Theme parks in Melbourne, the epicenter of entertainment in Australia, offer a variety of experiences, from thrill rides to circus events, which guarantee an enjoyable visit for guests of all ages. Convenient locations, easy accessibility, and Melbourne's typically beautiful weather combine to make these parks a favorite of locals and visitors, alike. As part of a Huffington Post Travel series on family-fun parks, here is our guide to all the key information visitors need to know about Melbourne parks.
Luna Park
Features
Melbourne's
has been bringing joy to Australians and visitors for almost 100 years. It offers rides steeped in history, like the
and
, as well as modern thrill rides such as the
and
. With some of the rides offering stunning views of St. Kilda's waterfront, this park has something for everyone.
Signature Ride
, the oldest continually operating roller coaster in the world, is one of only nine of its kind in the world still in operation. It provides heart-stopping drops and turns and gives riders a look at some of the most stunning views of Port Phillip Bay that St. Kilda has to offer.
More Attractions
was designed with the entire family in mind. From stomach-churning thrill rides like the
and the
, to fun family rides like the beloved and visually stunning
and giggle-inducing kiddie rides like the
, the park offers rides for every age and interest, along with carnival games and seasonal attractions that round out the park's offerings.
Grub
Visitors at the park can enjoy sit-down options, as well as food on the go and fare ranging from traditional amusement park food to healthy alternatives. The park is in the process of updating its menu, and will soon have even more tasty options for park guests who have worked up an appetite.
Price
Unlimited ride wristbands for teens and adults 13 and over, $41.95; ages 4 to 12, $31.95; ages 3 and under, $14.95. Family passes are also available. See
for details.
Safety Record
Reported accidents involving injuries at Luna Park are uncommon, but as with any theme park, they do occur. According to
, in 2008, riders were suspended almost 50 feet above the ground for more than two hours when a carriage on the
broke and stuck in the track. Riders were shaken, but mostly unharmed.
Address: 18 Lower Esplanade, St Kilda, VIC 3182, AustraliaTelephone: 03 9525 5033Hours of Operation Park hours vary. Typically, the park opens at 11 a.m. and closes anywhere from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. Call the park regarding operating hours for a specific date, or consult the park's website.
Wonderland Fun Park
Wonderland Fun Park presents the Mystique Illusion Spectacular.
Attractions
is conveniently located at Harbour Town Shopping Centre, next to Costco and the Giant Observation Wheel. It offers a variety of family-friendly rides for the littlest guests to fun-seeking adults, as well as an ever-changing lineup of events, such as the
.
Signature Ride
roller coaster is a family-oriented roller coaster that offers thrills that are sized right for smaller guests, as well as grown-up park visitors. According to the park's website, this new ride has been receiving rave reviews, and it has become a first-stop ride with many park guests.
More Attractions
Wonderland Fun Park offers a nice variety of rides for guests of every age, such as family favorites like the Dodgem Cars, Giant Slide, the Grand Carousel, Jurassic Adventure and the wildly popular Bungee Trampoline, as well as an always-changing lineup of events. Check the park's
for current attractions.
Grub
Located in the vibrant Harbour Town Shopping Center, Wonderland Fun Park relies on the center for its visitors' food needs. Restaurants in the area include light food court fare and sit-down dining.
Price
Entry to the park is free, but all rides in the park require multiple coupons. They are $2 each, but can be purchased in packs of 10 for $18, or 20 coupons for $35. The unlimited ride wristband costs $29.50 and allows visitors to enjoy the basic rides all day, and includes one jump on the Bungee Trampoline.
Safety Record
Our research revealed no notable news reports of accidents or safety issues at Wonderland Fun Park.
Address: 120 Pearl River Road, Docklands, VIC 3008, AustraliaTelephone: 03 9602 1311Hours of Operation The park is open weekends, public holidays and school holidays from 11 a.m. Call the park for closing times.
Other Noteworthy Parks
What's your favorite amusement park in Melbourne?
Check out more AMUSEMENT PARKS.
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