16 fun Easter activities in Melbourne (that we’ve actually done)

Easter is one of our favourite times of year crisp mornings, long weekends, and a perfect excuse to spend time together as a family. But if you’re anything like us, you’ve probably done your fair share of chocolate-fuelled egg hunts and are always on the lookout for fresh, fun Easter activities in Melbourne that actually stick. That’s why we’ve pulled together this list of tried-and-tested Easter ideas we’ve personally done and loved.

These aren’t one-off gimmicks. Every single experience below is something that runs every year in Melbourne or Victoria. Some are huge public events. Others are simple homegrown traditions we’ve repeated enough times to know they work. Whether you’re planning Easter activities for kids, older kids, adults or the whole crew, there’s something here for you.

Family-friendly must-dos for a classic Easter in Melbourne

When the Easter school holidays roll around, we always find ourselves coming back to a few favourite traditions. These are the kinds of family activities that bring real joy to both the little ones and the grown-ups. Some are big public events, others are simple ways to celebrate Easter in Melbourne that just work — every single year. What they all have in common is that they offer something for everyone, whether you're after adventure, craft, chocolate eggs or a moment to slow down and connect with loved ones.

If you're planning things to do in Melbourne over the Easter break, start with these classics. They're festive, family-friendly, and full of that Easter magic we all remember from childhood.

1. Hunt for eggs at the Melbourne Easter Show

This one’s a bit of a madhouse — and that’s exactly why we love it. We started going when our eldest was four and still clutching a plush bunny. Now it’s become one of those chaotic, colourful traditions that feels like the unofficial start of the Easter school holidays. There’s something for every age — ours gravitate toward the rides now, but when they were younger it was all about the animals and that magical moment they spotted the Easter Bunny handing out chocolate eggs.

A few tips from experience: bring gumboots if there’s even a hint of rain, budget for the showbags (you’ll cave eventually), and aim for an early time slot so the littlest ones don’t burn out before the egg hunt. And if you’ve got older kids, let them split off for a bit — just agree on a meet-up point. We’ve lost each other in the crowd more than once and lived to laugh about it.

2. Hop aboard the Easter Bunny Express at Puffing Billy

We booked this on a whim one Easter Sunday and honestly? It ended up being one of the most joyful mornings we’ve had. There’s something about that mix of old-school steam train and Easter cheer that works — the squeal of the whistle, the breeze through the open carriage, kids waving wildly at strangers along the way. Our youngest still talks about the moment the Easter Bunny popped up with a basket of chocolate eggs and a big wave.

It’s the kind of outing that keeps everyone happy — parents get the nostalgia and stunning views of the Dandenongs, while kids are buzzing from the themed games and chocolate. It’s not cheap, but it feels like a proper celebration. Just book early — the whole thing sells out faster than you can say hot cross buns.

3. Spend the day at the Royal Botanic Gardens

This is our Easter slow-down spot. Every year, we pack a blanket, load up the esky with snacks, and head straight for the gardens. Some years we go big — setting up a full family feast with gourmet cheeses and a thermos of coffee. Other years it’s just us and some hot cross buns from the local café. Either way, there’s something grounding about being surrounded by trees while the kids chase each other with chocolate-sticky fingers.

We’ve learned to bring a few extras: a football, a simple Easter-themed craft (painting rocks or making bunny masks works wonders), and some pre-hidden eggs to surprise them mid-run. It’s low-fuss, easy to adapt for any age, and by the time we head home, everyone’s happily sun-warmed and worn out. No booking, no lines — just a perfect reset during the Easter break.

4. Visit the zoo for animal encounters and egg trails

Our first Easter zoo trip happened because everything else was booked — and now it’s a core part of our annual rhythm. Zoos Victoria really goes all out for the Easter holidays. Last year, Melbourne Zoo had a giant bunny sculpture made entirely of recycled plastic and a surprise ‘chocolate egg trail’ that had our kids sprinting between enclosures. Werribee’s safari truck was another highlight — our eldest swears a giraffe winked at them.

It’s not just about the eggs. There’s real entertainment in the live shows and themed talks, and we always end up learning something new. Tip: bring your own treats and turn it into a mini scavenger hunt between the enclosures. And if you can swing it, get there early — the parking disappears faster than free chocolate.

5. Book a go-karting session at Ace Karts

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When our kids started rolling their eyes at Easter egg hunts, we knew we had to find something more thrilling. Enter Ace Karts. The first time we booked a session was on Good Friday — half the city was quiet, and we had the track mostly to ourselves. It was pure joy. The older kids got competitive in their own go karts, the little ones laughed the whole way through their tandem ride, and we got to pretend we were F1 drivers for 10 glorious laps.

It’s become our go-to Easter activity for burning energy and sharing a proper adrenaline hit as a family. The vibe is always upbeat, the staff keep things running smoothly even over the public holidays, and the go kart track runs rain or shine. For families with mixed ages or just a need for speed, this one ticks every box — especially if you’re using one of Ace Karts’ current offers or a handy gift card — and feels way more memorable than another chocolate bunny.

Easter activities for older kids that still feel cool

There’s a bit of an awkward age when your kids think they’re too old for bunny ears but still secretly want to be part of the fun. We know it well — we’ve got teens and tweens of our own. The trick is finding Easter activities that still feel exciting, maybe even a little bit cool, without leaning too hard into “kids day” territory.

These are the activities we’ve found work year after year with older kids. They offer a bit more independence, a bit less fluff, and just enough challenge, entertainment or novelty to keep everyone happy — and they pair perfectly with flexible go karting race options that older kids love.

6. Go to Luna Park’s Easter carnival

It’s loud, it’s busy, it’s totally over-the-top — and it’s exactly what older kids seem to love. We’ve spent many an Easter Sunday weaving through the crowds at Luna Park while our kids launched themselves onto the Pharaoh’s Curse or lined up for the dodgems with chocolate-stained fingers. There’s something about the mix of thrill rides, fairy floss, and Melbourne’s unpredictable autumn sun that just works.

The Easter version of Luna Park is packed with themed giveaways, costumed characters, and a festive energy that turns it into a bit of a tradition. Bonus: it’s right in the heart of St Kilda, so it’s easy to follow up with a café stop or walk along the beach when everyone needs to wind down.

7. Head to an escape room or virtual reality centre

When our eldest hit the “I’m too old for egg hunts” phase, escape rooms became our secret weapon. It’s one of those rare activities in Melbourne that actually gets teens off their screens and thinking. We’ve tried everything from spooky-themed rooms to bank heists and time travel scenarios — they always come out talking a mile a minute about the puzzles they cracked (or didn’t).

If your kids are more into tech, we’ve also had great success at VR centres during the Easter break. The full-body movement games get them laughing, competing, and forgetting they’re technically spending the holidays with their parents. Just be sure to book ahead — these places fill up quickly during the public holidays.

8. Try a chocolate-making workshop or Easter baking class

We weren’t sure how this one would land with our older two, but it turns out the combination of sugar, fire, and artistic licence is pretty irresistible. We’ve done chocolate truffle classes, cookie decorating, and even one very messy day of hot cross bun making — they were lopsided but delicious.

Many cooking schools around Melbourne run short Easter-themed sessions during the holidays that are tailored for teens. It’s creative, hands-on, and ends with dessert — what’s not to love? Plus, they walk away with a new skill and something to show off to their friends (and you get a break from meal prep).

9. Get creative with an outdoor photo challenge

This one started as a way to avoid another “I’m bored” moment and has now become a bit of a ritual. We give each of our kids a phone or camera, a list of themed prompts (pastels, eggs, reflections, café scenes, etc.), and a time limit — then let them loose on a photo scavenger hunt around the neighbourhood or CBD.

They love the independence and creative freedom, and we love seeing the city through their eyes. It’s also surprisingly great for mixed-age groups or friends — they team up, compete, and come home with photos we actually want to print. Perfect for a sunny Easter afternoon that doesn’t involve another attraction or line.

Easter activities for adults (yes, we need fun too)

Let’s be honest — after a morning of sticky fingers, bunny footprints and sugar highs, sometimes the grown-ups need a break too. Whether you’re planning a day out with friends, a low-key date idea, or just want to reclaim a little time during the Easter holidays, there are also great go karting parties and events that let you turn your karting session into a full experience — and these are the adult-friendly Easter activities we’ve actually enjoyed.

Some are relaxed, others a little indulgent — but all are recurring Melbourne favourites we look forward to when Easter rolls around.

10. Hit a chocolate-themed high tea or tasting event

Chocolate doesn’t have to stop at the kids’ egg stash. One of our favourite ways to treat ourselves over the Easter long weekend is with a grown-up chocolate experience. We’ve done the high tea at the Langham (three tiers of joy), the Koko Black tasting flight (rich, decadent and perfect with coffee), and even a wine and chocolate pairing at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie.

These experiences are the perfect mix of indulgence and atmosphere — elegant, festive, and always delicious. They’re great to book for Easter Saturday or Monday when the crowds ease off. Just don’t eat lunch beforehand. You’ll regret it.

11. Do the annual Easter Market circuit

Melbourne’s markets always bring their A-game over Easter. We love wandering the Queen Vic Market or heading down to the St Kilda Esplanade for Easter-themed crafts, live music, and that unmistakable festive buzz. The Camberwell Sunday Market is another favourite — it leans vintage, but you’ll always find seasonal gems and treats.

It’s a great way to soak up the vibe of Easter in Melbourne without having to plan too hard. Grab a coffee, browse the stalls, and take home something handmade (or a cheeky second-hand find). If you're lucky, you'll stumble across a pop-up bar or free entertainment too.

12. Book a rooftop brunch or bottomless lunch

When the weather’s kind, there’s nothing better than heading to one of Melbourne’s rooftop bars or cafes for a long, leisurely brunch. Over the years, we’ve booked into Easter-themed bottomless sessions at places like Fargo & Co and The Smith, where the hot cross buns come toasted and the Prosecco flows freely.

It’s the perfect mix of celebration and relaxation — a way to reconnect with friends or just enjoy the long weekend as adults. If you want to lock in something festive without the face paint and fairy bread, this one’s hard to beat. Just book ahead — these fill up fast during the Easter break.

13. See a show or comedy night

One of the best Easter ideas in Melbourne for adults? Book a night out at the theatre or catch a stand-up show for a guaranteed mood boost. Over the years we’ve seen everything from a feel-good musical at the Princess Theatre to a full night of laughter at The Comic’s Lounge — and it’s always a winner when you want to do something a little different over the four-day weekend.

Many of Melbourne's venues schedule Easter events or specials during the break, and it’s a great excuse to explore a hidden laneway café or restaurant beforehand. Whether you’re a comedy fan or a theatre lover, it’s the perfect blend of entertainment and festive atmosphere — no kids’ activities required.

Easy wins at home and in the neighbourhood

Not every Easter activity needs a ticket or a big day out. Some of our most memorable moments have happened right at home, with nothing more than a bit of imagination, a few chocolate eggs, and a handful of friends or neighbours. These low-key ideas are the ones we turn to when we want to stay close to home, keep things flexible, or just make the most of a quieter moment during the Easter holidays.

Whether you’re entertaining little ones, older kids, or a mix of both, these ideas offer simple, stress-free fun — and all of them are tested and loved by our own family.

14. Host a backyard or park egg hunt with friends

This one’s an Easter classic for a reason — and the best part is, you can make it as big or small as you like. Over the years we’ve done everything from a last-minute backyard dash with a handful of chocolate eggs to a full-blown group event at the local park with 20 kids, picnic rugs and a spreadsheet to track who’s bringing what.

We usually mix in some challenges to keep older kids engaged: clues, colour-coded eggs, or a “golden egg” with a bigger prize. It’s low pressure, super festive, and a great excuse to catch up with other families during the Easter break without having to fight for parking or queue for an attraction.

15. Visit your local library or community centre

Every year we find a surprising gem in our neighbourhood. Whether it’s a free Easter-themed storytime session at the library, a drop-in craft workshop, or a kids day with face painting and entertainment at the community centre, these little local offerings often end up being some of our kids’ favourite memories.

They’re perfect for quieter days when you still want to do something but don’t have the energy for a big outing. Just check your local council’s website or community Facebook group — you’ll usually find a few events that don’t cost a cent and still feel like a celebration.

16. Plan a rainy day movie + DIY craft combo

There’s always one wet day over the Easter break — and this is our go-to plan when it hits. We set up a blanket fort, pick a movie with a bit of Easter flair (Peter Rabbit is a repeat winner), and line up a few simple craft activities to break up the screen time. Think painting eggs, decorating cardboard bunny ears, or cutting out egg shapes for a window display.

It keeps the kids busy, gives the day a bit of rhythm, and makes even a grey afternoon feel like a win. Bonus tip: stock up on chocolate eggs early. Somehow, they disappear faster when you’re stuck indoors.

Let’s make this Easter one to remember

Whether you're planning your first egg hunt or looking for something a bit more grown-up, these are the Easter activities that have worked for our family — year after year. They’ve helped us avoid the crowds, fill the long weekend with fun, and actually enjoy the Easter holidays (without needing a second break afterwards).

So whether you're racing around a track, chilling out at the gardens, or grabbing a coffee after the market, we hope this guide helps you celebrate Easter in a way that fits your family. And if you're after something different — something fast, fun, and just a little unexpected — you know where to find us.