ArtPlay

ArtPlay is one of our family’s absolute favourite spots in Melbourne for getting the little ones’ creative juices flowing. Tucked away behind Federation Square in the beautiful Birrarung Marr park, it’s a dedicated arts studio just for kids and their families. Housed in a big, red, shed-like building, it’s not a drop-in play centre but a place that hosts a huge variety of workshops and events led by actual professional artists. These sessions are designed to let children explore art in all its forms – from painting and sculpture to digital art and performance. The whole idea is to give kids a hands-on, often gloriously messy, experience where they can create and collaborate without the usual constraints of home.

Age Appropriateness

ArtPlay truly caters to a wide range of ages, but it’s crucial to check the specific event you’re booking. They have sessions designed for babies as young as 6 months, which are usually gentle, sensory-based experiences. The toddler and preschooler sessions (ages 2-5) are fantastic and often involve large-scale, tactile activities like "ArtBites." For school-aged children (5-12), the workshops become more complex, introducing them to everything from animation and coding to circus skills and sculpture. The key is that each program is thoughtfully tailored to the developmental stage of its target audience, so you know your child will be engaged in something just right for them.

The Highlights (Pros)

• Led by Real Artists: This isn't just sticking and pasting. The workshops are facilitated by professional artists who are passionate about sharing their craft with kids. This brings an incredible quality and depth to the experience that you just don't get elsewhere.
• Unique, High-Quality Activities: The creativity here is off the charts. One week your child might be building a giant cardboard city, the next they could be creating a soundscape or designing a digital character. It’s all about process, not just a perfect end product.
• Beautiful and Safe Location: Being located in Birrarung Marr is a huge plus. Before or after your session, the kids can run around in the park, and the incredible ArtPlay playground is right next door. The venue itself feels very secure and contained once you're inside.
• Accessibility: The City of Melbourne does a great job making ArtPlay accessible. The venue is wheelchair and pram-friendly, and they offer a range of free events alongside paid workshops, making it accessible to more families.

The Watch-Outs (Cons)

• Booking is Essential: You can't just show up. Popular workshops, especially the free ones and school holiday programs, book out weeks or even months in advance. You have to be organised and get in early.
• It Can Get Messy: This is a pro for the kids, but a con for your laundry pile! Many activities involve paint, clay, water, and other messy materials. While aprons are often provided, don't dress your child (or yourself) in anything you’d be sad to see stained.
• Workshop Timings: The sessions have fixed start and end times. If you're running late, you might miss a crucial part of the introduction, and with little ones, arriving flustered is never a good start.

Practical Survival Tips for Parents

• Parking: The closest and most convenient car park is the Federation Square car park. It's just a short walk across the park to ArtPlay. It can be pricey, so check for early bird or weekend rates online before you go.
• Public Transport: ArtPlay is easily accessible via public transport. It's just a few minutes' walk from Flinders Street Station, making the train a fantastic, stress-free option.
• Pack Accordingly: Bring a change of clothes for the kids (and maybe a spare t-shirt for yourself!). A water bottle and some snacks for after the session are also a great idea, as all that creating is hungry work.
• Arrive Early: Aim to get there 10-15 minutes before your session starts. This gives you time for a relaxed toilet stop and to let the kids get familiar with the space without feeling rushed. You can also enjoy the playground next door if you have extra time.
• Check for Free Events: Keep an eye on the ArtPlay website for their free programming. They often host wonderful free exhibitions or drop-in style events, especially during school holidays, which are perfect for a spontaneous city visit.