Diamond Valley Railway Inc. image

Diamond Valley Railway Inc.

Tourist attraction Non profit organization

One of the Most Reviewed Non profit organizations in Melbourne


Address

Eltham Lower Park, 570 Main Rd, Eltham VIC 3095, Australia

Website

www.dvr.com.au

Contact

+61 3 9439 1493

Rating on Google Maps

4.80 (1.7K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Wednesday: Closed
  • Thursday: (Anzac Day/Anzac Day), 1 to 4 PM, Holiday hours
  • Friday: Closed
  • Saturday: Closed
  • Sunday: 11 AM to 5 PM
  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: Closed

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: kids (45) ride (40) train (36) trains (35) Great (25) miniature (23) experience (20) great (19) family (19) volunteers (18)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Gerard M. 2 years ago on Google
    One of Melbourne's hidden gems. A great day with the family and a unique experience without having to travel far. List of attractions: - Mini Railway for all ages, tickets can be purchased on location, $4 per person, train ride is around 10 minutes. - Large playground with undercover picnic tables - Barbecue areas - Large oval for picnics or sports with cricket area - Pony Rides for children, $6 per person for a short ride Food available: - Sausage sizzle, $2.50 with onions, cans of drinks - Ice cream van with hot chips, chips are a bit pricey imo at $5 for a small cup - Coffee van with chilled coffee Great fun overall with plenty to do within the area as well.
    12 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alice 1 month ago on Google • 720 reviews New
    Super friendly volunteers. Many miniature trains, great for little kids.

  • 5/5 Karen E. 11 months ago on Google • 625 reviews
    Visited on a beautiful sunny day in May. Hubby was interested in volunteering so wanted to check it out. Only open on Sundays, it appears to be a hugely popular attraction with a continuous queue. Hubby was very impressed with the set-up. Larger than expected with two stations and multiple engines running at the same time. Very impressive

  • 5/5 Melisa A. 2 years ago on Google
    Lovely set-up. The tiny trains are so cute! It's only $4 per ride per person (children under 2 are free) and goes for about 2kms. All the staff is very friendly and smiley, they always wave when a train comes past which all the attending kids seemed to love. Although there is mostly children with their parents riding the train, it is certainly for all ages. Us in our mid 20s enjoyed the ride just as much! There's a toilet block, a play ground and some kind of sports fields (that people used as a dogpark) right next to the railways. There's also a Coffee Van called The Travelling Cafe and and a food van for all your snack needs available on site.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Madame S. 2 years ago on Google
    Diamond Valley Railway Inc. This 184 mm (7¼") gauge railway is located in parkland close to the Diamond Creek, this Mini train station is currently closed, but I was very surprised it is so mini size when I went to there with my family month ago. The train puffed past the forest, mountain views, the cave, the iron bridge, and the traffic signs flashed with red and blue lights. It was so beautiful. Both adults and children had fun and unforgettable memories. I hope that the epidemic will end soon and everyone can go by train again. It is really fun.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Low Wee H. 6 months ago on Google • 481 reviews
    If you have young kids, you should definitely consider coming to this attraction. At AUD 4 per ticket, the kids (and the adults too!) will definitely enjoy and have fun taking the miniature trains. The queue might look quite long, but they move very fast. If you are a group, the group can send one person to get the tickets while the rest joins the queue. The place is operated by volunteers, and that's very commendable, consider the amount of work required of this place.

  • 5/5 Archit J. 2 years ago on Google
    An amazing toy train ride, equally fun for adults as it is for kids. Its run by volunteers (really nice and cheerful people). Each ride costs only $4 per person and it goes through a good long track with platforms, tunnels etc. Really amazing. Lot of parking on-site and a big park next door, so definitely worth heading out for couple of hours with friends and family. Not sure why I hadn't gone there before but now it's made it into my fav list.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Zafari J. 1 year ago on Google
    Awesome experience, good fun for every age. Visit o Sunday It was a long queue on tickets station. The train ride price $4 each , I think it's quite reasonable for families, also There is childrens playing area with BBQ.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Pranav M. 3 months ago on Google • 199 reviews New
    I recently visited Diamond Valley Railway Inc and had an amazing experience on their miniature railway! The attention to detail on the tracks and trains was impressive. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, adding to the overall enjoyment. It's truly worth every penny for both adults and kids. The scenic ride and well-maintained surroundings make it a delightful outing. Highly recommend this miniature railway for a unique and memorable day out!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dr. Nagesh P. 3 months ago on Google • 196 reviews New
    Kids will certainly enjoy the ride. Moreover they will understand the functioning of steam engines
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rucha K. 1 year ago on Google
    Awesome experience.. very reasonable.. tunnels, bridge, crossing signs, signals, guards, everything that a train has... maintained very well.. good spot for day trip.. crowd expected... my child wanted more than 2 trips... Bus stop nearby.. public toilets are available though were not kept nice that day... plenty carpark space.. Playground next to it with small picnic area...
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Yuzhe J. 2 years ago on Google
    Great experience and kids have great fun here. Good picnic location too. Come every second week.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Donna P. 1 year ago on Google
    We absolutely love Diamond Valley Railway. So much so that we have been twice and will be back again. It's a fantastic day out especially if you have little kids and it's great if you're on a budget as tickets are only $4 each and under 2 is free so for me and my 3 kids it only costs $12 for a train ride. Rides go for approx 10 mins each and go through tunnels and over little bridges it's so much fun. Then after you're done there's a playground right next door within walking distance. Highly recommend.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sam 3 years ago on Google
    Best place for kids to enjoy the model trains. It’s for adults too. $4 entry fee and opening time is 11. I suggest go 30 min before to avoid the long queue. Moderate parking around the ground. The staffs were very friendly and always smiling :) Will definitely come back.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Maria F. 1 month ago on Google • 188 reviews New
    We had our granddaughter's 5th birthday party at this park and we all enjoyed it so much! Especially the little ones. They had a half hour ride on the mini rail train dedicated exclusively to our group and also had a wonderful and fun time in the playground. It was an unforgettable experience for all. It's run by beautiful people and they are all volunteers! Highly recommended.

  • 4/5 A Recipe B. 6 months ago on Google • 67 reviews
    Such a fun family sunday experience. You just can’t go wrong at $4 for an adult ticket for a 15 minute ride. Kids under 2 ride free. The attention to detail is incredible and I am amazed it’s all run by volunteers! Keep up the great work !
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Zara S. 5 months ago on Google • 23 reviews
    Amazing miniature railway that is nothing miniature about it! It’s got a big station with a large platform for the many train lines to take all the excited passengers on the extensive collection of miniature trains that is lovingly and wonderfully cared for by a large number of volunteers. They even have a couple of really good tunnels. Highly recommended for anyone who are train enthusiasts or just love trains… the surrounds that the train goes around are so tranquil and relaxing too!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 rebecca k. 1 year ago on Google
    Absolutely FANTASTIC miniature railway network. 100% value for money. Whole family went on two rides and it was so enjoyable. Staff were helpful and kind. Our elderly grandmother was helped on board, and the staff selected a train with accessible seating to make it more comfortable. Bridges, tunnels, train stations, signals, dinging bells, lovely bushland. Just wonderful. Only downside was limited picnic tables so easy to miss out, but otherwise a perfect day out. Thanks to all the terrific volunteers!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jaime-Leigh A. 1 year ago on Google
    Great day out!! Park close by, toilets. Vans to grab a coffee or ice-cream. Line up - moves fairly quickly and in the shade
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Richard L. 2 years ago on Google
    Who does not love a ride on a miniature train? You get a really long and exciting ride for your ticket price. We got one of the miniature stream trains this time and it was awesome.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Brett J. 8 months ago on Google • 4 reviews
    Great experience for all ages, my 1 and 3 year old loved it. The ride even went longer than I thought it would. Coffee car and food trucks were there also to have you covered while you wait for the ride.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Megs R. 8 months ago on Google
    My wife, son (2yo), and I had a fantastic time here yesterday. At $4, tickets are a steal. The ride went far longer than I expected and the attention to detail was amazing. It was busy with a long line but the wait time was not too bad due to multiple trains running and a very efficient and professional operation. Thank you to the volunteers and members that make this wonderful experience available to the community. This is the only miniature railway in Melbourne that is open every Sunday and running it must be a mammoth task but the club has it down to a fine alert.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Brooke O. 1 year ago on Google
    We had the best day, the trains are beautiful. Even had a mini steam train. $4.00 a person, so wonderful
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 EMI N. 3 years ago on Google
    My favourite miniature Railway! Open every Sunday! (Not now because COVID-19) but still amazing miniature Railway and it’s so fun and cool. One time when I was a young child aged around 9-10 i went here and lost my mum I was so scared but that’s just what reminds me of coming here! Now I got a photo of a miniature Railway train that I took in 2019 and yeah that’s good Anyway this is 5/5 stars! Good Job DVR!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Butho 3 years ago on Google
    Excellent day out for families. Enough to keep the little ones busy whilst waiting in the long queue. Arrive early and expect a long-ish wait.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Rafik Z. 7 months ago on Google • 120 reviews
    Well it is a great place and great experience Ppl are super friendly and always smiling We went with our new puppy and as they could not allow him to be on the train they offered to put him in an office till our ride is back 😮. They also make us skip the queue for that as we have 2 kids as well as the puppy. $4 for the ride last for 13 min this is not bad at all The cons. Car park is a challenge Trains diesel smell bet high specially for kids (been to the same park is Geneva Switzerland and smell was not that bad) Looking forward to have it more of open park where trains can stop in each station and you can just ride another train to another route ( from the way it is setup I believe this is to come ) Last thing , can we please have Saturday as well at least :) Overall thanks team it is a great experience

  • 5/5 Sascha H. 2 months ago on Google • 57 reviews New
    Great park and playground, and the Railway is a great experience for the whole family

  • 5/5 Konrad T. 5 months ago on Google • 44 reviews
    Even if you’re not interested in trains, this is a wonderful place to take the family, enjoying the scenery and the wind in your hair is quite invigorating 😀

  • 4/5 Sheena D. 6 months ago on Google • 31 reviews
    The day we visited here the crowds were huge, especially since it was school holidays still. We didn't get to ride on one of the many trains they had, but we took plenty of photos to help others see how cool they look. It wasn't expensive to take a ride $4 per ride per person except if you're a wee train rider, under 2 are free, and the money goes towards keeping such an amazing attraction operating.

  • 4/5 Michael W. 2 months ago on Google • 15 reviews New
    Great fun for the kids (and also the big kids in us parents too). Depending on weather and the time of day, it can be up to an hour wait at times, however once you are travelling around the long winding track, that long wait anxiety quickly dissipates. At only $4 per ride per person, it is definitely worth the visit.

  • 5/5 utla p. 5 months ago on Google • 13 reviews
    Had fun....One of the best experience in Melbourne. ticket price is 4$ per person and free for kids under 2years.

  • 2/5 Joanne R. 2 months ago on Google • 8 reviews New
    Ridiculous wait times when majority of trains are running empty for the fun of the volunteer drivers.

  • 5/5 Mare' P. 2 years ago on Google
    Awesome little train ride. Kids loved it. Brought back some childhood memories

  • 5/5 Lauren W. 1 year ago on Google
    Great day out with family and friends especially if you have a train lover. Good value with a great park and bbq facilities. But beware you’ll have to wait in lines as this place is very popular

  • 5/5 Rajat M. 3 years ago on Google
    Great experience! Even as an adult, I always enjoy the train rides! And it's cheap too!

  • 5/5 Desmond T. 3 years ago on Google
    My 2 years old daughter loves it, especially the train tunnel.

  • 5/5 Andrew H. 2 years ago on Google
    Have been bringing my kids here for 12 years. Love it! Such an amazing setup and great value for money. Best miniature trains around 100%

  • 5/5 Jeremy S. 2 years ago on Google
    Even with the recent price increase, phenomenal value. The kids adore the trains, and the track setup gives them a lovely and satisfying ride. The miniature actual steam engine is a highlight. We like to finish off each trip to Melbourne with a visit.

  • 5/5 Someguy W. 4 months ago on Google
    Great place to go to for an afternoon. Fun for both adults and kids. The toy trains are really fun to ride and 15 mins for $4 is very generous as well. Highly recommend. The only issue might be that if you have a really small toddler, let's say less than 2 years old, then it might be difficult to get them to sit still on the ride though. Other than that, exceptional.

  • 5/5 Bilal K. 7 months ago on Google
    Great experience. We loved it. For a change, an affordable activity in Australia. Only $4 per person for a 12-15 mins ride. There was a long queue but moves quickly as there are many trains running

  • 5/5 Brett Jackson (. 1 year ago on Google
    Second time going here, this time for a birthday party. This single party area is apparently booked out well in advance, and I can see why: a lovely outdoor area with cover and a BBQ, and a dedicated train station platform for the party guests. The kids absolutely loved it. To be fair, so did most of the adults. The operators are clearly fans of trains in general, as their miniature rides are exquisitely detailed and maintained. The track is quite long, with 2 tunnel sections the kids love to scream through. Would definitely consider booking a party here. For the general public it looked like the queues were quite long in the morning but tapered off during the day. From memory, it is pretty cheap for a ride. Also, not as much parking close to the train station entry as it's popularity would necessitate, so be prepared to park on the other side of the oval and take a walk.

  • 5/5 Anish Kumar G. 7 months ago on Google
    We took the journey on August 2023, it was nice weather and we really enjoyed the train travel. Thought its operated only on sunday 11-5, volunteers took good care of us. Train journey lasted approx 10 min. We and our friends were 8 adults and 5 kids and got to sit in single train thanks to the staff to accomodate us all in single train. There were few food and icecream trucks in the premisis for snacks and big picnic area and park for the kids to enjoy the day. Though being tight, There was enough parking space for all.

  • 4/5 J T. 7 months ago on Google
    Good fun for kids and adults alike. The miniature railways are maintained and run exceptionally well. Maybe the Council can look at expanding the picnic and kids play area to accommodate for more play equipment/ infrastructure. Overall a decent location for a day outdoors with family.

  • 5/5 John H. 1 year ago on Google
    The railway is fantastic. Run by volunteers. Just a great place to take the Grand children

  • 5/5 Evan S. 9 months ago on Google
    This place is without a doubt amazing! Run completely by volunteers, everything runs like it was organised by professionals. There are so many trains (deisel, electric and steam) and each is so detailed! The prices are low, at only $4 for a ride over 10 minutes, it is just great. If you want a lovely day out with the family, without breaking the bank, you truly need to try it. I would give it 10 stars if I could.

  • 5/5 Manpreet S. 8 months ago on Google
    Run by amazingly volunteers, very cheap tickets ($4, below 2 free). You will variety of engines in different shapes and sizes. Little steam engines are very fascinating. Great place to be for kids and also for big kids!! Fun to visit, opens on Sundays only

  • 5/5 Kiran 1 year ago on Google
    Run by volunteers and great for the local community. Value for money and both parents and kids can take part in having fun. I hope this place never runs out of funds and there is more attractions like this in Victoria!

  • 5/5 Chaz C. 1 year ago on Google
    A really good experience riding the mini trains. Ride was a decent length, not short. Highly recommended

  • 5/5 Ken W. 1 year ago on Google
    Had a great time with family and friends,they do a great job the volunteers there running the trains .

  • 5/5 Linda F. 3 years ago on Google
    First time visiting - took grandson for Australia Day Picnic. He said it was "epic". It was great

  • 5/5 Glen M. 3 years ago on Google
    The volunteer staff put so much into making this place an experience

  • 5/5 Glenn E. 3 years ago on Google
    Best miniature railway in Melbourne. Features operating signals, steam & diesel locos. Great place for kids. Special night runs are just the best.

  • 5/5 Angela B. 3 years ago on Google
    Great to take the kids. Hard to park on busy days.

  • 5/5 E J. 3 years ago on Google
    Very cool.

  • 5/5 Sage 3 years ago on Google
    Great place

  • 5/5 James C. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Children’s favorite, but need to book in advance (Original) 孩子们的最爱,但是需要提前booking

  • 5/5 bharathi p. 3 years ago on Google
    Great place highly recommended. Also visit adventure park and farm next to it.

  • 5/5 Praveen K. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice place

  • 5/5 Fernando Massaiti G. 3 years ago on Google
    Excellent program for the kids!

  • 5/5 Vijay G. 3 years ago on Google
    Absolutely loved it. We just booked one ride as we were not sure and most other slots were booked out. But my tip would be to book 3 to 4 slots to get to ride different trains. My 2yr old daughter thoroughly enjoyed it.

  • 5/5 Sacha H. 3 years ago on Google
    Best tourist attraction in Australia. Kids and adults will love it.

  • 5/5 Natalie S. 3 years ago on Google
    definitely a unique experience for the kids (and the kid within us too!)

  • 5/5 Todd L. 3 years ago on Google
    A brilliant, fun outing for all ages with passionate and quirky volunteers.

  • 5/5 Chih C. 3 years ago on Google
    Great place for little ones that like trains. 15-20 min ride through crossing and tunnels. COVID friendly with one family per carriage, but that also means there are not a lot of space available so you need to be quick to book a place.

  • 5/5 Lauren C. 4 years ago on Google
    We had our son's first birthday here and booked the Jack Tatum picnic site with our own train. It was a lovely experience and the train station was right next to the picnic site so it was easy to access. We had two volunteers who gave up their Saturday for us and we are very thankful for everything they did. Our family and friends absolutely loved the day. Thank you!

  • 5/5 Mister M. 4 years ago on Google
    Awesome adventure on a well managed miniature railway. Fun for all age!

  • 4/5 Shane S. 3 years ago on Google
    Great for the family.

  • 5/5 FitzysRails 4 years ago on Google
    If you long for the click and clanking of wheels along the track, his is the place to come. Miniature Railways at its best. Great value for money and memories you can not buy. 9 acres of track, with working signals and two tunnels to make you scream in. Spend a day having a picnic and riding the miniature trains. Awesome day out for the family.

  • 5/5 Boysari L. 4 years ago on Google
    Wow this place is amazing i was more exciting than my kids hahaha it’s quite a long ride and i loved it. People were friendly, so many different mini trains to ride. Kids park and playground just next to it. I never knew this place before now it’s one of my favourite places!

  • 5/5 Ton N. 3 years ago on Google
    Love coming back to this place. Great for a day out with the kids or for anyone who likes locomotives. There is something romantic and nostalgic about getting on a motorised train. Lovely place for parties and picnics with good spots and connected activities. The friendly and educated volunteer staff are amazing which adds to the very family friendly atmosphere. Just smiles all around.

  • 4/5 Vlad K. 4 years ago on Google
    Fantastic place to take the kids for a day trip. Ask them for a tour and they'll be more than happy to take you behind the scenes and show you around.

  • 5/5 Andrew M. 4 years ago on Google
    Huge picnic area with dogs off leash space, footy oval for the kids to run around, shade for picnics, Mr Whippy and other food trucks. Not to mention the trains.! Awesome detail, loads of fun and only $3 per ticket. No wonder it was packed during January holidays.

  • 5/5 Chiu Y. 4 years ago on Google
    Very funny place for kids and families.

  • 5/5 Tsuyoshi F. 3 years ago on Google
    Very popular attraction. And the riding is fun.

  • 5/5 Kirsten 2 years ago on Google
    We loved it! The trains are so interesting and the ride takes you through tunnels, across bridges and around the parkland. Lots of fun waving to the other trains zipping around and even a steam locomotive. Next to the railway there is a park with picnic area and even pony rides near the car park!

  • 5/5 Christian P. 4 years ago on Google
    This place is run by a group of fantastic dedicated volunteers who dedicate their time and effort to serve the community. We always enjoy trip here.

  • 5/5 Tim S. 4 years ago on Google
    Kids absolutely love this place, great value too

  • 5/5 Kolpinizki S. 4 years ago on Google
    Cheap and fun for children

  • 5/5 Scott W. 4 years ago on Google
    Great fun for the family with plenty of trains running to keep the lines moving. Plan to be on a run for about 6mins to complete the 2 loops

  • 4/5 ida M. 4 years ago on Google
    Loved the day, surrounded by family. Children had fun and so did the adults. Very good customer service.

  • 4/5 Damo M. 4 years ago on Google
    Great place for little kids, cheap entertainment. The trains seem well maintained with a few always on the go. Can get very busy when the weather is good so be prepared to wait in line for a ride. There's also a good Park next to the trains so bring a picnic and make a day of it.

  • 5/5 Tony Q H. 4 years ago on Google
    Awesome

  • 5/5 Oliver A. 4 years ago on Google
    Great to go the trains, the kids loved it, it’s cheap and there is a playground next door. Good place to go for day out with the family

  • 5/5 Joel D. 3 years ago on Google
    One of the best places you can take the kids! Prices are amazing and all the staff are kind and welcoming! Just make sure you book online during covid so you don't miss out

  • 5/5 James B. 4 years ago on Google
    Pretty cool for all people and the kids love it

  • 5/5 Maree B. 4 years ago on Google
    Great place for kids and Adults

  • 5/5 Yasmin M. 4 years ago on Google
    Great fun, lovely volunteers and the kids love it! Highly recommend

  • 5/5 Rich L. 4 years ago on Google
    The best miniature railway there is. Incredible and long track with multiple tunnels, bridges etc. Brilliant value for money.

  • 5/5 George from In Focus healing and wellness c. 4 years ago on Google
    Great night experience for kids and kids at heart

  • 5/5 Robert C. 4 years ago on Google
    Fun day out with my grandson! $3 per miniature train ticket. Value plus!

  • 5/5 Rosa C. 4 years ago on Google
    Such a fun day.kids loved the trains and awesome playground .very good day out and cheap.

  • 4/5 Max P. 4 years ago on Google
    Kids will love it, its cheap, its close unlike the expensive Belgrave- Thomas train

  • 5/5 warren h. 4 years ago on Google
    Absolute cracker. $3 per ride 10-15 mins long is Terrific value. All trains immaculately presented.

  • 5/5 Kobi Z. 4 years ago on Google
    Amazing place, great fun for children and although crowded, the lines actually run pretty fast. Highly recommended


Call +61 3 9439 1493 Open on Google Maps

Trends



Last updated:

Similar Tourist attractions nearby

Queen Victoria Market image
1
Queen Victoria Market
Market
Longtime market selling food, clothing & more in a historic landmark spanning 2 city blocks.
4.50 (49.4K reviews)
Melbourne Cricket Ground image
2
Melbourne Cricket Ground
Stadium
Home of Australian football and the National Sports Museum, also serving as a music venue and more.
4.70 (26.2K reviews)
National Gallery of Victoria image
3
National Gallery of Victoria
Art gallery
Public gallery with vast, varied collection of noted Australian and international art and artefacts.
4.70 (20.4K reviews)
Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria - Melbourne Gardens image
4
Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria - Melbourne Gardens
Botanical garden
36-hectare botanic garden founded in 1846, planted with Australian species and non-native gardens.
4.80 (15.9K reviews)
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium image
5
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
Aquarium
Interactive multilevel aquarium housing 10,000+ animals, including sharks & saltwater crocodiles.
4.30 (15.4K reviews)
Last updated:
()