Table of Contents
Make a Splash at Fitzroy Pool
Fitzroy Pool is Melbourne’s iconic spot for summer fun and a top choice for things to do in Fitzroy with kids, featuring a 50-metre outdoor heated pool that welcomes swimmers of all ages. Alongside a dedicated toddler pool and a shaded lawn for relaxing, this family-friendly pool offers the perfect mix of active play and chill-out spaces. Kids can splash around while parents unwind on the grass or enjoy a dip themselves. It’s a beloved local destination that provides the perfect escape from the city heat. Pro Tip: If your kids still have energy to burn after a swim, the upgraded Smith Reserve playground is right next door for more outdoor fun!
160 Alexandra Parade, Fitzroy | leisure.yarracity.vic.gov.au
Family Fun at Edinburgh Gardens
Spanning a lush 24 hectares, Edinburgh Gardens is a summer paradise for families in Fitzroy North. With sprawling lawns, shaded picnic spots, and fenced playgrounds, it’s an ideal setting for kids to play freely while parents relax. Little adventurers will love the on-site skate facility, basketball half-court, and table tennis table, while the whole family can enjoy a casual barbecue or a picnic under the trees. Is there a better duo than a fantastic playground and a quality coffee? We think not! With quality coffee spots nearby, Edinburgh Gardens offers one of the best things to do in Fitzroy with kids: relax, recharge, and let the little ones play. The network of paths is perfect for biking or scooting, and the Garden’s location close to public transport and the Capital City Trail makes getting here easy.
Alfred Crescent, Fitzroy North | yarracity.vic.gov.au/facilities/edinburgh-gardens
Nature Exploration for Curious Kids at CERES
CERES, a community hub dedicated to sustainable living, food growing and cultural connection, is home to the Nature Play program—a unique outdoor experience that inspires children to explore and engage with the environment. Ideal for kids aged 2 to 5, this program offers interesting activities like planting seeds, creating art with natural materials, netting and identifying water insects, tree climbing, cooking damper over a fire and caring for chooks. Here, children explore seasonal wonders across biodiverse wetlands, urban farms, native bush, and cultural spaces. With a focus on hands-on learning, CERES aims to ignite curiosity while teaching skills that connect young minds to nature. Set among urban farms, wetlands and native bush, the program brings sustainable living, food growing and cultural connection to life in a hands-on, engaging way—an excellent option for those seeking things to do near Fitzroy with kids these holidays.
Cnr Roberts & Stewart Streets, Brunswick East | ceres.org.au
Outdoor Fun and Learning at Collingwood Children’s Farm
Collingwood Children’s Farm is a haven for kids and adults alike, with daily activities, acres of green space, and beautiful gardens to explore. Children can engage with friendly farm animals, immerse themselves in the outdoors, learn about sustainable food systems, and even participate in special programs designed to foster social inclusion and community connectedness. Their popular holiday programs allow kids to step into the role of a farmer for the day, where they’ll head outdoors, meet the animals, help with farm chores and join a creative workshop. Guided by knowledgeable educators, children will learn about animal care and the importance of the land, leaving with a unique creation to remember their day by. This is an excellent choice for families seeking memorable things to do near Fitzroy. Each holiday period brings a new workshop project, so returning visitors can enjoy a fresh experience every time: check the website for all the details.
18 St Heliers Street, Abbotsford | farm.org.au
Adventure Awaits at Quarries Park Playground
Quarries Park Playground in Clifton Hill is a sprawling adventure spot perfect for a fun family outing and an ideal option for those seeking fun things to do in Fitzroy and surrounds. This expansive park offers plenty of green space, scenic views of Melbourne’s skyline, and an iconic wooden playground packed with exciting features. Kids will love the very long metal slide down the hill, four swings (including a safety swing), sand pits, climbing walls, monkey bars, a flying fox, and plenty of ramps and boardwalks to explore. It’s a fantastic place for a family BBQ, with sheltered tables, BBQs, and a water tap on-site. For sports enthusiasts, there are nearby soccer fields and sports grounds, as well as a skatepark within walking distance. Plus, the park connects to the Main Yarra and Merri Creek trails, making it ideal for families who enjoy outdoor exploration. This classic playground offers something for everyone and is sure to be a hit with kids and parents alike.
Cnr Ramsden Street and Field Street, Clifton Hill | yarracity.vic.gov.au
Discover the Charm of Coburg Lake Reserve
Coburg Lake Reserve is an ideal spot for family outings, picnics and a bit of nature-inspired exploration. This popular park offers a scenic loop around the lake, featuring three playgrounds that cater to different age groups, making it a standout for things to do with kids in Melbourne’s inner north, and providing endless fun along the way. If you’re up for a longer stroll, take the shared paths along Merri Creek, which connect north and south of the lake. The reserve has lovely shaded areas thanks to the Avenue of Honour, planted in tribute to World War I soldiers. For older kids, De Chene Reserve playground boasts a thrilling flying fox and a maze, while the updated rocket playground on the southern bank keeps little ones entertained. Enjoy native trees, birdlife, and well-maintained picnic and barbecue facilities, as well as unique extras like free gym equipment and a chessboard table. Coburg Lake Reserve is truly a place to unwind, play and soak up a bit of nature these summer holidays.
2A Gaffney Street, Coburg North | merri-bek.vic.gov.au
Library Visit and The BIG Summer Read
Local libraries are the perfect escape for families looking for engaging things to do in Fitzroy with kids over the holidays. Fitzroy Library and North Fitzroy Library both offer a cozy escape wiht inviting reading nooks, educational resources, and engaging holiday activities that foster creativity and a love for reading. Kids can enjoy story time sessions, craft workshops and more in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Plus, the BIG Summer Read program is a fantastic way to keep kids engaged. This Victoria-wide initiative helps children maintain literacy skills over the summer, earning digital badges and reaching reading milestones through fun, goal-oriented activities. Joining is easy via the Beanstack app or online, with Yarra Libraries supporting local readers in this enriching journey. It’s a perfect way for little bookworms and new readers alike to keep learning and stay inspired during the holidays.
128 Moor St, Fitzroy and 182-186 St Georges Rd, Fitzroy North | library.yarracity.vic.gov.au