Top Things to Do in Bendigo with Kids
Bendigo is one of Victoria's most fascinating regional cities, with a wonderful combination of gold-rush history, interactive museums, beautiful parks, imaginative playgrounds and family entertainment.
The discovery of gold in 1851 transformed Bendigo into one of Australia's wealthiest gold-mining cities. People arrived from around the world, including a large Chinese community whose cultural legacy remains an important part of Bendigo's identity.
Today, families can descend into an authentic underground gold mine, ride a vintage tram, discover giant Chinese dragons, explore hands-on science exhibits and enjoy some of regional Victoria's most impressive playgrounds.
This guide covers the city of Bendigo and its urban suburbs, including Eaglehawk, Epsom, White Hills, Strathdale, Golden Square, Long Gully and Kangaroo Flat. It focuses on attractions within the urban area rather than the wider City of Greater Bendigo municipality.
Getting to Bendigo
Bendigo is approximately 150km north-west of Melbourne, with a driving time of around two hours via the Calder Freeway, depending on traffic.
Bendigo is also accessible by V/Line train from Melbourne's Southern Cross Station, with direct services taking approximately 90 minutes or longer depending on the service.
The railway station is within walking distance of the city centre, making Bendigo a convenient destination for a car-free day trip.
Getting Around Bendigo
Many central Bendigo attractions can be explored on foot, particularly those around Pall Mall, View Street, Rosalind Park and Hargreaves Mall.
The historic Bendigo Talking Tram is both a sightseeing attraction and a convenient way to visit selected historic locations along its route.
Local buses provide connections to surrounding suburbs.
For maps, visitor information and assistance planning your stay, visit the Bendigo Visitor Information Centre at 51-67 Pall Mall, Bendigo.
Jump to a Section
- Top Family Attractions
- Gold-Rush History and Heritage
- Best Playgrounds
- Parks, Gardens and Nature
- Indoor Entertainment and Activities
- Swimming Pools and Water Play
- Skateparks, BMX and Recreation
- Art, Culture and Street Art
- Family Events
Top Family Attractions
Discovery Science & Technology Centre
7 Railway Place, Bendigo
Located opposite Bendigo Railway Station, the Discovery Science & Technology Centre is one of the city's best attractions for families.
There are more than 100 hands-on science exhibits encouraging visitors to experiment, investigate and discover how things work.
Children can explore interactive displays involving forces, movement, light, sound and other scientific concepts.
Highlights include the famous Vertical Slide and the Bendigo Planetarium, with special programs and activities available at selected times.
Younger children can enjoy a dedicated play-based learning area.
This is an excellent option for a rainy day or when children need a break from outdoor activities.
Cost: Admission charges apply. Some special programs and experiences may have additional costs.
Central Deborah Gold Mine
76 Violet Street, Bendigo
Explore the underground tunnels of a real gold mine and discover what life was like for miners working beneath Bendigo.
Central Deborah Gold Mine operated from 1939 to 1954 and is now one of Bendigo's most memorable historical attractions.
On the underground Mine Experience Tour, visitors put on safety equipment and descend approximately 61 metres beneath the surface.
Guides explain the mining process, demonstrate equipment and share stories about the working conditions experienced by miners.
Above ground, visitors can explore the historic mine site and its equipment.
The underground tour is particularly appealing to school-age children interested in adventure, machinery and history. Check the minimum age and accessibility requirements before booking.
Cost: Admission charges apply for tours.
Bendigo Tramways - Vintage Talking Tram
1 Tramways Avenue, Bendigo
A journey aboard Bendigo's historic trams is a wonderful way to experience the city.
The Vintage Talking Tram Tour combines a ride in a heritage tram with commentary about Bendigo's gold-rush history, important buildings and cultural attractions.
The tram travels between Central Deborah Gold Mine and the Bendigo Joss House Temple, passing through the historic city centre and stopping near Lake Weeroona.
Children will enjoy the novelty of riding an old-fashioned tram, while adults can learn more about Bendigo's development.
The tour can be combined with visits to other attractions along the route.
Cost: Tickets required.
Golden Dragon Museum
1-11 Bridge Street, Bendigo
Discover the remarkable history and culture of Bendigo's Chinese community at the Golden Dragon Museum.
Chinese miners and merchants played an important role in Bendigo's development during the gold rush, and the museum preserves this fascinating heritage.
A highlight is the collection of magnificent imperial processional dragons, including Loong, Sun Loong and Dai Gum Loong.
The enormous dragons, colourful costumes, ceremonial objects and intricate decorations make this an especially interesting experience for children.
The museum precinct also includes the beautiful Yi Yuan Gardens and a temple dedicated to Guan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy.
Cost: Museum admission charges apply.
Bendigo Pottery
146 Midland Highway, Epsom
Bendigo Pottery is one of Australia's most historic working potteries, with a history dating back to 1858.
Families can discover traditional pottery-making techniques and participate in hands-on creative activities.
Depending on availability, activities may include pottery painting, clay play and experiences using a potter's wheel.
There are also pottery displays, shops and other attractions around the historic site.
Important: The Interpretive Museum is currently closed following flooding. Other pottery experiences remain available.
Cost: Charges apply for selected hands-on activities. Book ahead where required.
Gold-Rush History and Heritage
Dai Gum San Chinese Precinct
1-11 Bridge Street, Bendigo
The Dai Gum San precinct celebrates the important contribution of Chinese people to Bendigo's history and culture.
The precinct connects the Golden Dragon Museum with the Yi Yuan Gardens and Guan Yin Temple.
It is particularly interesting for families because of its ornate Chinese architecture, colourful decorations and beautiful gardens.
Combine a visit with the Golden Dragon Museum for a deeper understanding of Bendigo's Chinese heritage.
Bendigo Joss House Temple
3A Finn Street, Bendigo North
The historic Bendigo Joss House Temple provides another fascinating insight into Chinese life on the Bendigo goldfields.
The temple dates from the nineteenth century and preserves important Chinese religious and cultural traditions.
Its colourful decoration, traditional architecture and historical displays make it an interesting destination for families learning about Bendigo's multicultural heritage.
It is also located near the northern end of the Bendigo Talking Tram route.
Bendigo Military Museum
37-39 Pall Mall, Bendigo
Located within the historic Soldiers Memorial Institute, the Bendigo Military Museum explores the experiences of Australians during wartime.
The museum contains military uniforms, medals, photographs, personal stories and historical objects.
Older children interested in Australian history may find the collection particularly engaging.
Sandhurst Gaol Tour
10 Gaol Road, Bendigo
Discover the fascinating history of Bendigo's former Sandhurst Gaol.
The historic gaol has been incorporated into the Ulumbarra Theatre and cultural precinct, retaining features from its original use.
Guided tours explore the building's history and the stories of people who once lived and worked behind its walls.
This experience is better suited to older children interested in history.
Tour availability varies, so check current schedules before visiting.
Bendigo Historic Post Office Tour
51-67 Pall Mall, BendigoBendigo's magnificent historic Post Office is one of the city's most impressive gold-rush-era buildings.
Constructed during the nineteenth century, the building reflects the wealth and importance of Bendigo during the gold-mining boom.
Families can admire the elaborate architecture and learn about the history of communication and civic life in Bendigo.
Guided tour availability should be checked in advance.
Bendigo Town Hall Tour
189-193 Hargreaves Street, Bendigo
Bendigo Town Hall is another magnificent example of the city's gold-rush-era architecture.
Its richly decorated interiors, grand rooms and historical features provide a glimpse of Bendigo's prosperous past.
Guided tours may be offered at selected times.
The Town Hall is also hosting exhibitions presented by Bendigo Art Gallery while its permanent building is being redeveloped.
Bendigo City Tour Podcast
Starting at 51-67 Pall Mall, BendigoExplore Bendigo's magnificent Victorian buildings and colourful history on a self-guided city walk.
The approximately 2km route is a good way for families to discover important historical landmarks while enjoying the city's architecture.
Allow extra time to stop at interesting buildings, sculptures and attractions along the way.
Best Playgrounds in Bendigo
Bendigo has some excellent playgrounds, ranging from imaginative themed playspaces to large adventure playgrounds suitable for children of different ages.
Eaglehawk Mulga Bill Playspace
9 Napier Street, Eaglehawk
This outstanding regional playspace is located beside beautiful Lake Neangar.
Its spectacular design resembles a giant eaglehawk and incorporates themes inspired by Banjo Paterson's famous poem "Mulga Bill's Bicycle".
There are separate play areas for younger and older children, including nature play, climbing opportunities and adventurous equipment.
The playground also includes an area for toddlers and imaginative features celebrating local stories.
Combine a visit with a walk around Lake Neangar or a picnic beside the water.
Lake Weeroona Adventure Playspace
298 Napier Street, Bendigo
One of Bendigo's most popular playgrounds is located beside the picturesque Lake Weeroona.
The fully fenced playspace features a large wooden adventure structure with ramps, climbing opportunities, tunnels, slides and swings.
There is also a dedicated toddler play area and water play.
The surrounding park has picnic facilities, toilets, walking paths and beautiful lake views.
A walk around Lake Weeroona makes an excellent addition to the playground visit.
Bendigo Botanic Gardens Playground
Scott Street, White Hills
This delightful playground has an Alice in Wonderland theme and is set within the beautiful Bendigo Botanic Gardens.
Children can explore imaginative play structures, slides, trampolines, climbing equipment and natural play features.
A croquet-inspired play area, giant chairs, toadstool seating and other whimsical details add to the storybook atmosphere.
The surrounding gardens provide plenty of opportunities for exploration, with lawns, interesting plants and picnic facilities.
Fun Loong Playspace
Hargreaves Mall, Hargreaves Street, Bendigo
One of Bendigo's most distinctive playgrounds is Fun Loong, a colourful dragon-themed playspace in the heart of the shopping precinct.
Inspired by Bendigo's famous Chinese dragons, the giant dragon provides an imaginative climbing and sliding experience for younger children.
Children can climb towards the dragon's head, explore its colourful features and slide down its red tongue.
The playspace is a convenient stop while shopping or exploring central Bendigo.
Strathdale Park Playground
148 Crook Street, Strathdale
Strathdale Park has a large adventure playground with a wide range of equipment for different ages and abilities.
Features include climbing structures, slides, rope bridges, climbing nets, swings, a flying fox and imaginative play areas.
The playground also includes accessible play features and equipment designed for children with different abilities.
Nearby facilities include picnic tables, BBQs, toilets and large grassed areas.
Parks, Gardens and Nature
Rosalind Park
30 Gaol Road, Bendigo
Rosalind Park is Bendigo's premier historic park and one of the best places for a family stroll.
The park features magnificent trees, extensive lawns, ornamental gardens, historic sculptures and beautiful architecture.
Families can explore the pathways, visit the conservatory area and see the historic Poppet Head structure.
The park also has a children's playground, although public access is limited outside school hours.
Important: The upper levels of the Poppet Head lookout remain closed for structural repairs. Level 1 reopened in November 2024.
Bendigo Botanic Gardens
Napier Street, White Hills.jpg)
Established in the nineteenth century, Bendigo Botanic Gardens provide a lovely setting for a relaxed family outing.
The gardens feature interesting plant collections, mature trees, lawns, landscaped areas and historical features.
Families can explore the paths and combine a garden visit with the excellent Alice in Wonderland-themed playground.
Picnic facilities make this a pleasant location for spending several hours.
Lake Weeroona
Napier Street, Bendigo
Lake Weeroona is a lovely place for a family walk or picnic.
The approximately 1.7km path around the lake provides pleasant views of the water, birdlife and surrounding parkland.
Children can enjoy watching ducks and other waterbirds, while the nearby adventure playground offers plenty of opportunities for active play.
This is an excellent destination for families wanting to combine a gentle walk with a playground visit.
O'Keefe Rail Trail
Bendigo trailhead, BendigoThe O'Keefe Rail Trail begins in Bendigo and follows a former railway corridor into the surrounding countryside.
Families can enjoy shorter sections of the trail on foot or by bicycle without completing the entire route.
It provides an enjoyable opportunity for outdoor recreation and exploring the region's railway heritage.
The full trail extends well beyond urban Bendigo, so this guide focuses on the sections accessible from the city.
Indoor Entertainment and Activities
The Zone Family Entertainment Complex
1 Gildea Lane, Bendigo
The Zone is one of Bendigo's major family entertainment destinations, offering several activities at one location.
Activities include roller skating, laser tag, go-karting, dodgem cars, mini golf and arcade games.
Different activities cater for different ages, making The Zone a useful option for families with older children and teenagers.
Check minimum ages, height restrictions and session times before visiting.
Cost: Charges vary by activity and package.
Bendigo Cinemas
107 Queen Street, BendigoBendigo Cinemas is a convenient indoor entertainment option, particularly during wet weather or hot summer afternoons.
The cinema screens current movie releases, including family films and children's movies.
Check the program for family-friendly sessions, special screenings and school holiday releases.
Cost: Ticket prices vary by screening and session.
Bendigo Bowling Centre
159 Hargreaves Street, Bendigo
Tenpin bowling is a fun activity for families with children of different ages.
Bendigo Bowling Centre has 16 bowling lanes with automatic scoring, together with other indoor entertainment facilities.
Bowling can be a particularly good option for rainy days, birthdays or family groups.
Cost: Charges apply.
Jumpz Trampoline Park
293-303 High Street, Kangaroo Flat
Jumpz provides an indoor trampoline experience for energetic children and teenagers.
The centre features interconnected trampolines and a range of jumping activities.
It is a useful option when the weather is unsuitable for outdoor play.
Check current session arrangements, age restrictions and supervision requirements before visiting.
Cost: Admission charges apply.
Swimming Pools and Water Play
Bendigo has several swimming pools and water play facilities, including year-round aquatic centres and seasonal outdoor pools.
Long Gully Splash Park
21 Cunneen Street, Long Gully
This fantastic free splash park is one of Bendigo's best summer activities for families with younger children.
The gold-rush-themed water play area includes sprays, fountains, tipping buckets and other interactive features.
Children can activate the water equipment and enjoy a variety of water sequences.
There is also a dry playground, shaded seating, picnic facilities, BBQs and toilets.
Cost: Free.
Opening: Seasonal, generally from late September to late March, subject to weather conditions.
Faith Leech Aquatic Centre (Bendigo Aquatic Centre)
161-167 Barnard Street, Bendigo
Faith Leech Aquatic Centre is Bendigo's major outdoor heated swimming facility and operates throughout the year.
During the warmer months, facilities include a 50m heated pool, intermediate pool, toddler pool, diving pool and a waterslide that operates at selected times.
The centre also provides family facilities and opportunities for swimming lessons.
During winter, the heated 50m pool remains available while other outdoor pools are generally closed.
Cost: Admission charges apply.
Peter Krenz Leisure Centre
16 Napier Street, Eaglehawk
Peter Krenz Leisure Centre provides indoor aquatic facilities for families throughout the year.
Facilities include a heated swimming pool, multi-purpose pool and areas suitable for younger swimmers.
It is an excellent option for families seeking an indoor swim regardless of the weather.
Cost: Admission charges apply.
Golden Square Community Pool
14A Maple Street, Golden SquareThis community swimming pool provides a pleasant setting for family swimming during the warmer months.
Facilities include a 50m pool, learners' pool and toddlers' pool.
The pool is particularly popular with local families.
Opening: Seasonal.
Bendigo East Swimming Pool
31 Lansell Street, East Bendigo
Bendigo East Swimming Pool is a seasonal outdoor swimming facility with a 50m pool and additional pools available during the summer season.
The centre is suitable for family swimming and recreational activities.
Important: The pool is no longer open throughout winter. Operating arrangements have changed, and the exact reopening date for the 2026/27 summer season has not yet been confirmed.
Brennan Park Swimming Pool
Houlahan Street, KenningtonBrennan Park Swimming Pool is a seasonal outdoor swimming facility with a 50m pool and smaller pools for younger swimmers.
The surrounding facilities make it a pleasant option for families during summer.
Opening: Seasonal.
Skateparks, BMX and Recreation
Eaglehawk Skatepark
20 Simpsons Road, Eaglehawk
Eaglehawk Skatepark is a popular skating destination with equipment suited to different abilities.
The skatepark features a street-style course together with a bowl.
Obstacles include quarter pipes, rails, ledges, banks, a spine and other features for skating, scootering and BMX riding.
Eaglehawk BMX Racing Track
146 Victoria Street, Eaglehawk
This purpose-built BMX racing track features a series of jumps, banked turns and a hard riding surface.
The track is associated with the Bendigo BMX Club and is designed for BMX racing.
Check club activities and public access arrangements before visiting.
Quarry Hill Disc Golf Course
47-85 Houston Street, Quarry HillDisc golf is a fun outdoor activity combining elements of golf and frisbee.
Players throw a flying disc towards a series of targets, attempting to complete each hole in as few throws as possible.
The Quarry Hill course provides an enjoyable opportunity for families with older children to try a different recreational activity.
Bring your own discs and check course conditions before visiting.
Art, Culture and Street Art
Bendigo Art Gallery
42-48 View Street, Bendigo - temporarily closed
Bendigo Art Gallery is one of Australia's most respected regional art galleries, with a significant collection of historical and contemporary Australian and international art.
Important: The View Street gallery building is closed for a major redevelopment and is scheduled to reopen in 2028.
During construction, the gallery continues to present exhibitions, installations and activities at other venues around Bendigo.
These include programs at Bendigo Town Hall and selected activities at other cultural institutions.
Check the current exhibition program before planning your visit.
Bendigo Street Art
Pennyweight Walk and other locations, Bendigo
Bendigo has an interesting collection of murals, contemporary street art and public artworks scattered around the city.
Exploring the artworks can be a fun activity for families, particularly when combined with a walk through the city centre.
Children may enjoy searching for colourful murals, unusual designs and artistic details.
La Trobe University Visual Arts Centre
121 View Street, Bendigo
Bendigo has a strong arts and cultural scene, including exhibitions and creative programs associated with La Trobe University.
Check the current exhibition and event program for opportunities suitable for families and older children.
Family Events
Bendigo Easter Festival
Rosalind Park and surrounding streets, BendigoBendigo is famous for its spectacular Easter celebrations, one of Australia's longest-running community festivals.
The city comes alive with colourful parades, entertainment, family activities and celebrations of its rich cultural heritage.
A major highlight is the appearance of Bendigo's magnificent Chinese dragons.
Other attractions may include performances, markets, family entertainment and special festival activities.
The 2027 Bendigo Easter Festival is scheduled for 26-28 March.
Check the official festival program for confirmed activities and event times.
Bendigo Local Markets
Various locations, Bendigo
Bendigo hosts a variety of markets featuring local produce, handmade products, crafts and food.
Some markets include entertainment and activities suitable for families.
Market locations and schedules vary, so check the current program before visiting.
Planning Your Bendigo Family Visit
There is enough to keep families entertained in Bendigo for several days.
For a one-day visit, consider combining two or three major attractions with a playground or park.
History and adventure: Central Deborah Gold Mine, Bendigo Talking Tram and Golden Dragon Museum.
Science and discovery: Discovery Science & Technology Centre followed by Lake Weeroona Adventure Playspace.
Free family fun: Rosalind Park, Fun Loong Playspace, Bendigo Botanic Gardens and Lake Weeroona.
Summer activities: Long Gully Splash Park, a seasonal swimming pool and one of Bendigo's excellent playgrounds.
For energetic older kids: The Zone, Eaglehawk Skatepark, BMX activities or the Quarry Hill Disc Golf Course.
For more ideas and information about local attractions, visit the Bendigo Visitor Information Centre.
Whether your children love history, science, playgrounds, swimming or outdoor adventure, Bendigo offers a wonderful variety of family activities within an easy drive of Melbourne.
