Plan a visit with older kids

Begin your visit at 600 Million Years. Here you will explore the origin of life in Victoria through fossils, animatronics and interactives. From the creation of mountains to the evolution of whales, experience the world in geological time (but much faster!).

Passing between displays lined with beetles and butterflies and the occasional pile of dung (yes, really!), enter the Quarantine Room to check-out a collection of confiscated Tarantulas. If you’re not squeamish about arachnids, take a look at your ‘housemates’ – spiders that commonly inhabit Melbourne’s homes and backyards.

Continue on to Triceratops: Fate of the Dinosaurs. Make your way through the virtual forests of the Late Cretaceous to see the huge skeleton of Horridus the Triceratops, the most complete real dinosaur in Australia. Then look out for falling asteroids as you head upstairs for a surprising look at some modern-day dinosaurs – the birds!

Head to Gondwana Garden, a chance to get outside and experience the animals and plants of Victoria’s past. Look out for the posters and scan the QR code to play an interactive game on your phone or tablet. As the garden’s newest groundskeeper, you’ll get active exploring the length of the garden. But, be warned! You’ll need a keen eye to solve all the puzzles!

If you’re enjoying your time outdoors, continue on to the Forest Gallery, a living forest in the heart of Melbourne Museum. This is a chance to slow down, listen and look. There’s a Tawny Frogmouth up in the trees.

Can you spot turtles or skinks?

What else can you find?

Next stop is First Peoples, an exhibition celebrating the history, cultures, achievements and survival of the First People of southeastern Australia. Hear the distinct languages of Victoria then enter the nest of Bunjil the Creator to hear how he sang the Country, Law and Peoples of the eastern Kulin Nations into being.