Family Activities in Preston
Parks, playgrounds and things to do with kids in Preston, Victoria
📍 preston · north
hey caddy
Hey Caddy at Northland Shopping Centre is Victoria’s first location of the mini golf experience, featuring an 18-hole course themed around destinations from around the world. The venue is family-friendly and affordable, with options for casual play, parties, and events, as well as a full bar and food menu for older guests.
📍 preston · north
billy lids playland
Billy Lids Playland in Preston’s HomeCo Northland is an indoor play centre featuring three levels of climbing structures, slides, a large interactive ball pit, and a fenced under-5s area with sensory play and a wide slide. The venue also offers a giant inflatable slide, café, seating, and two party rooms, making it ideal for family visits and celebrations.
📍 preston · north
lollipops playland and cafe
The new ocean-themed Lollipops Playland and Cafe in Preston is an indoor play paradise for all ages! Little ones can explore the under-3s zone with a walk-on piano, ball pit, slides, and netted climbing structures, while older kids tackle a massive jumping castle, two rock climbing walls, an adventure play area with air cannons, a ball pit, an obstacle course, and mega-fast racing slides. With so many options to entertain your tribe and a cafe serving coffee, babycinos, milkshakes, and tasty food like hot chips, nachos, and veggie burgers, Lollipops is a winning destination for fun and refreshments alike.
📍 preston · north
we rock the spectrum
We Rock The Spectrum in Preston is a celebration of inclusion, uniqueness, and community! This awesome centre offers something for all kids, regardless of ability, with a sensory wall, chalkboard station, mini gym equipment, flying fox, swings, climbing wall, and a Quiet Room with soothing sounds. There are dress-ups, board games, and therapy-designed equipment, all supported by caring staff. The centre provides affordable programs for neurological development and is a hub for therapists to work with their clients. Daily Open Play sessions, day passes, and even Parents Nights Out make it a must-visit for families seeking fun, support, and community!
📍 preston · north
hazelbark patisserie
Mamma’s latest secret hot spot is HazelBark, a family-owned patisserie that bakes small-batch, fresh pastries daily. From cinnamon scrolls and babka to fluffy donut clouds and heavenly croissants, these treats are some of the best Mamma’s ever tried! Savoury lovers will enjoy freshly baked pretzels, pizza, and loaded bagels (think creamy roast chicken and Philly cheese steak) from Friday to Sunday. It’s also a great spot for a mothers group catch-up, with plenty of seating and a cozy atmosphere. Keep an eye out for their market appearances to grab even more delicious pastries!
📍 preston · north
moon dog world
Moon Dog World in Preston is an incredible family-friendly destination that feels like a hidden oasis once you step through the doors. With a massive lagoon featuring a water fountain, a gated playground for kids, a sports bar, tiki bar, pinball alley, and even an upstairs patio with sweeping views, there's something for everyone. The menu offers a mix of pub classics, burgers, share plates, and a kids' menu, plus dietary options for all. The 72-tap bar (with Aperol Spritz on tap!) and on-site brewery, capable of brewing 10 million litres of beer a year, make it a perfect spot for food, drinks, and fun. Keep an eye on their socials for events like trivia nights and function bookings!
📍 preston · north
one friendship noodle
If you're after a cozy, family-friendly spot in Preston, One Friendship Noodle is a must-visit! Mamma loves this place for a casual date with Little Miss 9, and it’s always a hit with the whole family. The Chinese Broccoli with Oyster Sauce is a standout—perfectly cooked with that savory umami sauce that keeps you coming back. The Pan-Fried Pork Dumplings are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside—total family favorites. And don’t miss the Sumpling Noodle Soup with fresh, house-made noodles and a rich, flavorful broth.
📍 preston · north
yo way frozen yogurt
Mamma and the crew are loving the new Yo Way Frozen Yoghurt spot at Northland in Preston! It's the perfect place for a sweet treat, offering frozen yoghurt, acai, smoothies, and cones with a rotating yoghurt menu that has something for everyone. The process is simple and fun: grab a cup, choose your yoghurt, add toppings, and pay by weight. With so many flavours to choose from, Mamma and Little Miss 9 had a blast creating their custom cups with a mix of fruity and sweet chocolatey toppings. There’s a huge variety, so you'll want to try them all!
📍 preston · north
northside grocer
Northside Grocer in Preston is a lifesaver for busy families, offering home-cooked, ready-made meals, fresh locally made bread, and pantry essentials. Mamma recently found herself in a pinch and decided to try their Thursday night dinner special—Emma’s Beef Bourguignon. The dish featured tender braised beef in a rich red wine stew with pearl onions, mushrooms, and pancetta, paired with seasonal veggies and creamy potato gratin. It tasted just like a home-cooked meal, and the whole family loved it! Northside Grocer is a must-visit for anyone looking to make dinner time easier without compromising on quality.
📍 preston · north
bar mexico
Bar Mexico is a vibrant, new addition to the north that brings a burst of fiesta to family dining! With its colorful Mexican cantina vibe, this spot is as fun as it is delicious. The menu features all the Mexican favorites like tortillas, tacos, burrito bowls, quesadillas, and a standout—jalapeno poppers. Mamma and the crew had a blast with the Taco Feast, customizing tacos with slow-cooked pulled beef, adobo marinated chicken, melted cheese, corn, pico de gallo, sour cream, chipotle mayo, radish, and lime—pure taco heaven! And if you're looking for a fun night out without the kids, Bar Mexico’s bar menu, packed with cocktails and Mexican classics, is perfect for late-night feasting. Highly recommended for both family outings and grown-up nights!
📍 preston · north
gold leaf chinese restaurant
Yum Cha at Gold Leaf is an absolute treat, offering an authentic experience right above the Preston Market Arcade. The traditional Yum Cha trolleys come around with a variety of delicious small dishes like dumplings, buns, and fried rice—perfect for sharing! Mamma and the crew had a blast trying new items and sampling classic favourites. Little Miss 9 loved the variety of dumplings and buns, while Mamma was transported back to her childhood with the tasty fried rice. It's a fun, social meal that the whole family will enjoy!
📍 preston · north
lui.boss fried chicken
Lui. Boss in Preston is a hidden gem that’s definitely worth the visit! Known for its authentic Korean cuisine, this café serves up a wide range of mouthwatering dishes, from spicy Korean fried chicken to savory bulgogi and flavorful bibimbap. Little Miss 9 loved the Bulgogi Bap with prawn fried gyoza, which was perfectly cooked and full of delicious aromas. Mamma went for the LB Superfood salad, a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Whether you’re craving hearty stews, Korean tapas-style dishes, or a fresh salad, Lui. Boss offers a tasty and unforgettable experience!
📍 preston · north
jackson dodds
Jackson Dodds Café in Preston is a relaxed, family-friendly brunch spot, popular with local mother’s groups thanks to its convenient location across from the Maternal Health Centre. The menu has something for everyone, from simple sandwiches, burgers, and hotcakes to breakfast favourites like Mamma’s go-to scrambled eggs with whipped fetta, fried shallots, and pesto. There’s also a kid-friendly menu and colourful house-made macaroons for little ones. With indoor and outdoor seating, plenty of highchairs, and a ceiling full of whimsical details to entertain the kids, it’s perfect for families, though Mamma recommends booking ahead during busy periods. Outside, the tables are ideal for sunny days, and Little Miss 8 loved exploring the vibrant graffiti wall.
📍 preston · north
tavolata
There’s a new Italian hotspot in Preston—Tavolata! Perfect for a family dinner or a night out, the menu features freshly made pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and a variety of entrees to suit every taste. Little Miss 8 loved the gnocchi with Napoli sauce, while Mamma can’t get enough of the thin, crispy pizza. With options for everyone, Tavolata is a great choice for your next meal. While parking can be a bit tricky for early diners, there are spots a few streets away, making it worth the short walk for a delicious Italian experience.
📍 preston · north
betty's burgers
Mamma absolutely loves burgers, and Betty’s Burgers is right at the top of her list! Their juicy, mouth-watering burgers are a must-try, and the newest location at Northland Shopping Centre’s Entertainment Precinct makes it easy to visit. The menu features a variety of options, from thick or thin fries and onion rings to chicken tenders and, of course, delicious burgers, plus a separate kids’ menu with simple, tasty meals. There’s also an ice cream bar and shakes—Mamma recommends trying a Milo thickshake! With open indoor and outdoor seating, it’s perfect for prams, big groups, or simply soaking up a bit of sunshine.
📍 preston · north
sushi jiro
Mamma and her family love a fun sushi train experience, especially when little blue boats deliver the food, and Sushi Jiro in Preston doesn’t disappoint! The menu features classic favourites like nigiri, tuna rolls, and spring rolls, alongside unique options such as sushi tacos that add a playful twist to the meal. There are even kid-friendly choices like nuggets for picky eaters. While bookings aren’t required, weekends can get busy, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead for a smooth and enjoyable experience.
📍 preston · north
sweet hearts gelato
Three things you should know about ice cream: it takes 11 litres of full cream milk to make almost 4 litres of ice cream, the first ice cream was made over 500 years ago, and it always tastes as good as it looks! Sweet Hearts Gelato is NEW and opens this weekend in Preston, offering non-dairy, plant-based ice cream that’s turning heads. Mamma got a taste and was pleasantly surprised! The menu includes creamy alternatives and sorbets, with flavours like Panna Cotta Raspberry, Coconut Island, Mango Heart, Peanut Butter Jam, and more. Little Miss 8 chose Biscoff Cream Dream, while Mamma couldn’t resist taking home a tub of Bitter Chocolate and Lemon Love—delicious!
📍 preston · north
tonda italian
Tonda Italian in Preston is the ultimate family pizza spot—fresh, delicious ingredients, fab service, and a prime Northside location make it simply Bellissima! Quick service and tasty food make it perfect for families, with pizzas that kids love, plus authentic Italian dishes inspired by trattorias, including pasta, salads, starters, desserts, and a kids’ menu. The huge outdoor dining area gives the feel of dining in an Italian piazza, making it ideal for catching up with family and friends. Weekend bookings are essential—make sure you book early and tell them Mamma sent you!
📍 preston · north
blu on bell
Blu on Bell in Preston is the exciting new sibling to Mamma’s favourite fish and chip spot in Coburg North! Voted one of Melbourne’s top 10 Fish n’ Chip shops, they serve sustainable seafood alongside classics like burgers, dim sims, potato cakes, and fries. Mamma loves the grilled fish with chips and pumpkin quinoa salad, while Little Miss 8 always picks the kid’s meal with calamari, fish bites, potato cake, and chips. Fully licensed with indoor and outdoor seating, Blu on Bell has plenty of space for prams and large groups, making it perfect for family dining—though weekends can get busy, so bookings are recommended.
📍 preston · north
tallboy and moose brewpub
This spacious, family-friendly brewpub in Preston offers a wide selection of beers, tasting paddles, and a simple menu with kid-friendly options including poutine. Indoor seating, a dog-friendly courtyard, and games and colouring for kids make it a great spot for a relaxed afternoon with family and friends.
📍 preston · north
el jannah charcoal chicken
El Jannah Charcoal Chicken has opened its first Melbourne location in Preston, offering indoor and terrace seating plus a drive-thru. Enjoy charcoal chicken in various sizes, fried chicken, wings, garlic sauce, hot chips, and fresh Lebanese sides, with smaller portions for kids. Perfect for a family meal or a quick takeaway.
📍 preston · north
tyler's milkbar
Tyler’s Milkbar in Preston is a retro-style corner store serving fresh baked treats, milkshakes, spiders, and coffee for the whole family. They focus on sustainability, encouraging BYO containers, and support local producers with items like freshly baked sourdough, muffins, and specialty coffee. Perfect for a takeaway snack or quick bite while exploring the area.
📍 preston · north
oliva social
Oliva Social is a family-friendly Italian eatery serving home-style dishes from pizza to pasta, including Italian sausage rolls and crispy parmesan fries. The licensed venue features a lively, community-focused atmosphere with live music on weekends, a foosball table, and two levels for dining. It’s perfect for groups, private events, or casual meals, and Preston Market is just a short drive away.
📍 preston · north
moon rabbit
Moon Rabbit is a family-friendly cafe run by a social enterprise supporting adults with extra needs. The space features multiple seating areas, a sunny dog-friendly courtyard, and an undercover play area with toys, books, and activities for kids. The cafe focuses on sustainability with washable crockery, composting, and zero-waste practices, and serves coffee alongside creative jaffles and snacks.
📍 preston · north
the elixir
The Elixir Café in Preston offers breakfast favourites, burgers, and coffee in a warm, family-friendly setting. With highchairs, colouring books for kids, and friendly staff, it’s a welcoming spot for a quick bite or takeaway near J.S Grey Park.
📍 preston · north
noi pizzeria
Noi Pizzeria in Preston serves authentic Italian dishes, perfect for takeaway or a family dinner. The restaurant is pram- and highchair-friendly, with space for larger groups, and offers treats like the Nutella calzone for dessert.
📍 preston · north
pausa pranzo
Pausa Pranzo in Preston offers fresh Italian paninis, gourmet salads, and sweet tortes, perfect for a quick grab-and-go lunch. There’s a small outdoor seating area, and they also provide catering for events.
Events in this area
Songs of Connection—Cultural Diversity Week Celebration
📍 Preston Library
📍 PrestonFREE