MOPA: Museum of Play and Art
I recently visited diverse Geelong and the Museum of Play and Art (MoPA) which was an absolute blast! It’s like Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory, but for kids (and adults too!). There are so many activities to choose from, you’ll be hard-pressed to do them all in one visit.
One thing I loved about MoPA is the range of activities available for different age groups. There were toddlers running around, exploring every nook and cranny, and older kids building, painting, and dancing. It’s a perfect place for a family outing, with something for everyone.
If you have young kids, the ground floor has most of the activities and is perfect for keeping them engaged. There’s painting, building, and dancing, with staff members who are super-friendly and great at interacting with the kids. My little niece loved the dance party the most, which I joined in as well (let’s just say my moves were a bit rusty, but it was worth it!).
For older kids, the first floor has some smaller activities, but it’s definitely worth the climb up the stairs (which, by the way, might be a challenge for older folks, so keep that in mind). Upstairs, my 9-year-old nephew loved being a rockstar and having his picture framed in the gallery. There are also computers where you can edit your photos, which was a big hit with all the kids I saw.
Speaking of the kids, the staff at MoPA are just amazing! They’re energetic, enthusiastic, and always engaging with the kids. They made my niece and nephew feel like superstars, which I think is why they had such a great time. And the best part? They were cleaning everything like crazy, which is super important in these Covid times. I felt really safe and confident in bringing my family there.
If you need a break from all the activity, there’s a small café on-site with good coffee and cake. I have to say, I was a bit jealous of the parents who were just sitting and relaxing while their kids played. But don’t worry, I got my own coffee and joined in the fun again.
If your in Geelong this museum is a wonderful place for families to spend a few hours (or a whole day!). There’s something for everyone, and the staff are just amazing. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good dance party? If you’re in the area, make sure to book a slot and check it out. Your kids (and you) won’t regret it! If after visiting MoPA you want to get outside for a bit then head to the Steampacket Gardens!