Birrarung Marr

Head down the steps from Federation Square and turn left (as opposed to walking into the Yarra River), you'll find Birrarung Marr 

Its name comes from the language of the Wurundjeri people who originally inhabited this area, 'Birrarung' means 'river of mists' while ‘Marr’ refers to the side of the river. 

This is a great spot for the kids to get some energy out. We find that when we go down to Southbank or Fed Square area my kids always need a break right about the time we cross the river, so this play yard is a perfect stopping point.
The park features rock and rope climbing features, swinging hammocks, a swing for wheelchairs, picnic tables and don't worry, public toilets too.

My kids love the "spider web"

This is also the home of Artplay

ArtPlay is a civic studio where families and children can be creative and express themselves in ArtPlay’s open and supportive environment. 

At ArtPlay, children up to the age of 13 and their families are encouraged to learn the language of art together. 

Our mission at ArtPlay is to involve children and their families in artistic, interactive and creative projects. Through workshops with professional artists, ArtPlay aims to improve educational and arts opportunities for children.

If you have adventurous climbers, just past the playground is a formation of boulders with rock carvings, see if your kids can identify the animals carved into the boulders.

You can see the Giant Sky Wheel just past the boulders. Don't walk down there if you don't want your kids to beg for a ride!

The Sky Wheel is the largest travelling Ferris wheel in the southern hemisphere, so it won't stay here forever. Rides cost about $8 per person and a ride lasts about 10 minutes.