School’s out and it’s time to play. Here are 6 places that we think you and the kids might enjoy.
Lunar Drive-In 115 South Gippsland Hwy Dandenong
What’s not to love about going to the drive-in? Many of us will have fond childhood memories of sitting in the car with windows fogging up on a cold night, whilst watching the latest release. The best part is that in the warmer months you can take your own rug or chairs and watch the movie in the open air. And at between $25-$30 per carload, depending on which night you go, it’s more cost effective than going to the local cinema.
Hahndorfs Fine Chocolates 960-962 Mount Dandenong Tourist Road, Montrose
Located in leafy Montrose, you can enjoy the quaint café style chocolate shop where you’re able to sample a wide range of chocolate products and cakes, whilst sipping on a coffee, hot chocolate or milkshake in leafy surrounds. Those with younger children might decide to opt for the take-away version, and duck down the road to the popular Montrose Community Playground which is a favourite amongst those in the know.
Taskworks 25 Glenvale Crescent, Mulgrave
If you’re looking for a fun hands-on experience where children and adults can work together, you need to add Taskworks to your itinerary. The unique activity centre was developed to provide kids with an environment that took them back to basics; talking and working with each other and using their bodies and minds to achieve a desired outcome. With nothing electronic in sight, it’s a great way to get them away from the screen for a while.
Camberwell Market Market Place, Camberwell
This Sunday market is an icon for Melbourne’s Trash and Treasure lovers. In operation since 1976, and open every Sunday, it’s known for its vintage, retro and antique goods; clothing, shoes, records and homewares, amongst other fabulous things. There’s also a range of buskers and entertainers on hand to keep things lively. Just prepare for the kids to make jokes about how old you must be if you remember some of the classic pieces on offer; don’t worry, their time will come! Why not follow it up with breakfast at one of Camberwell’s many cafes or eateries.
Maroondah Golf Park 363 Maroondah Highway, Chirnside Park
36 holes of mini golf spanning 2 extensively landscaped courses; one fully undercover and one in the open air. Come and test your skills against the kids at the area’s premier golfing complex.For the more serious golfers amongst us, there’s also a driving range here; a great place to release your inner tension!
Aquarena 139-153 Williamsons Road, Templestowe Lower
One of the few aquatic centres in the area that still has an outdoor pool that can be enjoyed on a warm Summer’s day. You’ll enjoy the extensive landscaped gardens and the eateries that overlook the pool area. It’s a great place to meet up and settle in with friends, for a relatively inexpensive day.
We are spoilt for choice in the Victoria’s East with a wide range of tracks and trails for walking and riding; why not choose one of these to do as well? Beat the heat, get the day moving early then reward yourselves at the end with a cool treat.
Here’s to a fun Summer.
Image credit: Aquarena
