Tips for Attending the Royal Melbourne Show 2025
The Royal Melbourne Show (Wednesday 24 September – Sunday 5 October 2025) is back at Melbourne Showgrounds, bringing together the best of Victoria’s food, agriculture, animals, entertainment, rides, and of course – showbags. It’s a tradition for many families, and if you’re planning to visit with your grandkids, it can be a wonderful day of memory-making.
With so much to see and do, it helps to plan ahead. Here’s what to expect, plus some handy tips to make your visit easier and more enjoyable.
Highlights of the Royal Melbourne Show
Animals & Agriculture
Kids love the chance to get up close to farmyard animals. From sheep shearing to horse shows and cuddly nursery animals, it’s a celebration of country life in the city. This is by far our favourite part of the Show.
Makers Pavilion
One of the quieter gems of the Royal Melbourne Show is the Makers Pavilion, where you can admire the creativity and skill of everyday Victorians. From beautifully decorated cakes and award-winning preserves to fine knitting, patchwork, woodcraft and artwork, it’s a celebration of traditional crafts and modern talent.
I always enjoy wandering through the makers pavilion – it’s inspiring to see the care and patience that goes into each piece, and it’s a lovely way to slow the pace after the bustle of the rides and showbags. Grandkids often find it fascinating too, especially the colourful cakes and quirky creations.
– Diane
Showbags
A classic highlight, ranging from toy-filled fun bags to gourmet food options for adults. If you haven’t been for many years you may be surprised to see how far they’ve come!
Entertainment & Rides
From circus performers and live music to carnival rides, there’s something for all ages.
Highlights include a free Metro Train Ride for a scenic tour of the Show, plus:
Little Farmers Field: A free kids’ activity zone with veggie digging, egg collecting, pretend sheep shearing, tractor rides and baby animals.
Farm Animal Pin Trail: Collect six adorable pins for just $5 while meeting cows, sheep, horses, chickens, dogs and more along the trail.
Night of the Horse: An Australian-first equine spectacular blending action, artistry and breathtaking horse performances.
Jaws Great Escape: World-class illusionist Sam Powers attempts a daring upside-down escape act before steel jaws snap shut.
Diane’s review
Who would have thought attending the Royal Melbourne Show with my daughter in law and granddaughters would have been the most fun 5 hours. We did and saw everything. Starting off with visiting the Little Farmers Field where eggs were collected, apples, strawberries and carrots picked, sheep were shorn and tractor rides then sorting all the produce into big bins. And this is all a free activity! Great for preschool kids.
We watched a horse shoe being made. Saw dog judging, the wood chop, horse jumping, visited poultry, ponies, dog, cow and sheep pavilions. Fed the goats and sheep in the Animal Nursery and saw young farm animals. Went to the Art and Crafts, which were amazing. Very talented people out there.
We had a ride on the ferris wheel and were able to see the whole show area at a great height. There were a lot of crazy rides for those thrill seeking types.
It’s been many years since I’ve attended the Melbourne Show and the biggest difference was the cost of admission, a day pass $49.50 adult and $26 for a child 5 to 12 years of age. Rides were on average $10 per person. We didn’t attend the show bag pavilion, but the prices were from $5 to $168.
Melbourne Show Food Pavilion
More than 84 different food outlets are available. Apparently, every food vendor has to offer at least one food item under $10 this year.
Food options go beyond hotdogs, pies and chips. There’s pizza, sushi, souvlaki, toasties, gnocchi, dumplings and much more. The CWA Cafeteria serves traditional scones with jam and cream. There’s a long line but it moves quickly and once inside it’s a good set up.
Our favourite is the $3.50 sausage sizzle being served up from 11am–2pm daily. Proceeds support drought relief.
I always make a point of finding a spot in the Food Pavilion to sit down with a cuppa. It gives the kids a snack break too, and we’re all ready for another couple of hours afterwards.
Seniors Day
On Tuesday 30 September, Seniors Card holders can enjoy discounted tickets to the Royal Melbourne Show, at just $25. On other days the entry cost for Seniors Card holders is $35.
Tips for Visiting with Grandkids
Arrive Early: Mornings are less crowded and a great time for animal encounters before little ones get tired.
I’ve learnt that the earlier we arrive, the happier everyone is – the kids are full of energy, and it’s much easier to see the animals before the crowds build.
Set a Meeting Spot: With the hustle and bustle, it’s a good idea to agree on a central point in case anyone gets separated.
Plan Rest Breaks: The Showgrounds are large – schedule in snack breaks and use shaded seating areas.
Budget for Showbags: Avoid the mid-afternoon “Can I have one?” chorus by letting kids know in advance how many bags they can choose.
Bring Essentials: Pack hats, sunscreen, water bottles, and snacks to keep everyone going. The grounds are pram friendly. There are water refill stations and lockers you can hire.
Safety first: Take a photo of your grandkids in their clothes that day – it helps security if they get lost. Report to the “Pie in the Sky” tower for assistance. A lanyard or sticker with your phone number is also a smart idea.
Pick up a map: We love having the paper map on hand to plan where we’re going. They can be picked up at the entrance or at information kiosks throughout the grounds. It’s also a good idea to look at the map online before you visit to become familiar with everything.
Crowds: We visit on one of the busiest days, and while it is lively, it never feels overwhelming. Yes, there are lines at some attractions, but plenty of other things to do if you’d rather keep moving. We queue for the Ferris wheel, but the line moves quickly and is well organised. The animal nursery is bustling with families, yet we still find plenty of space to feed and pat the animals at a comfortable pace.
Toilets: Facilities include both indoor toilets and portaloos. Queues can be long at peak times, so it’s worth planning ahead. Parent rooms are available with baby change tables.
Think Accessibility: If you or your grandchild tire easily, consider hiring a mobility aid or pram on-site.
Melbourne Show FAQs
When is the Royal Melbourne Show on?
From Wednesday 24 September to Sunday 5 October 2025.
Where is it held?
At Melbourne Showgrounds in Ascot Vale.
What are the ticket prices?
General admission prices start from $50 for adults, $35 for concession and $26 for kids. Children under 4 are free. Seniors Card holders can purchase discounted $25 tickets on Seniors Day, Tuesday 30 September, 2025. You can also enjoy discounted entry after 5pm if you’re interested in exploring during the evening only.
Note that Rides Passes need to be purchased in addition to the Show entry free (see Ride Pass FAQs further down).
Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Yes – tickets are available online only. No tickets are sold at the gate.
Are outside food and drinks allowed?
You can bring water bottles and light snacks, but many visitors choose to enjoy the wide range of food stalls.
Is it suitable for toddlers?
Yes – there are plenty of animal experiences and gentle rides for little ones. Prams are welcome.
What about older grandchildren?
Teens will enjoy the thrill rides, live music, and food offerings.
Rides Passes – FAQs
What is a Rides Pass?
A Rides Pass is a pre-purchased digital credit that can be used on carnival rides at the Royal Melbourne Show.
How much does a Rides Pass cost?
You can save up to 25% when you purchase a Rides Pass online with your Show tickets:
$50 Rides Pass – pay $42
$100 Rides Pass – pay $80
$150 Rides Pass – pay $118
$200 Rides Pass – pay $150
Do I need to buy a Rides Pass for my grandkids?
Yes, if they want to go on rides. Each child (or adult) needs their own pass, but you can choose the value that suits how many rides they’ll likely do.
Can I share a Rides Pass between family members?
No, each Rides Pass is linked to one individual and cannot be split or shared.
How do I use a Rides Pass?
Your pass will be loaded onto a digital wristband, which you scan at each ride to redeem credits.
Do I need to buy a Rides Pass in advance?
It’s best to purchase online when booking tickets to get the discount. Limited Rides Passes may be available on-site but at full price.
What if I don’t buy a Rides Pass?
You can still pay per ride at the Show, but it will cost more overall.
Melbourne Show Accessibility
The Melbourne Showgrounds is wheelchair accessible, with ramps, lifts, and accessible toilets available throughout the venue. There are family rooms with baby change facilities, including an accessible family room and a Changing Places toilet. Mobility scooter charging stations and mobile phone charging is available also. Mobility aids can be hired on-site (but book in advance), and the wide paved areas make it manageable for those with limited mobility.
An ONCALL Sensory Lounge provides a welcoming, serviced, quiet and sensory space for patrons of all ages.
Many hay bales are placed for seating, and seating with back support is dotted around the grounds, making it easier to rest when needed.
Find more information on accessibility at the Melbourne Show here.
Getting There
By Train: Special Royal Melbourne Show trains run direct to Showgrounds Station during the event. This is the most convenient option.
By Tram: Route 57 tram stops right outside at Showgrounds Village / Epsom Rd.
By Bus: Several local bus routes service the area. Note that traffic gets built up!
By Car: Limited paid parking is available (around $20-$30 for the day), but public transport is recommended as it’s quicker and easier.
Our recommendation
The Royal Melbourne Show is Victoria’s biggest annual community event – and a perfect chance to enjoy a family day out.
With animals, rides, and treats for the kids, plus comfortable facilities and a special Seniors Day discount, it’s a great way to spend time with your grandchildren and celebrate spring in Melbourne.
Heading off on your own Melbourne adventures? Join our Facebook Group and share your stories, ask questions and connect with others for further inspiration.
This is all such good news – especially for a country girl aged 82. I plan to follow-up on some lovely ideas.
Hi Gilli, thank you so much for your kind words. I’m thrilled to hear the ideas have been helpful! I’d love to know what you end up trying—please do share if you follow up on any of them.
Amy