Finding a big, safe place for kids to run around in Melbourne’s CBD can be challenging. That’s why one of our favourite CBD fringe destinations is Fitzroy Gardens in East Melbourne.
Fitzroy Gardens is one of Melbourne’s most historic and beautiful gardens. The magnificent tree-lined avenues and extensive lawns provide ample opportunity for running and are a gorgeous backdrop for children’s photos.
Free Highlights of Fitzroy Gardens
The English-style gardens contain a few attractions which are good for kids – a small playground, a model Tudor village, the Fairies tree, Cook’s Cottage and The Conservatory.
Note that there are water features and fountains in the gardens so keep a watch of young children.
The playground is small but amusing because the climbing structure/slide consists of a sleeping dragon and the swings hang from a giraffe’s neck. The playground is not shaded.
Cook’s Cottage
Cook’s Cottage is the oldest building in Australia and was built by the parents of Captain James Cook. The cottage was brought to Melbourne in 1934, with each brick individually numbered, packed into barrels, shipped and reconstructed.
For a small fee you can enter the cottage and learn more about days of that era.
A burst of colour and scent, The Conservatory is filled with seasonal floral displays. Kids will be captivated by the vibrant plants and the chance to step inside a living storybook of blooms.
Ola Cohn’s Fairies Tree has been carved into the stump of one of the original Red Gum trees in the Fitzroy Gardens which is over 300 years old. Next to it is the cute model Tudor village. Unfortunately it is fully fenced so you can’t walk through it and can only admire from behind the gates.
School Holiday Fun at Fitzroy Gardens Visitor Centre
Each school holidays, the Fitzroy Gardens Visitor Centre runs themed activities designed especially for kids. These programs are interactive quests that encourage little explorers to follow a map, answer questions, and uncover fascinating stories about the gardens along the way. It’s a hands-on adventure that blends learning with fun, and the children will love the sense of achievement when they finish their quest.
There’s a small cost to take part, but it includes entry to the historic Cooks’ Cottage plus a prize for completing the activity. With new themes each holiday period, kids will never tire of returning to see what’s next.
The activities are aimed at upper primary aged children – but with parent assistance, younger children can happily engage.
Year-Round Family Activities
Families can also enjoy two free activities offered year-round, available to collect from the Visitor Centre:
- Outdoor Adventure – A self-guided trail that gets kids outdoors and active while exploring the gardens (suitable for primary aged children).
- Seek & Find – A discovery game that turns the gardens into a puzzle-filled playground, perfect for curious minds (suitable for younger kids).
Where to Eat and Drink Nearby
After Fitzroy Gardens fun we like to go to Square and Compass for a kid-friendly cafe stop.
There is also the KereKere café at the visitor centre where you can buy entry tickets to Cook’s Cottage. KereKere is of particular note because it invites customers to help in the distribution of monthly $500 donations by selecting to support one of four Cause Categories – Environmental, Cultural, Social or Health. They have light meals and some books and toys for kids to play with.
Then there’s Yiaga Restaurant (opening soon) – For parents wanting to turn the day into something special, this high-end dining option will bring an elevated culinary experience right to the middle of Fitzroy Gardens.
Make a Day of It
Pack a picnic, bring a ball or frisbee, and enjoy the open lawns before or after your adventures. Fitzroy Gardens is stroller-friendly, has plenty of shaded areas, and offers a safe space for kids to run and play. With its mix of organised activities, free attractions, and nearby dining options, it’s an easy and affordable way to keep children entertained in Melbourne.
Tip for parents: Check in with the Fitzroy Gardens Visitor Centre before your visit to see what school holiday theme is running, and make sure to allow time to explore the gardens’ free highlights.
HOT Tips:
- Playground is unshaded;
- Suitable for toddlers;
- Toilets inside The Visitor Centre/KereKere Cafe and near Clarendon Street;
- Captain Cook’s cottage has a regular school holiday program;
- Food is available at KereKere café at the visitor centre, and Yiaga Restaurant (opening soon), or head to Square and Compass at the north-east corner;
- Check in with the Fitzroy Gardens Visitor Centre before your visit to see what school holiday theme is running, and make sure to allow time to explore the gardens’ free highlights.
Read more:
21 Best Gardens in Melbourne for a Picturesque Stroll
22 Best Cafes with Playgrounds in Melbourne
Ultimate Family Day Out On The City Circle Tram Melbourne
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