Puffing Billy Railway

Families' Pick 2026 · Melbourne: picked by the Funtivities team as a standout for families in Melbourne.

Last updated October 2026

Historic steam train through the Dandenong Ranges from Belgrave to Lakeside or Gembrook; runs daily, bookings essential, kids 4-15 from $22.

Puffing Billy is a preserved steam railway that runs through the Dandenong Ranges, about 40km or an hour east of Melbourne. Trains leave from Belgrave station, a short walk from Belgrave Metro station, and travel to Menzies Creek (25 minutes each way), Lakeside (1 hour) or Gembrook (1 hour 50 minutes), with Lakeside to Gembrook trips too. It runs daily except Christmas Day. Fares for 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027, Belgrave to Lakeside return, are $66 adults (16+), $33 children (4-15), $25 toddlers (1-3), $165 for a family of two adults and two children or toddlers, and infants under 12 months free. The shorter Menzies Creek return is $43.50 adult and $22 child; Belgrave to Gembrook return is $84.50 adult and $42 child. Bookings are essential and trains often sell out. Check in at the booking office 60 minutes before departure; check-in closes 30 minutes before. There is no parking at the Old Monbulk Road station.

Facts checked against the venue's own website on 17 October 2026.