Unforgettable Family Escapes: School Holidays at Dorsett Melbourne
School’s almost out! The much-anticipated school holidays are nearly here, and we know your little ones will be clamouring to get out of their uniforms and into as much fun as they can handle.
So, what’s on in Melbourne during the break? In this guide, we take you through the best school holiday activities in Melbourne that kids of all ages will fall in love with – and we think mum and dad will enjoy them, too!
When are the School Holidays 2024 in Melbourne?
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Autumn (Easter break): 29th March – 14th April 2024
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Winter: 29th June – 14th July 2024
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Spring: 21st September – 6th October 2024
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Summer (Christmas): 21st December – 28th January 2025
Dorsett Melbourne: A Family Paradise for Your Next Holiday
Melbourne is jam-packed with events all year-round, but come school holidays, these fabulous activities increase tenfold. From the annual Easter Egg Hunt at Luna Park to mind-bending upside-down houses, there’s no shortage of fun to be had in Melbourne during the school holidays.
But first, if you’re visiting from out of town or interstate (or if you just want to splurge on a staycation), we know you’ll need a comfortable, stylish, and convenient place to stay. Look no further than Dorsett Melbourne, a haven of kid-friendly amenities and the perfect base from which to explore the city.
Plus, it’s a treat for the parents, as well – let’s take a look inside.
Indoor Pool
When it comes to kid-friendly hotels in Melbourne, there’s usually one feature that’s a top priority for little ones. Luckily, our indulgent indoor pool ticks that box.
Let your little ones swim and splash in the heated pool while you recline in a poolside lounge chair. For ultimate relaxation, we invite adults into our sauna and steam room to melt away the stresses of the past school term.
Diva Garden
What’s a Diva Garden, you ask? You’ll just have to visit Dorsett Melbourne to see it for yourself.
This captivating installation features a towering Diva sculpture and surrounding family of totems inside the inner atrium of our hotel. Let your imagination roam free overlooking the colourfully-lit flower art pieces scattered throughout the garden.
This sparkling artistic installation was designed for us by Marta Figueiredo, an Australian-Portuguese architect and multidisciplinary artist based in Melbourne.
Room Service & Buffet Breakfast
Despite the countless family-friendly restaurants and cafés sprinkled throughout Melbourne, we understand the need for a relaxed night in with the kids during your school holiday break. Our in-room dining caters to every palate preference and is available from 3pm–10pm, 7 days a week.
In the morning, wake up to a fresh buffet breakfast (aka, kid foodie heaven) at Port Bistro. Located on level 2, Port Bistro serves up delicious hot and cold options every morning, including brewed-to-perfection Melbourne coffee and made-to-order menu options.
Buffet breakfasts are $39pp for adults (13 years +), $15pp for kids (5-12 years), and free for our littlest guests aged 0-5 years.
Port Bistro Buffet Breakfast hours:
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Monday–Friday 6:30am–10:30am
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Weekends & Public Holidays 7:00am–11:00am
Pet-friendly Rooms
Did you know that Dorsett Melbourne now offers pet-friendly hotel rooms? Bring the entire family, fur kids included, on your school holiday getaway by booking one of our pet packages.
Your dog will be treated to plush bedding, a water bowl, and other useful amenities to make your trip that much easier.
Keep the kids happy and enjoy a full family stay by bringing your dog with you into the heart of Melbourne!
Hot tip: Booking a dog-friendly hotel room? Discover the best dog-friendly spots in Melbourne to visit during the school holidays.
Ready, Set, Play: Step Inside Our Games Room
During your school holiday stay at Dorsett Melbourne, the whole family can enjoy endless entertainment in our vibrant games room, conveniently located on the lobby level next to the lifts. It’s the ultimate holiday value-add for kids – and kids at heart.
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Free to Play: Step into our games room and discover an array of exciting activities that are free for all guests to enjoy! Challenge your skills on our two pinball machines and one tabletop arcade game, perfect for friendly competitions and nostalgic fun.
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Claw Machine Excitement: For a chance to test your luck and grab a prize, try your hand at our claw machine. Tokens to operate the claw machine can be obtained from our friendly reception staff, adding an extra element of excitement to your gaming experience.
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Accessible 24/7: The fun never stops at Dorsett Melbourne's games room! With no doors on the space, you can access it at any time, day or night, ensuring that your family's entertainment needs are met around the clock.
Melbourne School Holiday Events: What’s On?
Now you’re settled into your hotel room, it’s time to get the kids dressed and ready to explore the delights of Melbourne. If you’re wondering what to do during the school holidays in Melbourne, take a look at these top picks courtesy of our concierge.
House Down Under
Where: The District Docklands
When: Until 13th June 2024
Paid Entry
Ever wanted to walk upside down? The awe-inspiring House Down Under is a must-visit school holiday attraction that turns your world on its head – or, at least, provides the photo opportunities to make it seem so.
This enchanting inverted house seems to have descended from the sky, Wizard of Oz style, to land in the heart of the District Docklands. Unleash your creativity, snap whimsical photos, and share laughs with the family as you explore its magic.
Walk on ceilings, dance ‘upside down’, and explore the surreal wonders of an inverted world – from bedrooms to bathrooms, it's a unique adventure limited only by your imagination.
Saboteurs
Where: The District Docklands
When: Until 18th March 2024
Paid Entry
While it’s not technically during the school holidays, we had to include Saboteurs on our list of must-do Melbourne activities for kids. If you’re a Melbourne local, this live action game is the ultimate treat for everyone who loved the cult online game ‘Among Us’.
The immersive space-themed game spans 500sqm within twelve converted shipping containers. Navigate a ‘Moon base’ as you complete classic Among Us-style tasks such as decontamination, shields, O2, medbay, fixing wiring, uploading and downloading data, exploring sleep pods, communications, electrical systems, habitat, and more.
Experience the thrill of the game – vote, eject, survive – and immerse yourself in an adventure that goes beyond the digital realm.
O’Brien Icehouse: Skate & Watch
Where: The District Docklands
When: Year-Round
Paid Entry
Embrace the chill of the winter school holidays or escape the heat when summer rolls around by visiting the iconic O’Brien Icehouse in the District Docklands. Just a 10-minute drive or 15-minute bus and walk from Dorsett Melbourne, this is one of the most sought-after family-friendly attractions in the city.
Go ice skating with the kids in an expansive rink while music and multi-coloured lights turn things into a disco. For keen skaters, you can book lessons and games for figure skating, curling, ice hockey, and more.
If your kids are big ice hockey fans, you might even be lucky enough to catch an Australian Ice Hockey League (AIHL) game while you’re visiting. Take a seat in the 1000-capacity grandstand and cheer on as teams from major Australian cities battle it out on the ice.
Book Tickets or Check the AIHL Match Dates
Luna Park: The Great Easter Egg Hunt
Credit: Luna Park
Where: Luna Park, St Kilda
When: 30th–31st March 2024
Paid Entry
With the Easter holidays fast approaching, it’s only fitting that we include the ultimate chocolate-lover’s event in this guide. Embark on the Great Easter Egg Hunt at Luna Park in St Kilda with 30,000 premium Chocolatier Easter Eggs in organised Egg Hunts by age group.
Join the Mad Hatter's countdown for a frenzy of egg gathering, plus enjoy the Easter Bunny, acrobat bunnies, face painting, and thrilling rides beneath autumn skies.
Plus, for the first time ever, your kids can try to discover the exclusive Golden Easter Egg for a chance to win a giant 600g Golden Egg, a luxurious Easter Hamper, and an Annual Pass to Luna Park.
Shrine of Remembrance: Last Post Services
Where: The Shrine of Remembrance, Birdwood Ave, Melbourne
When: Until 30th June 2024
Free Entry
Experience the moving Last Post Service at the stunning Shrine of Remembrance, a Melbourne city landmark steeped in history and long-told stories.
Now held weekly at the Second World War Memorial Forecourt, the Last Post Services are poignant commemorations of various moments in Australia's military history from WWI to the present day.
This family-friendly ceremony (not too long for the little ones, but enough to make it memorable experience) features bugle calls, bagpipers, the Shrine Guard in historic uniform, a wreath-laying, the recital of the Ode, and the lowering of the flags.
World of the Book
Where: State Library Victoria
When: Until 12th May 2024
Free Entry
Ignite a love for literature and exploration with your family at State Library Victoria's World of the Book exhibit, a perfect school holiday activity in the heart of Melbourne.
Older kids (and adults) will delight in rare treasures like the first illustrated edition of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein and royal bindings of Lewis Carroll's Through the Looking-Glass.
Engage the whole family with Howard Carter's thrilling account of Tutankhamen's tomb, shadowgraphy books, medieval manuscripts, and enchanting Moomin displays.
The magical world of books awaits at the State Library Victoria these school holidays, and we're sure it will transform your childrens' appreciation for books, libraries, and storytelling altogether.
More Family-friendly Events at the SLV
Stay at Dorsett Melbourne: Your Perfect Base
Create cherished memories during these school holidays by exploring beautiful Melbourne and all the events on offer. Whether you’re here for a weekend, a few days, or longer, we’re sure you’ll enjoy these must-do school holiday activities.
Secure your room in one of the best kid-friendly hotels in Melbourne by booking with Dorsett Melbourne. While you’re with us, be sure to ask our friendly staff and concierge about what’s nearby, including family-friendly restaurants and iconic Melbourne attractions.
Book your stay and get ready to treat the family to a well-deserved school holiday break!