Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Hawthorn Arts Centre
★4.5(525 reviews)Activity
🕑 1.5 to 3 hours depending on workshop length and exhibition viewing👶 Best for ages 3-12. Younger children thrive in the creative play workshops and introductory art classes, while older kids enjoy more advanced techniques in painting, sculpture, and performance arts. Many programs are designed with specific age groups in mind, ensuring appropriate skill levels and engagement.🧡 Saved by 70+ families
About
Hawthorn Arts Centre is a vibrant community hub where families can explore creativity through hands-on workshops, art exhibitions, and cultural programs designed specifically for children. With its impressive 4.5-star rating from over 500 reviews, this welcoming venue offers a wonderful opportunity for kids to discover painting, crafts, theater, and more in a supportive, inclusive environment.
Highlights
- ✓Hands-on art workshops specifically designed for different children's age groups
- ✓Rotating family-friendly exhibitions featuring local and international artists
- ✓School holiday programs with intensive multi-day creative camps
- ✓Cultural events celebrating diverse artistic traditions perfect for broadening children's horizons
- ✓Welcoming, supportive instructors experienced in working with young learners
Pro Tips
- 1.Book workshops in advance online as popular children's programs fill up quickly, especially during school holidays.
- 2.Visit on Saturday afternoons (12:00-4:00 PM) for a more relaxed drop-in experience when exploring exhibitions with kids.
- 3.Bring an old shirt or smock as art activities can get messy, though many workshops provide aprons.
- 4.Check their quarterly program guide online before your trip to align your visit with special family events or holiday workshops.
- 5.Street parking is available on Burwood Road and surrounding streets, but arrive 10-15 minutes early to secure a spot near the entrance.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (Tuesday through Thursday, 9:00 AM-12:00 PM) are ideal for avoiding crowds and enjoying a quieter, more personalized experience. School holiday periods offer special intensive workshops perfect for visiting families, though these require advance booking.
What to Know
Most workshops require advance registration and have varying costs (typically $10-30 AUD per child). The venue is closed Sundays, so plan accordingly. Limited cafe facilities onsite, so consider bringing snacks for younger children between activities.
Seasonal Notes
School holiday periods (April, July, September/October, and December/January in Australia) feature expanded children's programming with special themed workshops and camps. Book these programs well in advance as they are extremely popular with local and visiting families.
Nearby Eats
Grill'd Hawthorn (family-friendly burger restaurant with kids' menu about 5 minutes walk away on Glenferrie Road) or Hawthorn Common shopping precinct offers multiple casual dining options including cafes and Asian restaurants suitable for families within walking distance.
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