Things To Do With Kids Around Fitzroy—That They’ll Actually Love

Picnic, Play and Pedal at Edinburgh Gardens

One of Fitzroy North’s most beloved green spaces, Edinburgh Gardens has everything you need for an easy and enjoyable family outing. There are two playgrounds — the northern one is better suited to younger kids, while the southern playground is larger and fully fenced, making it a great choice if you’ve got a mix of ages. Add in a full-sized basketball court, a skate park and a public table tennis table (BYO paddles), and there’s plenty to keep active kids busy.

The open lawns are perfect for ball games or lounging under a tree, and the BBQs and shady picnic spots make it easy to enjoy lunch here. There’s also a network of paths winding through the gardens — ideal for bikes, scooters or anything with wheels. Fitzroy North Library is just across the road from the park and well worth a visit, especially for the large children’s reading room filled with storybooks and cosy corners. And of course, importantly, good coffee is never far away on St Georges Road.

Alfred Crescent, Fitzroy North | yarracity.vic.gov.au

Swings, Slides and Sandwiches at Condell Reserve

Directly across the road from Fitzroy Town Hall on Napier Street, Condell Reserve is a small neighbourhood park with a lot to offer. The playground includes swings, two slides, climbing ropes and bars, plus a charming little ‘Condell Street Grocer’ cubby where kids can play shopkeeper. It’s great for imaginative play and has just enough variety to keep young ones happily entertained.

There’s also plenty of grassy space for kicking a ball and shaded spots where grown-ups can relax with a coffee while keeping an eye on the action. Once the kids have had a good play, popping into Fitzroy Library is a worthwhile option — the welcoming children’s section is perfect for browsing and picking up some holiday reading material to enjoy later at home. Feeling peckish? You’ll find Hector’s Deli nearby for a top-tier sandwich or several local pubs if you’re after a laid-back lunch or early dinner.

Corner of Condell & Napier Street, Fitzroy | yarracity.vic.gov.au

Toy Trucks and Tiny Adventures at Park Street Reserve 

Known affectionately as “Digger Park”, Park Street Reserve in Fitzroy North is especially popular with younger children. The main draw is a large, fully fenced sandpit filled with toy diggers and trucks — perfect for scooping, hauling and playing for hours. Parents generously left toys behind for everyone to use, and the park’s layout makes it easy to keep an eye on kids while they play.

The reserve has two fenced play areas separated by a central shelter with BBQs and picnic tables. One side features the sandpit with the diggers, while the other includes swings and more traditional play equipment. The park links directly to the Capital City Trail, great for a ride, scoot or wander. and is an easy stroll from several excellent cafés for that much-needed post-play coffee.

68 Park Street, Fitzroy North | yarracity.vic.gov.au

Shady Paths and Classic Charm at Darling Gardens

Just a short stroll from Queens Parade, Darling Gardens is a beautifully maintained park with old-world charm and plenty of room to roam. The wide, leafy paths and sprawling lawns make it perfect for running, cartwheeling or lounging with a picnic, while the central rotunda adds a touch of elegance — and is often a go-to spot for celebrations on weekends.

The playground is a hit with kids of all ages, offering climbing equipment, swings and plenty of space to play. You’ll also find public toilets, drinking fountains, and picnic tables in the gardens. With Clifton Hill Station just around the corner, there’s a good chance of spotting a train or two, and the cafés along Queens Parade make grabbing a strong coffee an easy part of the adventure.

237 Gold Street, Clifton Hill | yarracity.vic.gov.au

Sliding and Zooming at Quarries Park 

Perched on a slope in Clifton Hill, Quarries Park is a great pick for older kids who love a bit of adventure. There’s a towering metal slide, flying fox, climbing walls, monkey bars, swings and sand play areas — all designed to keep legs moving and imaginations switched on. It’s a space that encourages exploration, with ramps and platforms that add extra layers to the fun.

There are BBQ facilities and picnic tables, and if the kids have bikes with them, the nearby Merri Creek and Main Yarra trails are easy to access and perfect for stretching out the afternoon. Pack snacks, water bottles and maybe a spare change of clothes, this one’s likely to keep everyone busy for a while.

Corner Ramsden Street and Field Street, Clifton Hill | yarracity.vic.gov.au

Trains and Autumn Leaves at Gahan Reserve

Tucked behind the Collingwood Town Hall and next to Collingwood Train Station, Gahan Reserve is a beautifully landscaped park with a standout playground. There’s a rope bridge that challenges kids’ balance and confidence, a bouncy boat, swings and a fun obstacle course tucked into the sandpit. The playground is cleverly designed with sculptural timber and steel elements, making it visually appealing as well as loads of fun for kids to explore.

The reserve also offers open green space for ball games or lounging under the trees, plus BBQs and picnic tables if you’re planning on staying for lunch. And for kids who love trains? It’s a dream spot with Metro trains zipping by overhead all day long, providing endless entertainment. Hop on the City Loop afterwards and turn the day into a mini adventure with a change of scenery and the fun of watching the world go by.

118 Park Street, Collingwood | yarracity.vic.gov.au

Herbs and History at Fitzroy Gardens

One of Melbourne’s most beautiful and historic parks, Fitzroy Gardens is always a hit with families. With wide lawns, shady paths, sculptural fountains and hidden gems like the Fairies Tree, Tudor Village and Conservatory, there’s plenty to explore. The animal-themed playground is a favourite with younger kids, and the gardens’ winding paths are perfect for pram strolls or scooting adventures.

Originally laid out in 1859, the gardens showcase a classic Victorian-era design with sweeping lawns, elm-lined paths, sculptures and historic buildings woven through a layered and living landscape. You’ll also find BBQ areas, picnic spots and a welcoming café at the Visitor Centre, making it easy to settle in for a few hours.

Wellington Parade, East Melbourne | melbourne.vic.gov.au/fitzroy-gardens

Animal Encounters at Collingwood Children’s Farm

Collingwood Children’s Farm is a peaceful spot where city kids can meet goats, sheep, cows and chooks, explore veggie gardens and enjoy a bit of open space. It’s a lovely place to relax and reconnect with nature, with plenty of friendly animals and hands-on moments of discovery. No need to book ahead, just turn up, order a coffee from the onsite Farm Café and enjoy the slower pace.

The Daily Activities Board at the entrance is your go-to for what’s happening each day, whether it’s meeting the animals, guinea pig cuddles or feeding sessions. The team often shares updates on Instagram too, so it’s worth keeping an eye on their stories if you’re hoping to catch something specific or time your visit around a favourite farmyard activity.

18 St Heliers Street, Abbotsford | farm.org.au

Nature Walks and Riverside Calm at Dights Falls

Dights Falls in Abbotsford offers a quiet slice of nature where kids can explore and grown-ups can slow down. With its mix of heritage character and natural beauty, it’s a great spot for wandering along the river, watching the water cascade over the weir or spotting native birds. The open paths make it ideal for a family walk or an easy bike ride, and the constant sound of flowing water adds a calming backdrop to any outing.

There’s plenty of room to spread out for a riverside picnic, and curious kids will love the chance to scramble around rocks and explore the edges of the Yarra. While there’s no formal playground here, the sense of adventure and open space offers a different kind of play. It’s a dog on-leash area, and parking and toilets are available nearby.

Trenerry Crescent, Abbotsford | yarracity.vic.gov.au

Nature Play and Outdoor Wanders at CERES

Tucked just north of Fitzroy in Brunswick East, CERES Community Environment Park is a lovely spot for a relaxed, nature-filled spring outing with kids. You can wander through veggie gardens, spot chickens, explore native bushland and wetlands, or simply enjoy the space to roam and play. There’s also a café for a casual bite, and a fantastic organic grocery shop if you’re picking up a few things on the way home.

If you’re looking for something more structured, CERES is running Nature Play Winter Sessions from 29 September to 3 October for kids aged 2 to 5 (older siblings welcome). Each two-hour session is guided by an early years educator and includes outdoor adventures around themes like nature crafts, wetland wonders and flowers, bees & trees. Tickets are $25 per child and bookings are essential. It’s easy to hop on a tram and head north from Fitzroy, turning the journey into part of the fun.

Corner Roberts & Stewart Streets, Brunswick East | ceres.org.au

Spacious Lawns and Playful Corners at Curtain Square

Located between Rathdowne and Canning Streets in Carlton North, Curtain Square is a popular destination for families looking to balance play and relaxation. The park has a mix of play areas suited to little ones and bigger kids alike, including a dedicated swing section and open space for kicking a ball. There’s also a fenced dog run and plenty of shady lawns for lounging.

After a big play session, Calle Bakery is right around the corner, a great spot for a well-earned coffee or a laid-back lunch. The park’s leafy, relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to spend a whole morning or afternoon here without watching the clock. And for a quiet reset before heading home, Carlton Library sits just across the road, perfect for picking out a few new stories to enjoy together later.

Rathdowne Street, Carlton North | yarracity.vic.gov.au

Spring Upgrades at Smith Reserve

Smith Reserve has reopened with a fresh new look, just in time for the warmer weather. The updated playground includes a slide, monkey bars, a rope-balancing trail, a group rocker, swings and a large sandpit. There are also timber climbing elements and nature-inspired features designed to encourage open-ended play for little ones.

Families can make use of new BBQs, extra seating and covered picnic spots, while the improved off-leash dog area now features new fencing, lighting and a resurfaced path network. And if you’re after coffee or a bite to eat, Min Lokal is a great local cafe just a short walk away.

Napier & Cecil Streets, Fitzroy | yarracity.vic.gov.au

There’s so much to do close to home, and these easy outings can turn into the best kind of memories, whether you’re chasing sunshine, playtime or just taking a moment to sit down while the kids burn off energy.

Best of luck making the most of the school holidays: may the coffee be strong and the adventures plentiful! If you need more ideas for where to take kids in the ‘hood, check out our guide to some of the best family-friendly restaurants in Fitzroy.✨