Melbourne is full of some wonderfully nostalgic train rides for you to try. And if you’re looking for a massive amount of fun on a smaller scale, why don’t you visit some adorable miniature railways? These scaled-down experiences are perfect for all ages, and are carefully maintained by passionate volunteers. If you’re looking for things to do with your kids, add a ride on a tiny train to your next afternoon adventure. These miniature railways around Melbourne will take you through parks, under bridges and even near some dinosaurs! Hop aboard for a delightful trip to these marvellous miniatures.
1. Diamond Valley Railway
Head to Eltham Lower Park and have a fun time on the Diamond Valley Railway. Located near the butterfly playground, this miniature railway will take you on an adventure through natural bushland. Hop on the steam train from one of three platforms on the main station, and enjoy a two kilometre journey through tunnels, over bridges and more. Tickets are $5 per person, and children under two can ride for free. This family-friendly experience takes place every Sunday from 11am to 5pm. It also runs on select public holidays. Learn more here.
📍Eltham Lower Park, 570 Main Rd, Eltham VIC 3095
2. Altona Miniature Railway
For miniature railways in the west of Melbourne, head to the Altona Miniature Railway. Go for a mini ride on scaled steam and diesel engines on a 1.5 km length track. Wave as you pass the other trains, journey through tunnels and more in this charming experience. After your ride, relax with a picnic on one of the nearby tables. This mini train experience is open on the 3rd Sunday of the month, between 10am and 3pm. Tickets are $4 per person. See more here.
📍1-21 Blenheim Rd, Altona North VIC 3025
3. Box Hill Miniature Steam Railway
For over 30 years, the Box Hill Miniature Steam Railway has delighted visitors in the eastern suburbs. You’ll find a whole variety of miniature locomotives, with steam, diesel and electric trains available to ride. The dual-gauge 1.2km track will take you through the picturesque Elgar Park. Travel over and under bridges, past level crosses and near beautiful garden beds. Along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife, like frogs, tawny frog-mouths, possums and rainbow lorikeets. In the park, you’ll also find picnic tables and a playground. There’s also usually a food van, serving up hot food, tea and coffee. Tickets are $5, and free for children under the age of two. The railway is open on the 3rd Sunday of the month, or the 2nd Sunday in December, between 11am and 4pm. Learn more here.
📍521 Bellmore Rd, Mont Albert North VIC 3129
4. Mooroolbark Miniature Railway
Head to Kiloran Reserve and ride the trains at Mooroolbark Miniature Railway. The track will take you around the leafy park and under a footbridge, where you can wave to passers-by. Rides are only $3 each, and free for children under four. The trains run on the fourth Sunday of each month except for December. From January to May, and September to November, they’re open from 11am to 4pm. In the winter months, they run from 11am to 3pm. See more here.
📍Kiloran Reserve, Hawthory Rd, Mooroolbark VIC 3138
5. Bulla Hill Miniature Railway
If your child loves trains and dinosaurs, then Bulla Hill Miniature Railway is the place to visit. Meander through the parkland on a 1.5km track, and look out for dinosaurs! There’s a kiosk at the station, serving up light snacks and drinks. Nearby, you’ll also find a playground, some picnic tables and a couple of coin-operated barbecues. This roarsome train line is open on the third Sunday of each month, from 11am to 4pm. Tickets are $5 per person. Find out more.
📍15 Green Street, Bulla, VIC 3428
6. MSTEC National Steam Centre
The National Steam Centre by the Melbourne Steam Traction Engine Club is home to a vast collection of vintage machinery, as well as a miniature railway for the little ones. The 1km track will take you around the perimeter of the site. As you trundle along, you’ll pass a lake filled with ducks, and see some museum machinery around the track. The train is usually pulled by a diesel or petrol locomotive, and on the last Sunday of the month, a steam locomotive is used. The miniature railway runs every Sunday from 11am to 4pm, except for the period between Christmas and New Year. Rides are $4. Learn more here.
📍1200 Ferntree Gully Rd, Scoresby VIC 3179
7. Portarlington Bayside Miniature Railway
After visiting all of the miniature railways in Melbourne, drive out to Portarlington for more train adventures. Located near the beach, the Portarlington Bayside Miniature Railway is set within native parklands. After going for a ride, pop by the kiosk for refreshments, drinks and souvenirs. There’s also undercover barbecues, picnic tables and a playground nearby. Rides are $4 per person, and the trains run on Sundays from 11am to 3pm, or 11am to 4pm during daylight savings. They also run on Wednesdays during the school holidays. See more here.
📍Boat Rd, Portarlington VIC 3223