School Holidays, Sorted: Dorsett Melbourne Brings the Cosy, the Cool and the Candy with FUNDAY-Fuelled Family Fun

Move over beach breaks—this winter it’s all about inner-city magic, movie marathons, and teepee sleepovers. And leading the charge? Dorsett Melbourne, with a school holiday lineup that turns every kid (and parent) into a VIP guest.

From 5 to 20 July, the city’s sleekest hotel is flipping the script on frosty school breaks—replacing cabin fever with sweet surprises, glamping-in-the-city vibes, and movie nights that would make Pixar proud. Whether you’re a local planning a staycay or a family heading to Melbourne for some mid-year fun, Dorsett’s winter program is pure gold for memory-making.

What’s On: The Ultimate Winter Escape for Families

Here’s what families can expect when checking into Dorsett Melbourne during the school holidays:

Movie nights done right: Every evening at 5pm, the hotel lobby transforms into a mini cinema for G and PG-rated classics and new hits alike—Bambi, Finding Nemo, Inside Out 2 and more. All you need to do is BYO blanket… and maybe a tissue or two for the emotional bits.

FUNDAY treats galore: Lollipops, choc tops, popcorn—oh my! Thanks to FUNDAY Natural Sweets Co., snack time just got naturally sweet (and way more fun).

Kid-approved welcome packs: Check in, get surprised. These activity-filled welcome packs are the perfect “pause-the-parenting” moment while the kids dive into puzzles, colouring and games.

Access to The Arcade: This retro-inspired games room is packed with pinball machines and throwback vibes. Warning: parents may suddenly become very competitive.

Heated indoor pool & spa: Clocking in at a toasty 26°C, it’s the ultimate excuse to pack the swimmers—even in the middle of Melbourne’s chilly season.

Mini City Glamping: Luxe Sleepovers Done Right

Yes, you read that right: glamping—but indoors. Dorsett’s Mini City Glamping Package is basically every kid’s dream wrapped in fluffy cushions and hotel luxury. Think:

An in-room teepee setup

Plush playmats and cushions

Kids’ activity packs

Complimentary hot chocolate

City views to remind you you’re not in your backyard

It’s a luxe sleepover without the bugs or backyard frostbite. Parents get a comfy bed; kids get a private tented wonderland. Everyone wins.

Book this exclusive package directly via dorsetthotels.com/dorsett-melbourne/mini-city-glampers.

Location, Location (and More Location)

Tucked in the West Side Place precinct, Dorsett Melbourne gives families easy access to SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium, Marvel Stadium, Docklands, and the Queen Victoria Market—basically all the major Melbourne family drawcards, without needing to Uber your way across the city.

Parents can sneak in some retail therapy or café hopping, while the kids burn off energy arcade-side or poolside. It’s the kind of balance every family holiday wishes it had.

Ready to Check In?

If you’ve been looking for a family-friendly school holiday escape that skips the crowds, skips the chaos, and still brings the fun—this is it. Bonus points for being wildly Instagrammable and sugar-rush approved (thanks, FUNDAY ).

Book your stay, pack your swimmers, and prepare for cosy family memories in the heart of Melbourne.

Dorsett’s Winter Family Program runs 5–20 July. Glamping packages are limited, so get in quick.

Click here to book or contact the team for availability and inclusions.