School holidays roll around fast each term, and it can be hard to think of new things to do to keep the children entertained and create some unforgettable family memories.
As Yarra Valley eco-builders, we know a thing or two about the region so we’re sharing our top picks for these school holidays. The Yarra Valley will enliven every day over the holidays, whether it’s the great outdoors, farm-fresh food, or cultural discoveries.
Parks, Picnics and Wildlife
With over 200 walks and trails, there is always something new to explore. Plenty of child (and dog) friendly trails and picnic areas exist. This guide has them all in detail, but here are our top picks.
- Pack a picnic and head to Warburton Redwood Forest, a magical wonderland of towering trees on an easy loop trail.
- Coombe Trench Loop is a 2.5km moderate scenic loop trail in Yarra Glen with stunning views and bird and plant life.
- Badger Weir showcases the natural beauty of the Yarra River on a leisurely walking track. Keen eyes can spot platypus in the waterholes, and competent swimmers can enjoy a dip.
If adventure is calling, Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery combines delicious treats with outdoor fun and an onsite adventure playground.
Self-described as Victoria’s wildest theme park, Gumbuya World Theme Park offers a full day of thrill rides and attractions for all ages.
Food From Farm to Table
Make a morning out of the weekly grocery shop and get the kids away from screens at one of the farmer’s markets.
Punt Road Winery in Yarra Glen hosts the Yarra Valley Farmers Market on the third Sunday of each month from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and is jam-packed with gourmet foods, handcrafted items, fresh produce and plenty of space for kids to roam. You can also check out Yarra Glen Racecourse and St Andrews Market for all this and more.
With nearly 200 stalls selling homemade food and artisan goods, Warrandyte Riverside Market is also worth a visit on the way to the Yarra Valley.
Animals, Art and Education
Healesville Sanctuary has so much happening, you will want to visit more than once. With different interactive exhibits year-round, children can see and learn about various animals and the importance of conservation. Don’t miss the dinosaur exhibit, Dinos at the Zoo, available until the 14th of July and remember to pre-book all tickets via their website if you’re not a member.
With its vintage locomotives and interactive displays, Yarra Valley Railway explores the historic station facilities during its train journey through the scenic Yarra Valley, as does the Puffing Billy Drive and Wave.
If you want to educate and inspire the kids, add the Tarrawarra Museum of Art, the Waterwheel Art Gallery, and the YAVA Gallery and Arts to your activity list.
This list is just the tip of the iceberg for Yarra Valley community school holiday fun. Stay in the loop by subscribing to updates directly from the websites of the locations mentioned above.
Additionally, don’t forget to explore Active Activities, another fantastic resource for discovering even more excitement!