Family-Friendly Adventure

Escape the city and dive into three unforgettable days of adventure, discovery, and quality family time in the heart of North East Victoria. From bushranger tales to splash parks, scenic drives to cheesy delights.  This getaway has something for everyone. 

Getting There & Travel Tips 

Wangaratta is just a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Melbourne via the Hume Freeway, perfect for a long weekend. Your first stop, Glenrowan, is only 15 minutes south of Wangaratta, and nearby gems like Milawa, Eldorado, and the King Valley are all within 30–45 minutes, making day trips simple and stress-free. 

Top Tips for Travelling with Kids: 

• Pack swimwear and towels, you’ll find splash parks and pools perfect for cooling off. 

• Bring bikes or scooters for trail rides, pump tracks, and riverside paths. 

• Book accommodation early, especially during school holidays, there are plenty of family-friendly caravan parks and motels across the region. 

Day 1 – Glenrowan: History, Play & Wine 

Kick off your adventure in Glenrowan, the legendary town where Ned Kelly made his final stand. Step into the story at Kate’s Cottage, Kellyland, or the Ned Kelly Discovery Hub (NKDH). At NKDH, the immersive displays bring history to life, and don’t miss the chance to try on the life-size Ned Kelly helmet for a fun photo! 

Pick up a map from the Visitor Information Centre and follow the Siege Walk, which guides you through key sites from the infamous standoff. 

By midday, grab lunch at a local café or bakery and head to Lions Park, where the kids can burn off energy on the playground and grassy areas. Then swing by Mt Morgan’s Store for a vintage-style photo in old-timey costumes, perfect for the family scrapbook. 

In the afternoon, adults can enjoy a wine tasting at Baileys of Glenrowan Winery, complete with a self-guided historic tour. Wind your way back to Wangaratta via the scenic Warby Ranges, keeping an eye out for native wildlife. 

Cool off with a swim at the Wangaratta Aquatic Centre, then enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant. Stay the weekend at one of the region’s family-friendly caravan parks or motels. 

Day 2 – Wangaratta: Parks, Trails & Playtime 

Start the day at Apex Park, where the riverside playground and Parkour course offer fun for all ages. Cross the bridge to explore the Bullawah Cultural Trail, featuring Aboriginal sculptures, stories, and native plants. 

After brunch at a local café, head to Mitchell Avenue Reserve for a full afternoon of action. The Pump Track, skate park, flying fox, and Splash Park are sure to be a hit. There are BBQ facilities and picnic spots, so lunch is sorted. 

In the afternoon, wind down with a visit to the Wangaratta Art Gallery, where kids can get creative at the Creation Station, or pop into the library for Xbox games and board games. 

Dinner is relaxed and kid-friendly at a local pub or RSL Club, followed by a movie night at the cinema, a perfect end to a fun-filled day. 

Day 3 – Eldorado, Milawa & King Valley: Gold, Cheese & Hidden Creatures 

Begin your final day in Eldorado, exploring the impressive Historic Dredge, a massive relic from the gold and tin mining days. Then take a peaceful stroll along Reid’s Walk. 

Next, head to Milawa, a foodie’s paradise. Sample award-winning cheeses at the Milawa Cheese Company, then relax with lunch on the lawn at Brown Brothers Winery. Don’t miss local favourites like Milawa Mustards, and Cottonwoods Farmgate. Nearby Oxley offers even more delicious stops or head to Brookfield Maze for a fun afternoon. 

On your way back to Wangaratta, visit Merriwa Park for the Hidden Creatures Gallery, an augmented reality experience that’s fun for all ages. Try your hand at tennis, pickleball, or even croquet. 

Wrap up your getaway with dinner and a friendly family bowling match at Wangaratta Supa Bowl, a fun finale to your adventure. 

Trip Highlights 

• Ned Kelly Discovery Hub (NKDH) – Explore immersive displays and try on a life-size Kelly helmet. Located in Glenrowan, just 15 minutes (17 km) from Wangaratta. No booking required for general entry; group bookings available via the Wangaratta Visitor Information Centre. 

• Mt Morgan’s Store – A great spot for a antique shopping, with vintage photo ops. Located in Glenrowan, 15 minutes from Wangaratta. No bookings needed. 

• Baileys of Glenrowan Winery – Enjoy wine tastings and a self-guided historic tour. Just 20 minutes (approx. 18 km) from Wangaratta. Bookings recommended for tastings and Bundarra Organic Café via Baileys website  

• Apex Park & Bullawah Cultural Trail – Located in central Wangaratta. Free access; no bookings required. 

• Mitchell Avenue Pump Track & Splash Park – A favourite for active kids, located in Wangaratta. Free access; no bookings required. 

• Wangaratta Art Gallery – Creative spaces and activities for kids. Located in Wangaratta CBD. Free entry; check gallery website for workshops. 

• Historic Eldorado Dredge & Chinese Gardens – A fascinating site just 25 minutes (approx. 30 km) from Wangaratta. Free access; no bookings required. 

• Milawa Cheese Company & Brown Brothers Winery – Gourmet delights just 20 minutes (approx. 17 km) from Wangaratta. Bookings recommended for tastings and dining at Brown Brothers via their website. 

• Hidden Creatures Gallery (AR) & Merriwa Park – Augmented reality fun in Wangaratta. Free access; download the app for the AR experience. 

• Wangaratta Supa Bowl – End the day with family bowling fun. Located in Wangaratta. Bookings recommended for lanes, especially on weekends. 

• Family-Friendly Accommodation – Choose from caravan parks with cabins or motels across the municipality. Book early during school holidays via Visit Wangaratta or your preferred booking site.