Best Kid-Friendly Hotels in Melbourne
From exploring museums to catching a classic Aussie football game, there’s plenty to do in Melbourne for visitors of all ages. Known as Australia’s cultural capital, Melbourne is a wonderful family destination. But before you haul the tots and teens to Melbourne, there are a few things to keep in mind when booking a hotel; you’ll want a property with spacious guest rooms, amenities like a pool or restaurant, and central location. Take a look at our expert picks for the best kid-friendly hotels in Melbourne and start planning your getaway!
Novotel Melbourne on Collins
Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Novotel Melbourne is a family-friendly hotel -- with a nonetheless bland business atmosphere -- in the center of the city's most bustling shopping area. Guest units have large work desks and ergonomic chairs, but Wi-Fi comes at an extra fee. Updated room features include iPod docks and 40-inch flat-screens as well as splashy teal accents. Though too small for the hotel’s general number of guests, the indoor pool is a welcome addition.
Alto Hotel on Bourke
Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
The Alto Hotel is housed in a 19th-century building and offers 50 rooms and apartment-style units. Room decor is bland -- aside from black and white photographs on the walls. Beds were replaced in 2012 with pillow-top mattresses, white duvets and Florence Broadhurst patterned bed runners and throw pillows. The furniture is utilitarian -- but all are clean and feature flat-screen TVs with wireless capabilities, iPod docks, and free Wi-Fi. Plus, Studio Apartments have kitchenettes, while Apartments feature full kitchens. The hotel's real claim to fame is that it's the first carbon neutral hotel in Australia.
Radisson on Flagstaff Gardens
Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
The Radisson on Flagstaff Gardens is a simple, upscale hotel by a pretty public park in the northwestern corner of the Central Business District. Spacious rooms have understated modern decor and free Wi-Fi, but only Premium rooms and above come with French presses, iPod docks, and bathrobes. A well-regarded restaurant and decent fitness facilities add to the hotel's appeal. Its quiet location contributes to a peaceful atmosphere, although it is a bit removed from area attractions.
Stamford Plaza Melbourne
Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Located on one of central Melbourne's most colorful streets, the upscale Stamford Plaza offers apartment-style accommodations with some upmarket amenities and a smaller price tag than nearby luxury competitors. The hotel gets the basics right (there's a well-equipped fitness center and an indoor pool), but nondescript interior design and a disappointing restaurant may underwhelm those looking for a more memorable stay.
The Westin Melbourne
Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Right in the heart of Melbourne's Central Business District, The Westin Melbourne is a favorite among international business travelers and affluent couples looking for a stay on coveted Collins Street. Its big, comfortable interiors are packed with work by Australian artists, though the furnishings are showing wear. Guest units check a lot of five-star boxes with their bathrooms and multimedia amenities, but the corporate chain's decor lacks inspiration. Many rooms have city views, but noise from Collins Street may diminish the experience. The hotel's restaurant is pricey, while a fireside high tea in the lobby lounge is worth serious consideration.
