Welcome to Williamstown, a seaside suburb just outside Melbourne with a charming village feel.

Want to sail on a tall ship, stroll through lush botanical gardens, or go on a ghostly night tour? This historic suburb has something fun for every family member.

Check out our list of the best things to do in Williamstown with kids for an unforgettable family adventure.

Williamstown Events

1. The Makers & Shakers Market

Celebrate local craftsmanship at the Makers & Shakers Market on November 9-10, 2024, in Williamstown. Featuring 110 stalls of exclusively Australian-made products, the market offers an exciting experience with workshops, food tastings, and entertainment. Admission is $5 per adult, with free entry for children under 12. 

Sat, 9 Nov 2024 – Sun 10 Nov 2024, 10:00 AM – 4:00PM

Coming up:

• Williamstown Highland Celtic Festival – Sat 26 October 2024

What To Do In Williamstown with Kids – Family-friendly itinerary

2. Arrive in style at the heart of Williamstown

If you’re visiting Williamstown, there are many ways to get there. Why not try something different and arrive by boat?

Melbourne River Cruises’ ferry service runs from Southgate in Melbourne CBD to Gem Pier. This scenic trip takes about an hour and offers stunning views of the harbour and city skyline.

Coming from Port Melbourne’s Beacon Cove or St Kilda Pier? St Kilda Ferry can take you straight to Williamstown.

The Westgate Punt runs between Westgate Landing in Port Melbourne and the Scienceworks jetty in Spotswood. You can bring bikes on the punt, then enjoy a leisurely cycle along the water to Williamstown.

The is a ferry service that runs between Westgate Landing in Port Melbourne to the Scienceworks jetty in Spotswood. You can take bikes on the punt, so once you land in Spotswood just take a leisurely cycle down to Williamstown along the water. 

Prefer the train? Williamstown Station and Williamstown Beach Station are both about a 10-minute walk to the heart of the town centre.

If you are driving, paid and free timed street parking is available on nearby streets.

3. Best Playgrounds in Williamstown

Now that you’ve worked up an appetite, head to the playgrounds at Commonwealth Reserve, on the foreshore adjacent to Gem Pier.

The elegant park is formed with formal avenues of elms and provides great views across a row of yacht masts to Melbourne.

There’s a cute playground near the tennis courts, a rotunda that often hosts music and other activities and the Williamstown Craft Market is held on the third Sunday of every month. 

There are also playgrounds dotted along The Strand, so you can park-hop with water views!

Commonwealth Reserve, 181A Nelson Pl, Williamstown VIC 3016, +61 399321000

Williamstown Craft Market, 181a Nelson Pl, Williamstown VIC 3016, +61 402811756

4. Look inside a rare ship museum: HMAS Castlemaine

Every visited a floating museum? The HMAS Castlemaine is permanently docked at Gem Pier and open to the public on weekends and public holidays.

This minesweeper, launched in 1941, served in New Guinea and Northern Australia during WWII. Now a Heritage Honour Ship, once you step aboard you can explore a fascinating collection of nautical exhibits and memorabilia.

HMAS Castlemaine, Gem Pier, Syme St, Williamstown VIC 3016, +61 393972363

5. Explore the Seaworks Maritime Precinct

Continuing with the maritime theme, the Seaworks Maritime Precinct in Williamstown is a hub for naval history and marine exploration.

The Seaworks Maritime Museum showcases artifacts, models, and bells that tell Melbourne’s maritime story. There’s also a library of maritime books and a collection of ship photographs.

The venue and waterfront area host a variety of family-friendly events, including outdoor cinema, music festivals, makers markets, and a Winter Solstice Festival.

Seaworks Maritime Precinct, 82/82 Nelson Pl, Williamstown VIC 3016, +61 417292021

6. Take off with Melbourne Seaplanes

Taking off from Gem Pier in Williamstown, Melbourne Seaplanes flights offer a thrilling adventure as you soar above the city, coastline, and surrounding areas.

We recommend the 20-minute Circuit Flights for families. This flight takes you across the bay to Port Melbourne, then past Albert Park, St Kilda, the iconic Luna Park, Elwood Beach, and back to Williamstown.

Kids of any age can join the seaplane flights, and children 7-12 years old get to fly for half price.

You can relive your Melbourne seaplane memories with “Seymour the Seaplane,” a children’s picture book featuring Melbourne landmarks, created by the co-owner of Melbourne Seaplanes.

Melbourne Seaplanes, 126 Syme St, Williamstown VIC 3016, +61 393975388

7. Sail on the Tall Ship Enterprize

Play pirates in Williamstown! All board the Enterprize, Melbourne’s replica tall ship, which docks into Gem Pier on certain weekends.

The Enterprize offers a unique way to experience the challenges and adventures of Victorian sea explorers, making history come alive.

Kids can help raise the sails, learn about navigation, or simply enjoy the ride along Melbourne’s scenic waterways.

Melbourne Tall Ship Enterprize, 2 N Wharf Rd, Melbourne VIC 3008, +61 396211294

8. Build sandcastles at Williamstown Beach

Williamstown Beach offers a quick seaside escape just a short trip from Melbourne CBD.

With its broad sands and calm waters, it’s perfect for families to relax, paddle, and build sandcastles. Active kids will love playing at the small Sadler Reserve and Hatt Reserve playgrounds nearby.

9. Explore marine life at Jawbone Flora & Fauna Reserve

West of Williamstown Beach is Jawbone Flora & Fauna Reserve, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and families looking to explore the great outdoors.

The reserve offers rich biodiversity, including native plants and birds, set against the backdrop of scenic marine sanctuaries.

Walk the trails, use the bird hides for spotting local species, go snorkelling and learn about environmental conservation.

Jawbone Flora & Fauna Reserve, 29 Sandpiper Pl, Williamstown VIC 3016, +61 131963

10. Enjoy the Autumn colours in Williamstown Botanic Gardens

On the other side of Williamstown Beach is the tranquil world of the Williamstown Botanic Gardens.

Established in the 1800s, these gardens offer a peaceful retreat with lush greenery, ornamental ponds, and winding paths.

Families can enjoy educational walks with signs that provide insights into the plant species and garden design. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic under the shade of historic trees.

Read our Williamstown Botanic Gardens review.

Williamstown Botanic Gardens, Giffard St &, Osborne St, Williamstown VIC 3016, +61 3 9932 1000

11. Ride or walk the Hobsons Bay Coastal Trail

Winding along the coastline, the trail is rich in natural beauty and historical significance. It passes through Point Gellibrand Coastal Heritage Park and landmarks like the Timeball Tower and Point Gellibrand.

Signage along the route provides interesting facts and stories, making the walk both fun and educational.

The trail is stroller-friendly and suitable for all ages, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for the entire family.

Hobsons Bay Coastal Trail, Esplanade, Altona VIC 3018

Point Gellibrand Coastal Heritage Park, Battery Rd, Williamstown VIC 3016, +61 131963

12. Get spooky with Lantern Ghost Tours

If you’re in Williamstown at night, Lantern Ghost Tours is the way to experience the spookier side of one of Melbourne’s oldest suburbs.

This tour takes families through historic and possibly haunted spots in Williamstown, mixing local lore with ghostly tales.

Suitable for families with older children, the tour introduces Williamstown’s ghostly past and highlights the town’s historical significance. It’s a perfect blend of fear and fun that will captivate both kids and adults.

Lantern Ghost Tours, 12/16 Parker St, Williamstown VIC 3016, +61 1300390119

13. Climb the walls at Clip ‘n’ Climb Williamstown

Clip ‘n Climb Williamstown offers over 30 climbing challenges that cater to all ages and skill levels. From colorful walls to interactive climbs, every aspect of the venue is designed with both fun and fitness in mind.

Read our Clip n Climb Williamstown review.

Clip n Climb Williamstown, Warehouse 2, 134 Maddox Road, North Williamstown 3016 Victoria, (03) 9448 8642

14. Indoor Play at Tumbles Playhouse

Tumbles Playhouse offers an impressive three-story play structure complete with tunnels, slides, a Burmese bridge, a ball pit, a double astro slide and inflatable castles!

For the littlest adventurers, a dedicated zone with gentler play options keeps the fun safe and accessible. 

Read our Tumbles Williamstown review.

Tumbles Playhouse, 1/197 Champion Rd, Williamstown North VIC 3016, +61 393970811

Best Cafes, Restaurants + Pubs in Williamstown with Kids

15. Nelson Place and The Strand

You’ll discover most of the cafes, restaurants and pubs in Williamstown are located along charming Nelson Place and The Strand, where historic buildings now house quaint eateries and shops. 

We recommend the coffee at Hug a Mug Cafe and the fluffy pancakes at Tick Tok Cafe!

If you’re in Nelson Place at lunch or dinner time, then there are many waterfront dining options that provide delicious meals and stunning views of the city across the water. 

Some of our favourites include Customs House Hotel, Pirates Tavern (check opening hours before making plans) and the uniquely decorated Titanic on Nelson. All of them offer kids menus, high chairs and pram access. 

And for dessert, leave room for deliciously sticky Greek doughnuts from Lukumades! 

Carter Smith Devlin & Co, 3016/215 Nelson Pl, Williamstown VIC 3016, +61 393973907

Tick Tok Cafe, 181 Nelson Pl, Williamstown VIC 3016, +61 393975152

Customs House Hotel, 161 Nelson Pl, Williamstown VIC 3016, +61 393978888

Pirates Tavern, Rear of/82 Nelson Pl, Williamstown VIC 3016, +61 403702734

Titanic on Nelson, 1 Nelson Pl, Williamstown VIC 3016, +61 391930778

Lukumades, 177 Nelson Pl, Williamstown VIC 3016, +61 391003597

16. Gem Pier Seafoods

If you’re in Williamstown on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday, then don’t miss the best lobster rolls in Melbourne! Gem Pier Seafood docks at Gem Pier every weekend with a selection of fresh seafood, including mussels, prawns, oysters, scallops and freshly cooked crayfish. 

Gem Pier Seafood, 1 Syme St, Williamstown VIC 3016, +61 435200157

17. Williamstown Beach

If you need a bite to eat while you’re at the beach, head to The Kiosk d’Asporto for beach snacks that are a cut above the average, brought to you by the family behind the popular Pizza d’Asporto in Williamstown North.

Enjoy French-inspired cafe fare at Fifi’s by the Beach or soak up the sun with a relaxed meal on the deck of Sebastian Beach Grill while the kids play in the sand.

The Kiosk d’Asporto, 99 Esplanade, Williamstown VIC 3016, +61 3 9397 6839

Fifi’s by the Beach, 81 Esplanade, Williamstown VIC 3016, +61 404 157 571

Sebastian Beach Grill, 26 Esplanade, Williamstown VIC 3016, +61 3 9088 8989

18. Other Williamstown locations

If you’re not close to the waterfront, other Williamstown eateries we like include Zan Zanz fantastic range of gourmet paninis and bowls (they have an indoor kid’s play area with a chalkboard and even a small jumping castle set up on Saturdays).

3 Grains Roman Artisan Pizza offers a deliciously unique twist on traditional pizza with a menu built around three organic stone-ground grains—soft wheat, spelt, and rye.

The Hobson’s Bay Hotel offers elevated pub dining along with breathtaking views of Williamstown from its rooftop. It caters for their little ones with a small kids menu, high chairs and pram access on the ground floor.

Zan Zanz 2/110 Maddox Rd, Williamstown North, +61 404926926

3 Grains Pizza, 68 Stevedore St, Williamstown VIC 3016, +61 393976601

Hobson’s Bay Hotel, 28 Ferguson St, Williamstown VIC 3016, +61 391168695

Best Shops in Williamstown for Kids

19. Book and Paper

Book and Paper is a charming local bookstore with a carefully curated selection of books for all ages, from the latest bestsellers to timeless classics.

Whether you’re a voracious reader eager for your next great read or searching for the perfect gift, Book and Paper offers a shopping experience that celebrates the joy of books.

Book and Paper, 36 Douglas Parade, Williamstown VIC 3016, +61 393977784

20. Enchanted Years

This independent children’s boutique offers a delightful selection of kids’ toys, clothes, and room decor.

Specializing in high-quality items from beloved brands like Playmobil, Schleich, and Rock Your Baby, the store creates a magical shopping experience for both kids and parents.

Enchanted Years, 23 Ferguson St, Williamstown VIC 3016, +61 393971154

Visit Hobsons Bay Visitors Centre

Need more ideas for your visit to Williamstown? Visit the friendly staff at Hobsons Bay Visitor Information Centre who can provide local insights and tips. 

Hobsons Bay Visitor Information Centre, 1 Syme St, Williamstown VIC 3016,+61 399323016

This article was published in partnership with Hobsons Bay City Council

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