Geelong
This fully fenced play space is located in the heart of Eastern Park and next to the Geelong Botanic Gardens and its feature is no other than a wooden pirate ship!
There's lots to keep little minds running with a musical bridge, sandy areas, a rock climbing wall, swings (including a Liberty swing), shadey areas under the trees, paths winding through the garden, secret tunnels and was developed with an emphasis on providing a safe and enjoyable experience for kids with special needs. Just think of it as a meandering secret garden.
Next time you find yourself (actually, your family) in Geelong, take a leaf out of our book (!!) and do your kids a favour and visit the Geelong Regional Library. There's an entire floor dedicated to children and young people, with age-appropriate collections, digital technology and activity spaces.
If you love an adult venue that caters for kids then this foodie haven is it!
Mt Duneed Estate is vast but it's when you step inside The Barrel Hall you'll feel it's warmth and rustic charm accompanied with good local produce and a fine glass of vino. It's not just the food and wine that is in high demand either! While you chat with friends over another glass of red, the kids will have already discovered the indoor sandpit, huge chalkboard, games and colouring in.
Just like it's sister institution (The Yarra Vallery Chocolaterie), The Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery is a very welcome addition to the Surf Coast and it makes for the most wonderful morning or afternoon pit stop. The newly built establishment has been beautifully designed and constructed - with quality finishes throughout creating a modern and welcoming atmosphere.
The free samples at the door as you enter leave you wanting more and there's an impressive range of chocolate items for sale with everything from giant chocolate freckles, chocolate frogs, chocolate buttons and even chocolate infused handcream and lip balm! Plenty of gift ideas - hint, hint!
Bet you've never considered a beer venue as a place to take the whole family when considering lunch or dinner? Think again! Best service. Great snacks. And the beer, wine and cider is out of this world.
Little Creatures is a quirky, lively place. It's a great space and extremely family-friendly. Can be a bit noisy but the atmosphere is FUN (and there's nothing like draining out a toddlers sounds competing with the music/chatter etc).