Families looking for fun, affordable ways to spend the spring school holidays can discover a world of adventure at Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria. With two stunning landscapes to explore, Melbourne Gardens and Cranbourne Gardens, there are plenty of free and low-cost activities designed to get children outdoors, off screens connecting with nature and making lasting memories. 

From hands-on nature play and bike rides through bushland to relaxing picnics and scenic lake cruises, here are 10 ways to make the most of the school holidays at Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria. 

1. Let their curiosity run wild with Nature Play at Melbourne Gardens 

Let curiosity lead the way with free nature play experiences on Oak Lawn and in The Ian Potter Foundation Children's Garden. Guided by Learning Facilitators and volunteers, children can immerse themselves in sensory-rich activities inspired by the signs of spring, from budding flowers to wildlife encounters. Inclusive experiences are available for children of all ages and abilities. 

2. Uncover hidden wonders with Nature Play at Cranbourne Gardens 

Creativity takes centre stage at Cranbourne Gardens, where families can enjoy nature-based activities under the shade of the eucalypts in the Kids' Backyard. Children can get crafty, explore the Australian environment and learn about the plants and animals that call the Gardens home. 

3. Adventure through The Ian Potter Foundation Children's Garden 

A favourite destination for families, The Ian Potter Foundation Children's Garden is packed with opportunities for discovery and play. Wander through the bamboo forest, climb the tower, race through the flax tunnel, navigate the rocky gorge, spot wildlife around the pond and explore the Kitchen Garden. Don't forget to stop and hug one of the iconic bottle trees along the way. 

4. Hop aboard the School Holiday Explorer Bus 

Children ride HALF PRICE during the school holidays on the popular School Holiday Explorer Bus at both Melbourne and Cranbourne Gardens. Designed especially for families, this guided tour showcases the sights, sounds and scents of the Gardens while teaching young explorers about the important role plants play in our environment. 

5. Go on a Seek and Find Adventure 

Turn a visit to the Gardens into a treasure hunt with the free Seek and Find Nature Cards, illustrated by artist Claire Mosley. Available for free from the Visitor Centre at Melbourne and Cranbourne Gardens, the cards encourage children to search for fascinating plants, animals and natural wonders hidden throughout the landscape. 

6. Enjoy a spring picnic at Melbourne Gardens 

Make the most of Melbourne Gardens' expansive and iconic lawns with a relaxed family picnic. Grab a takeaway pizza from The Observatory restaurant, bring along a good book or some craft activities, and settle in for a day surrounded by nature in the heart of the city. 

7. Experience Melbourne Gardens from the water with Punting on the Lake 

Step aboard a traditional wooden punt and enjoy a peaceful cruise around the islands of Ornamental Lake. Guided by an expert skipper, families can discover the history, wildlife and beauty of one of the world's finest botanic gardens from a unique perspective. 

8. Settle in for a picnic and play at the Woodland Picnic Area 

At Cranbourne Gardens, the Woodland Picnic Area offers an easy day out for families. With picnic tables, barbecues and a nature playground, it's the perfect spot to relax, play and enjoy the outdoors just a short stroll from the carpark. 

9. Explore the Bushland by bike 

Bring your bikes and explore more than six kilometres of child-safe cycling tracks winding through Cranbourne Gardens' stunning bushland and open grasslands. It's a fantastic way for families and friends to experience the unique Australian landscape together. 

10. Treat the family to a Picnic Pack from Boon Wurrung Café at Cranbourne Gardens 

For those looking to elevate their picnic experience, Boon Wurrung Café's Picnic Packs are filled with gourmet favourites including croissants, smoked salmon, finger sandwiches, antipasto, mini pies, sausage rolls, seasonal fruit and sweet treats. Packs start from just $60 and are ideal for sharing. Call to order.  

Whether you're climbing through the Children's Garden, cycling through native bushland, spotting wildlife or simply enjoying a picnic in the sunshine, Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria offers countless ways for families to reconnect with nature this spring. 

With many activities free or low-cost, and two spectacular locations to explore, there's never been a better time to get outdoors and discover something new during the school holidays.