We spend a full day exploring the iconic Bendigo Tramways, and it turns out to be one of the best family experiences we’ve had in a while. With two young teens, it can be tricky to find activities that are both interesting and easygoing—but this tram-themed day nails it.
From a breezy ride on Benigo’s Vintage Talking Tram to a relaxing bite at the Tram Café, everything is close by, low-fuss and surprisingly fun. If you’re in Bendigo with older kids or tweens, this is a must-do day that doesn’t involve queues or screens.
Vintage Talking Tram: History That Actually Holds Their Attention
We start the day with the Vintage Talking Tram Tour, and straight away, the kids are into it.
These beautifully restored trams roll through the streets of Bendigo, complete with open windows, polished wooden seats, and a nostalgic charm that makes the ride feel special.
We hop on at the Central Deborah Gold Mine stop (easy parking right there), and enjoy the commentary playing through the speakers as the tram cruises along. It’s full of gold rush history, quirky facts, and stories that bring the city to life.
The whole loop takes about 45 minutes, but you can hop on and off at stops like Lake Weeroona, Alexandra Fountain, and Bendigo Joss House Temple.
I love that it’s paced perfectly—engaging without being rushed. Baby 2.0 is fascinated by the mechanics of the tram itself, while Lady AB loves spotting historic buildings and taking photos to send to her friends. No one asks for Wi-Fi. That’s a win.
The fresh breeze through the windows adds to the charm, and the whole experience is easygoing and low-stress.
Family tips:
- Teens might enjoy the open windows for photo ops—remind them to hang on tight.
- The stop at Lake Weeroona has a big playground and public toilets—great for a quick break.
- You can do the full loop or hop on and off—flexible depending on energy levels.
- Your ticket even includes access to Explore the Surface of Central Deborah Gold Mine.
- Dogs are welcome onboard!
Bendigo Tram Café: A Relaxing Morning Pit Stop
After the tram ride, we head to the Tram Café, a stationary tram converted into a café, located right at the Bendigo Tramways Depot. It’s relaxed and family-friendly, with outdoor seating and easy access to the depot’s restoration area.
There’s a good range of toasties, pastries, and muffins, plus quality coffee (thank you!).
The setting is casual and welcoming, and there are colouring sheets and pencils available at the counter if you have younger kids in tow.
We spend some time wandering through the Tramways Workshop, which is right next door.
You can peer inside and watch volunteers restoring vintage trams—a hidden gem that really adds to the experience.
One of the staff kindly chats to my son about how they get the trams up and running again. He’s genuinely impressed.
Open daily from 8:00am to 3:00pm (closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day).
Located at 1 Tramways Avenue (Stop No. 3 on the Vintage Talking Tram route).
Family tips:
- There’s room for prams, and high chairs are available.
- Arrive early for a quieter visit—great for a pre-tour coffee.
- Try the muffins—they’re fresh and teen-approved.
- Perfect for a stop if you’re exploring the Bendigo Creek Trail by bike, on foot or scooter.
Tram Museum: Step Into 130 Years of Bendigo History
While we’re at the Bendigo Tramways Depot, we also pop into the Tram Museum—and it ends up being one of the most surprisingly fascinating parts of our day. It’s not huge, but it packs in over a century of local history in a way that’s easy to enjoy, even with kids in tow.
Bendigo’s tram story dates back to 1890, and this museum captures that long connection with the city beautifully. From its early gold rush days, to more than 80 years as a public transport service, and now as a much-loved tourist attraction, Bendigo Tramways has seen it all.
Inside the museum, there’s a collection of rare photographs, original uniforms, ticket machines, and other behind-the-scenes treasures—some of which are on display to the public for the very first time.
My kids love checking out the old-school driver controls and trying to imagine what it would’ve been like to ride the trams 100 years ago. It’s the kind of museum you can explore at your own pace, without needing hours.
Located at 1 Tramways Avenue (same stop as the Tram Café and Depot—Stop No. 3 on the Vintage Talking Tram line)
Family tips:
- Open daily from 8:00am to 3:00pm
- Free entry, which is great for budget-conscious families
- A good mix of visual displays, old tram parts, and storytelling to keep tweens engaged
- Easy to pair with a walk or ride along the Bendigo Creek Trail—perfect for a break in the day
Groove Tram: Perfect for Parents’ Night Out
This is a strictly 18+ event, and while not one for the kids, it’s an absolute treat for grown-ups who want a fun, relaxed night out with a twist. The tram is transformed into a mobile lounge with mood lighting, music, and a licensed bar serving drinks and nibbles.
We board at Alexandra Fountain and settle in for a 1.5-hour experience that’s equal parts unique and relaxing. There’s no full meal—just a good selection of light snacks available at bar prices.
It’s the perfect way to cap off a family day with a little something for the adults.
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The Tot team was hosted at Central Deborah Gold Mine. All opinions are the writers’ own.
