mamma has tweens and teens!
Well, well, since Mamma has been doing this for 10 years it was bound to happen - our little ones have turned into BIGGER ones!
For those long time followers, your kids have grown up WITH ours so we are all in the same boat - just navigating life with these amazing young adults.
This new era inspires some NEW adventures for us, but we also still love some classic old ones that don’t involve play centres, playgrounds, or even a kids menu. We are loving more walks, longer adventures, and more fun experiences WITH them rather than just on the sidelines.
And as usual we do the hard work so that YOU don’t have to. So, here is our handy page for all the other tween/teen parents!
Adventures!
VR Theme Park is not JUST VR, it’s got arcade games, video games like Jurassic Park and Cruisin’ Blast, party rooms and AR sports!
Surfcoast Sunflowers are reopening Dec 27 for PYO and to also take some amazing photos in this sea of golden loveliness!
Imaginator (formally Imaginaria) is an immersive play experience like no other and it has reopened with a BRAND NEW REFRESH. Imaginator has made itself well and truly at home at The District Docklands and Mamma says you are not going to want to miss this fantastic indoor adventure.
Wow, it’s actually like a dream!
Dreamskape is now at The District Docklands and it is incredible. Dubbed a ‘multi sensory entertainment hub’.
Let Mamma take you on a guided tour of the 6 incredible sections you will experience here.
If you know Banksy and his work, or even if you don’t, this exhibition is worth visiting. Mamma recognised iconic pieces and discovered the stories behind them, along with surprising works by Banksy. The Melbourne exhibition is well set up, with easy-to-read plaques. Take your time to ponder the deeper meanings behind the art.
Experience the best way to explore Melbourne with Melbourne River Cruises! Enjoy a scenic ferry ride from Gem Pier to Southbank, passing iconic bridges along the Yarra River. This hour-long journey offers free tea, coffee, and guided tour information. Avoid city traffic and parking—relax and enjoy Melbourne’s stunning riverside views!
Mamma guarantees your minis will make their way straight to the indoor splash park the minute they arrive. Featuring all the fun water activities that a kid could ever dream of - water splashing and gushing everywhere. The bigger kids will LOVE the larger waterslides. Fun for everyone! The perfect place to spend your afternoon.
Ok, let’s start from the beginning - this imposing old gaol, in the middle of Geelong first opened in 1853 and only closed its doors in 1991. Up until then it housed Victoria’s worst criminals and the shadiest of characters - including the likes of Chopper Read and bushranger Frank McCallum. There were 6 people executed here in the gallows that are literally in the centre of the jail.
It’s a blend of augmented reality and go karting so the track and games are projected on to the floor - as are the oil patches or glue - don’t get stuck! There are also bonuses to collect and flames to shoot!
Introducing Kindred Souls Collective. Best described as a day spa for the soul founder and amazing vibe queen Kelly has created such a stunning space like no other. Spending time here, is a truly beautiful and effortless way to relax and rejuvenate, body, mind and soul.
Kids Go FREE these School Holidays! Port Phillip Ferries have been jetting people up and down the bay for many years now. A great way to avoid the traffic and head down to Portarlington and Geelong, and back up to Docklands.
No this is not just another play centre! There are so many fun things to do at SuperPark - and plenty of things Mamma has not seen before in indoor fun!
Mamma has been wanting to visit here for so long and it did not disappoint. Deep Blue Hot Springs is more than just some hot pools. It’s a sanctuary of health and well-being and you will come out of it feeling rested and rejuvenated. You CAN bring the whole family here like Mamma, and of course you can just come with your partner or mates.
Flip Out in Braybrook is not just trampolines! This is heaven for active kids. They can run free to bounce, jump, climb, spin, slide and explore.
Walking tours now open! This gorgeous farm sits on 200 hectares of land and is dedicated to rehabilitating all kinds of farm animals but particularly horses. Found neglected, discarded after racing or aged and unwell, Horse Shepherd takes them on, provides them vet care and allows them to happily live out their days with the rest of the menagerie at the farm.
What a perfect adventure – a beautiful and fun ferry ride across the bay with stunning city views, followed by a penguin-watching experience at the St Kilda Breakwater wall, where around 1400 Little Penguins make their way to shore at sunset, and the knowledgeable staff are great with kids and questions!
Welcome to the FUN ZONE! Timezone and Zone Bowling is NOW OPEN at Central West Shopping Centre!
Saboteurs is an experience full of excitement and fun and chaos! This space themed game is based on the popular online game Among Us, but in real life! - now, if you don’t know what is, that’s ok- it’s likely your kids do though! Mamma says Saboteurs is a great family and friends adventure! Are you the imposter?
Experience the thrill of climbing at Cliffhanger Climbing, Australia's tallest gym in the West! Renovated and reopened, this facility offers a unique climbing experience. Test your skills on practice walls and enjoy amazing coffee breaks. Perfect for climbers of all levels at Cliffhanger Climbing, where adventure awaits!
These popular kayak tours on the Werribee River sell out fast so you have to be quick to get in when the bookings come up. Hosted by the Werribee River Association in conjunction with Paddle Victoria, this is a cruisey journey along the banks of the Werribee River with a guided discussion on the flora and fauna in the area.
There are HEAPS of walks all around the Werribee Gorge State Park for all different levels and experience so it is a good idea to do plenty of research on this place before setting off with the kids in tow.
It is impossible to find words for the amazing experience we had with the Sea All Dolphin Tours.
Hire a rebound machine, book a court, organise a party - Altona’s indoor basketball joint 3 Street Basketball is an amazing venue!
Anunforgettable adventure at Tuki Trout Farm—a genuine Pond to Plate Experience! Mamma says: it's not just a great outing; it's an incredibly memorable journey for the kids.
The Elements Coastal Activity Park is a one stop spot little coffee shop and sandwich bar, picnic lawn and you guessed it - mini golf!
Mamma loves a good hidden adventure discovery, and the Fyansford Paper Mills was one of those. This is an art, food, culture and beverage precinct in amongst what remains of the old paper mill.
Who knew smashing up #^%$ was so much fun! This is the place to come to have a smashing good time, and turns out it’s a little therapeutic too! Welcome to The Smash Room.
Discover Roraima Nursery in Lara, home to exotic plants, stunning sculptures, and even dinosaurs! Our top-pick attraction is a must-visit for plant enthusiasts and nature lovers. Don't miss out – plan your visit today and experience the crowd-pleasing beauty of Roraima Nursery.
There’s nothing quite like sending the kids off to school with a packed lunch and a smoochy kiss, then heading off to save the world from killer robots or flesh eating zombies.
Rockpools are amazing things. Magical little holes filled with ocean treasures. Some are tiny with little ecosystems of their own, others are like warm baths or little pools to splash around in.
Just past Lorne on the way down the iconic Great Ocean Road you will see a small unassuming sign indicating that the Sheoak Falls lay just off the bend in the road. What you will find is a stunning, picturesque waterfall amongst gorgeous bushland.
Disc Golf is a thing and we have a great FREE Disc Golf course right here in Yarraville. It is great fun and anyone can play!
Hiding out the back of Geelong is Buckley Falls - a little surprise package of fun, adventure and beauty! These falls are a great way to spend a few hours exploring.
Discover the hidden gem of Malmsbury's botanical gardens - a surprise package waiting to be explored! Mamma's favourite spot boasts a stunning lake at its heart, complete with an island accessible via a charming bridge. Pack a picnic now and experience the beauty and serenity of Malmsbury's botanical gardens.
Mamma is making it her mission to find lots of fab kid-friendly walks in nature and this is one of the best ones we have come across. The Brisbane Ranges is great. Often the weather, the snacks we take, tired levels of mamma and kids - all have lots to do with the ‘ease’ and enjoyment factor too but this bushwalk is relatively flat, scenic and a quick easy 2 hour loop.
Mamma loves a hidden adventure! Jebb’s Pool is a stunning oasis behind the Cumberland River Caravan Park. It’s a part of the Erskine River and over time the river has created these lovely pools and smooth rocks - including a mini waterfall or as some say - a nature waterslide!
What a beauty! This amazing lake is not only peaceful and picturesque, but an adventure for all seasons.
With its little bays of sand, clear and cool water - Jawbone Bay and Marine Sanctuary is stunning little paradise.
If you've ever dreamed of exploring a magical forest, well then Mamma has some great news. Deep in the Otway ranges is the Californian Redwood Forest - Mamma says it's magical, it's awe inspiring and spectacularly beautiful.
A giant, grown up game of hide and seek with a cross between orienteering and puzzle solving. Mamma loves it!
Geelong’s Eastern Beach is a wonderful sunny day destination – midweek it can be a quiet place for you to relax and unwind with your pre-schooler and weekends you’ll find it teeming with kids of all ages diving and swimming in the protected waterfront
Mamma loves to get outdoors and get the legs pumping with a good bike ride. Altona Coastal Park is one of the best rides around. You can still see a lone date palm and the ruins of the grandstand of the old Williamstown Racecourse which saw Phar Lap race and win the Underwood Stakes in 1931. Giddy up!
Werribee Park and Mansion grounds is a magical place to visit with such glorious gardens you definitely need to put aside a good couple of hours to explore the ponds, fountains, green house, sculpture walks, cafes and more.
We in the West are blessed with Melbourne's most beautiful river right on our doorstep (you can't blame Mamma for being biased) and The Maribyrnong River Trail provides endless opportunities to choose your own outdoor adventure to enjoy it via foot, bike or trike.
Mamma LOVES the Williamstown Botanical Gardens. It is such an oasis for the family and perfect for picnics and play.
Willy Beach has everything you could possibly need for a day by the sea and it's only a hop skip and jump from your front door. This is the ideal place to introduce little ones to the ocean where they can splash and explore to their hearts content.
Newport Lakes is a beautiful bushland oasis with its two big lakes, lots of native birds and grassy spots for picnics, it's a wonderful place to bring the family for a day of wildlife watching and native plant spotting.
Mamma was told to expect the best views in Melbourne and was not disappointed. The top of the 100 Steps to Federation in Altona Meadows - provides uninterrupted 360 degree views of the You Yangs, Melbourne and the Bay. It is downright breathtaking and energising climbing to the top.
You could be forgiven for thinking you drove to Werribee but somehow landed in New York when you arrive at this awesome skate park - fit for little tykes and adults because it uniquely caters for beginners and pros.
This park is a fav for both big and little kids with a smaller bowl skate/scooter section.
Food!
You know as soon as you enter Gordon St Bakery that this is an authentic, and very French, bakery. The welcoming and comforting aroma of browned butter and pastry greets you at the door - and it’s the scent that you can only get when all the products are made in house, and actually, right in front of you.
Callum started BAM Street Food during ‘the covid years’ selling his smash burgers from his garage in Altona Meadows. From there the food truck was born along with some local pop ups, and since all that has gained a bit of a cult following.
Now, lucky us, we have the diner that has just opened in Harrington Square in Altona!
Acai Boy in Altona is our go-to for family dessert outings! Their açaí bowls with delicious toppings, especially the Biscoff sauce, are a hit. They also offer treats like crème brûlée, crepes, brownies, and more. The dining area is simple and service is quick, but it can get busy after school.
A perfect spot for sweet treats that everyone will enjoy!
The wait is over folks - cheese lovers can now enjoy Splatters Cheese Train and Bar in West Melbourne. Geelong’s Splatters is fantastic and now Jo has opened another spot in West Melbourne!
Manor Lakes Shopping Centre has a new addition - and Mamma thinks it is just perfect for the local area!
Chik Chik Pop is the place to grab your next family bite to eat. Whether you’re feeling like roast chicken, burgers, or shakes, Mamma thinks whatever you order will most definitely hit the spot!
Grazeland is amazing and Mamma is loving it! People are heading to Spotswood from all over Melbourne to soak up the atmosphere here at Grazeland and of course enjoy some fantastic dining options, live music and views! Oh and the Jungle Hangout play area for kiddos! Grazeland is fantastic - we love it!
How can you not love the tasty food, large colourful space AND back area with kids play section! Oh with great outdoor seating too - where you can also see the beach.
Fairly new to the Footscray food precinct is a lovely homely Latin American eatery - Papelon. Think of a colourful, cosy, cheerful restaurant full of happy, relaxed diners tucking into large plates of wholesome South American foods.
Burgers, fries, shakes and donuts - Maxiemoon Canteen is a dream for the kids with all of their favourites on offer!
Maxiemoon has a great vibe - you’ll immediately love this place from the moment you walk in. Open 7 days a week for you to order breaky or lunch - Mamma promises that you won’t be disappointed whichever you choose.
The wait is over, the saloon doors are in full swing and it is time to welcome Moondog to the West.
Mamma was so impressed by the quality of the food at this new Braybrook cafe. Incredibly simple yet oh-so-delicious toasties and pastries are on offer, as well as great coffee and other beverages.
These guys specialise in not only burgers - they do awesome fries, shakes, and wings too. What more could you ask for!
How does pizza and drinks on the harbour sound? With water views, the bay breeze AND city views! Sounds pretty perfect to Mamma! Welcome to the Waterfront at Wyndham Harbour!
Ask any Vietnamese person in Melbourne, and they probably know about Tan Thanh Loi - although they might not know it by it’s name, but by its dish: com tam/broken rice. These are the best pork chops you’ll ever have!
Looking for an amazing place to dine with the family? We've found the perfect spot. Williamstown’s Royal Yacht Club of Victoria is both picturesque and has delicious food. Full of charm, the brick building is set back from the street and decked out with boating paraphernalia, giving it a gorgeous old-school vibe.
There are so many tempting options on the menu that one visit will not suffice - Mamma threw down a whole pho, bahn mi AND some spring rolls and only just scratched the surface.
Mamma has loved Ollie’s treats since he was delivering in 2020, and since then he has also been at the local markets and a Yarraville pop up. We love that he has a permanent location in Newport now!
Who is Mama Le? Let Mamma tell you!
Behind an unassuming street frontage lies a multi level, pretty restaurant of Vietnamese deliciousness! Mamma Le is Leanne, and with her daughter Lisa opened Mama Le to give us the gift of her amazing asian fusion cooking!
When you think of French dining you don’t think you will find one at a golf club - but Curlewis is different. Claribeaux is the restaurant here at the club, and everyone is welcome -including the kiddos. It’s a relaxed but high quality restaurant with views of the bright green fairway and beyond.
The food at Off the Planet Burgers is outta this world - it’s got Mamma’s tick of approval!
This galactic themed restaurant is super cool - everything is on theme from the minute you walk in. The Lego Star Wars models will catch your eye - Mamma will guarantee your kiddies will be begging you to come back!
Manoushi is Werribee's newest bakery, and Mamma gives it her stamp of approval! Mamma can guarantee that the moment you step into Manoushi, your mouth will start to water.
Hailed as one of the food critic’s go-tos when eating at in the West, Xuan Banh Cuon serves delicious Northern style Vietnamese dishes. This is Mamma’s destination for a quick and cheap eat you know is going to be filled with flavour!
Well this is fun! And YUM! Seoul Garden is an all you can eat buffet, PLUS Korean BBQ. Basically this means that there is so much food you will want to eat here, that you will never fit it all in!
WOW, WOW, WOW! Mamma just checked out Tom’s Confectionary at Highpoint and it was AMAZING!
Where do we start?! Mamma seriously thought she was in the Willy Wonka movie when she walked into Tom’s Confectionary. With over 30,000 different types of confectionary, you could seriously walk around the isles of this store for HOURS!
Situated right in the heart of Ballarat Street, just opposite Grill’d, Biancolatte is the perfect place for a pit stop after dinner.
We LOVE this! The cutest little cupcake pitstop is in Caroline Springs Square - Cake Creations by Katie is a cup cake VENDING machine!
Dayum! Do you know what a Chevapi is? It’s basically a pork and beef skinless sausage. Which means without much extra thought, you already know a Chevapi SANDWICH here is going to be incredible and YEP, you’d be RIGHT!
We just love the relaxed dining, amazing food, floor seating and huge outdoor space to play at the NEW Tinkune Momo & Sekuwar House in Sunshine!
Cà Rem is Vietnamese gelato! Flavours include avocado, Kopiko, lychee and mint, Yakult and melon and pink dragon fruit! How bananas! (Oh yes, there is also Vietnamese banana!) This is seriously good gelato… Mamma struggled to decide on a flavour, but the coconut and pandan went down so well.
Craving some comfort food? Well, there’s a new cafe in Moonee Ponds and it’s serving everything fried. Loaded fries, sandos and wings! Yum!
The little pub on the corner in Seddon has reopened, and what a neighbourhood treasure it is! It first opened in 1874 so it’s great to see it still standing and looking spectacular. Have a meal with friends in the courtyard; watch some sport and grab a cheeky wine in the bar; enjoy a sit down meal in the dining room. Enjoy pub classics like bangers and mash, chicken parmas and steak sandwiches.
A gastro pub that’s family friendly, with some super style in the heart of Werribee! This has been one of Mamma's fave westie pubs for a while now - always GREAT food and a great relaxed atmosphere - now with new winter menu!!
Mamma says never judge a book by it's cover, but in this case, go right ahead! This amazing art deco building hides some treasure in Newport.
Down the alley and up the staircase from uber cool Slice Girls lies a wonderful world of happiness. It's comforting, and warm (sometimes with toasty fire) , and rustic-ly gorgeous and.... just really cool.
Mamma says visiting this park on Chery Lake is a must for any true blue Westie. Gaze over the water and take a little time to unwind while your little (and big!) ones explore and the Lions Market is on here on the first Sunday of the month!