GlowGolf Docklands

If you're looking for a fun, indoor activity to wow the kids, especially on a rainy Melbourne day, GlowGolf Docklands is a fantastic option. It’s an 18-hole mini-golf course, but with a brilliant twist – everything is completely decked out in UV-reactive paint and lit by blacklights. The whole place glows with vibrant, psychedelic colours, taking you through different Australian-themed sections, from the outback to the Great Barrier Reef. It’s a pretty immersive experience that feels less like a simple game of putt-putt and more like stepping into a quirky, glowing wonderland.

Age Appropriateness

This is a great spot for a wide range of ages, but I’d say the sweet spot is for kids aged 4 and up. Toddlers might find the dark environment a bit overwhelming or spooky, and they probably won’t have the patience for the actual golf. For primary school-aged kids and tweens, however, it’s perfect. The holes are challenging enough to be fun without being frustrating, and the glowing novelty is a huge hit. Teenagers will also enjoy the unique setting and the Instagram-worthy photo opportunities. It’s a solid choice for a family outing where everyone from a kindergartener to a teenager can genuinely have a good time together.

The Highlights (Pros)

The visual spectacle is the undeniable star of the show. The 3D effects and vibrant artwork are really well done, making each hole a new discovery. The Australian theme is a lovely touch, with glowing kangaroos, koalas, and underwater creatures that the kids will love pointing out. The course is entirely indoors, making it a brilliant all-weather option when you need to get the kids out of the house. It's located within The District Docklands, so it's easy to pair with lunch or a bit of shopping. The staff are generally friendly and helpful, and the equipment (putters and glow-in-the-dark golf balls) is all in good condition. The 18th hole is often a highlight for kids, with a fun feature that adds a memorable end to the game.

The Watch-Outs (Cons)

Because it's a popular spot, it can get quite busy, especially on weekends and during school holidays. This can lead to some congestion on the course, with groups bunching up and a bit of a wait between holes, which can test the patience of younger children. The space itself isn't huge, so it can feel a little cramped when at capacity. While the darkness is part of the fun, it does mean you need to keep a closer eye on little ones to prevent them from tripping or wandering off. The cost can also add up for a larger family, so it's more of a special treat than a regular weekend activity.

Practical Survival Tips for Parents

• Book Online: Absolutely book your session in advance, particularly if you're planning to go during a peak period. This will guarantee your spot and can sometimes save you a bit of money.
• Parking: The best place to park is in The District Docklands' own car park. It's convenient and often has deals where you can get a discount on parking if you've spent money at one of the retailers, so hold onto your GlowGolf receipt.
• Go Early or on a Weekday: To avoid the biggest crowds, try to book the first session of the day or go on a weekday if you can. The experience is much more relaxed when you’re not waiting for the group ahead of you.
• Wear White or Neon: Encourage the kids (and yourself!) to wear white or bright fluorescent clothing. It adds to the fun as you'll glow under the blacklights, making for some fantastic photos.
• Talk to Toddlers First: If you are bringing very young children, have a chat with them beforehand about being in a dark, glowing place so they know what to expect and aren't frightened.
• Combine the Trip: Make a day of it. The location is right next to the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel and plenty of family-friendly restaurants, so you can easily fill an afternoon without having to move the car.