10 Must-Do Spring Experiences in South-East Melbourne
Spring in South-East Melbourne is a season full of colour, fresh air, and outdoor adventures. As the days grow longer and the gardens come to life, there’s no better time to explore the region’s gardens, wineries, family attractions, and unique experiences. Whether you’re a local planning a day trip or a visitor staying for a spring getaway, here are some must-do activities this season.
1.Discover the Tesselaar Tulip Festival
Every spring, the Tesselaar Tulip Festival paints the Dandenong Ranges in brilliant shades of pink, red, yellow, and purple. Visitors can enjoy fields of blooming tulips, cultural celebrations, food stalls, and live entertainment — making it one of the most iconic spring events in Victoria.
2. Go Cherry Picking
Cherry season begins in late spring, and orchards in the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges open their gates for a pick-your-own adventure. It’s a fun outing for families, friends, and couples alike — and when your baskets are full, you can head back to our hotel to relax.
3. Family Fun at DinosROAR at Caribbean Gardens
Just five minutes from our hotel, DinosROAR at Caribbean Park is a favourite with families. Featuring life-sized animatronic dinosaurs, interactive activities, and a lush parkland setting, it’s an adventure that will capture children’s imaginations while giving parents a chance to enjoy the spring sunshine.
4. Take a Scenic Drive
South-East Melbourne is surrounded by stunning drives that come alive in spring. Cruise through the Dandenong Ranges for lush greenery, head to the Yarra Valley for vineyards framed by blossoming orchards, or explore the Mornington Peninsula for coastal charm paired with rolling countryside. Each is easily accessible when you base yourself at our hotel. Check out our Scenic Driving Routes here.
Puffing Billy Railway
5. Puffing Billy Adventures: Running Festival & Day Out with Thomas
Whether you’re an active runner or a young train enthusiast, Puffing Billy Railway has something for everyone this spring. Participate in the Puffing Billy Running Festival, where scenic trails wind through lush forests and fern gullies, or bring the kids to Day Out with Thomas, featuring rides, interactive activities, and a chance to meet the famous blue engine. Both experiences are just a short drive from our hotel, making it easy to enjoy a full day of fun and return to comfort.
6. Indulge in High Tea
Spring is all about slowing down and enjoying the finer things — and there’s no better way than with our High Tea. Featuring chocolate fountain, freshly baked scones, delicate sandwiches, sweet and savoury treats as well as free parking, it’s a wonderful way to celebrate the season with friends, family, or someone special.
7. Wine Tasting in the Yarra Valley
Yarra Valley is world-renowned for its cool-climate wines, and spring is the perfect season to visit. Enjoy a day of wine tasting at cellar doors surrounded by blossoming vineyards, sample local produce, and take in the sweeping views of rolling hills. It’s a relaxed yet indulgent way to celebrate the season, and an easy day trip from our hotel. Check out our Top 10 Cellar Doors and Wine Tasting Experiences here.
8. Ride the Arthurs Seat Eagle Gondola
For breathtaking views of the Mornington Peninsula coastline and Port Phillip Bay, take a ride on the Arthurs Seat Eagle gondola. Glide quietly above the treetops and soak in panoramic views of sparkling waters and rolling hills — spring is the ideal time to experience the landscape at its most vibrant.
Peninsula Hot Springs
9. Visit Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs
Cool spring mornings are the ideal time to relax in the natural mineral waters at Alba Thermal or Peninsula Hot Springs.
10. A Romantic Spring Proposal
Spring is often called the season of love, and our elegant suites provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable moments. From unique dining experience Le Petit Chef to sparkling wine and romantic in-room touches, we’ve helped create countless proposals that make the most of the season’s charm.
Plan Your Spring Getaway
With highlights like the Tesselaar Tulip Festival, wine tasting in the Yarra Valley, DinosROAR at Caribbean Park, the Arthurs Seat Eagle gondola, and our indulgent High Tea, there’s no shortage of things to do in South-East Melbourne this spring. Whether you’re here for family fun, outdoor adventure, or a romantic escape, our hotel is the perfect base to explore the best of the season.