Top ways to staycation in Melbourne with kids

Loading the kids in the car and spending a weekend in the city sounds like nails on a chalkboard to some, but in post-lockdown times, it’s a chance to expose the little ones (or moody teens) to the city lights.

Surprisingly, too, now is the time to check it all out – it’s quiet, public transport isn’t chock-full of nine-to-fivers and the tourism industry is ever so excited to see you. Gone are the days of no seats on the tram after a big shop and snooty city-slickers turning their noses up at the sight of a pram.

The usual things on the to-do list for a family-friendly trip to the city are still there, but calmer than ever. Fed Square has a jam-packed schedule over summer, with new outdoor seating, sports viewing and live music. What’s more, you can get food delivered to your own little picnic spot from the array of restaurants in the quadrangle.

Bourke Street Mall is much less overwhelming than usual, as is the famed Flinders Street Railway Station, where you can actually stop to admire the architecture without fear of a shove.

Undeniably the most beautiful part of the city in which to stay is along the Yarra, and the perfect spot is the Crowne Plaza Melbourne. It was the first of its kind back in the ’80s, the original waterfront hotel in Melbourne’s CBD. In 2020, it had a full revamp, including fresh designer rooms, a rooftop pool and a fancy new bar and eateries. The furniture and feel is pure five-star and the staff are lovely and make the kids more than welcome.

Getting there is a cinch, it’s just off the freeway and everything worth doing is a walk or tram ride away. The Melbourne Convention Exhibition Centre is across the river, along with Crown Casino, Southbank and the National Gallery of Victoria.

Stay

Book a room or suite at the Crowne Plaza. The beds are oh-so-comfy, the rooftop pool boasts a gorgeous view of the city. As part of the renovation they have also opened Dive Bar and Pow Wow cafe.

Eat

Indulge in the modern Asian-French tastes at Yugo inside the hotel. A must-try is the hiramasa kingfish sashimi, and for the kids you can order something from the grill with unlimited salad and chips.

Drink

Let the littlies run wild at Archie Brothers Arcade, Docklands. There are games, bowling, bumper cars and a bar for the big kids, serving up Crazy Cocktails including the Candy Stand garnished with a giant lollipop.

Do

A family trip to the city is not complete without a visit to Sea Life Aquarium. There is a penguin playground, an Ice Age 4D cinema experience and don’t forget those crowd favourites – the sharks.

The writer stayed and dined courtesy of Crowne Plaza Melbourne.