If you’re seeking a gentle, low-cost day out that weaves together nature, culture and child-friendly delight, Abbotsford Convent is the perfect destination to explore these April school holidays.
Just 4km from the CBD, the Convent is nestled on the banks of the Birrarung and packed with things to see, do and explore. It’s free to enter, and open to the public 365 days a year, including over the Easter break!
Here’s how to make a day of it:
1. Picnic on the Heritage Lawn
Roll out a blanket, claim a patch of green and settle in. Grab a flaky pastry or something sweet from Convent Bakery and let the kids roam while you soak up the calm.
2. Step into a Sea of Light
The dreamy Sea of Light by Patch Theatre and Convent Kids transforms the Oratory into an interactive, glowing wonderland. Expect immersive installations designed especially for children (but equally mesmerising for adults).
3. Discover Brad Gunn’s surreal sculptures at St Helier’s Street Gallery
Wander through We Come In Pieces, a new exhibition by Brad Gunn filled with strange, playful and alien-like works that feel like they’ve stepped out of another world.
4. Browse for treasures at Dragonfly Toys
Pop into Dragonfly Toys for a curated mix of whimsical, creative and high-quality educational toys. It’s the kind of place where you’ll find something you didn’t know you were looking for.
5. Storytime with local literary legends
The Convent is home to some of Australia’s most beloved children’s illustrators and authors. Pick up a book by Cat Rabbit, Tony Wilson, Sophie Cunningham or Anna Walker and carve out a quiet moment for a read under the trees.
6. Discover stories that shaped the nation at Her Place
New to the Convent, Her Place Women’s Museum Australia makes for an educational addition to your school holiday explorations. Now based inside the Convent building, this not-for-profit museum is dedicated to celebrating the stories and achievements of Australian women.
7. Book a kid-friendly art + clay class
Big Bite ceramics studio at the Abbotsford Convent is running a series of creative workshops for kids during the school holidays. They’re designed as relaxed, hands-on sessions where kids can explore art and clay in a fun, welcoming environment.
8. Scroll and stroll with a self-guided tour
Treat the kids to one of Cam’s iconic coffee scrolls and take a stroll around the precinct. The Convent’s self-guided tour allows you to explore at your own pace. Download a map and uncover the stories in every corner.
9. Marvel at the Holy Grail of plants
Take a peak inside The Holy Grail (open weekends), which is packed with rare and exotic plants, then pick up a coffee at Cam’s Kiosk, which is directly opposite.
10. Pat a sheep next door
Right next door, Collingwood Children’s Farm offers hands-on farmyard fun. It’s a perfect bookend to your visit to the Convent.
11. Walk the Cork Oak path to the Yarra
Stroll beneath the striking cork oak trees and follow a 160-year-old path down to the river’s edge. The Cork Oak Path was uncovered and restored in recent years, connecting Yarra/Birrarung river to the Convent.
12. Hit the tennis courts
Yes, there are free tennis courts onsite! Bring a racquet, have a hit, and burn off some of that school holiday energy.
Whether you’re planning a full day out or just a relaxed few hours, Abbotsford Convent makes it easy to mix culture, nature and play, without leaving the city.
Published 2 April 2026.