Studley Park Boathouse and hire a boat to enjoy a scenic paddle along the Yarra River! The boathouse is open Monday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Afterwards, indulge in the best scones on the pergola overlooking the majestic Birrarung you’ve ever tasted!

If you are a lover of all things nature and want more, then you can enjoy our weekly bush playgroup at Yarra Bend Park, which runs on Mondays in 2025.

3. Fitzroy Gardens: Entertain the kids by taking the outdoor adventure challenge in the heritage-listed Fitzroy Gardens these school holidays. Start at the Fitzroy Gardens Visitor Centre to collect your map and then head off on your hunt to answer 12 questions around the gardens! Nestled in the heart of Melbourne, Fitzroy Gardens is a charming park that comes alive with vibrant colours and fragrant blooms during the spring months. Visitors can wander through the winding pathways, admire the ornate floral displays, and even pay a visit to Captain Cook’s Cottage, a historical highlight within the park.

4. Royal Park: Royal Park is one of Melbourne’s most iconic and beloved parks, located just north of the city centre, it’s a wonderful park to explore and discover various bird species and other wildlife that call Royal Park home. Make sure you check out the fabulous nature play space next to the Royal Children’s Hospital.

Just near Royal Park is the iconic Queen Victoria Market, a fantastic place to take kids with plenty of fun and engaging activities. Wander through the various stalls and let your kids explore the colourful fruits, vegetables, and local products. It’s a great way to introduce them to different foods and cultures!

5. Newport Lakes Reserve: Located in Newport, this expansive bushland reserve features a picturesque lake, lush greenery, and a network of walking and cycling paths. You can enjoy a leisurely bike ride or bush walk around the lake and cross the lake via the rocks and watch the various water bird species that call the reserve home. There are also designated picnic areas where you can relax and enjoy quality time outdoors together.

Eco Explorers also runs a bush playgroup twice weekly during the term.

To make your park visits more interactive and fun, check out our nature play learning downloadable printables here to take along with you on your visit.

These parks offer an array of free nature experiences that capture the essence of spring in Melbourne, making them top choices for anyone looking to embrace the season and enjoy the natural beauty of the city.

Don’t forget to check out our downloadable outdoor resources below for your next bush walk!