Go Out and About with the Top Things to Do in Melbourne
If you’re here for the picture-perfect tourist moments, you might want to take a seat because we’re about to shake things up. Maps and guidebooks? Toss ’em.
We’re not here to just sightsee – we’re here to experience Melbourne like insiders with VIP access. You can think of this as your cheat sheet for the kind of adventures that don’t just make for good stories – they make for legendary ones.
So, if you’re ready to dive into the Melbourne that locals love and tourists never find, grab your sense of adventure since we’re going all in.
Cultural Experiences
Explore the National Gallery of Victoria
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Location: 180 St Kilda Rd
Contact: +61 3 8620 2222
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) is one of Melbourne’s top must-see spots for a reason – or, more accurately, 75,000 reasons.
Founded in 1861, it holds the title of Australia’s oldest and most visited public art museum, with collections that span the best of global and Australian art.
Split between the sleek NGV International on St Kilda Road and The Ian Potter Centre at Federation Square, the gallery takes you on a journey through masterpieces by Monet, Renoir, Degas, and countless others.
Pro Tip:
Don’t just stop at the permanent collections. NGV regularly hosts special exhibitions and events, so there’s always something new to experience.
Visit the Melbourne Museum
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Location: 11 Nicholson St
Contact: +61 3 8620 2222
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
In the heart of Carlton Gardens, beside the grand Royal Exhibition Building, the Melbourne Museum invites visitors to explore a world of discovery and wonder.
With collections spanning natural history, science, and Indigenous cultures, there’s something to intrigue everyone.
You can step into “The Melbourne Story” to trace the city’s transformation or marvel at live insects in “Bugs Alive!.” You can also dive into the rich “First Peoples” exhibition at the Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre, which offers an inspiring look at Victoria’s Indigenous heritage.
For families, the Pauline Gandel Children’s Gallery is a must. It has interactive displays designed to engage young explorers.
Pro Tip:
Watch a film at IMAX Melbourne! It features documentaries and blockbusters on one of the world’s largest screens for an unforgettable and immersive experience.
Attend a performance at the Arts Centre Melbourne
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Location: 100 St Kilda Rd
Contact: +61 1300 182 183
With over 4,400 performances and events lighting up its stages each year, Arts Centre Melbourne is truly the heartbeat of Melbourne’s cultural scene.
This sprawling venue has something for every artistic taste, from grand opera and ballet in the majestic State Theatre to symphonic masterpieces in Hamer Hall, where the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra performs in breathtaking acoustics.
For more intimate theater moments, The Playhouse and Fairfax Studio deliver close-up drama. The open-air Sidney Myer Music Bowl, on the other hand, lets audiences enjoy shows with a panoramic city backdrop.
Collaborations with resident icons like Opera Australia and The Australian Ballet bring world-class productions to life, making every performance an unforgettable experience.
Pro Tip:
Score discounted tickets through the “Tix at 12” initiative every Tuesday from 12:00 PM to 11:59 PM – your chance to catch a top-notch show at a great price.
Outdoor Activities
Stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens
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Location: Birdwood Ave
Contact: +61 3 9252 2300
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 7:30 AM to 7:30 PM
Established in 1846, the Royal Botanic Gardens have blossomed into a sprawling 38-hectare sanctuary. It’s home to over 8,500 plant species from around the world.
Once you’re here, you can check out their vibrant collections. These include the Arid Garden, home to more than 3,000 varieties of cacti and succulents, and the Ian Potter Foundation Children’s Garden, where young explorers can connect with nature.
The serene Ornamental Lake, winding pathways, and thoughtfully designed landscapes provide a peaceful retreat from city life.
More than just a garden, this green haven is also a cultural and educational hub. It offers programs like the Aboriginal Heritage Walk, which delves into the traditions and stories of the local Indigenous communities.
Pro Tip:
Check the calendar for seasonal events, including outdoor movie nights and live music performances. They make evenings at the gardens even more magical.
Experience the Dandenong Ranges National Park
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Location: School Rd
Contact: +61 131963
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Spanning an impressive 3,540 hectares, Dandenong Ranges National Park is a lush oasis offering a refreshing escape into nature’s embrace.
For the adventurous, the iconic 1000 Steps (Kokoda Track Memorial Walk) delivers a challenging climb through dense forest, honoring the WWII Kokoda Track campaign.
Prefer something gentler? The Olinda Falls trail promises a peaceful walk to stunning waterfalls, perfect for unwinding.
Pro Tip:
Head to Sherbrooke Forest for a chance to see the superb lyrebird, famous for its uncanny ability to mimic sounds from its environment.
Admire flora at the Carlton Gardens
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Location: 1-111 Carlton St
Contact: +61 3 9658 9658
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
On the edge of Melbourne’s bustling Central Business District, the 26-hectare Carlton Gardens offer a timeless retreat. They’ve earned UNESCO World Heritage status for their historical and cultural significance.
Dating back to the 1850s, these gardens are a masterpiece of Victorian-era landscape design. They boast rolling lawns, tranquil ornamental lakes, and a mix of native Australian and exotic European plants.
You can also wander through avenues lined with grand elms, oaks, and plane trees that transform beautifully with each season.
At the heart of Carlton Gardens stands the iconic Royal Exhibition Building, which was built for the Melbourne International Exhibition of 1880. It’s surrounded by the enriching presence of the Melbourne Museum.
Pro Tip:
Don’t miss the Victorian-era Hochgurtel Fountain and the elegant circular French Fountain – these stunning landmarks add an extra touch of charm to this picturesque landscape
Culinary Delights
Sample treats at Queen Victoria Market
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Location: Queen St
Contact: +61 3 9320 5822
Operating hours:
- Tuesday & Thursday to Friday – 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- Saturday – 6:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Sunday – 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Queen Victoria Market is a paradise for food lovers, with over 600 vibrant small businesses offering everything from farm-fresh produce to global gourmet finds.
You can check out the Dairy Produce Hall here, which is full of artisanal cheeses, fine cured meats, and irresistible gourmet goodies.
Beyond its food, this market is a true cultural crossroads. It celebrates Melbourne’s multicultural spirit with year-round events and festivals.
One highlight is the “Pasko Sa Melbourne,” where Filipino Christmas traditions come alive through parol-making, live performances, and tantalizing food stalls representing diverse cuisines.
Pro Tip:
Join the Ultimate Foodie Tour for a behind-the-scenes look into the market’s rich history and culinary delights – it’s the best way to taste your way through this iconic Melbourne spot.
Dine at Attica
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Location: 74 Glen Eira Rd
Contact: +61 3 9530 0111
Operating hours: Tuesday to Saturday – 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Led by the visionary chef Ben Shewry, Attica has become a culinary legend by turning the flavors of Australia into an art form.
Known for its daring approach to modern Australian cuisine, Attica’s menu is a journey through the country’s rich biodiversity and Indigenous heritage.
Think charred crocodile ribs with a zing of spiced finger lime honey or a warming wattle dahl – each dish crafted with native ingredients like bunya nuts, saltbush, and finger limes.
The multi-course tasting menu, at $385, evolves with the seasons. It delivers an experience as fresh as it is unforgettable. No wonder Attica consistently ranks among The World’s 50 Best Restaurants!
Pro Tip:
Make sure to book ahead since reservations here are gold! Bookings open on the first Wednesday of each month for the following three months.
Enjoy modern Asian cuisine at Chin Chin
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Location: 125 Flinders Ln
Contact: +61 3 8663 2000
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Since opening its doors in 2011, Chin Chin has been the place to go for a bold, modern twist on Southeast Asian flavors.
Under Executive Chef Benjamin Cooper’s creative hand, the menu brings together traditional ingredients with a contemporary flair.
Standout dishes? You’ll want to try the Kingfish Sashimi. It’s zesty with lime, chili, coconut, and Thai basil. There’s also the rich Green Curry of Chicken, which is served with corn, chili, and oyster mushrooms.
For the full experience, opt for the “Feed Me” menu – a chef’s selection of the best Chin Chin has to offer, perfect for adventurous eaters.
And for a one-of-a-kind gathering, book the Chef’s Table. It can seat 10 to 14 guests beneath the restaurant’s famous neon bunny.
Pro Tip:
Chin Chin offers gift vouchers! Right now, if you spend over $100, you get a 20% bonus. It’s the perfect way to treat a friend – or yourself – to this unforgettable dining experience.
Taste Thai classics at Dodee Paidang
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Location: Basement/353 Little Collins St
Contact: +61 1300 363 336
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday & Sunday – 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Dodee Paidang’s menu is a spice lover’s dream, featuring authentic Thai classics with a twist! Their Tom Yum noodles are legendary! They offer spice levels from zero to a fiery seven, so you can turn up the heat as much (or as little) as you like.
Other crowd-pleasers include Pad Thai, fragrant green curry, and the indulgent deep-fried marinated pork belly, all prepared with traditional Thai ingredients and flair.
With multiple locations in Melbourne’s CBD, including popular spots on Little Collins and Swanston Street, Dodee Paidang makes Thai dining easy to find.
But if you’re after atmosphere, head to Little Collins on a Friday or Saturday to enjoy live acoustic tunes that add extra flavor to your meal.
Pro Tip:
Can’t make it to the restaurant? Dodee Paidang delivers through Uber Eats, so you can savor that Tom Yum heat right from your couch.
Entertainment and Nightlife
Catch live music at the Forum Theatre
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Location: 154 Flinders St
Contact: +61 1300 111 011
Operating hours: Monday to Friday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
For a quintessentially Melbourne experience, catch live music at the Forum Theatre. It’s a venue that’s been enchanting audiences since 1929.
Originally known as the State Theatre, the Forum dazzles with its unique Moorish Revival architecture by famed architect John Eberson.
Inside, you’ll find yourself under a dreamy cerulean ceiling scattered with twinkling stars, transporting you straight into a Florentine garden on a starlit night.
Hosting an eclectic lineup of artists and genres, the Forum is more than just a concert hall; it’s a cultural hub, playing host to iconic events like the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and the Melbourne International Film Festival.
Pro Tip:
Want in on the action? Head to the Forum’s official website for the latest event listings and ticket details – don’t miss your chance to experience this legendary venue in full swing.
Sip cocktails at Rooftop Bar
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Location: Curtin House, level 7/252 Swanston St
Contact: +61 3 9654 5394
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Since opening in 2006, Rooftop Bar has earned its spot as a beloved gem in Melbourne’s nightlife scene by offering a top-tier view of the city skyline that’s hard to beat.
With its astroturf lawn, quirky seating, and open-air vibes, the bar is the perfect blend of chill and vibrant. When the sun dips, the whole place lights up with the city as its backdrop, setting the scene for unforgettable evenings.
The drink menu caters to all tastes, with a lineup of cocktails, local and international beers, and a wine list sure to impress.
Pro Tip:
Don’t miss the Rooftop Cinema during summer! Enjoy classic and contemporary films screened under the stars – it’s honestly a must for movie lovers and city-gazers alike.
Play games at Crown Casino
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Location: 8 Whiteman St
Contact: +61 3 9292 8888
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Crown Melbourne is a world of its own, blending high-stakes thrills with luxury and entertainment.
With over 2,500 poker machines and 540 table games, including classics like Roulette, Blackjack, Poker, and Baccarat, there’s something here for every level of player.
But gaming is just the start! Crown Melbourne’s lineup of award-winning restaurants, like Nobu and Bistro Guillaume, promises everything from laid-back bites to exquisite fine dining.
And when the sun sets, the complex comes alive with live performances, bustling nightclubs, and stylish bars that make for an unforgettable night out.
To top it off, luxury accommodations at Crown Towers, Crown Metropol, and Crown Promenade ensure that guests can rest in opulence.
Pro Tip:
Be a member of their Crown Rewards members get access to exclusive perks, with chances to win luxury prizes like Apple Prize Packs and even a Mercedes-Benz.
Unique Experiences
Experience the coolest place in town at IceBar Melbourne
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Location: The Atrium, Federation Square
Contact: +61 1300 423 227
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Monday & Wednesday – 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Thursday to Saturday – 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM
As Australia’s only ice bar, IceBar Melbourne keeps things a chill -10°C all year. It offers a frosty escape from Melbourne’s usual weather.
Upon arrival, you’ll be kitted out in snow gear—think gloves, Ugg boots, and a cozy snow cape or faux fur coat—to keep you toasty in this icy oasis.
Inside, you’ll find over 30 tonnes of sculpted ice making up the walls, furniture, and even the bar itself. Sip on cocktails served in ice glasses or take a shot down the ice luge for an extra-cool experience.
Pro Tip:
The icy fun doesn’t stop at the drinks – try your hand at giant Jenga or admire the rotating display of detailed ice sculptures for a unique night out.
Go on an Urban Axe-Throwing Adventure at Maniax
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Location: Basement/121 Elizabeth St
Contact: +61 1300 217 583
Operating hours:
- Monday & Wednesday – 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Thursday – 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM
- Sunday – 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
At MANIAX, you’re welcomed by trained “Axe-perts” who provide a full safety briefing and personalized coaching, so even first-timers can unleash their inner lumberjack with confidence.
With multiple lanes ready for action, MANIAX is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a corporate event or just a fun night out with friends.
But the fun doesn’t stop at the targets! After all that axe-swinging, head to the on-site bar for craft beers, Viking-inspired cocktails served in drinking horns, or a mead paddle to truly embrace the Nordic vibes.
Freshly baked pizzas are also on hand to recharge you after the thrill of the throw.
Pro Tip:
Ready to take it up a notch? MANIAX hosts competitive leagues where you can join regular tournaments and sharpen those axe-throwing skills in a lively, tournament-style setting.
Sip and Paint at Champainting Melbourne
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Location: 206 Clarendon St
Contact: +61 499 007 234
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Since 2012, Champainting has been the go-to spot for blending art with a side of social fun, launching Australia’s first paint-and-sip experience.
Here, you can create your own masterpiece in a relaxed setting. There are professional artists guiding you step-by-step, so even absolute beginners leave with a piece they’re proud of.
The studio offers a mix of themed sessions like “Paint Your Mate Picasso Style,” “Glow in the Dark,” and the ever-popular “Paint Your Pet,” catering to all tastes. It’s also BYO, so you can bring your favorite drinks and snacks for a truly personalized night out.
For a more exclusive vibe, try one of the VIP sessions at iconic locations like the Melbourne Skydeck or Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium—painting with a view just has a whole new meaning.
Pro Tip:
Have an event? Champainting’s private sessions are perfect for team-building, birthday parties, or hen’s nights, adding a creative twist to any celebration.
Experience Virtual Reality Escape Rooms at Viri VR
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Location: 10 Queen St
Contact: +61 3 9088 6232
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Saturday – 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Sunday – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Viri VR is a playground for virtual thrill-seekers, offering over 25 immersive experiences that’ll have you dodging zombies, racing supercars, and escaping mind-bending rooms—all without leaving Melbourne.
With themed VR escape rooms that test your teamwork and puzzle-solving skills, it’s the perfect spot to rally your crew and tackle challenges together.
Not into escaping? Dive into VR arcade games, shooting simulations, sports, or even get behind the wheel in VR racing.
Equipped with cutting-edge Oculus 3 and HTC Vive headsets, Viri VR ensures top-notch visuals and gameplay, with friendly game masters on hand to keep the fun flowing.
Pro Tip:
Book online ahead of time since it’s a popular spot, and a reservation ensures you’re ready to jump right into the action