Looking for a family day out where kids can climb, play, and explore safely indoors—rain, hail or shine? Climb N’Play in Maidstone might just be your new go-to.
Previously known as Funtopia, this bright and bustling indoor play centre near Highpoint Shopping Centre has had a makeover—and it’s looking better than ever. Climb N’Play bills itself as Australia’s Premier Indoor Adventure Playground, and after spending a Sunday here with three very energetic kids, it’s not hard to see why.
From towering climbing walls to multi-level playgrounds and soft play zones for toddlers, there’s something for every age and energy level.
Climb N’Play Maidstone: Easy to Access and Even Easier to Enjoy
Located in Melbourne’s north-west, Climb N’Play is tucked away in Maidstone, just a few minutes’ drive from Highpoint. There’s plenty of parking on-site and the layout inside is open, colourful, and well organised.
After checking in, getting the kids set up in their harnesses was a breeze. The friendly staff walk you through the safety procedures, and each climbing wall has a simple clip-in system, so kids can attach their own harnesses (with a bit of adult help). No need to unclip and reclip every time—they just choose a wall, clip in, and start climbing.
Best of all, the layout encourages kids to climb alongside their siblings or friends, which makes the experience extra fun—and a little less intimidating for beginners.
Climbing Zones: Nutty Heights
If your kids are over five and full of beans, Nutty Heights is where they’ll want to be. This interactive climbing zone features a variety of bright, themed walls—some with handholds shaped like donuts or gears, others with glowing lights or timers to race against.
Each wall presents its own challenge, whether it’s a vertical maze, a speed test, or simply the thrill of reaching the top. The auto-belay system means kids can climb safely without the need for a rope partner, and come gently back to earth when they’re ready.
On our visit, the two big kids can’t get enough of Nutty Heights. It’s certainly challenging for youngsters, but with support and encouragement, the confidence boost is real—and so is the fun!
The indoor rock climbing area has 40 climbing walls starting from beginner to advanced level. Children from 5+ years are able to enter the climbing world.
Climbers are guided by the professional staff inside the climbing world although the harness system allows climbers to clip on safely themselves without supervision.
Playground Fun: Acorn Adventure
Need a break from climbing or have younger kids in tow? Acorn Adventure is a giant indoor playground designed for children over 12 months. It’s packed with tunnels, twisty slides, climbing nets, and obstacle courses, all spread across multiple levels.
It’s the kind of place where kids can lose themselves in imaginative play for hours. The structures are well padded, colourful and varied—ideal for burning energy or exploring at your own pace.
Our three kids love racing through the levels, popping out of one tunnel only to disappear into another.
And because most areas are visible from the cafe seating area, we can sit back with a coffee while still keeping an eye on the action.
Acorn Adventure isn’t just any indoor playground—it’s a whole mini world of Australian landmarks and themed play zones designed for kids aged 12 months and up.
The moment you step inside, you’ll spot the Melbourne tram, a huge hit with our toddler who loved pretending to drive and hopping on and off like a real commuter. There’s also a mini Sydney Harbour Bridge for climbing and crawling, plus a Great Barrier Reef-inspired ball pit complete with soft blue “water,” playful sea creatures and a ball cannon zone that brings a little underwater action to life.
And for kids who want to climb something a little different, there’s even an Uluru rock wall—a nod to Australia’s Red Centre and a fun, hands-on way to spark some curiosity about the places beyond Melbourne.
This multi-level play area encourages kids to explore, climb, slide, and imagine all while burning plenty of energy. With so many themed spaces to discover, it’s easy to see why Acorn Adventure is a crowd favourite.
The equipment includes different mazes, slides and tunnels specifically designed for the kids to improve their physical activity and to start learning the skills to enable them to use the climbing walls effectively.
Soft Play for Toddlers: Tiny Tails
For the littlest explorers, Tiny Tails is a calm and contained play area made just for under-twos. Soft foam blocks, sensory toys, and gentle climbing structures keep little ones entertained and safe.
Our toddler happily alternates between Tiny Tails and the more adventurous parts of the centre. She particularly loved the indoor tram—a cute play structure with windows to look out over the play centre.
Tiny Tails is fully supervised – there is only one entry and exit and the toddler area is separated from the main structure. The staff supervising both area are very professional and friendly.
Party Time? You Bet
Planning a birthday party? Climb N’Play offers fully hosted parties with climbing, playing, and a private party room to celebrate in. Packages include food, drinks, and a party host to keep everything running smoothly. There are different options to suit various age groups, and everything’s taken care of—making it a top pick for a stress-free celebration.
Fuel Up at the Café
Between all the climbing, sliding and exploring, it’s no surprise the kids work up a serious appetite. Thankfully, the on-site café serves up plenty of kid-friendly bites like toasties, nuggets, and chips, along with coffee, wraps and sweet treats for the grown-ups.
It’s a handy base to regroup, hydrate, and watch the action unfold. There’s also space for prams and baby change facilities, so families with young kids are well looked after.
Highlights for Visiting Climb N’ Play Maidstone
- Free car parking;
- Two separate play areas – entry fee is separate for each world;
- Climbing World suitable for kids 5+ years;
- BYO socks or purchase socks for $2;
- Full service on-site café;
- Party packages available, including a disco room!
- Special packages for school holiday groups and school excursions;
- Book ahead to avoid disappointment. All bookings can be made on the website.
Whether you’ve got preschoolers, primary schoolers, or a mix of both, Climb N’Play makes for a brilliant indoor day out. It’s active, safe, and encourages kids to try new things—whether that’s scaling a climbing wall or navigating a rope bridge.
Click here for the best indoor play centres in Melbourne
Click here for the best indoor climbing centres in Melbourne
Click here for more indoor things to do in Melbourne with kids
We visited as guests of Climb N’ Play. All opinions are the writers’ own.
I hope this post has helped or inspired you! Subscribe to my weekly newsletter to find out more ways for your family to have fun together!
Comments are closed.