Guided monthly tours of Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens in Dandenong. Explore historic houses, period gardens and local stories with a friendly guide.
Thursday 5 February 2026
to Thursday 5 November 2026
10:30am - 11:30am
66 McCrae St, Dandenong VIC 3175, Australia
$5
Step back in time at Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens, a peaceful, storybook setting tucked beside St James’ Anglican Church in Dandenong. This guided tour is designed for curious families and parents who want an engaging, educational morning out that brings local history to life. Enjoy architecture, gardens and personal stories that connect children to Dandenong's rich heritage.
On arrival you'll be welcomed by an expert guide who brings the museum and historic gardens to life through storytelling and accessible historical facts. The tone is relaxed and suitable for school-aged children, with plenty of visual details to keep younger minds engaged. This is a great opportunity for family-friendly education and local history exploration in Dandenong.
Each month explores a different theme: Architecture (February, May, August), Gardens (March, June, September), Residents (April, July, October) and a November highlights tour. Expect to see Laurel Lodge, Benga House and the 150-year-old Moreton Bay Fig trees while hearing how these places shaped local life. These rotating themes make repeat visits rewarding and keep the program fresh for families.
The tour lasts around an hour and includes a souvenir booklet and guided insights. The pace is gentle and suitable for parents with school-aged children who enjoy informative, walkable outings. Heritage, museum and guided tour keywords feature throughout the experience to help families searching for Dandenong activities and history-focused outings.
Tours run on the 1st Thursday of each month from 10:30 to 11:30am. For 2026 the listed dates run from 5 February through 5 November, providing a consistent morning schedule ideal for a weekday family outing. The guided format means the group moves together through houses and gardens, with stops for stories and photographs.
The tour includes:
- Friendly, expert heritage guide
- Souvenir booklet for attendees
- Seasonal exhibitions and garden highlights
This activity is family-friendly and well suited to curious school-aged children and their parents. The guided museum tour balances historical detail with engaging anecdotes, making it an excellent local history outing for Dandenong families looking for educational weekend-alternative activities.
Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens is located at 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong, adjacent to St James’ Anglican Church. The site is a compact, picturesque property that’s easy to explore on foot and provides a quiet setting for a morning visit. The address is convenient for locals and visitors alike.
Public transport options and local parking make the museum accessible for families; Dandenong transit links are nearby and short walks connect the venue to the town centre. If you’re driving, allow a little extra time for parking in the civic precinct, especially on busy mornings. The setting beside the church also makes for a pleasant post-tour walk or picnic.
Facilities are modest and the gardens offer shaded spots for younger children to rest while parents enjoy the heritage setting. The museum and gardens provide a calm, safe environment for family groups and those interested in hands-on local history experiences in Dandenong.
Places are limited and bookings are required — tours often fill quickly, so early registration is recommended for family groups. The tour is ticketed at $5 per person and runs for approximately 60 minutes, with pauses for photos and storytelling. This ensures a manageable pace for school-aged children and relaxed enjoyment for parents.
If you require additional assistance to participate, or have specific access needs, please contact the Cultural Heritage Team on 8571 1000. The museum strives to be an inclusive venue and staff can advise on accessibility and any special arrangements to help your family attend. Note that the event is outdoors in parts, so dress for the weather.
Tour safety and comfort: wear comfortable shoes for garden paths, bring a hat in summer and a light raincoat if the forecast calls for showers. The program is ideal for parents seeking educational outings, local heritage experiences and museum tours that are family-friendly in Dandenong.
Cost: $5 per person. Bookings are required and numbers are limited to keep the tour experience intimate and engaging for families. Payment details and registration are available via the council's events calendar; please secure your place early to avoid disappointment.
To book or for further enquiries call the Cultural Heritage Team on 8571 1000 or refer to the Greater Dandenong events calendar. The council advises checking the event page for the latest dates and any updates to themes or accessibility information. Remember that themes rotate monthly, so you can choose a date that matches your family's interests.
Cancellation and changes: the council may alter dates for special events or public holidays, so confirm your booking in advance. Families seeking a tailored group visit or school excursion should contact the Cultural Heritage Team to discuss options and availability.
