There are so many amazing places to take the kids in Australia – and the best spots are often found by personal recommendations. So we had the idea to ask a few of our favourite fun-loving family bloggers who have spent time travelling Australia with their kids what their favourite spots have been – and they’ve picked some great places and experiences. Read on for all the insider advice on the ultimate Australia with kids bucket list – have you done any?
Sharon from Simpler and Smarter steps back in time to Australia’s Gold Rush
TRAVEL AUSTRALIA WITH KIDS ACTIVITY: A family visit to Sovereign Hill
DETAILS: Learn about Victoria’s gold rush past by experiencing how Ballarat was in the 1850s after the discover of gold. You can go on mine tours, pan for gold, dress for the era, ride a horse and cart, visit old style shops, see how things were made and experience goldfields entertainment.
LOCATION: Ballarat, Victoria
BEST TIME TO DO: Year round – in winter they have a winter wonderlights with snow falling several times a day which makes this a fun time as well. Avoid a rainy day.
COST: $144 for a family
SUITABLE FOR AGES: 0-100
David from Travel With Little One loves getting out on the water
TRAVEL AUSTRALIA WITH KIDS ACTIVITY: Catching the Manly ferry from Circular Quay in Sydney to the seaside suburb of Manly
DETAILS:: The Manly ferry trip is simply one of the best public transport journeys you can take in the world. You start with a slow cruise between Sydney’s two most famous icons, the Harbour bridge and Opera House, before turning right and heading out across one of the world’s most beautiful harbours. Half an hour later you pull into Manly Cove, one of the most popular coastal suburbs in Sydney, with several great ocean and harbour beaches. If you’re travelling with little ones here are some great ideas for toddler friendly activities in Sydney.
LOCATION: Sydney, NSW
BEST TIME TO DO: Year round. On Sundays, you can travel anywhere on the Sydney public transport network all day for $2.60, so in summer it can get very busy.
COST: The Standard Opal card fare is $7.35, and the Opal trip single ticket for non-cardholders is $8.90. The child/youth fare for 4-15 year-olds is $3.67, whereas the single trip for non-cardholders is $4.40. Under-4s travel free.
*check the latest fare prices and timetables at Transport NSW
SUITABLE FOR AGES: All
Amanda from Entertain My Tribe loves discovering and learning
TRAVEL AUSTRALIA WITH KIDS ACTIVITY: Science Space in Wollongong
DETAILS:: Science Space in Wollongong is a fantastic place to visit with the tribe. They have two must see shows when you visit including the Planetarium show and the Bubbles and Balloons show. Then you can explore two levels of scientific fun with lots of hands on exhibits including a building zone, dinosaurs, sound machines and more.
LOCATION: University of Wollongong Innovation Campus, 60 Squires Way, North Wollongong
BEST TIME TO DO: All year round but it’s not open on Wednesdays.
COST: Ultimate Pass (including Planetarium Show) Adult $17, child $13
SUITABLE FOR AGES: All ages (family friendly)
Leah from Yoder Toter Blog has a special way to celebrate Australia Day
TRAVEL AUSTRALIA WITH KIDS ACTIVITY: Spend Australia Day in Sydney Harbour
DETAILS: Australia Day in Sydney Harbour is patriotic way to spend the holiday. The events throughout Sydney Harbour can be fun for all ages! From tall ships races to floating concerts, there’s much going on in the Circular Quay area. I recommend arriving in Sydney the night before which will allow you to avoid busy public transportation. Also, pack plenty of sunscreen and water, as most of the time you’ll be standing in full sun looking out over the harbour.
LOCATION: Sydney Harbour, NSW
BEST TIME TO DO: Australia Day is celebrated on January 26th
COST: Free. Some events require tickets.
SUITABLE FOR AGES: 0-100
And finally for one of our favourite family activities in Australia…..
TRAVEL AUSTRALIA WITH KIDS ACTIVITY: Hand feed wild dolphins in Tin Can Bay
DETAILS: Hand feed wild Australian Humpback Dolphins at the Dolphin Centre in Tin Can Bay. Learn all about these beautiful marine animals and get up close for a once in a lifetime experience and some great photos!
LOCATION: Tin Can Bay, Sunshine Coast, QLD
BEST TIME TO DO: Year round – this is a fully outdoor activity though and you stand knee deep in the water so check the weather first! Can get very busy in school holidays.
COST: $5 entry free and $5 to buy fish to feed the dolphins
SUITABLE FOR AGES: 0-100
Do you love to travel Australia with kids?
Leave us some ideas in the comments or to be featured in the next bucket list article send us a message below!
These are all really great ideas! I also love getting out on the water…those Sydney Ferries are SO iconic… it’s like a tour of the harbour and being immersed in history rolled into one!
The Science Space is on my list now- thanks!! So many great ideas- we love the ferry too!