Things To Do In Melbourne Right Now

The Best Things To Do In Melbourne’s CBD

• Go gallery-hopping around the city. Melbourne is spoiled for choice when it comes to art galleries, exhibitions, museums and everything in between. All situated within the free tram zone, there is the National Gallery of Victoria (Ian Potter Centre & NGV International), ACMI, Australian Centre for Contemporary Art, Melbourne Museum, the Immigration Museum and The Lume where you can take a look at permanent collections and seasonal exhibitions alike. 
  

• A quick 'fun things to do in Melbourne' search and you'll likely find the iconic Federation Square. Fed Square sits at the heart of Melbourne City and acts as a hub for the arts with a stacked program of events and installations that are free to the public. On any given day you'll find the likes of live televised sports games, staged musical performances and various arts-related exhibitions which are often free.

• Head to the Koorie Heritage Trust at Federation Square, proudly Aboriginal-owned and operated since 1985 is an immersive three-level first peoples art and cultural centre. Entry is free, inside you'll discover a raft of different exhibitions as well as the permanent collection which features an extensive range of artworks, artefacts and mixed media recordings. 

• Take to the waters with GoBoat and sail your way down the Yarra River. It’s never been easier to rent a vessel and load up with a self-packed picnic and a few of your nearest and dearest.

  

• There are plenty of things to do in Melbourne, but something that's unmissable for vacationers and staycationers alike is a meander through Melbourne’s graffiti-covered laneways. Melbourne laneways are infamous for being plastered with work by local artists. Start with Hosier Lane before venturing off to Presgrave Place, AC/DC Lane, Meyers Place, Blender Lane and Duckboard Place.

• A regular in what's on Melbourne lists is the one and only Lune. Grab a limited edition croissant. Lune regularly rotates their creations but you can always depend on them for a classic or almond rendition of the esteemed pastry.
  

• Head to Melbourne's China Town for BYO dumplings. Group dinners in China Town over dumplings is a Melbourne right of passage and should be at the top of your 'things to do Melbourne' list. There are so many to choose from along Little Bourke Street for those hoping to walk in, or, find a spot from our best dumplings in Melbourne guide here. 

• You're rarely stuck for things to do in Melbourne CBD, but a favourite for many is watching the sunset from the Arbory Bar and Eatery, it's also believed to be the longest bar in the southern hemisphere and is a go-to for tourists and locals alike. Its seasonal counterpart the Arbory Afloat on the Yarra River is also a Melbourne summer staple for knock-off or pre-show drinks. 
  

• Hit the dance floor and boogie the evening away to vinyl records inside the multi-storied HER Bar at Music Room, which exclusively plays from their curated record collection. The venue hosts a range of live music with local and international artists so it's worth checking out their program before your visit.

• If you're fascinated by anything transport, the free City Circle Tram might just be the activity for you. The Route 35 tram ride is completely free so you can leave the Myki at home and admire the heritage tram and the city scenes out the window. The tram runs a hop-on hop-off service that lasts roughly thirty minutes around Melbourne’s business district and passes many tourist attractions.

• It's thought of as one of the best things to do in Melbourne by many a tourist. Take a long elevator ride up the Eureka Tower before arriving at the Skydeck,  it's a must-do for its views of the city from three-hundred metres high. Complete your visit with a drink at Bar 88 or dinner at Eureka 89 restaurant.

• Looking for things to do in Melbourne late in the evening? Enjoy a late-night supper at Gimlet and take advantage of Gimlet’s after-hours menu. It’s exclusive to Friday and Saturday evenings from 10pm onwards—make sure you order the cheeseburger. 
  

• No visit in Melbourne would be complete without a trip to Holey Moley. This spot has turned the slow sport of golf into a fast-paced social outing for amateurs. Tee off your mini golf game with a cocktail in hand and explore the nostalgic-themed holes. 

• Another one of the best things to do in Melbourne after dark is grabbing late-night feed at Supper Inn. It’s never a bad idea to tackle some Chinese food but there’s something extra cool about eating it at 2am. Supper Inn has earned a reputation for serving up Cantonese-style dishes well into the early hours of the morning.

• One of the best free things to do in Melbourne is paying a visit to the State Library of Victoria. Whether you’re going for the book collection, study spaces or heritage architecture, the State Library of Victoria is one of the best public places in the city. 
  

• Another top spot whenever you're searching 'things to do in Melbourne'. The Queen Victoria Market is a Melbourne landmark in its own right with its food halls and market stalls. While you’re there be sure to stop by the seventy-year-old American Doughnut Kitchen Van which serves some of the best hot jam doughnuts going around. 
  

• If you have a fascination with all things underwater, an excursion to Sea Life Aquarium is one of the best things to do in Melbourne for you. You can visit for a self-guided tour with a general admission ticket or you can add on extra experiences like a trip on a glass bottom boat.

• Tackle some Yum Cha. The lunchtime tradition has evolved over the years, especially in the cultural melting pot of Melbourne, staples like Siu Mai dumplings and Peking duck will be served alongside some more contemporary dishes, like Buddha BBQ buns, and chicken ribs with spicy mayo, find the best Yum Cha in Melbourne here. 

The Best Things To Do In Melbourne’s East Side

• There are plenty of things to do in Melbourne's Royal Botanic Gardens, especially when the sun's out. Make your way through the sprawling fauna and stop by The Terrace for a coffee and a bite, or don the runners and hit the classic ‘Tan’ track. 
  

• Become a cinephile at Lido Cinemas in Hawthorn. This stunning cinema always screens new releases as well as cult classics, there are also themed nights and even a rooftop cinema that screens movies after-dark during the warmer months of the year. 

• Wondering what's on in Melbourne on the weekends? Wake up early for trip to the Camberwell Markets. There are many second-hand markets around Melbourne but the Sunday Camberwell Markets reign supreme. You’ll want to go at the crack of dawn if you're hoping to find something decent—otherwise, head down in the afternoon for the best deals.

• Ice skating is one of those things to do you can find in almost every city, and for good reason because it's a damn good time. The Olympic Ice Skating Centre in Oakleigh has opened its doors to the public with free skate hire. See if you can do a few laps of the rink before graduating to double and triple axles. 
  

• No 'what's on Melbourne' list would be complete without a hot air balloon ride. Gain a new perspective of Melbourne in a hot air balloon that departs from Richmond. There are private packages and breakfast packages that are available if you’re looking for a way to make the activity even more memorable.
  

• Toss a couple of hatchets with these Axe Throwing spots, a surprisingly addictive pastime, the sport has become one of the best things to do in Melbourne. Each spot features its own dedicated lanes with on-site axe throwing training and some even have bars attached. 

The Best Things To Do In Melbourne’s Inner West

• Yarraville’s Sun Theatre has eight art deco-inspired cinemas that screen both feature and art films. Commence your visit with a trip to the original candy bar and finish up with a detour past the bookstore if you're looking for things to do that involve a little culture.
  

• Ferry over to St Kilda pier from Williamstown if you're looking for things to do on the water. The St Kilda Ferry departs from Williamstown’s Gem Pier. It’s without a doubt 'the scenic route' but also a quintessential Melbourne activity everyone should experience at least once. 

• Speed through the tracks at these Go Karting spots in Melbourne. From channelling your inner Drive To Survive at the zippy indoor racing venue of Auscarts or take to the outdoor loops of Dandenong's Le Mans, there's a speed limit for all. 

• Plan an excursion to Scienceworks for a host of family-friendly things to do in Melbourne. This interactive museum combines scene and play to create a fun educational experience for both kids and guardians. Scienceworks has earned a stellar reputation for its planetarium and lightning shows as well as limited edition featured exhibitions.
  

• If you're looking for Melbourne things to do that showcases the culinary craft of the city, grab one of Gem Pier Seafood's iconic lobster rolls. This place is a fifth-generation family business run by fishmongers who are passionate about sustainable seafood. Swing by to pick up your dinner ingredients or something from their ready-to-eat menu including a lobster roll and sashimi plate.

• Book a safari at Werribee Open Range Zoo. The zoo dedicated to fighting extinction lets you adventure behind the enclosures with its morning safari and overnight camp.

• Take a cooking class at Heart of Hall. When you combine a cooking school with a cafe you get Heart of Hall—this hot spot is the heart of Newport’s Hall Street and is located directly opposite Newport station so it’s an easy commute for anyone looking for things to do in the early afternoon. 

• A no-brainer if you're looking for things to do in Melbourne's west. Eat your way through Grazeland. While it's not quite a formal restaurant, Grazeland is a playground for foodies and the cuisine curious. After you've secured your grazing selection you can dig in and enjoy the city views from the many tables on offer.
  

• Enjoy sunset drinks at Sebastian’s. Sebastian Beach Grill perches on Williamstown Beach and is serving up a mind-blowing dinner of pintxos, small plates, large plates and sides. For a memorable feed, try and secure a table on the beach view deck which is shaded by classic blue and white striped umbrellas. 

The Best Things To Do In Melbourne’s South-East

• Wondering what's on at Melbourne's Astor Theatre? As a single-screen cinema complete with a curtain and dress stalls, It's the last of its kind in Melbourne. The Astor is famous for its presentation of classics, cult faves and select new releases, all projected on a range of mediums including 35mm prints and the now rare 70mm format.
  

• Experience childhood nostalgia at Luna Park with vistas of St Kilda pier in the distance. It may be a storied theme park but Luna Park isn't too outdated to have a good time. Lean into the lunacy with the carousel, twin dragon, scenic railway, road runner and spider rides.

• Grab a scoop of gelato from Pidapipo. Scoop up some delightful ricotta and fig, or perhaps burnt butter or rosemary and chestnut are more your thing? Whatever you fancy, you’ll be able to taste the creamiest and richest flavours at Pidapipo’s Chapel Street gelateria.
  

• Peruse the Prahran Market if you're looking for things to do in Melbourne's south. If it’s organic produce, sustainable seafood and free-range meat you’re looking for, Prahran Market is the destination for you. Your experience won’t be limited to just groceries, either, there are plenty of specialty coffee makers and florists manning the stalls. 

• The list of things to do in Melbourne is truly endless, but one for the visitors is scoring a snap at the Brighton Beach Boxes. The Brighton Beach boxes have reached icon status as a tourist hot spot. While they serve as a vibrant backdrop for snaps they also act as functional bathing boxes for local owners.
  

• Book in date night at Classic Rooftop Cinema for any couples looking for things to do in Melbourne this weekend. The city loves a rooftop and so does Elsternwick’s Classic Cinema. Here, you can take in the view and a film from comfortable director's chair seating on staggered levels with the bar close by.

• Indulge in fine cheeses at Milk The Cow. Head over to St Kilda to this fromagerie to indulge in two of life's greatest pleasures, wine and cheese. Put this one right at the top of your 'things to do Melbourne' list if you're a foodie.

• Take a trip an hour out of town to the stunning Mornington Peninsula. Check out some of the finest coastlines in Victoria, head into the bush hinterland filled with vineyards and sample of the best restaurants in the state.

• Midnight pasta at Chapelli’s is one of the best things to do in Melbourne well into the night. If you’re looking for a late-night feed after stumbling out of one of Chapel Street’s many bars or clubs, Chapelli's has got just what you need. Here you can pick your pasta type and sauce to create your ultimate meal any time of the day.

The Best Things To Do In Melbourne’s North Side

• Relax at Sense of Self Bathhouse, if you're looking for some more relaxing things to do in Melbourne. Taking inspiration from ancient bathing traditions while exploring contemporary notions of self-care, Sense of Self (SOS) Bathhouse and Spa is all about wellness without the BS. Book in for their choose-your-own wellness experience that is redefining the industry.
  

• Eat a burger in a train at Easey’s. Easey’s is dishing up greasy tots and fries to accompany their single, double or triple-stacked burgers. The meal is only heightened by the rooftop and in-train carriage dining.

• A true natural oasis in the inner-city Abbotsford Convent is a mandatory inclusion for the things to do in Melbourne list. The sloping green hill has plenty of space to picnic there are also rotating art exhibitions, Cam's Kiosk if you get hungry and also the Collingwood children's farm to visit.  

• Understand the hype for Collingwood Yards, it's one of the best things to do in Melbourne for the culture seekers. Collingwood Yards has quickly established itself as a precinct for locals. It’s also home to the wildly popular Hope St Radio restaurant and Runner Up rooftop bar—events here pop-up on 'what's on Melbourne' lists regularly, so keep an eye out on their socials for the latest.
  

• Explore the refurbished Pentridge Prison for one of Melbourne's more unique things to do. Pentridge Prison has quickly become a cultural hub in the Northern suburb of Coburg. Stop by the sprawling BrewDog beer garden, grab a vino at Olivine Wine bar or catch a flick at the Palace Cinema. 
  

• Stop by A1 Bakery in Brunswick. Sydney Road is home to many iconic food purveyors but A1 Bakery has had a strong presence since its establishment back in 1992. Be sure to pick up homemade baklava, pita, pie or kibbie.

• Go for a bowl and pint at The Keys. This spot is an all-in-one leisure centre, bowling alley, beer garden, bistro and arcade. If you’re trying to mix up your group catch-ups, give The Keys a go for a place to drink, eat and bowl. 

• Spend a day at The Melbourne Zoo. The Melbourne Zoo, located in Royal Park, has enough wildlife to fill up an entire day of exploration and also doubles as a great location for a picnic. With a big cat enclosure, gorilla rainforest, an elephant sanctuary, and reptile house there will be an animal that captivates your attention. 
  

• One of Melbourne's most nostalgic things to do is visit Coburg's drive-in theatre. Whether you’re on a romantic date or with a carload of mates, Coburg’s drive-in cinema will take you right back. With regular screenings of new feature films and old fan favourites, you'll likely find a film for you. 

• Go rock climbing over at Northside Boulders. Northside Boulders is for the adventurous types looking for things to do in Melbourne. You can reach new heights and scale the walls at either their Northcote or Brunswick location. 
  

• Spend an evening at the soundbar Waxflower. Whether it's a late-night espresso or glass of vino you’re seeking, Waxflower is ready to serve it up with a side of music. This bar is for fellow audiophiles who want to listen to vinyl records or discover new DJ’s.

• Experience Virtual Reality at Zero Latency. You’ll be armed with a VR headset, power backpack and controller to enter into an immersive virtual reality world. You can book a VR adventure for up to eight friends to experience together over at Zero Latency.

• Bookworms looking for things to do should first pay a visit Readings on Lygon Street. Pick up a new paperback or hardback to add to your growing to-be-read stack, Readings on Lygon Street is one of the city’s best bookstores with its vast collection and knowledgeable staff.

• Karaoke at Ichi Ni Nana should be at the top of your list for a good time. There really is no shortage of karaoke spots in Melbourne but few of them are also serving up premium Japanese-style dishes. Ichi Ni Nana’s Sing Song Den provides a space to wine, dine and sing all at once. 
  

  Make a day of it and hit up more of Melbourne's best spots for breakfast, lunch and dinner:

  Melbourne's best restaurants
  Melbourne's best cafes
  Melbourne's best bars
  Melbourne's best breakfast
  Melbourne's best Japanese
  
  Image credit: James Bernstein (Pexels)