Day 1
Head to the Central Deborah Gold Mine and park the car for a day of fun, history and adventure.
posted on 03 Dec 24 | by
Your Fun-Filled Family Summer Holiday...
Experience the best of summer in Bendigo. Escape the crowds that travel to traditional tourist spots and unwind in heritage-rich Bendigo.
Bendigo, the perfect destination for a summer getaway with the family.
All aboard the Vintage Talking Tram
Hop aboard Bendigo's Vintage Talking Tram for a charming ride through historic streets. Your kids will love the bumpy tracks and city sights, while the audio guide shares fascinating stories of the city's past.
A local favourite: Lake Weeroona
Hop off the vintage tram at the Lake Weeroona, stop and take in the picturesque surroundings. Kids can explore the adventure playground, while the scenic walking trail around the lake offers a refreshing way to boost your step count before the day warms up.
Hungry Tummies: The go-to family friendly spots for growling tummies
Bendigo has plenty of delicious options to satisfy hungry tummies! From leisurely breakfasts to hearty lunches and sweet treats, there’s something for everyone in the family. With a variety of family-friendly cafes and restaurants, you’ll easily find the perfect spot to refuel and unwind. And don’t forget—a refreshing ice cream on a warm summers day is always a crowd-pleaser!
Beat the heat underground at Central Deborah Gold Mine
Cool off with an afternoon adventure at Bendigo's iconic Central Deborah Gold Mine. After a relaxing visit to the lake, catch the Talking Tram to this authentic, working gold mine.
Put on a miner's hard hat and descend 61 metres below ground to experience the daily life of miners during Bendigo's gold rush era. With a constant underground temperature of 14°C, it’s the perfect place to escape the heat while uncovering a fascinating piece of history.
Where to stay: family-friendly accommodation in Bendigo
Bendigo offers a variety of family-friendly stays with amenities like pools, indoor play areas, and spacious grounds.
- Holiday Parks: Perfect for caravans, glamping, or cabins, with plenty of room for kids to play. Explore Holiday Parks and Caravan Parks.
- City Centre Stays: Stay close to Bendigo's attractions with family-friendly options in the heart of the city. Discover city stays.
Day 2
Today is all about keeping the kids entertained, staying cool, and getting wet!
Find the unexpected at the beautiful Botanic Gardens
Head to the Bendigo Botanic Gardens for a morning of family fun, with plenty of scenic spots for photos. Don't miss the Alice in Wonderland-inspired play space and the Secret Garden, where little ones can discover hidden treasures and enjoy imaginative play. Refuel with morning tea at Omari in the Garden for the Future precinct, a perfect spot to relax and recharge.
Get creative at Bendigo Pottery
Get hands-on at Bendigo Pottery, just a short drive from the Botanic Gardens. Explore one of Australia’s oldest potteries and try your hand at pottery-making. Kids can sculpt their own creations in the clay play area or decorate a mug, plate, or bowl. With guidance from skilled potters, it’s a fun and messy way to spark creativity and make lasting memories.
Bookings are essential for school holiday activities in January 2025. Click here
Splash the afternoon away
Following a busy morning of exploration, it's time to cool off and have some water fun with the family. Either sit by the pool at your accommodation or Bendigo has local options aplenty, perfect for staying refreshed during the afternoon heat.
Here are some fantastic places to visit for an afternoon of water-filled fun:
Long Gully Splash Park Find out more
Faith Leech Aquatic Centre Find out more
Gurri Wanyarra Wellbeing Centre Find out more
If you're an adventurous family and happy to travel out of the City, there are lots of natural waterways to discover. Find out more.
Day 3
Explore central Bendigo, soak in history and culture, and have fun while sparking young minds during your adventures.
Iconic Rosalind Park
Rosalind Park provides a cool, leafy retreat and a glimpse into Bendigo's rich history. Capture family memories with photos at the giant Bendigo sign. Climb Camp Hill for stunning city views, enjoy a quick playground break, and let the kids explore under the Elm trees. For added fun, hire an e-scooter to ride the creek trail to your next destination: the fascinating Golden Dragon Museum.
Be impressed by the Imperial Processional Dragons of Bendigo
Chinese history and heritage have shaped Bendigo since the gold rush era. The Golden Dragon Museum immerses visitors in this rich tradition, showcasing the three Imperial Processional Dragons—Loong, Sun Loong, and Dai Gum Loong—and their connection to Bendigo. The museum celebrates Bendigo’s unique 130-year tradition of Easter dragon parades, leaving a lasting impression on visitors young and young at heart.
Spark curiosity at the Discovery Science and Technology Centre
Head indoors for an afternoon of fun and education at the Discovery Science and Technology Centre, perfect for the whole family. Young minds will be captivated by the wacky mirrors, echoing chambers, and the chance to play a tune on the thong-a-phone. For thrill seekers, the Vertical Slide offers an exhilarating experience—a seven-metre drop at speeds of 30-40 km/h!
Still looking for more to do? Summer in the Parks
The ever-popular Summer in the Parks Program features free and low-cost events and activities during the months of December, January and February.
Summer in the Parks is the perfect excuse to have some fun in our great outdoors.
To find out what’s on, click here