Victoria is glorious. From lake life and bike rides to gold rush history and Melbourne’s big-city buzz, this state has family adventures at every turn. 

The trick is finding things to do in Victoria that suits your crew. Whether you’re into sport, wildlife, food, or festivals, this list will help you map out a holiday where you can Do It All. 

1. Melbourne

All roads lead to Melbourne, Australia’s sporting capital (sorry Sydney). The mighty MCG (Melbourne Cricket Ground) is a modern colosseum with tours and a dedicated sports museum. If you’re lucky enough to catch an AFL or cricket match, you’ll see the city come alive. Each January, the Australian Open also transforms Melbourne into a tennis-mad wonderland. 

_{Australian Open. Image credit: Visit Victoria}

Prefer arts and culture? Time your visit for October’s Melbourne Fringe Festival, with family theatre, comedy shows, and interactive workshops. Or, explore year-round favourites: the Royal Botanic Gardens, Queen Victoria Market, or the Melbourne Skydeck, the highest observation deck in the southern hemisphere, which features fun like the immersive Voyager Theatre, a virtual reality ‘walk the plank’ experience, and The Edge, a suspended glass cubicle. 

Stay nearby: Discovery Parks - Melbourne puts you right in the heart of the action. Families love the spacious 3-Bedroom Apartments with separate bedrooms, full kitchen, and living space — the perfect home base after a big day out. 

_{Deluxe 3-Bedroom Apartment at Discovery Parks - Melbourne}

2. Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is world-famous for a reason. Wind your way through charming towns like Port Fairy, Torquay, Apollo Bay, Portland, and Lorne. Stop for surf beaches, wildlife parks, and a few sugar hits at the Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery and Dooley’s Premium Ice Cream (yes, Vegemite ice cream is a thing!).  

Stay nearby: Discovery Parks – Warrnambool is close to local beaches and attractions. The kids will love the pool, pedal karts, and adventure playground, while history buffs can explore Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village and stay for the Sound and Light Show Experience. 

_{Twelve Apostles. Image Credit: Visit Victoria.}

3. Twelve Apostles

The Great Ocean Road’s crown jewel deserves its own mention. These limestone stacks rise dramatically from the Southern Ocean and are a must-see at sunrise or sunset. Kids will love the tunnel under the road to the Twelve Apostles Visitor Centre and the colourful cockatoo-inspired viewing platforms. The kiosk will fend off hunger pangs until you can get to nearby Port Campbell, where there is a lively restaurant scene. 

_{Twelve Apostles. Image Credit: Visit Victoria}

4. Nagambie 

Discovery Parks - Nagambie Lakes is a water activity haven for families. Whether you’re paddling across the lake, fishing, or cruising down the Goulburn River, the park offers endless opportunities to connect with nature and create lasting family memories. It’s ideally located on the serene shores of Lake Nagambie and has its own boat ramp, perfect for fishing and water activities.  

Stay nearby: There’s really no need to leave Discovery Parks – Nagambie Lakes. Paddle, fish, or launch your boat straight from the park’s private ramp. When you’re not on the water, bounce on the jumping pillow, swim in the pool, or try a family tennis match. 

_{Discovery Parks - Nagambie Lakes.}

5. Murray River

The Murray River region in Victoria is a prime destination for families looking to blend outdoor adventure with relaxation. Echuca is famous for its historic paddle steamers, offering families a unique chance to step back in time, as does the Port of Echuca Discovery Centre, which is a family favourite. The area is also renowned for its peaceful riverside strolls, which won’t cost you a cent.  

Stay nearby: From Discovery Parks - Echuca, you’ll have direct access to the river for boating, fishing, and kayaking, and back at the park, the resort-style pool and playgrounds will keep the kids happy for hours.  

_{Paddle Steamers at Echuca Wharf. Image Credit: Visit Victoria}

6. Victorian High Country 

Cycling, food, and fresh mountain air — the High Country has it all. A mecca for cyclists (and runners), the area offers access to some gruelling rides for the adventure seekers, as well as many scenic bike trails that are perfect for all ages. 

• Here are our three suggestions for the top family-friendly bike trails: 

• Murray to Mountains Rail Trail: A 100km rail trail, but you can easily do shorter sections. It’s a relatively flat and smooth trail, so it’s great for riders of all ages and abilities. 

• Mount Buffalo National Park: From introductory trails that offer breathtaking views without being too strenuous, to some gnarly old beasts, this national park has it all. 

• Bright to Wandiligong Trail: This short, family-friendly trail runs between Bright and the historic village of Wandiligong. It’s an easy ride that follows Morses Creek, offering a peaceful and scenic journey through the countryside. 

Stay nearby: Discovery Parks – Mount Buffalo and Discovery Parks – Bright are the perfect launching points for your next adventure through the High Country.  

_{Bike trail at Discovery Parks - Bright}

7. Lake Hume

The Lake Hume fun is 50 percent on the lake and 50 percent in our park. Stay at Discovery Parks – Lake Hume and you can hire kayaks, paddle boards, and pedal karts from reception. Activities over the year include pancake mornings (perfect before you venture into the Rutherglen Wine Region or the Bandiana Army Museum), sausage sizzles, movie nights, a camp fire evening, and so much more. Don’t forget to take a dip in the Hume Dam. 

Stay nearby: Discovery Parks – Lake Hume  

_{Trentham Estate Winery. Image Credit: Visit Victoria}

9. Geelong

The home of the mighty Cats (Geelong Football Club), Geelong is also close to the Great Ocean Road, and the always fun Museum of Play and Art. Ride the ferris wheel at Eastern Beach Reserve, check out the old-time carousel at The Carousel Pavilion, and learn about First Nation’s history at the award winning Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre.  

Stay nearby: When you’ve had enough exploring, head back to Discovery Parks – Geelong, for a quick swim, a meal in the café, and then settle in to watch a rerun of the glorious 2022 AFL grand final. 

_{Narana Aboriginal Culture Centre. Image Credit: Visit Victoria}

10. Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park

The Grampians is one of Victoria’s most spectacular landscapes. Hike to lookouts, discover waterfalls, and learn about local First Nations culture at Brambuk – The National Park & Cultural Centre. Don’t forget your camera for those sweeping views.  

_{Boroka Lookout. Image Credit: Visit Victoria}

11. Ballarat

Step back to the 1850s at Sovereign Hill, where kids can pan for gold. Families also love the Ballarat Wildlife Park, Eureka Centre and Kryal Castle (open on weekends) and don’t miss the animatronic dinosaurs at Ballarat Bird World for even more excitement. 

_{Soverign Hill. Image Credit: Visit Victoria}

Ready to Do It All in Victoria? 

From Melbourne’s sporting action to the High Country’s bike trails, Victoria is packed with family-friendly adventures. And with Discovery Parks dotted across the state, you’ll always have a comfy cabin, pool, or campfire waiting at day’s end.  

Now it’s over to you to start the fun. 

Book your Victoria holiday with Discovery Parks today