1. The Dandenong Ranges

The Dangenong Ranges and surrounding Yarra Valley is a MUST do road trip with so many family-friendly options. 

The famous Puffing Billy Steam Railway operates 7 days a week is a wonderful opportunity to relax and breathe in the fresh air whilst the train makes its way through the temperate rainforest. (Note, Puffing Billy is currently closed due to COVID, we hope to see it open very soon). 

Alongside the Puffing Billy, soar through the treetops of the Dandenongs on an array of flying foxes, tight ropes and tunnels at Trees Adventure. It has some incredible ropes and obstacle courses, perfect for thrill-seekers (suitable for 4 years+). 

Nearby is Healesville Sanctuary where you can visit the koalas, kangaroos and your other favourite native animals. 

2. Phillip Island

Phillip Island is famous for its penguins and motorsports and has plenty to offer families who want a varied, exciting escape from the hustle and bustle. Get a dose of history at Churchill Family Farm. Feel warm and fuzzy at Koala Conservation Centre. Or you can test out your cast and hook at Rhyll Trout Fishing Farm, before a sugar hit at the local Chocolate Factory and a few rounds on the go-karts at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.

Of course, a special dusk tour on the sand will introduce you to the famous Penguin Parade. Otherwise, the view from Nobbies will show off the resident seal colony. Whale-watching charters are also popular.

There is lots of accommodation suited to all budgets here too. 

3. The Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is one of the most famous road trips from Melbourne. 

Visit the famous 12 Apostles, the Great Otway National Park, Port Campbell National Park, the famous surfing spot,  Bells Beach, or any of the gorgeous waterfalls, lakes and rivers surrounding this beautiful part of Victoria. 

Lorne has some great accommodation options and is a great central location to base yourself when driving the Great Ocean Road. 

4. The Mornington Peninsula

The lighthouses, rugged cliffs and national park of the Mornington Peninsula makes it one of the best road trips from Melbourne. Visit the picturesque Cape Schanck lighthouse and Fort Nepean, an 18th century stronghold with stories to tell from both WWI and WWII. Arthur’s Seat Eagle (currently closed due to Covid) is a series of gondolas that carries passengers between Dromana and Arthur's Seat, passing over the beautiful Arthur's Seat State Park.  

You can also try out one of the many local mazes. 

There is so much accommodation available in the beachside towns including Sorrento, Portsea and Rye. 

5. Ballarat

Only 90 minutes from Melbourne, this is a great weekend road trip.

Step back into an 1850’s gold-rush village at Sovereign Hill (NOW OPEN). Delve deep into an underground mine and then see if you strike it lucky panning for gold in the river. (Ticket also includes entry to Ballarat’s Gold Museum).

Sovereign Hill also has its own accommodation with various options available according to your budget. 

You can also visit the Eureka Centre which was built on the very site of the 1854 Eureka Stockade rebellion or see the medieval-style Kryal Castle. Challenge yourself in the maze, learn archery, watch pantomimes and cheer at jousting contests.

The Ballarat Botanic Gardens, the adjacent Lake Wendouree precinct and family-owned Ballarat Wildlife Park are all beautiful sights. 

Livvi’s Place is an inclusive playground in Victoria Park designed to suit all abilities and includes a flying fox swings and slides. 

With these great five options, you are sure to get through this tough, travel restricted time by only taking a short drive. We wish you safe and "Kooshy" travels.

Be sure to check out our Road Trip resources to help with the car trip x