big kid adventures
/ Mamma ErinMamma and her kiddos have been adventuring for many many years and the kids are growing. No matter how many bricks Mamma pops on their head, they aren’t slowing down and the are certainly growing up.
This new era inspires some NEW adventures for us, but we also still love some classic old ones that don’t involve junior play centres, playgrounds, or even a kids menu. We are loving more walks, longer adventures, and more fun experiences WITH them rather than just on the sidelines.
And as usual we do the hard work so that YOU don’t have to. So, here is our handy page for all the others heading into the tween/teen era.
Go tie those laces, dig our those wrist guards - there is a NEW roller skating rink in town. Roller One is opening at Burwood One Shopping Centre and it is a … dream.
Everything is awesome! This is definitely worth a visit if there is a LEGO lover in your life; they will feel like they have stepped into their wildest dream at LEGOLand Discovery Centre
Grab your clubs, we are heading to golf … MINI GOLF! Morack Public Golf Club has had an epic refresh and it includes an incredible, state-of-the-art driving range, as well as an 18 hole mini golf course.
You can still find a classic, family friendly - and family run - cinema that has great priced tickets, old school service and ticks all the boxes for a movie day out with the fam. And it is right here in Boronia.
Mamma and the crew HAVE to share their new favourite activity - ROCK CLIMBING! Urban Climb is a stage of the art, indoor rock climbing and bouldering facility in Blackburn that will blow you away.
Wesburn Recreational Reserve has had an upgrade and this pump track is one of Mamma’s favourites.
You and the crew are up for plenty of thrills at Rush HQ. This is an indoor trampoline with plenty of extras - just check out the mascots on the wall - and heaps to do all under the one roof.
Mamma is not sure if is the largest but it sure is the BRIGHTEST indoor playcentre in the EAST! Rainbow Town Play Centre is out of this world - Indoor soft play, ball pits, building brinks, rock climbing wall, trampolines, bumper cars and awesome slides!
We are lucky in the east to have a number of big screen options to choose from, including Lido in Hawthorn. These movie theatres are great because there are heaps of screens meaning there are lots of options. They show some blockbusters AND some real little indy treasures.
What is one sure fire way to both thrill a pack of 9 year olds and give them an amazing run around at the one time - challenge them to a game of bubble soccer! The crew at Eastern Indoor Sports Centre offer Bubble Soccer with private court hire for an hour, with a dedicated umpire/crew member.
This roller skating rink is an institution! For four decades it has been the central location for thousands of skating lessons, millions of fast laps and countless roller discos.
Mamma has never seen a classic cinema so beautiful or so iconically EAST as the Rivoli Cinemas. Located in the heart of Camberwell Junction (you know the spot - with traffic heading in 6 different directions), this stunning multiplex is full of 1940s charm.
The reason why mini golf is a great activity for the family - is because everyone can have a go. But often, the courses are outdoor - which in Melbourne … doesn’t always work … UNLESS … you are all indoors. Enter Holey Moley.
BMX buddies - let’s cheer for the new Coldstream Pump Track. This spot opened late in 2022 and had been a hit with the locals. You can ride or scoot or even skate (oh i’d love to see that) on the purpose built, asphalted track which has bumps and turns and jumps and corners.
If you and your crew love games night - you are going to LOVE the Hijinx Hotel. This BRAND NEW experience at Chadstone is the first Hijinx Hotel in Victoria and it has blown Mamma’s mind. You will be tested by your reaction times, your ability, accuracy and general knowledge. The kids are going to have a ball - literally!
If you’re looking for some awesome family fun - you have found it! Here you can make a full day of adventure. Choose from one or all of the activities on offer. Mini golf, laser tag, go karts, arcades and MORE.
A theme park that is SUPER fun for the whole family. It’s an animal park, has rollercoasters and thrill rides, and Mamma’s favourite place to cool off at the GIANT water park.
Now this is one fancy cinema. The Palace Cinema in Balwyn is a classic old school cinema, complete with all the trimmings
Ever feel like you just want to HURL an axe at a wall sometimes? No me neither, but wow it’s FUN!
This indoor adventure and trampoline centre has got it ALL and the kids will be bouncing all the way back out to the car!
The bowling alley is located within Holey Moley at Eastland and it is super slick. From the funky bowling shoes, to the comfy couches and the high tech scoreboards, this bowling experience is perfect for a whole family day out or a way to escape the Melbourne weather.
BIG KIDS - this place is for YOU. Laser tag, virtual reality, arcade games and pure FUN!
Mamma has stumbled upon the most colourful place in the East. We are talking rainbow explosion! Clip ‘n Climb in Berwick is rock climbing and vertical challenges at it’s highest and most crazy.
It’s a classic style cinema and you and the kids will love it. Cameo Cinemas is a beautiful building located at the entrance to the town. You can’t miss it with the giant mural on the wall.
Emerald Lake is a real GEM - and now you can hire a bike to explore all of its beauty!
It’s official. The train mad kids are going to LOVE you for taking them to Emerald Lake. Puffing Billy Railway have just opened their brand new visitors centre along side the beautiful original Lakeside station.
The fun has never stopped here at The Skate Centre in Lilydale. The classic roller rink has still got the family friendly vibes and Mamma was transported right back into her tweens when we stepped through the door.
Need more ideas? You could try our nature trail list!
Putters UP! If your kids are anything like Mamma’s … they love a game of putt-putt. We are slowly making our way around all the courses in the east and this time, have found a DOUBLE hitter!