The Ultimate Guide to Adelaide's Best Dance & Drama Classes for Confident Kids

6 Melbourne Cafes with Playgrounds So Good, You’ll Actually Finish Your Coffee

作者: MyLittleRewards Team

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阅读时间 5 min

Tired of sculling your latte while juggling a toddler? We hear you. Finding a cafe that welcomes the beautiful chaos of family life isn't just a nicety - it's a necessity. Imagine a place where your kids can climb, slide, and explore in a safe, designated space, while you sip a genuinely hot coffee, catch your breath, and maybe even have an adult conversation.


Good news, Melbourne mums - these magical places exist! We've found the city's best family-friendly cafes, where amazing play areas meet delicious food and a truly relaxed vibe. Say goodbye to stressful outings and hello to your new favourite local.

1. Farm Café at Collingwood Children's Farm

Farm Café at Collingwood Children

Escape the city bustle without leaving town. Tucked away at the Collingwood Children's Farm, the Farm Café offers a rustic, wholesome experience. After a delicious meal made with fresh, local ingredients, your little ones can meet friendly farm animals, run around the green paddocks, and explore the gorgeous grounds. It's more than a coffee; it's a full-day adventure.


Why You’ll Love It: The open space is incredible. Kids aren't confined to a small corner; they have an entire farm to discover. The menu is wholesome and caters to little taste buds, and the atmosphere is wonderfully laid-back.


  • Location: 18 St Heliers St, Abbotsford VIC 3067
  • Dates: Open daily.
  • Ticket Information: Entry to the cafe is free, but standard admission fees apply to enter the Collingwood Children's Farm.
  • Family Tips: Pack some gumboots on wet days as it can get muddy. The farm is very pram-friendly, and it's worth buying a bag of feed so the kids can get up close with the goats and sheep.

2. The Stables of Como

The Stables of Como

Set against the stunning backdrop of Como House and Gardens, this cafe is a slice of elegance that's surprisingly kid-friendly. The Stables of Como offers a sophisticated menu for adults, a great kids' menu, and plenty of space for little legs to run on the sprawling lawns. They also provide adorable picnic setups.


Why You’ll Love It: It feels like a special treat for you, but it’s still completely geared for kids. The outdoor space is perfect for a game of chasey, and the historic gardens are beautiful to explore after your meal.


  • Location: Como House and Garden, Cnr Williams Road & Lechlade Ave, South Yarra VIC 3141
  • Dates: Open daily.
  • Ticket Information: Free entry to the cafe and gardens.
  • Family Tips: Bookings are highly recommended, especially on weekends. Ask for a table with a good view of the lawns so you can supervise from your seat. Check their website for school holiday programs and special events.

3. Cubbyhouse Canteen

Cubbyhouse Canteen

This charming weatherboard cafe is located right next to the Armadale Reserve playground, making it a local parent's dream. Cubbyhouse Canteen serves up wholesome, nostalgic food with a modern twist. You can grab a coffee and a delicious bite, then head straight to the playground for some serious fun.


Why You’ll Love It: The proximity to the playground is unbeatable. The cafe has a wonderfully relaxed, community feel, and the menu is full of comforting classics that both you and the kids will enjoy.


  • Location: 43A Union St, Armadale VIC 3143
  • Dates: Open daily.
  • Ticket Information: Free to enter the cafe and playground.
  • Family Tips: It's a popular spot, so it can get busy during peak times. Their takeaway options are fantastic if you prefer to have a picnic right in the park.

4. Mister Fox

Mister Fox

Nestled within the beautiful grounds of the Ringwood Golf Course, Mister Fox offers stunning views and a fantastic, modern play space. The fenced-in playground is visible from the outdoor deck, allowing parents to relax while the kids burn off energy. The menu is contemporary and fresh, with plenty of options for everyone.


Why You’ll Love It: The playground is brilliant - it’s safe, modern, and engaging. The scenic setting makes it feel like a mini-getaway, and the quality of the food and coffee is consistently excellent.


  • Location: 320-330 Websters Road, Templestowe VIC 3106 (Note: this is the Templestowe location with the playground).
  • Dates: Open daily.
  • Ticket Information: Free entry.
  • Family Tips: Book ahead for a spot on the deck to get the best view of the playground. The cafe is spacious and can easily accommodate prams and larger family groups.

5. Naughtons Parkville Hotel

Naughtons Parkville Hotel

A pub with a playground? Yes, please! Naughtons has been a local favourite for years, and for good reason. It boasts a classic pub menu with elevated dishes, a fantastic beer garden, and a dedicated kids' play area. It strikes the perfect balance between a relaxed family meal and a proper pub experience.


Why You’ll Love It: It’s a great option for a relaxed weekend lunch or early dinner. The play area keeps the kids entertained, the atmosphere is lively and friendly, and you can enjoy a craft beer or a glass of wine with your meal.


  • Location: 43 Royal Parade, Parkville VIC 3052
  • Dates: Open daily.
  • Ticket Information: Free entry.
  • Family Tips: The courtyard next to the play area is the best spot to sit. Bookings are essential, particularly for Sunday lunch. Check out their kids' menu for simple, crowd-pleasing options.

6. The Little Village Play Cafe

The Little Village Play Cafe

This spot in Croydon is designed from the ground up with little ones in mind. The Little Village is more than a cafe; it’s an imaginative play wonderland. Featuring a miniature town where kids can be vets, grocers, or firefighters, it’s built for creative fun. Parents can watch on from the comfort of the cafe area.


Why You’ll Love It: It’s a safe, contained, and incredibly stimulating environment specifically for younger children (ideal for ages 1-7). You pay for a play session, which means it never gets too overcrowded.


  • Location: 2/33-35 The Mall, Croydon South VIC 3136
  • Dates: Open Tuesday - Saturday for play sessions.
  • Ticket Information: Paid play sessions must be booked in advance online. Adults and non-walking babies are free.
  • Family Tips: Remember to bring socks for everyone (adults and kids) as it’s a shoes-off space. Book your session online beforehand to avoid disappointment as walk-ins are limited.

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Written by the MyLitttleRewards Team


We’re the MyLittleRewards Editorial Team - a bunch of everyday people (many of us parents too) who love sharing ideas to make family life feel a little lighter.


Our goal is to share practical tips and small joys to help make your days easier, with inspiration you can actually use.

Thanks for letting us be part of your day x


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