Free events and attractions for kids in Melbourne's eastern suburbs

While summer is officially over, the warmer temperatures have not left yet. So you still have time to soak up the last of the sun with your kids.

Here is a list of free activities to check out before the cold hits.

A Toast to Melba

When: Running until Sunday June 29, 10am to 4pm

Where: Yarra Ranges Regional Museum, 35-37 Castella Street, Lilydale

One of the eastern suburbs’ most iconic legends is being celebrated in a new exhibition at the Yarra Ranges Regional Museum – A Toast to Melba – uncovering the untold stories of Melbourne’s most prestigious singers – Dame Nellie Melba.

View rarely seen objects, photographs, and personal treasures from Coombe Yarra Valley, Arts Centre Melbourne and Yarra Ranges Regional Museum.

Burke’s Lookout

When: Any time

Where: Osprey Road, Mount Dandenong

This is one of my favourite spots to visit, so I’ve been waiting to find a good place to shout it out. The walks around here are relaxing and a great chance to reconnect with nature and maybe even spot some local wildlife.

It is a short drive up the hill from Mount Evelyn or Montrose and is (in my opinion) one of the best views of Melbourne and Port Phillip Bay.

Local libraries

When: Check your local library website

Where: Multiple locations

How can you go wrong with a visit to the local library? Find a quiet corner to sit with a book, enjoy a craft activity or attend one of the many Storytime or other kids events.

Schwerkolt Cottage and Museum

When: Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays, 1pm to 4pm

Where: 2-10 Deep Creek Road, Mitcham

Schwerkolt Cottage is a 19th century stone settler cottage set within a historic museum complex and surrounded by more than two hectares of bushland.

Established in 1884, the historical buildings, walking tracks, cottage garden, barbecue area and family playground are a picturesque place to enjoy a casual weekend afternoon.

Puffing Billy Railway Lakeside Visitors Centre

When: Weekdays, 9am to 4pm. Weekends, 9am to noon,

Where: Emerald Lake Park, Emerald Lake Road, Emerald

How can I go past a mention of fun things to do in the eastern suburbs without mentioning Puffing Billy? It has been an icon of Puffing Billy for many years now and while riding on it isn’t free, the Visitors Centre has plenty of stuff to do and see.

Check out the new Animal Tales photographic exhibition or look back at the region’s rail history at the Great Hall’s artefact displays. Finish off the trip with a wave at Puffing Billy as it pulls into Emerald station.

For all other areas in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs, check out your local library or council website for upcoming events to entertain the young ones and help them develop skills, without emptying your pockets.

If you know of any upcoming events for the kids, email the details to [email protected] or message us in Instagram.