places to visit in melbourne cbd at night

37 Fun Things To Do in Melbourne at Night in 2024

Looking for fun things to do in Melbourne at night? You’ve come to the right place! I’m a Melbourne local who absolutely loves this city’s nightlife. Here are my recommendations for how to spend an evening in our awesome city.

During the day, Melbourne is known for its food, culture and fashion. But as the sun sets, Melbourne undergoes a subtle transformation. The city’s bright lights soften the harder edges and the Yarra River shines. Bars burst open and restaurants fill with people wanting a bit of our amazing cuisine.

You can find something to do in Melbourne at night to keep the kids entertained but in bed by 8pm, or you can dance until the wee hours of the morning.

To help you make the most of your evenings in the city, here’s a curated list of things to do in Melbourne after dark.

This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

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What to do in Melbourne at night

Here’s my guide to the best activities in Melbourne for adults and kids alike.

1. Take in the views at the Melbourne Skydeck 

I mentioned the lights already, and there’s no better place to see them than from the Melbourne Skydeck . 

Located on the 88 th floor of the Eureka Tower, the Skydeck offers stunning views of Melbourne at night. While the views are awesome during the day, it’s at nighttime that you’ll be wowed.

If you’re really brave, take your turn on the “Edge”. Edge your way out into the glass cube where you can take in unobstructed, 360-degree views of the city. It hangs 300 metres above street level so you can see straight through the floor to the ground. Eeek!

On safer ground is the Voyager Theatre. Here you’ll find virtual reality pod chairs where you can experience the best of Melbourne’s festivals, laneways, sporting events and scenery. By all accounts, it’s incredibly immersive and realistic!

Insider tip: If you want the best night views without the crowds, come during the week. Aim to arrive well before sunset to stake your spot!

Information about visiting Melbourne Skydeck

Address: 7 Riverside Quay, Southbank Opening hours: Open daily 12pm-10pm (until 9pm during winter months); last entry 30 mins before closing Book tickets online here

2. See a show

Indulge your arty side and see a show while you’re in Melbourne. There are a lot to choose from, because Melbourne gets all the best shows that come to Australia (as well as the amazing local productions). 

The most famous theatres in Melbourne are the Princess Theatre , which is where huge shows like Harry Potter have played. Or try the Athenaeum Theatre , the oldest in the city offering everything from comedy acts to Shakespeare. 

Her Majesty’s Theatre is another popular choice, offering the city’s best dance performances and musicals. The Regent Theatre is the place for blockbuster shows coming to Melbourne.

For more experimental productions, try the Malthouse Theatre , with its focus on cultural and artistic diversity, La Mama , an independent theatre in Carlton, or Union House for edgy student productions.

Shows rotate in and and out regularly, so check each theatre’s website for the latest program.

Things to do in Melbourne at night: Money-saving tip

To save money on shows in Melbourne, stop by Halftix to see what discounted tickets they have for sale. And if the major theatre blockbusters are on your wish list, register for the ticket lottery at Todaytix . I’ve managed to get significantly discounted tickets through Todaytix. Read more Melbourne travel tips .

3. Laugh until your belly hurts 

Laughing is good for your mental, emotional, and physical health and it’s never been more important. So, for the good of your health, make sure that you include a comedy show or two when you’re planning your night in Melbourne. 

While Melbourne is home to Australia’s largest comedy festival, you can catch great acts year-round.

Comedy venues in Melbourne included Comedy at Spleen , for new and old talent, or Local Laughs , located in a European-inspired tavern in St Kilda East. 

If you like a more intimate setting, try Lido Comedy for a show every Tuesday night in the jazz room of an old cinema. Comedy at the Coopers Inn is also a great place to spend a Friday night. 

Love improv? Check out The Big Hoo-Haa on Friday and Saturday nights. I’m always in awe of comedians who can do improv – and these guys are incredible.

4. Scare yourself at the Old Melbourne Gaol

If you’re travelling with young kids, this probably isn’t the best choice of late-night Melbourne activities. But if your travelling companions are a little older and braver, then it’s a spooky but interesting way to spend a couple of hours. 

The Old Melbourne Gaol was built in the mid-1800s and closed in 1929. In that time, it housed not only dangerous criminals but also the mentally ill and homeless. Inmates who died there would make for very unhappy ghosts. And that’s before you add in the 133 prisoners who were hanged there for their crimes. 

It’s considered one of the most haunted places in Melbourne . And once you’re inside, you’ll feel it, trust me! Even if you don’t spot a ghost or hear something strange, there’s something odd about this place.

The gaol offers a few different tours , so have a look what’s on in the city and prepare to be creeped out.

Information about the Old Melbourne Gaol night tours

Address: 377 Russell St, Melbourne Hangman’s Night Tour: Select nights, 8pm, not suitable for children 16 and under, book tickets online here Ghosts? What Ghosts! Tour: Select nights, 8pm, not recommended for children 12 and under, book tickets online here

5. Catch a movie 

If you’re really struggling to find things to do at night in Melbourne (although, really – have you read this whole list??), then why not fall back on an old favourite? Melbourne has plenty of cinemas that show everything from the latest blockbusters to obscure arthouse releases, so you really can take your pick. 

Check out the Astor Theatre for classic movies and double features in Art Deco surroundings. Or try the Palace Westgarth , almost universally known as the most beautiful cinema in the city. 

I love Cinema Nova in Carlton – it’s great if you even want to see a movie solo, as I’ve done a few times.

The ACMI is a good choice for foreign films and documentaries, and for blockbusters and arthouse films, try the Palace Cinema Como for the latest films with a touch of luxury. 

Money-saving tips

Check each cinema for discounted tickets. The cheap nights are usually Tuesday or Wednesday. Check out more cheap things to do in Melbourne .

6. Gorge at the Queen Vic Market night markets

The Queen Victoria Market first opened in 1878, and locals have been visiting for food, trinkets and socialising ever since. It’s spread over two city blocks and offers everything from fresh produce to food trucks and clothing. 

If you’re in Melbourne on a Wednesday night, check out the Queen Vic Market, as there are themed night markets throughout the year. I love the summer and winter night markets, but there are also street food markets and other celebrations at other times of the year.

No matter the time of year, you can guarantee that there’ll be a LOT of food – usually from all around the world – as well as live music and entertainment.

Visiting the Queen Vic Market

Address: Queen St, Melbourne Website

7. Relax on St Kilda Beach and take in the sunset

While I don’t recommend ocean swimming as one of the Melbourne attractions to try at night, watching the sun setting over St Kilda Beach is a stunning way to cap off a day exploring Melbourne. 

I love grabbing some fish and chips from one of the local shops and enjoying them right there on the beach.

No matter the time of year, there are always people wandering along the foreshore so it’s a great spot for people watching

8. Say hi to the Little Penguins

Stick around St Kilda and get yourself in position before sunset for an added bonus.

St Kilda Pier is home to a colony of around 1,300 Little Penguins who come back to nest just after the sunset. Watching them waddle to their nests has to be one of the cutest things to do in Melbourne at night for free. (Check out my guide to free things to do in Melbourne for more budget-friendly activities.)

Update: The penguin viewing area is currently closed as part of the redevelopment of St Kilda Pier.

9. Sing your heart out

If your idea of a great night out involves a drink in one hand and a microphone in the other, then plan your next night out in Melbourne with a round of karaoke. No matter your song of choice, you’ll find plenty of karaoke bars around Melbourne – some even serve up food as well.

I LOVE a good karaoke night out! (My song of choice? Whitney Houston’s I Wanna Dance with Somebody.) Here are some of the most fun karaoke bars in Melbourne:

• KBOX Karaoke
• F.M. Karaoke
• Partyworld Karaoke
• Yum Sing House

10. Take the kids to Luna Park

Need to keep the kids occupied for a few hours? Then take them to Luna Park . With everything from dodgem cars to carnival games and carousels, this is the oldest continuously running theme park in the country. 

During the spring and summer months, Luna Park is open until 10pm on Friday and Saturday nights, so it’ll keep the kids happy until way past their bedtime. 

Check out more things to do with kids in Melbourne .

Visiting Luna Park

Address: 18 Lower Esplanade, St Kilda Opening hours: Varies throughout the year, but usually open until 10pm some nights during spring/summer Book tickets online

11. Check out a few Melbourne bars

You can’t talk about Melbourne nightlife without including our bar scene. Melbourne has a lot of them, some on rooftops and in hidden alleyways, others tucked away in historic buildings.

If you want to have a drink with friends at some of the coolest places in the city, here are a few options: 

• StoryVille – for a drink in a grim fairy tale 
• Heartbreaker – a grungy bar with quality drinks 
• Berlin Bar – where you have to choose which side of the wall you want to be on
• Murmur Piano Bar – for an old world feel
• One of the city’s hidden bars like Beneath Driver Lane or the unmarked Above Board in Collingwood
• Little Lon – gin distillery in a historic building

This list, of course, barely touches the breadth of what we have to offer here in Melbourne, but they’re starting points for a good night out!

12. Take a dinner cruise on the Yarra River

Taking a cruise along the river is one of the best things to do in Melbourne at night – it’s beautiful to see the city sparkling from the water. The lights reflect off the river and you’ll cruise past people also having an awesome night out.

There are several different cruise companies offering evening meals on the water. Some are buffets, some are multi-course menus, some include drinks and some don’t.

Whichever tour operator you choose, it’s such a lovely way to see the city. Book tickets online .

13. Watch a movie under the stars 

If you were born before technology exploded, then you probably remember the wonder and excitement of drive-in theatres. There’s just something special about watching a movie under the stars that even Gold Class can’t match. 

Here’s where to go in Melbourne city at night for an outdoor cinema experience: 

• Moonlight Cinema – in the beautiful Botanic Gardens
• Federation Square  – outdoor movies during the warmer months
• The Lunar Drive-In in Dandenong for one of the few, year-round outdoor cinemas
• Classic Rooftop Cinema – on top of Rooftop Bar in the city (also a great bar)
• Cameo Outdoor Cinema – out in lovely Belgrave, this cinema is also pup-friendly

Just remember that most of the cinemas aren’t open in the colder months, and understandably so – it’s just too hard to focus on the movies when you’re shivering! 

14. Stroll Southbank Promenade

Close to the city centre, Southbank Promenade extends along the Yarra River and is a popular night-time destination. The views are beautiful and there are lots of restaurants and bars where you can stop in for a meal or a drink.

There are also the famous Gas Brigades, the towers that shoot fireballs into the night sky every night. They’re loud and you can feel the heat from them. I always jump a mile if I’m walking down here and not expecting them!

Southbank is also home to Crown Casino, which has heaps of restaurants, bars and Melbourne night activities like mini golf and 10-pin bowling to keep you entertained all night.

15. Catch an AFL match

One of the best things to do in Melbourne at night if you’re here at the right time is to watch an AFL match. 

While I’m not a footy fan, I can’t help but get caught up in the spirit of being among the cheering (and jeering) crowds. If it’s your first time at a game, someone around you will usually be helpful in explaining the rules.

AFL games are played at a few stadiums around Melbourne, but try to time your visit with a game at the MCG, one of the city’s most iconic sporting venues.

Information about watching AFL in Melbourne

Check the latest match schedule online .

16. See a cabaret show at the Butterfly Club

Hidden away in a narrow alley, the Butterfly Club can be hard to find. But visitors and locals alike flock to this Melbourne night life institution to see their quirky cabaret shows, so make sure that you do the same. 

Insider tip: The club is small and tickets are limited, so book early to get your spot.

Visit the Butterfly Club

Address: 5 Carson Pl, Melbourne Hours: Monday to Saturday, 6pm until late Website

17. Take a moonlight kayak ride

If you enjoy seeing a city from the water but want a more personal experience, then take a sunset kayak tour along the Yarra River.

These tours leave from the Docklands at sunset and include a stop for fish and chips along the way. Book tickets online .

18. Test out your night-time photography skills

Melbourne nightlife isn’t all parties and eating and drinking. Sometimes it’s nice to just observe. 

If you’re at all arty or good with a camera, then test your night-time skills and see the city from behind a lens. You’ll be amazing at how different everything looks when you examine it with an artist’s eye. 

Some great locations to take photos at night are: 

• Flinders Street Station 
• Birrarung Marr for sunset shots over the water 
• St Kilda Pier after sunset for penguins
• Brighton Beach Boxes at sunset for amazing light 
• The Yarra River with a wide lens
• Crown Casino on the Yarra River

19. Play Holey Moley Golf 

Remember playing mini golf as a kid? Holey Moley has taken that to a new level with unique holes and landscapes that bring back the best and the worst of the ‘80s and ‘90s. With several locations throughout the city, it’s a little bit crazy and a lot of fun for kids of all ages. 

There’s a full-service bar and snacks to round out the night.

Info about Holey Moley Golf

Address: There are five locations in Melbourne: Crown Melbourne, Melbourne CBD, Eastland, Chadstone, Moorabbin and Frankston Opening hours: Open daily, hours vary depending on location Website

20. Listen to some live music 

Melbourne is famous for its live music. Every night, music venues and pubs showcase the best the city has to offer as well as up and coming talent. So, if you want to see some old favourites or discover new ones, here’s where to go: 

• The Tote or The Curtin or the Corner Hotel – classic Melbourne music venues that play every kind of genre you can think of
• Forum for big-name bands from Australia and overseas
• The Jazzlab or the Paris Cat Jazz Club for the best jazz in the city 
• The Prince Bandroom at the Price of Wales Hotel for local and international acts 
• The Retreat Hotel for blues on weeknights and headliners on the weekend
• Bars all along Johnston and Brunswick streets for Latin, rock, jazz and indie music on any night of the week

21. Eat out 

Do you need to be sold on the Melbourne food scene? Eating is one of the most popular and rewarding things to do at night in Melbourne.

And best of all, there’s no end to this activity. There are literally thousands of restaurants in Melbourne to try. Every time you visit Melbourne, you’ll find new restaurants, so no matter how many times you visit, there’ll be something new on the scene.

I’ve got a guide to where to eat in Melbourne which covers multiple neighbourhoods across the city. You won’t go hungry here!

22. Explore the amazing-ness of the planet

If you’re constantly astounded by the stars, planets and such science-y subjects, then head to Scienceworks on a Friday night for an adults-only interplanetary extravaganza.

The exhibits and films at Planetarium Nights change each month, but what you can always expect is a mind-blowing learning experience – plus a bar.

There are two sessions each night at 7.30pm and 9pm, each featuring different shows.

Information about Planetarium Nights

Address: Scienceworks, 2 Booker Street, Spotswood Hours: Friday nights, 7.30pm and 9pm Cost: $25-$45 Adults 18+ only Website

23. Hang out in a museum after hours

As the “capital of culture”, Melbourne is home to some world-class museums and galleries. While NGV International may be Australia’s oldest gallery, it doesn’t mean that it’s operating in the past. In fact, this gallery is always up to date with incredible exhibitions – and very hip after-hours events.

Depending on the season, on Friday nights the NGV opens its doors and welcomes visitors with DJs, live music, drinks and dining. The entertainment accompanying your gallery browsing changes each week.

Information about NGV Friday Nights

Address: NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne Hours: Friday nights, 6-10pm Cost: Tickets costs between $18-$40 Website

24. Test your skills in an Escape Room

Best played with a group of clever friends, escape rooms combine the thrill of the unknown with the heart-pounding anxiety of physical confinement.

It’s all in good fun, of course, you’re not actually in peril. But when they’re done well, these rooms do a good job of suggesting otherwise. And that’s half of the fun of them, isn’t it! 

I’ve visited a few escape rooms and always had a good time – even though I’m super competitive. Some of the most popular escape rooms in Melbourne are:

• Trapt  – classic escape rooms to while away an hour or two
• Rush Escape Game  – be warned: some of the rooms here are truly, truly scary
• Ukiyo  – Japanese-inspired escape rooms 
• The Mystery Rooms  – a variety of rooms to suit all ages 

25. Learn about Melbourne’s ghostly past

Melbourne is apparently haunted by many, many ghosts. Whether you believe or not, joining a spooky ghost tour is a great way to learn some fascinating stories about Melbourne’s previous inhabitants – and maybe squeal a few times.

I joined a tour a few months ago and despite the mix of sceptics and believers, we all had such an interesting time, with a few shivers and laughs along the way.

Some of the best ghost tours in Melbourne are:

• Scary Tales and Hidden Bars Tour in Melbourne – for those who’ll need a drink to settle their nerves on their ghost tour!
• Old Melbourne Ghost Tour – this is the tour I took, with a guide who has a history of speaking with ghosts – some even follow her home!
• Pentridge Prison D Division Ghost Tour in Melbourne – take a haunted tour of what was Melbourne’s most notorious prison
• Ghost of Old Williamstown Tour in Melbourne – head to Williamstown to learn about the spirits that haunt this part of Melbourne
• Altona Homestead Ghost Tour in Victoria – this homestead has a reputation for hauntings and has been the centre of paranormal investigations… eek!

26. Chill out in an ice bar

Rug up and enter a space where everything – including the drinks glasses – is made of ice!

Located in Fed Square’s Atrium,  IceBar Melbourne  gives you gloves, a snow cape and Ugg boots to stay warm.

Grab a drink and explore the (small) bar made of ice – the whole bar area is carved out of 30 tonnes of dry ice! There are games to play and photo screens to capture your experience. The staff are really friendly, and regularly pop around to guests for a chat.

It’s not cheap, but it is a unique night out. Book tickets for  IceBar Melbourne here .

Information about IceBar Melbourne

Address: Atrium, Federation Square Hours: Open daily (except some Tuesdays and Wednesdays) Book online

27. Take a boozy tour of Melbourne

With so many bars in Melbourne to choose from, it can be hard to narrow down which ones to visit when you come to Melbourne. So, why not leave it up to someone else – and learn a thing or two along the way?

These boozy Melbourne tours take you to the best bars in Melbourne with commentary about the things you need to know about Melbourne, whether that’s history or street art.

• Whisky Bar and Gin Joint Tour in Melbourne – learn about Victoria’s early spirit-making past to its modern craft scene on this tour that stops at three of Melbourne’s coolest whisky and gin bars
• Melbourne Hidden Bars Tour – discover Melbourne bars like a local, sipping drinks in tucked-away cocktail bars, shipping container bars, and hidden speakeasies
• Melbourne Boozy History and Bars Tour – combine a few drinks with a history lesson and learn about Melbourne’s love affair with drinking, the persecution of barmaids and the booziest Police Commissioner

28. Get your (ice) skates on

No matter your skill level, a night out on the ice can be a lot of fun. Glide around and show off, or fall, get up and fall over again! 

Go ice skating at O’Brien Icehouse near the Docklands for a family-friendly venue that’s safe for all ability levels. This venue has two rinks and is open 364 days a year. It’s also open late most nights, until 10pm or 11pm on Friday and Saturday nights.

Information about O’Brien Icehouse

Address: 105 Pearl River Road, Docklands Hours: Open daily, hours vary, open until 11pm Friday and Saturday nights Book online

29. Throw some axes

The axe-throwing craze sweeping the world has landed in Melbourne. Test your Viking skills by throwing axes at wooden blocks – it’s actually a lot of fun!

There are a couple of axe-throwing joints for an amusing night out:

• Lumber Punks Axe Throwing
• MANIAX Axe Throwing

Grab a group of friends and find out who’s got the better axe-throwing skills!

30. Have some fun at the Hijinx Hotel

One of Melbourne’s newest after-dark offerings, the Hijinx Hotel at Chadstone isn’t a hotel – it’s an immersive, quirky entertainment centre. This fun place is open all day but comes alive as the sun sets, with a mix of games, food and drinks.

Grab some friends and try the “Challenge rooms”, where you’ll work together to complete challenges and earn points before moving on to the next room. Not with a group? Then try your luck at the arcade games, bowling or mini golf.

There’s also plenty of food, with burgers and pizzas to complement the cocktail and beer and wine menu.

Information about the Hijinx Hotel

Address: Floor 1 Chadstone Shopping Centre, 1341 Dandenong Rd, Chadstone Hours: Sunday-Thursday: 10am-11pm; Friday-Saturday: 10am-1am Website

31. Be amazed by some magic

I’ve always been amazed by magicians but I had no idea we had a great magic show in Melbourne! Running every Friday night (and select Saturdays), magic happens just inches from your eyes at Impossible Occurrences .

Host Luke Hocking is a local modern-day magician who fuses illusion and mind reading into a theatrical magic experience. Audiences are small with only 50 people each show. There are dinner and show packages if you want to make a night of it.

I reckon even deep-seated sceptics would turn into believers after watching his magic show!

Address: Marriott Hotel Dates: Every Friday evening, with some select Saturdays Book online

32. Try your luck at the casino

Crown Casino in Melbourne has great restaurants and all the gaming action you could want. Obviously, you shouldn’t spend all your time throwing your money after a big win. But a couple of hours of eating and trying your luck can be a fun addition to your Melbourne at night activities. 

Insider tip: The casino can get a bit grubby in the early hours of the morning, so just watch out for fights and drunk people!

33. Get crafty (with drink in hand)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Drip Splash (@dripsplashau)

Looking for something completely different to do at nighttime in Melbourne? Why not try a class where you’ll make something to take home.

BYO booze to one of Melbourne’s and paint and sip classes. It’s exactly as it says on the label: you learn to paint while sipping some adult beverages. I’ve done this on a hen’s night and it was really fun (and our model was naked…). Two options in Melbourne are Pinot & Picasso and Cork & Chroma . You don’t have to know anything about art to join in and have a good time.

Beats and booze more your thing? At Drip Splash you’ll learn to paint Biggie, Tupac and Lauryn Hill while bopping along to their music.

Haus of Dizzy is an Indigenous-owned jewellery company that does “sip and bling” events. Under the watchful eye of Wiradjuri designer Kristy Dickinson, you’ll learn how to make earrings or bracelets .

Wanna get your Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore on? Then try a Slow Clay Wheel Taster pottery class . Suitable for beginners, classes are held in Collingwood so you can hit up the nearby bars and restaurants afterwards.

34. Stay overnight with some lions

One of the more unique things to do in Melbourne is camp overnight at Melbourne Zoo .

I’ve done this (although it was years ago) and it’s very cool to hear the animals roaring and chattering during the night!

There are a couple of options: Roar ‘n’ Snore Overnight Camp or Swags Under the Stars.

Both operate throughout the year except in June, July and August – for obvious reasons. No one wants to be roughing it in the cold Melbourne winter !

35. Play Mario Kart while sipping cocktails

View this post on Instagram A post shared by B. Lucky & Sons (@bluckyandsons)

Have some good old-fashioned fun at one of the many arcades and game houses around Melbourne.

At Ballers Clubhouse , you’ve got ping pong, darts and shuffleboard to keep you going all night. There are venues in the CBD and in Carlton.

If arcade games are more your thing, then Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq is the place to go. Win some prizes on the arcade games or try laser tag or the dodgem cars. Or play arcade games under the neon lights at B. Lucky & Sons .

Out in Preston, The Keys is a retro bowling alley with arcade games, a beer garden and pizzas for the coolest night out with friends.

36. Grab a late-night snack

Peckish as you head home or back to your hotel after an awesome night out in Melbourne? Don’t fret, there are some great late-night eats. Here are the places to go in Melbourne for that final meal before bed.

Supper Inn is a classic hospo after-work spot. My husband’s chef friends used to bring home Chinese food from here and it’s delicious no matter the time of day.

Grab a slice of pizza from Pizza Pizza Pizza – you can’t miss the neon sign down Meyers Place.

The famous burgers at Bar Margaux are on the menu until the wee hours, or grab some Thai from BKK Melbourne .

37. Explore the world of wine

Want to learn more about wine but think it’s intimidating? Welcome to Good Booze. Blind , a community that’s all about teaching wine enthusiasts, from novices to connoisseurs, the art of tasting and talking about wine.

Hosted by passionate owner and self-proclaimed ‘cork dork’ Nathen Doyle, what sets Good Booze. Blind apart is its ego-free environment. Here, it’s all about discovering the joys of wine in depth. You’ll get a chance to develop your palate, understand different flavour profiles, and learn how to pick out the subtle nuances in wines.

Wrap up: What to do in Melbourne at night

Melbourne’s nightlife is vibrant and eclectic, with something for everyone, regardless of your age and what time you have to go to bed.

From enjoying the city’s skyline at the top of the Melbourne Skydeck to laughing until your belly hurts at a comedy show to savouring our bars and restaurants, you won’t be bored here at night.

Things to do in Melbourne at night: FAQs

Is melbourne safe at night for tourists.

Melbourne is generally safe for tourists at night. Like any major city, exercise basic precautions, such as staying in well-lit areas and being aware of your surroundings. The central areas are generally safe for a night out.

What time do most Melbourne nightlife venues close?

Most bars and nightclubs in Melbourne close around 3am, while some venues may operate until dawn on weekends. However, there are late-night eateries and 24-hour diners.

What are some family-friendly activities in Melbourne at night?

Families can enjoy nighttime strolls along Southbank Promenade, visit the Queen Victoria Market night markets (seasonal) or take a dinner cruise on the Yarra River. St Kilda Beach also offers a beautiful sunset view and the chance to spot penguins after dark.

Found this article useful? Consider buying me a coffee as a way to say thanks!

So, what’s on your list of fun things to do in Melbourne at night when you visit?

Best Melbourne resources

• Check out my Melbourne travel guide for everything you need to know about planning a trip to Melbourne
• Look for flights to Melbourne on Skyscanner .
• Book accommodation on Booking.com or Expedia for your Melbourne trip. The Ovolo Laneways Hotel is a good choice in the CBD.
• You won’t really need a car in Melbourne, but if you do want to get out of the city, then rent a car through DiscoverCars .
• Pick up a copy of the Lonely Planet Pocket Melbourne to help plan your trip.

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Featured image by Roberto Seba

About THE AUTHOR

I’m Rebecca, a Melbourne local excited to show you the best of Melbourne. I've visited more than 40 countries and have a Master of International Sustainable Tourism Management. After living abroad for 8 years, I’m back home in Melbourne, rediscovering this city that I love and have missed. My aim is to help you find the best things to do in Melbourne.

2 thoughts on “37 Fun Things To Do in Melbourne at Night in 2024”

You guys need to add the east brunswick duelling piano bar open Friday Saturday nights such a cool, fun night out and a great experience very unique .. reminded me of the Vegas piano bars

This sounds awesome, I’ve never heard of it!! Will check it out and add, thanks for sharing!

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23 Terrific Things To Do At Night In Melbourne

Melbourne is absolutely buzzing after dark, and it's time for you to join in the fun with our roundup of the best things to do at night in Melbourne. Where will the night take you?

We live in an electrifying city with a thrilling night life . And if you’re looking for exciting things to do at night in Melbourne , you’re in luck. The city is full of events to attend, shows to see and things for you to try. Go beyond bar-hopping or clubbing, and play games, explore art after dark and see the city from another, twinkling perspective – truly, you’ll never be bored at night in this city! Here are the best late-night activities to do in Melbourne.

1. Go for a moonlight kayak tour

See Melbourne from a whole new light by going for an evening kayak along the Yarra river. Your journey starts just before sunset in Victoria Harbour, and continues upstream, under the Bolte Bridge and past Flinders Street Station. The evening ends at the boat landing area at the Rowing Sheds, directly across from Fed Square. No kayaking experience is necessary, and you’ll be back on dry land by 9:30pm, leaving you free to head off and explore even more things to do at night.

📍Meet at 912 Collins St, Docklands VIC 3008

2. Belt out your favourite tunes at karaoke

View this post on Instagram A post shared by KONO Coin karaoke 🇦🇺 (@kono_karaoke)

It’s one of our favourite things to do at night for a reason! Melbourne is full of wonderful karaoke venues, but if you’re a little short on money, Kono Karaoke is the way to go. This is Melbourne’s first coin booth karaoke venue, and songs are just $2 each, which you can spend on everything from New Jeans to Taylor Swift (yes, the 10-minute All Too Well version is available if you want the most for your money). Songs are available in English, Korean, Japanese, and Chinese, with multiple booths available. Kono Karaoke is open everyday from 1pm, and closes at 2am Sunday to Thursday, and 3am on Friday and Saturday nights.

📍601 Little Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000

3. Have fun at Archie Bros Cirque Electriq

At Archie Bros Cirque Electriq , you’ll have a blast with heaps of indoor late-night activities, including arcade games, bowling and laser tag. While you’re there, check out Zero Latency, an immersive free roam virtual reality experience. They’ve also got a wacky range of cocktails to keep the good times going, all the way up until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, making it one of Melbourne’s most fun activities for adults .

📍Shop CW-G19 The District Docklands, 440 Docklands Dr, Docklands VIC 3008

4. Stay cool with a bit of ice skating

View this post on Instagram A post shared by O'Brien Icehouse (@obrienicehouse)

Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’ll have a ton of fun ice skating around the rink at O’Brien Icehouse . They’re open every day, except Christmas, and close at 11pm on Fridays and Saturdays. See their hours here .

5. Be dazzled by close-up magic at Maho Magic Bar

Part show, part bar, all magic, Maho Magic Bar has come to Melbourne direct from Japan, with a whole host of talented close-up magicians in tow. They’ll delight you with sleight of hand and jaw-dropping tricks whilst you kick back with a drink in hand and enjoy a unique night out. Later sessions start around 8:30/9pm, but you can see all available dates and book tickets here .

6. Explore Old Melbourne Gaol

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One of the best places to visit in Melbourne at night is Old Melbourne Gaol , where you can go on a ghost tour and listen to dark tales from this historic space. This night tour runs from 8pm to 9pm on selected dates, and is not recommended for children 12 and under. Find more info here .

📍377 Russell St, Melbourne VIC 3000

7. Catch a charming Candlelight concert

For a more sedate, yet still unforgettable night out, why not check out Melbourne’s array of Candlelight concerts ? They span a range of genres and artists from the classical to the contemporary (where else does Tchaikovsky rub shoulders with David Bowie?), and evening concerts start as early as 6:30pm or as late as 8:30pm, so you can fit them neatly into your evening. See the full list of upcoming concerts here .

8. Hole up in a late-night café for an after hours pick-me-up

Melbourne’s famed café culture doesn’t stop when the sun goes down, so if you’re the kind of person who takes their cappuccino after midday (sorry, Italians), you’ll find a wealth of cafes open late , armed with espresso machines.

9. Drink in the view from Melbourne Skydeck

Soar up Melbourne Skydeck and take in sparkling city views from the Southern Hemisphere’s highest observation deck . After gazing at the twinkling lights, stick around for virtual reality experiences, cocktails and a degustation at restaurant, Eureka 89.

📍7 Riverside Quay, Southbank VIC 3006

10. Treat yourself to some bingsu

Got a sweet tooth? End the night with some delicious bingsu . This Korean shaved ice dessert is perfect all year round – even in winter! Enjoy it with a delicious assortment of toppings. Lounge around at Sulbing dessert cafe on Lonsdale Street (open until 11pm on Fridays and Saturdays, or grab it to-go from Sulbing at Melbourne Central.

📍168 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000

11. Show off your swing at Holey Moley

Putt your way through some seriously fun and nostalgic  mini golf courses at Holey Moley . You’ll find unique themes at each location around Melbourne, so you’ll never get bored – plus, they’re perfect for night owls, since the CBD venue is open until 1am and the Crown venue stays open until 2am on Fridays and Saturdays. Enjoy some food while you’re there, and sip a cocktail to keep the good times going.

12. Enjoy a late-night cinema session

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cinema Nova (@cinemanova)

Catch a movie at some great cinemas around Melbourne , including Cinema Nova and Kino Cinema . During the hotter months, you can also enjoy a movie session outdoors, at places like Moonlight Cinema in the Royal Botanic Gardens or Lido on the Roof in Hawthorn.

13. Feel frosty at this themed ice bar

View this post on Instagram A post shared by IceBar Melbourne (@icebarmelbourne)

Discover this cool spot inside the Atrium at Fed Square. IceBar Melbourne is made entirely out of ice, and features a great range of cocktails, ice shots, beer and mocktails. They’ll provide a snow cape, glove and boots where necessary to help you feel toasty warm. While you’re inside, enjoy a drink, check out ice sculptures and take some fun photos. IceBar Melbourne is open all week, and the latest sessions begin at 9pm on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.

📍The Atrium, Federation Square, Melbourne VIC 3000

14. Play games at Fortress Melbourne

If you love gaming, you’ll love Fortress . This multi-level complex has all kinds of late-night activities for you to try, including board games, arcades and PC gaming. When you’re not playing, watch an esports event in the Alienware Arena, grab a drink from the bar, or enjoy a hearty meal in the fantasy-themed restaurant. Fortress Melbourne is open every day until late, and closes at 2am on Fridays and Saturdays.

📍23 Caledonian Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000

15. Immerse yourself in art at The Lume

Powerful art comes to life at The Lume , which is currently home to ‘ Connection ‘: a digital collection of First People’s art from over 100 artists. The mesmerising digital experience weaves a beautiful tapestry of Australia’s history on a truly unmissable scale – you can read more about it here . The Lume is open until 9:30pm on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

📍5 Convention Centre Pl, South Wharf VIC 3006

16. Have a ball at Ballers Clubhouse

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ballers Clubhouse (@ballersclubhouse)

With 2,500sqm of space, Ballers Clubhouse has lots of room for late-night activities in Melbourne, and it might just be one of the most fun things to do in Melbourne. Play ping pong, darts and shuffleboard, sing a bit of karaoke, and drink your way around the venue’s six bars. Enjoy yummy food like pizza and tacos while you’re there, and keep a look out for some of their exciting pop-up events and experiences. They keep the party going until 1am on Friday, and 2am on Saturday, so it’s ideal for late-night fun.

📍2 Coverlid Pl, Melbourne VIC 3000

17. Watch a theatre show

Melbourne has a thriving theatre scene , so if you’re looking for a some great late-night activities, definitely go and see a show. Think Mamma Mia , Elvis: A Musical Revolution and more!

18. Sip on tequila in this late-night bar

Tequila Bar by Mejico has one of the largest selections of tequila and mezcal in Australia. Enjoy a drink and some late-night snacks in this intimate cocktail lounge until 2am on Fridays and Saturdays.

📍1 Pink Alley, Melbourne VIC 3000

19. Have a laugh at a comedy night

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Comics Lounge Comedy Club (@thecomicslounge)

Stay out late and check out some of the hilarious comedy clubs around Melbourne. Think venues like The Comic’s Lounge , Basement Comedy Club and Kings of Comedy .

20. Observe the heavens at a stargazing session

Friday nights aren’t just for hitting the bars, you know. Head to Mount Martha Observatory on the first Friday of each month to join the Mornington Peninsula Astronomical Society pick out planets, satellites, and stars from the firmament. It’s one of the most fun things to do at night in Melbourne for adults and kids; sessions kick off at 8pm and cost $5 for the little ones and $15 for adults – booking is essential though .

📍 MPAS, The Briars, Mount Martha VIC 3934

21. Discover one of the wonderful drag shows around Melbourne

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vau d'vile Drag Cabaret (@vaudviledrag)

Embrace the camp and the glamour of some incredible drag performances around Melbourne. Take part in drag bingo, enjoy comedy or cabaret acts and even try out drag and draw workshops. Whatever you choose, you’re in for a good time.

22. Explore some of Melbourne’s museums after dark

Keep an eye on museums and galleries around Melbourne for some incredible after-dark experiences . Enjoy live music, pop-up bars and more at the regular NGV Friday Nights , returning soon. Melbourne Museum also has their regular late night shindig, Nocturnal , with a different theme each month.

23. Challenge yourself at Hijinx Hotel

Embrace the wacky chaos at Hijinx Hotel . This immersive space looks like a hotel, but is really filled with different themed rooms, filled with games for you to conquer. After playing the games, indulge in a cocktail or two. Hijinx Hotel closes at 1am on Fridays and Saturdays, and 11pm every other day.

📍 Level 1/1341 Dandenong Rd, Malvern East VIC 3145

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55 Fun Things to Do in Melbourne At Night to Uncover Hidden Gems and Popular Hotspots

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Melbourne is a buzzing cosmopolitan city that still exudes the charm of a close-knit community. As a city that is know to experience “four seasons in one day”, it is always a wise idea to have a selection of indoor and outdoor activities on your list of things to do in Melbourne at night .

Victoria’s state capital is full of fun and interesting activities and attractions. You’ll certainly be spoiled for choice when making plans for a night out.

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• Melbourne tours

1 – Focus your sights on the city from the Melbourne Skydeck

See the city from above, and experience the sparkling city lights on a visit to the  Melbourne Skydeck at night. With a height of almost 300 meters, the Skydeck is the southern hemisphere’s highest observation deck and is open daily until 9:30 PM in the summer months and 8:30 PM during the winter.

This attraction is a popular spot for romantic proposals and offers dining experiences, virtual reality and 6-D theatre activities and an observation deck bar.

• Melbourne Skydeck tickets

Read more: Best Tourist Attractions in Melbourne

2 – Surround yourself with culture at National Gallery of Victoria’s NGV Friday Nights

This National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) encompasses two buildings and is the oldest and most visited gallery in Australia. A recent addition to the NGV is the The Fox, the new home for NGV’s contemporary   art and design works. NGV Friday Nights are a gallery highlight.

These sell-out evening events combine music, dining and the works of featured artists. With over 76,000 works on display, the gallery is a veritable cultural treasure chest.

• NGV Friday Nights tickets

3 – Appreciate the glow of a candlelight concert

Candlelight concerts take place in more than 100 cities worldwide. In Melbourne, you can enjoy modern and classical favourites at diverse venues including Sea Life Aquarium, the Athenaeum Theater, Fitzroy Town Hall, and Collingwood Town Hall.

If you choose an evening of Tchaikovsky, you will also be treated to a ballet performance – it is definitely one of the best things to do in Melbourne .

• See price and reviews

4 – Attend a sports event at the magnificent Marvel Stadium

Having hosted over 42 million fans since its opening in 2000,  Marvel Stadium has seen some of the world’s biggest entertainment stars and sporting events staged there.

This technologically advanced stadium has variable seating configuration, a retractable roof to accommodate most weather conditions and a special stadium sensory room to be as inclusive as possible to those with sensory sensitivities.

5 – Sample the produce at The Night Market at Queen Victoria Market

The Queen Victoria Market has been serving Melbourne residents with fresh produce and other wares for over 140 years. The market stretches over a city block and can be enjoyed five days a week. Queen Victoria Market tours are led by local Market guides and ensure you discover the best produce while learning about the market’s history.

The Night Market is hosted on Wednesdays from mid-April to mid-May adding, for a short while, another fun thing to do at night in Melbourne.

6 – Show yourself a good time at Palais Theatre

The classically restored Palais Theatre is the home of Melbourne’s Live Theatre. Since its inception in 1914, the venue has operated as a dance hall, cinema, ballet stage and live entertainment venue.

Today, the theatre hosts top local and international artists and offers a premium lounge and Winter Garden experience for patrons looking to add an extra layer of pizazz to their night out.

7 – Take a chance at Crown Melbourne Casino

If you enjoy a game of chance, or consider yourself lucky, you can head to the Crown Melbourne where the hotel and spa, restaurants, and casino offer a world-class entertainment and dining experience.

The venue offers an array of gaming and entertainment activities and the casino operates 24 hours a day with the exception of Christmas Day, Good Friday and ANZAC Day when they close from 4 AM to 12 PM.

8 – Admire the grace and precision of The Australian Ballet

The Australian Ballet is the country’s national ballet company and has exisited since 1962. Each year, the talented dancers entertain audiences throughout the country with their bold, athletic and graceful style.

The company are based in Melbourne where their premises also accommodate the Australian Ballet School. In the city, you can attend one of the season’s performances at venues such as Arts Centre Melbourne and the State Theatre.

In 2024, performances will take place at the Regent Theater while the State Theater undergoes renovations.

9 – All aboard for an indulgent dinner cruise

Set sail on a dinner cruise along Melbourne’s picturesque Yarra River. Indulging in delicious cuisine while enjoying stunning views of the city skyline and iconic landmarks, creating a romantic and unforgettable dining experience under the stars.

On a 3-hour cruise, you will see the city light up as you cruise past attractions like the Royal Botanic Gardens and Federation Square.

• dinner cruises in Melbourne

10 – Engage your sense with the sublimne strains of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra

Whether you are new to the joy of classical music, or a seasoned aficionado, be enchanted by the melodic performances of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO). The MSO is Australia’s preeminent orchestra and one of Victoria’s cultural cornerstones.

With performances at the prestigious Hamer Hall, the symphony’s rich sound reverberates through the elegant auditorium, captivating audiences with each note.

11 – Attend an historic theater performance

Immerse yourself in history and culture with a visit to Melbourne’s historic theaters like Her Majesty’s Theatre which dates back to the 1880’s.

The lavish Regent Theatre, the iconic Princess Theatre, and The Forum, where the ornate interiors and grand stages transport you to another era of theatrical splendor are all among the earliest sites of stage entertainment that still endure today.

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• See price & reviews

12 – Visit the vibrant Docklands

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Docklands at night, where the glittering lights of the city reflect off the tranquil waters, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for dining and leisurely strolls along the promenade.

This inner-city entertainment district offers over 30 dining options, 15 unique experiences and a variety of international brand shopping. The district is pet friendly, has undercover walkways for all weather conditions, and hosts an artisanal Sunday Makers Market.

13 – Reach great heights with a gourmet dinner in the sky

Elevate your dining experience with dinner in the sky , where you’ll enjoy gourmet cuisine suspended high above the city, offering breath-taking views of Melbourne’s skyline and landmarks as you dine in the clouds.

You and your party of diners will be spoiled with an unforgettable dining experience up to 50 meters in the air.

14 – Game night vibes at Melbourne Cricket Ground

Experience the thrill of Melbourne Cricket Ground with guided tours that take you behind the scenes of Australia’s most iconic sporting venue, showcasing its rich history and legendary moments, including access to exclusive areas and interactive exhibits.

While on tour you’ll experience panoramic views of Melbourne’s skyline from the fourth level of the Ponsford Stand.

• Melbourne Cricket Ground tours

15 – Evoke a sense of nostalgia at The Astor and The Lido Historic cinemas

Step back in time at historic cinemas like The Astor Theatre and The Lido , where the vintage décor and evokes a sense of nostalgia and cinematic charm, transporting you to the golden age of cinema.

There is nothing dates about the cinematic experience, however, with state-of-the-art projection and sound systems providing patrons with an excellent viewing experience.

16 – Re-energize and relax at Melbourne’s best rooftop bars

Take in panoramic views of Melbourne’s skyline from the city’s best rooftop bars. Rooftop Bar at Curtin House is especially popular on warm and sunny days and Lui Bar at Rialto Towers combine innovation and luxury with sweeping Phillip Bay and city views.

The Eureka Skydeck 88 is located on the Melbourne Skydeck, while Her Rooftop serves cocktail-centric drinks and tasty Thai cuisine. Sip on cocktails under the stars in venues with an unforgettable ambiance perched high above the bustling streets below.

17 – Immerse yourself in the distinctive ambience of Chinatown

Chinatown, Melbourne is the western world’s longest continuous Chinese settlement, dating back to the 1850s.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and flavors of Chinatown , where bustling streets such as Little Bourke Street, Lonsdale Street and the alleys between the two come alive with the sights, sounds, and aromas of traditional Asian cuisine and vibrant market stalls.

18 – Be enchanted by Degraves Street

Wander through Degraves Street, a bustling laneway filled with charming cafes, restaurants, and boutiques.

The street epitomises the essence of Melbourne with its eclectic dining and shopping scene, with colorful street art adorning the walls, and busking violinists and saxophonists adding to the ambience.

19 –  Paddle off into the sunset: Yarra River kayaking with dinner

Experience the beauty of Melbourne’s skyline at sunset with a kayaking adventure along the Yarra River.

Once you are done paddling along the waterway, you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner served on the water’s edge as the city lights begin to twinkle against the dusky sky.

• sunset kayaking in Melbourne

20 – Shop in style at The Block Arcade

Step into the elegant surroundings of The Block Arcade , a historic shopping arcade featuring ornate architecture and boutique shops. Stores sell everything from fashion to gourmet treats, where every corner exudes old-world charm and sophistication.

The arcade is home to well-known The Tea Rooms 1892 and you can join a guided walking tour that takes you back to the early days of colonial Australia and the city’s rich history.

21 – Awaken your wild side and overnight at the Melbourne Zoo

Spend a night surrounded by wildlife when you overnight at the Melbourne Zoo . Here you can enjoy exclusive after-hours access to exhibits, guided tours, and overnight accommodations in safari-style tents.

Before or after your night among the animals, you can visit the exhibits or one of the specific animal experiences with some of Australia and the rest of the world’s diverse creatures.

22 – Fun times await at Melbourne’s arcade bars

Immerse yourself in the nostalgic atmosphere of arcade bars like Archie Brothers , a cirque electriq that combines arcade fun with a kaleidoscope of cocktails. Bartronica has a more bar-like vibe with pinball machines, consoles and arcade games livening up the venue.

B. Lucky & Sons Melbourne Central  in the heart of the CBD is the newest of Melbourne’s arcade bars, and The Funderdome offers retro  and new school arcades, karaoke rooms, table games and diner food.

23 – Let off steam at The Smash Room

Release your stress and pent-up energy at The Smash Room , a venue with an 80’s retro-neon feel, where you can safely smash objects to your heart’s content in a controlled environment.

This cathartic and exhilarating way to blow off steam in a room of your choice can be followed up with a game of UV table tennis and is great fun for couples and groups.

24 – Get “rich” quick at Monopoly Dreams Melbourne

Embark on a journey through the world of Monopoly at Monopoly Dreams Melbourne , an interactive attraction where you can experience the iconic board game come to life, with life-sized game boards and immersive challenges around every corner.

This multi-sensory, 4D experience drops you into the fast paced world of Mr Monopoly. Visit his mansion, enter the iconic Monopoly jail and shop for merchandise you won’t find anywhere else.

• Monopoly Dreams Melbourne tickets

25 – Play it cool at O’Brien Icehouse

Glide across the ice at O’Brien Icehouse , Melbourne’s premier ice skating rink. The venue offers public skating sessions, figure skating lessons, and ice hockey games on their two rinks, providing a cool and exhilarating escape from the summer heat.

Even if you have never skated before the friendly staff are ready to get you skating safely.

26 – Let your imagination run wild with a movie experience under the stars at Melbourne outdoor cinemas

Experience the magic of outdoor cinemas at locations like Moonlight Cinema Melbourne where, in the summer months, you can watch a movie on the big screen on the lawns of Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne.

A premium experience will get you a comfortable bean bed and decadent ice-cream. Lido on the Roof shows the latest releases on their roof screens and movies are also occasionally screened in the square at Federation Square , where you can enjoy blockbuster films under the stars, surrounded by the buzz of the city.

27 – Sharpen your aim with darts in the city

Sharpen your aim and compete with friends at darts bars like Ballers Clubhouse and Oche , where you can enjoy a lively atmosphere and friendly competition, with state-of-the-art dartboards and delicious drinks to keep you fuelled.

The experience at Oche can be described as gastro-gaming while Ballers Clubhouse is an experiential venue that offers multiple adult-focused games like darts, table tennis, shuffle board and a fun adult ball pit.

28 – Delight your tastebuds with a fine dining restaurant reservation

Treat yourself to an unforgettable dining experience at Melbourne’s fine dining restaurants. Vue de monde , presents an impeccable experiential dining experience from the 55th floor of the Rialto Building.

Attica draws its inspiration from Australia itself with Grossi Florentino highlighting Italian gastronomy. Maha Restaurant , is a Middle Eastern taste sensation and bistro classics are cooked by master chef Phillipe Mouchel at Philippe .

29 – Give yourself goosebumps on a ghost tour

Explore Melbourne’s haunted history with ghost tours that take you to spooky sites and share chilling tales of paranormal activity throughout the city.

These walking tours visit some of the city’s most notorious spots and you guide will regale you with spine-tingling tales into the supernatural and unknown.

• ghost tours in Melbourne

30 – Shop ’til you drop at Myer Melbourne

Myer Melbourne is a premier department store whose first store launched in Bendigo in 1900. The merchandiser has a range of offerings including fashion, beauty, and homeware brands.

You can wander through this large department store located in the heart of the city and indulge in a luxurious shopping experience complete with personal stylists and exclusive designer collections.

31 – Dive into an alternate reality at Fortress Melbourne

Immerse yourself in the world of gaming at Fortress Melbourne, a state-of-the-art esports and gaming entertainment venue.

This gaming paradise features cutting-edge technology and immersive experiences, where gamers of all levels can come together to play, compete, and connect. Multiple bars and a fantasy-themed tavern and eatery add to the fun at Fortress.

32 – Discover the Old Melbourne Gaol on a spooky tour

Step into the past with a visit to Old Melbourne Gaol, where you can take ghost tours and explore the site of infamous historical events, including the execution of Australia’s most notorious criminals, offering a chilling glimpse into Melbourne’s dark and intriguing past.

Old Melbourne Gaol ghosts tours are one of the more unusual fun things to do in Melbourne at night.

• Old Melbourne Gaol tickets

33 – Cool off at IceBar Melbourne

Chill out at IceBar Melbourne , literally the city’s coolest spot. Everything from the walls to the glasses are made of ice, creating a unique and frosty drinking experience that transports you to a winter wonderland in the heart of the city.

This unique activity is a great experience for people of all ages!

• IceBar Melbourne tickets

34 – Putt it there at Holey Moley Mini Golf

Putt your way through themed courses at Holey Moley Mini Golf , where you can enjoy a round of golf with a twist in a funky and fun environment, complete with quirky obstacles and Instagram-worthy backdrops.

Located in the Melbourne CBD’s famous laneways, this mini golf course and bar also entertains with a funky karaoke room in the downstairs area.

35 – Let your star shine at a Melbourne karaoke bar

Belt out your favorite tunes in an open mic venue or a private room at one of the several karaoke venues in Melbourne.

At karaoke bars like Kbox Karaoke offer private karaoke rooms perfect for a few duets or a private party as does Ocean 12 Entertainment with its upgraded entertainment system and luxurious private rooms.

At Heroes Bar you can choose between slipping into a private karaoke room or hopping onstage and entertaining the audience.

36 – Witness Impossible Occurrences, Melbourne’s Exclusive Magic Show

Be amazed by Impossible Occurrences , Melbourne’s exclusive magic show featuring mind-bending illusions and sleight of hand tricks that will leave you spellbound.

The show is an intimate and immersive live experience with Luke Hocking, one of Australia’s most talented magicians.

The show is set in lavish surrounds at the Marriot Hotel, and you can also book a dinner and show package.

37 – Have a laugh at side-splitting comedy clubs

One of the most fun things to do in Melbourne at night has to be a visit to a comedy club. Whether you are watching enthusiastic amateurs, hilarious local or international acts at venues The Comic’s Lounge or Comedy Theatre laughter is all but guaranteed.

During the Melbourne International Comedy Festival , you can enjoy stand-up performances by top comedians from around the world, promising you a night of side-splitting laughter and good vibes.

38 – Embrace your inner child at Luna Park Melbourne

Rediscover your inner child at Luna Park Melbourne , an iconic amusement park offering thrilling rides, carnival games, and family-friendly entertainment along St Kilda’s foreshore.

At this historic and enduring theme park and entertainment zone, nostalgic charm and a vibrant atmosphere create memories that last a lifetime.

You can opt for a park entry ticket and pay for rides individually, or go for a ticket that permits entry and unlimited rides.

39 – Reveal your inner tough-guy with axe throwing

Unleash your inner lumberjack or viking at axe throwing venues like MANIAX Axe Throwing and Lumber Punks Axe Throwing Melbourne , where you can learn to throw axes like a pro in a safe and controlled environment.

Maniax is considered one of Australia’s best axe throwing venues and Lumber Punks is a fun locale for individual, small and large group experiences. Expert instructors and adrenaline-pumping challenges will keep you captivated.

40 – Take a stroll along Southbank Promenade

Stroll along Southbank Promenade, a bustling waterfront precinct dotted with restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues.

The promenade boasts stunning views of the Yarra River and city skyline, where the lively atmosphere and scenic vistas combine to create the perfect setting for a night out on the town.

41 – Exit the High Street to Melbourne Laneways bars

Explore Melbourne’s vibrant laneway bars, such as the below-ground Beneath Driver Lane for a speakeasy vibe with live Blues music, the 1920’s styled Eau de Vie for craft cocktails, Lily Blacks for the cocktail afficionado, and Her Bar for the warm European-inspired atmosphere.

Dive into these hidden Melbourne gems and experience the city’s unique bar scene.

42 – Drop a few pins bowling in Melbourne

Strike up some fun at Melbourne’s premier bowling alleys like Strike Bowling , Kingpin Crown , or The Keys .

Not all bowling alleys are just bowling alleys and you might find other activities like lazer tag, karaoke and escape rooms at some of the larger arcade locations.

Whether you’re a casual bowler or a competitive player, these venues offer a lively atmosphere perfect for a night out with friends.

43 – Zoom to the finish line at indoor karting

Get your adrenaline pumping with indoor karting at Auscarts Racing or Karting Madness . At Auscarts you can race the exhilarating 450 meter track with 12 bends.

At Karting Madness you’ll find Australia’s largest indoor karting center with a 600 meter standard track, state of the art racing simulators, a gaming arcade, golf simulator and other amusements.

Race against friends or challenge yourself to beat the track record for an exhilarating night of speed.

44 – Spend a night at the muesum with Nocturnal | Museum After Dark at Melbourne Museum

Experience Melbourne Museum like never before with Nocturnal , a series of after-dark events featuring live music, DJs, and exclusive access to exhibitions.

These adults-only experiences are themed and hosted by imminent experts, providing the chance to immerse yourself in culture and entertainment at this unique night-time experience.

45 – Boogie the night away at Melbourne’s best nightclubs

Dance the night away at Melbourne’s best nightclubs, including The Carlton Club , a lively and inclusive nightclub, the posh Curtin House and other popular hotspots.

Explore the city’s dynamic nightlife scene and discover new beats and vibes at every turn. The Night Cat is a Fitzroy institution with a diverse line-up and boudoir vibe.

The Sub-Club basement nightclub caters to the techno and left-field electro crown and New Guernica with its well-known disco ball entertains with weekly raves and special events.

46 – Surround yourself with the Masters at THE LUME Melbourne

Immerse yourself in art and technology at THE LUME Melbourne , an immersive digital art gallery showcasing stunning light projections and interactive exhibits.

This expansive 3000 square meter space surrounds visitors in a way that must be seen to be truly appreciated.

These profound and multi-sensory encounters are both playful and enlightening and literally position art in a new light. Lose yourself in a world of creativity and innovation at this one-of-a-kind attraction.

47 – Make a break for it at a Melbourne escape room

Test your wits and teamwork skills with an challenging adventure at one of the escape rooms in Melbourne ,  Adventure Rooms Melbourne , have standard escape room experiences as well as Duel Adventures where teams compete against one another.

Escape Room Melbourne is the original escape room location and has rooms designed by two expert puzzle-makers.

At Escape Hunt Melbourne you can solve puzzles, unravel mysteries, and escape before time runs at the venue or with an online challenge in the comfort of your home. Escape rooms provide participants with  an unforgettable night of fun.

48 – Defy gravity at indoor skydiving

Feel the thrill of indoor skydiving at iFLY Melbourne , where you can experience the sensation of freefalling in a safe and controlled environment.

Take flight and defy gravity for an exhilarating night of airborne excitement. With a full safety briefing and expert instructors, this fun thing to do in Melbourne at night or during the day is perfect for adventurers of all ages.

• indoor skydiving in Melbourne

49 – Indulge in some retail therapy at Chadstone Shopping Centre

Shop ’til you drop at Chadstone Shopping Centre , Australia’s largest shopping mall. The center offers a wide range of luxury brands, boutique stores, and dining options.

You can spend an evening indulging in retail therapy and exploring the latest fashion trends or spend time enjoying a meal and some entertainment in The Social Quarter.

50 – VR in Melbourne

Step into a virtual world at Virtual Room Melbourne , where you can embark on immersive multiplayer adventures with friends.

Experience the latest in virtual reality technology as an escape room concept merges with a virtually immersive experience for an unforgettable night of gaming and excitement.

VR experiences in Melbourne utilise high quality equipment and state of the art technology to prevent motion sickness and deliver a mind-lowing adventure suitable for families, friends, groups and couples.

• VR experiences in Melbourne

51 – Reach dizzying heights at indoor rock climbing

Set your fear of heights aside and step up and onto the climbing walls at indoor rock climbing experiences at Hardrock Climbing , Northside Boulders , or Bayside Rock .

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, these indoor gyms offer challenging routes and a thrilling workout.

52 – Craft a beer tasting session to remember

Sample the best of Melbourne’s craft beer scene at one or more of the city’s local breweries.

Discover unique brews and flavors while soaking in the city’s laid-back brewery atmosphere with beer tastings in Melbourne . Moon Dog World crafts beers and seltzers and has been growing since 2010.

Stomping Ground Brewing Co. celebrates the city with their lagers, ales, shandy’s and zero alcohol drinks. Welcome To Thornbury is located in the northern parts of the city and is a reimagined space, originally a car manufacturing factory, now a beer garden, bar and event space.

53 – Get rocking at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl

Enjoy a night of live music under the stars at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl . This beloved outdoor venue hosts concerts and events year-round.

Pack a picnic, gather your friends, and unwind to the sounds of local and international artists.

54 – Explore the city night scene on a characterful pub crawls

If you can’t decide between wine, beer or cocktails, embark on a pub crawl adventure through Melbourne’s eclectic neighborhoods.

From the bustling CBD to the trendy suburbs there are hidden gems, small joints off the beaten path, popping clubs and trendy drinking dens. Sample tasty local or premier drinks and soak up the city’s vibrant nightlife culture.

• pub crawls in Melbourne

55 – Attend a cabaret or burlesque performance at The Butterfly Club

Delight in cabaret and burlesque performances at The Butterfly Club , a cozy venue showcasing talented artists and captivating shows.

With over 1200 performances annually, the club is the perfect launchpad for new and exciting shows and performers. Experience the glamour and allure of Melbourne’s thriving performing arts scene at this intimate theater.

For a fun night in Melbourne, consider supporting local talent with a show and drinks in the heart of the city.

Final thoughts

As the sun sets over Melbourne, the city truly comes alive with exciting activities and experiences waiting to be discovered.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or simply a memorable night out with friends, Melbourne offers something for everyone after dark.

From dining cruises on the Yarra River to thrilling arcade bars and immersive theater performances, the options of things to do in Melbourne at night are endless.

Australian Events, Lifestyle & Business

Exciting Things To Do In Melbourne At Night

Melbourne is a city best experienced, maybe, after dark. It is now common practise to dine at excellent eateries until the early hours of the morning, attend concerts that go on until the wee hours of the morning, and yet make it home in time to catch public transportation on weekends. Here is a cheat sheet to help you have the most memorable night out ever. Pleasant luck and have a good night.

Want to know more about Melbourne's attractions? Look at our list of things to do, places to go, and experiences to have before you die.

FAQs About Melbourne

What is there to do in victoria at night.

• Spot some whales in the Salish Seas. ...
• Catch the sunset at Mount Tolmie Park. ...
• Road trip along the Pacific Marine Circle Route. ...
• Journey to the Past in St. ...
• Explore Fisherman's Wharf Park. ...
• Wander down the Historical Streets of Bastion Square. ...
• Go shopping at Johnson Street. ...
• Take a romantic stroll down Ogden Point Breakwater.

Is Victoria Safe at Night?

Can you see the milky way in melbourne, is melbourne safe at night.

Overall Melbourne is a safe city, but there are a few areas where things are dangerous, particularly at night. The areas surrounding Bourke Street, Flinders Street Station, and Gray Street are known for having a large population of homeless people, dealers of drugs, prostitutes, and anyone else of any variety.

What Is Melbourne Known For?

Melbourne is known for being one of the most liveable cities on earth. Often referred to as 'the Sporting Capital of the World', besides this it is also famous for its graffitied laneways, excellent coffee, cultural diversity and bayside location. This eclectic Australian city has something for everyone.

Get  on  the  Melbourne  Star  Wheel  and  Spin  for  Fun!

Melbourne, like other modern metropolises, is home to a massive Ferris wheel, the country's only one of its kind.

The Melbourne Star is a popular destination for those in the city after dark. A ride on this massive viewing wheel is widely regarded as one of the best ways to get a bird's-eye view of Melbourne.

The 120-meter-tall Ferris wheel is the only one of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere and one of just four such attractions worldwide.

In the late afternoons and evenings, you can visit and take in the breathtaking panorama of Melbourne. There are twenty-one spacious cottages that are inviting all year.

While rides on the Melbourne Star are available throughout the day, they really come to life as the sun goes down. If you're looking to liven things up a little, you may order anything from a sangria jug to a sparkling wine tasting.

It's a common site to propose, and you can also take a yoga lesson and stay in a secluded cabin.

Get a Bird’s Eye View of the City From the Eureka Skydeck.

What about going out on a Saturday? Is there anything we can do that would really wow each other? It's okay, we already have a Saturday night trip to Melbourne's Eureka Skydeck planned.

Australia is home to the highest observation deck in the Southern Hemisphere. One of the most romantic things to do in Melbourne at night is to have a glass of wine, beer, or champagne while standing on the Skydeck.

The Eureka Skydeck can be found at the Eureka Tower in Melbourne's Southbank neighbourhood, which is just a short distance from the city's main thoroughfare. As one of the tallest structures in Australia, the tower stands at about 300 metres.

The elevator ride to the 88th story, where the Eureka Skydeck is located, takes just 40 seconds. The most courageous may even explore "The Edge," a pair of interconnected glass cubes perched 300 metres above the city, and take in the breathtaking panorama of Melbourne. From 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., you may visit the Skydeck. For domestic use, it is unrivalled in popularity.

One of the best ways to take in Melbourne at night is from the vantage point of Eureka Skydeck 88, where you can gaze out over the city in all its vast splendour.

It's not for the easily dizzy or those with a weak stomach! You may send a postcard home from the highest post office box in the area, located at Eureka Skydeck 88.

Proceed With Caution as You Wander the City’s Laneways.

The laneways in Melbourne's central business district are renowned for the abundance of restaurants, cafes, and pubs that line them, providing a wide variety of nightlife options in Melbourne that can be enjoyed far into the early hours.

One of the finest nighttime activities in Melbourne is exploring the city's alleys in search of the best murals, which are typically part of a spectacular exhibition of Melbourne street art. Nighttime gives artwork a whole new perspective.

Caution is advised. These Melbourne alleys are fascinating to explore after dark, but you wouldn't go down any of them if they seemed unsafe. Best Melbourne coffee may be found on these side streets.

Haunted Walk Through Melbourne's Old Gaol

The oldest prison in Melbourne may be found at Old Melbourne Gaol. About the middle of the 1800s is when construction began. It was a haven for violent offenders, minor offenders, the destitute, and the mentally sick. In 1929, after 133 inmates had been executed, the institution was closed.

Daytime visits to the Melbourne's Old Gaol are possible, but the nighttime excursions are when the real action happens. Check out these different jail night tours:

• There is a tour called the Hangman's Night Tour that tells the tales of infamous executioners. Learn about the routine of a traditional hangman, from preparing the body to removing the head. Time is held on a plethora of weeknights. This trip is not recommended for children under the age of 16 due to the inclusion of confined, low-light areas.
• Ghosts? Which ghost tour is appropriate for teenagers? The tour will take you to different areas of the jail and will tell you tales about the spirits that live there. It occurs on several days of the week.
• You should plan ahead if you want to go on a tour of the A Night in Watch House since it only happens at certain times of the year. It re-creates the original prison cell used by violent inmates. Anyone 16 or 17 must have a parent or guardian with them due to the mature content. Most people would say that this trip is the most terrifying option.

The gates at Melbourne Gaol may be locked at 5 p.m. daily, but those who are bold enough to visit throughout the night may participate in the haunted tours. Numerous additional ghostly excursions are available in Melbourne, so if the supernatural is your thing, you won't be bored.

It's a great opportunity to learn about the macabre past of Melbourne while exploring the city's various laneways, alleys, and even surrounding suburbs.

Explore the Central Business District, a haunting property near Altona, and the abandoned Pentridge Prison in Melbourne's north. There are a number of ghost tours you can plan, and admission to Melbourne's Old Gaol is $38 for adults.

Indulge in a Good Laugh at the Comic's Bar

Every year in late March, Melbourne hosts the International Comedy Festival for four weeks, making it the undisputed comedy capital of the world. Indeed, a night at a comedy performance may be a great way to spend time in Melbourne.

Shows include both homegrown Australian talent and international comedians. The Comic Lounge is where up-and-coming comedians perform for feedback and practise if you happen to be in the city outside of this time.

It's common for well-known comedians to drop by to try out new stuff in front of a live crowd.

Fondue at Milk the Cow? It's Open 'Til Late!

Both the Carlton and St. Kilda locations of Milk the Cow are highly recommended.

Cheese connoisseurs can get a platter of just cheese if they like, match with a glass of wine, whisky, or sake, or dig into a pot of melted cheese fondue.

This is a fun activity for a group of friends to undertake in the evening during the winter in Melbourne. If you try something and like it, you can buy a to-go pack to take the rest back to your hotel for a snack.

Relax on a Dinner Cruise Down the Yarra

It is common for visitors to view cities such as Melbourne from the water. To get a fresh take on Melbourne, try doing some sight-seeing at night instead than during the day.

Indulge in a four-course lunch (with drinks included) while you sail for three hours down Melbourne's most famous river.

Enjoy  a  Moonlight  Kayak  Ride

Instead of spending hours on a cruise, you may also enjoy Melbourne waters by going on a kayak trip.

At dusk, participants paddle along Victoria Harbour before stopping for some fish & chips in the kayaks. The trip departs from the Docklands neighbourhood.

The next stop is the sports precinct, after which the trip returns to the city itself through the northern reaches of the city proper, passing via Flinders Railway Station and Crown Casino.

Experience the Old-Time Fun of Luna Park

Opening in 1912, Luna Park in St. Kilda is the longest operating amusement park in Australia. The Scenic Railroad is the most well-known attraction there.

There's a lot to do in the park until 11 at night, with rides like the ghost train, carousels, and dodgem cars. Take a photo in front of the enormous face at the park's entrance; it won't follow you into your dreams that night.

Observe the Penguins of Phillip Island

Seeing the Little Penguins of Phillip Island waddle back to their burrows at twilight of fishing is one of Australia's most visited tourist attractions. The island actually serves as a number of attractions for visitors. These include a chocolate factory and a massive labyrinth.

Go on a day tour by starting with some island exploration followed by a visit to Penguin Parade to view the adorable birds return to their burrows at dusk.

Take a Nighttime Safari Trip

Booking a spot on the Slumber Safari at the Werribee Zoo in western Melbourne is sure to be the highlight of your visit.

Tented lodges will be your temporary homes for the night, and you'll be treated to an African-themed breakfast and supper buffet each day, as well as a zoo ticket good for two days.

The package also includes access to rare animal encounters and displays. Among Australia's mainland states, Victoria being the smallest is a definite plus.

It is not unusual to go days on end when travelling across Australia's vast countryside without coming across another person. There is little doubt that visitors hoping to see a wide range of the country will benefit from the modest size of the state.

You  can  go  to  Phillip  Island  from  the  city  in  under  one  hour. Y ou may go from the city to the wilderness, home to adorable tiny penguins, or along the Great Ocean Road, a breathtaking coastal drive and one of Australia's must-see attractions.

There's something for everyone in Melbourne at night, regardless of your travel preferences, money, or prefered mode of entertainment.

See  What  St.  Kilda  Has  To  Offer  After  Dark

St. Kilda is a popular coastal district in Melbourne, well-known for its trendy clubs, great food, and energetic nightlife. It has everything you need for a fun night out in Melbourne, from historic puns to hip nightclubs.

Republica, located on the beach, is a great place to mingle with the hip crowd, or you can dance to live music at the Espy or the Prince of Wales Hotel.

Other Nighttime Activities in Melbourne

This is the page you want if you're looking for the top nighttime activities in Melbourne . The city of Melbourne is well recognised as one of Australia's most popular destinations. Located in Australia, it serves as the state capital of Victoria.

Due to its abundance of notable cultural institutions, like as museums and art galleries, the city has earned the nickname "culture capital of Australia." Melbourne is a lively city with a distinct character throughout the day and into the night .

Many Melburnians think the city looks best when it's dark outside. The city's nightlife is diverse, with a variety of options including late-night public transportation, upscale dining, and laid-back watering holes.

Here, we have created a list of all the best nighttime activities in Melbourne's central business district.

Loop Roof Cocktail Bar Has an Amazing View and Great Drinks

Looking for some romantic nighttime activities in Melbourne? If you and your significant other are looking for a romantic setting to spend the evening, look no further.

Loop Roof is a hip cocktail lounge that is open to the air and has a stunning view of Melbourne. The waterproof structure allows the bar to remain open throughout the year.

Exquisite drinks are provided at the bar (there are alcohol-free options, too). Delicious dessert and a hot drink may also be available. Don't worry about getting hungry; the bar serves tasty cold and hot nibbles.

The Loop Roof bar is not only a fantastic spot for lovers to go, but also for anyone visiting Melbourne who wants to try some of the city's best cocktails while taking in the city's stunning skyline.

Visit the Historic Princess Theatre and Take in a Musical Show

Within Melbourne's historic Theater Precinct is the Princess Theatre. This theatre is widely considered to be among the greatest specimens of Victorian design in existence. The building dates back to 1886 and is now on the National Trust of Australia's registry.

Most people go to see musicals like "Les Miserables" and "The Phantom of the Opera" at the Princess Theatre. The theatre boasts excellent acoustics and a beautiful stage, making it a perfect choice for a musical performance.

If you prefer plays to musicals, though, shows like "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child" and others are now playing at local theatres.

Have a Wild Weeknight at the National Gallery of Victoria

For us, the National Gallery of Victoria is the best spot to spend a Friday night in Melbourne. Excellent Friday night events including live music, DJs, and beverages are hosted by the gallery. During the summer, such evenings seem to persist.

The gallery has great Friday night parties with DJs, live bands, and beverages. Summer seems to have an inordinate number of evenings like that. The general admission to the National Gallery is complimentary, the Weeknight event requires tickets, which must be reserved in advance.

You may purchase tickets and learn more about the event's subject in one convenient online location. Because of the late-night hours, only certain areas of the music will be available.

If you are unable to attend the Friday night event, you should visit the National Gallery of Art during regular museum hours. The National Gallery of Victoria, the largest and oldest art museum in Australia, has been welcoming visitors since its opening in 1861. It houses a world-class collection of artworks.

In spite of your lack of interest in art, you should nonetheless check out the gallery and its amazing shows.

Get a Drink at This Berlin Bar Decorated With Military Memorabilia.

If you're looking for an alternative and exciting night out in Melbourne, go no further than Berlin Bar. The pub can be reached from Melbourne's China Town in a matter of minutes through a maze of twisting passageways. The trip to the watering hole may be nerve-racking, but you need not fear; everything is OK!

When you finally locate a pub and go inside, you'll be greeted with plush leather booths and other vintage furnishings. The greatest drinks are served in this bar's section, which is appropriately named "West Berlin." The drink menu, with its Germany's map labelling different drink areas, is elegant as well.

Do drinks have a role in this? Visit the bar's East Berlin section. This bar's section, decorated to evoke a more rustic atmosphere, specialises on brews from Germany and the Nordic countries.

You'll have a great time since the pub encourages creativity and social interaction.

Since it's so near to Melbourne's famed China Town, you may go there after or before you've had a few (or more) drinks. Many excellent dining options, including street food, can be found in Chinatown.

Check Out Queen Victoria's Night Market

The QVM is Melbourne's most well-known and popular marketplace. The market conducts a summer night market every Wednesday throughout the summer, which is quite popular with both visitors and residents.

Nearly sixty stands sell food, over a hundred sell wares, there's live band, and there are games to play, all during the night market. Snacking in the wee hours, some shopping, and some friendly competition in a variety of activities with the locals may all be had at the market.

You should still check out this market for the city's most famous street food and genuine handcrafted goods, even if you don't plan on mingling with the locals.

Relax on the Beach and Enjoy the Sunset

Are you seeking some free nighttime activities in Melbourne since you're sick of some of Melbourne's pricey activities? If so, we know just the place for you: a beautiful beach at sunset.

St. Kilda Beach, located just 6 kilometres from the heart of Melbourne, is the nearest beach to the city and is readily accessible by tram. Sunsets at the beach are among of nature's most breathtaking moments.

St. Kilda has a lovely pier with wonderful ice cream stores and cafés, perfect for a stroll. But the beach is always an option for a stroll. If you pack a ball with you to the beach, you can have a great time playing with your loved ones.

Located just a few minutes away from the beach, the massive Luna Park is a fantastic place to spend the evening after the sun has set. Facilities like badminton courts, good pathways, and a playground for kids may all be found there. Take a stroll and unwind before returning to your lodging.

Enjoy a Unique Cabaret Performance

They say Melbourne boasts the greatest and most exciting cabaret performances in the world. The city is teeming with cabaret theatres. But the one we chose is really unique. The Butterfly Club is right in the middle of downtown Melbourne. Being a small, intimate theatre, tickets go fast.

The Butterfly Club is difficult to locate for anyone unfamiliar with Melbourne's backstreets. The theatre is quaint with a unique interior, comfortable seating, and a terrific bar serving the house speciality, the Thai Butterfly. This theatre hosts the most homey and eccentric cabaret shows around!

Walk Around Late in Hosier Lane

When people think of Melbourne, they often think of Hosier Lane. It's a trendy strip with upscale eateries, chic boutiques, and wall-to-wall graffiti. It's a popular place for both residents and visitors to stroll at night, when the colourful graffiti and lively street performances really come to life.

Hosier Lane is home to some of Australia's greatest coffee shops, so make sure to stop by while you're in the area. Any of the places below would be perfect for a romantic dinner for two. Order a bottle of wine to complement your lunch and the murals you'll be seeing outside.

Unwind During a Nighttime Stroll on Southbank

If you're looking for a tranquil night out in the city, Southbank Pomegranate is conveniently located in Melbourne's central business district. The vineyard, which extends down the Yarra River, is a favourite spot for late-night strolls and nibbles.

Even better is the nighttime skyline vista, which includes the iconic Eureka Tower and the mighty river below. Many people gather at Southbank Pomegranate in the summer to enjoy the pleasant weather by playing ball or relaxing at the outdoor restaurant.

The pomegranate tree is a great photo location, so be ready to snap photographs of others or be asked to do so.

Check out a Movie in the Rooftop Cinema

In Melbourne's warmer months, the rooftop bar is a popular gathering spot. Almost every night of the week, you may see a movie on the big screen above Rooftop Bar's establishment.

A movie night can be a relaxing experience if you just buy a ticket, get some snacks and drinks, and settle into a lounge chair. It's a good alternative for a Melbourne Saturday evening out and meets all the requirements.

Their house popcorns, burgers, and drinks are all must-tries. This is the ideal spot to unwind at the end of a long day. If you and your significant other are travelling together, the Rooftop Cinema offers the ideal setting for a special evening.

Perhaps the ideal time to explore Melbourne is when it's dark out. Having a glass of wine at sunset atop the Eureka Skydeck is one of the most romantic things to do in Melbourne.

There is no other Ferris wheel of this size in the Southern Hemisphere. Eureka Skydeck 88 offers a breathtaking view of Melbourne at night. Discovering Melbourne's best street art after dark is one of the city's most rewarding pastimes.

Although the prison's gates are sealed at 5 p.m. each day, those who are brave enough to come after dark can experience the haunting tours. The Old Gaol in Melbourne is a popular stop on haunted tours, and it costs $38 for an adult to enter. Since its 1912 debut, Luna Park in Melbourne has been Australia's longest continuously operating amusement park. It's true that Phillip Island is home to several tourist hotspots, such as a chocolate factory and a mammoth maze.

The highlight of your trip to the Werribee Zoo in western Melbourne will be the Slumber Safari. To visit Melbourne is to visit one of Australia's most visited cities.

An array of late-night public transportation, fine eating, and chill watering places contribute to the city's dynamic nightlife. We have compiled a full directory of the top nightlife venues in Melbourne's CBD for your convenience. Berlin Bar is Melbourne's best alternative for a fun and thrilling night out.

From China Town in Melbourne, one can wind their way through narrow alleys to reach the tavern. Great Friday night events with DJs, live bands, and drinks can be found at the National Gallery of Victoria.

Most visitors to Melbourne stop by the Queen Victoria Night Market. Wednesday evenings during the summer, the QVM hosts a night market. The closest beach to Melbourne is St. Kilda, which is only 6 km away and can be reached easily by tram.

There is a plethora of cabaret venues in Melbourne. As expected at a venue of such limited capacity, seats at the Butterfly Club quickly sell out. Hosier Lane is a hip district full with cafes, boutiques, and graffiti art. Get your blood flowing with a stroll down Southbank after dark. Southbank Pomegranate Vineyard in Melbourne is a popular place for evening strolls and snacks.

Almost every night of the week, Rooftop Bar will show a film on the giant screen above the bar. Relax here after a busy day.

Content Summary

• Perhaps the ideal time to explore Melbourne is when it's dark out.
• On the weekends, it is now standard practise to dine at great restaurants until the wee hours of the morning, to attend concerts that go on until the wee hours of the morning, and still return home in time to catch public transportation.
• To ensure that this is the most incredible night of your life, we have compiled a handy guide.
• Good fortune to you and a restful evening.
• Is there something you want to know about Melbourne's tourist spots?
• Take a look at our bucket list to see what we think you should prioritise doing before the end comes.
• After Dark Adventures in Melbourne
• Experience the thrill of Melbourne's Star Wheel.
• In the vein of other contemporary urban centres, Melbourne features a giant Ferris wheel, Australia's sole example of this type of tourist attraction.
• One of the city's most prominent nightlife spots is the Melbourne Star.
• One of the greatest ways to get a bird's-eye view of Melbourne is to take a spin on this giant viewing wheel.
• The 120-meter-tall Ferris wheel is one of just four in the world. It is the only one of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.
• View the City in All Its Glory from the Eureka Skydeck.
• Do you have any plans for this Saturday?
• It's fine; we already had plans to visit Melbourne's Eureka Skydeck on a Saturday evening.
• The southern hemisphere's highest observation deck can be found in Australia.
• Drinking a bottle of wine, beer, or champagne at night on the Skydeck is one of the most romantic things to do in Melbourne .
• In just 40 seconds, you may be on the 88th floor at the Eureka Skydeck.
• A pair of glass cubes, called "The Edge," sit 300 metres above the city, providing visitors with a stunning view over Melbourne.
• The Skydeck will be open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Eureka Skydeck 88 offers stunning views of Melbourne's nighttime skyline and is a popular place to take in the city's sights.
• Send a postcard home from Eureka Skydeck 88, which features the highest post box in the vicinity.
• Always use caution when exploring the city's alleys.
• Melbourne's laneways are well-known for the many restaurants, cafes, and bars that line them, making them ideal for late-night exploration of the city's many entertainment options.
• Melbourne's alleys are home to some of the city's best murals, and discovering them at night is a great way to spend an evening. These works of art are often part of a larger, more impressive display of Melbourne street art.
• Even while Melbourne's back alleyways are intriguing to explore after dark, you shouldn't risk your safety by venturing down any of them.
• There could be some of the best coffee in Melbourne hidden along these alleys.
• Ghostly Tour of Melbourne's Old Gaol
• Old Melbourne Gaol is Melbourne's oldest prison.
• You can see the Old Gaol in Melbourne during the day, but if you want to see the activity, you should go at night.
• Here are a few examples of overnight visits to prisons:
• The stories of notorious executioners are the subject of a tour called the Hangman's Night Tour.
• The tour guides will show you around the facility and share stories of the inmates who have passed on.
• Multiple days a week are affected.
• Tours of A Night in Watch House are only offered at specific periods of the year, so you'll need to prepare ahead if you want to go.
• Although the prison's gates are sealed at 5 p.m. each day, those who are brave enough to come after dark can experience the haunting tours.
• If you're into the supernatural, Melbourne has plenty of other tours you may join.
• In addition to discovering the city's many hidden gems, you can also gain insight into Melbourne's gruesome history as you wander the city's laneways, alleys, and even outlying neighbourhoods.
• Check out the haunted house in Altona and the abandoned Pentridge Prison in Melbourne's north.
• The Old Gaol in Melbourne is a popular stop on haunted tours, and it costs $38 for an adult to enter.
• Melbourne becomes the uncontested comedy capital of the world for four weeks every March when it hosts the International Comedy Festival.
• Attending a comedy show in Melbourne could be a fun way to spend an evening.
• How about some fondue at Milk the Cow?
• Tourists frequently take to the water in order to take in the sights of towns like Melbourne.
• Doing some sightseeing in Melbourne after dark might provide a new perspective on the city.
• Experience a three-hour cruise down Melbourne's most well-known river while dining on a four-course meal (with drinks included).
• Spending a few hours on a cruise would not be necessary to appreciate Melbourne's waterways; a kayaking trip could be just as enjoyable.
• Participants kayak through Victoria Harbour at dusk and then stop for fish and chips.
• Opening in 1912, Luna Park in St. Kilda is Australia's oldest continuously functioning amusement park.
• Ghost train, carousel, and dodgem cars are just a few of the attractions that remain open until 11 p.m.
• Check out Phillip Island's penguins.
• One of Australia's most popular tourist activities is seeing the Little Penguins of Phillip Island walk back to their burrows at fishing's end.
• There are several tourist destinations on the island.
• They consist of a chocolate factory and a maze of enormous proportions.
• Start your day with some island exploring and end it with a trip to Penguin Parade to see the cute birds waddle back to their nests as night falls.
• Travel on a Night Safari
• The highlight of your trip to the Werribee Zoo in western Melbourne will be sleeping under the stars on the Slumber Safari.
• Victoria's status as the smallest of Australia's mainland states is an advantage.
• Travel time from the metropolis to Phillip Island is under one hour.
• No matter how you like to spend your evenings, how much money you have, or how you like to spend it, Melbourne has something for you to do.
• St. Kilda is a hip coastal area of Melbourne, famous for its fashionable bars, delicious restaurants, and exciting nightlife.
• From vintage jokes to trendy dance clubs, it's got everything you need for a memorable night out in Melbourne.
• Activities for the Rest of the Night in Melbourne
• If you're in search of the best things to do in Melbourne at night , you've found the right page.
• It's no secret that Melbourne is one of the best tourist spots in all of Australia.
• It is the capital of the Australian state of Victoria.
• The city has been dubbed the "culture capital of Australia" due to the high concentration of museums and art galleries found there.
• Day or night, Melbourne retains its unique personality as a vibrant and exciting metropolis.
• Many locals in Melbourne feel that nighttime is the greatest time to view the city.
• An array of late-night public transportation, fine eating, and chill watering places contribute to the city's dynamic nightlife.
• Listed here are some of the top things to do in Melbourne after dark.
• The Loop Rooftop Bar Offers Stunning Sunset Views and Delicious Cocktails.
• Find no better place to spend the evening with your special someone.
• Loop Roof is a trendy cocktail lounge that boasts an incredible panorama of Melbourne from its rooftop location.
• The Loop Roof bar is a great place for couples to go, but it's also great for anyone who's in Melbourne and wants to sample some of the best drinks in the city while taking in the breathtaking views of the city from above.
• Enjoy a Musical at the Historic Princess Theatre
• The Princess Theatre is located in Melbourne's established Theater Precinct.
• Musicals like "Les Miserables" and "The Phantom of the Opera" draw large crowds to the Princess Theatre.
• Excellent acoustics and a stunning stage make this theatre ideal for a presentation of music.
• Check out the National Gallery of Victoria on a Weekday for Some Extra Wild Fun
• The National Gallery of Victoria is, in our opinion, the finest venue in which to spend a Friday evening in Melbourne.
• Though the National Gallery is free to visit on weekends, tickets are required for the special Weeknight event and can only be obtained by booking in advance.
• You can still enjoy the National Gallery of Art during its regular hours even if you can't make it on Friday night.
• As Australia's oldest and most prestigious art museum, the National Gallery of Victoria has been greeting visitors since its opening in 1861.
• Even if art isn't your thing, you should still visit the gallery to see the incredible displays.
• This Berlin bar features military memorabilia and is a great place to unwind with a drink.
• Berlin Bar is Melbourne's best alternative for a fun and thrilling night out.
• That part of the bar, aptly titled "West Berlin," has the best beverages.
• Pay a visit to the bar's East Berlin sector.
• The pub is a terrific place to have fun because it fosters innovation and community.
• It's close to Melbourne's famous China Town, so you may visit there before or after your drinking session.
• Chinatown is home to a wide variety of delicious restaurants and food carts.
• Explore the Night Market in Queen Victoria's Honor
• If you want to shop in Melbourne, you should go to Queen Victoria Market (QVM).
• Even if you don't want to interact with the locals, visiting this market will provide you access to some of the best street cuisine and real handcrafted handicrafts in the city.
• Kick Back and Watch the Sunset at the Beach
• Is it true that you've had it with Melbourne's high prices and are looking for some free things to do at night?
• Then we know the perfect setting for you: a stunning beach at sundown.
• The closest beach to Melbourne is St. Kilda, which is only 6 kilometres from the CBD and can be reached quickly and easily by tram.
• Some of nature's most beautiful sights can be seen at the beach at sunset.
• A trip along the beautiful St. Kilda Pier, which is lined with delicious ice cream parlours and cosy cafes, is a must.
• However, a stroll down the beach is always an alternative.
• Before heading back to your lodge, take a walk and unwind.
• Experience an Extraordinary Cabaret Show
• It is said that Melbourne hosts some of the world's best and most thrilling cabaret shows.
• There are a lot of cabaret theatres in this city.
• Located in the heart of central Melbourne sits the Butterfly Club.
• Due to the venue's cosy size, seats sell out quickly.
• If you are not familiar with the alleyways of Melbourne, you will have a hard time finding the Butterfly Club.
• The theatre has a charming ambience thanks to its one-of-a-kind decor, plush seats, and great bar where you can order the signature drink of the house, the Thai Butterfly.
• In this theatre, you may see the most intimate and offbeat cabaret performances anywhere!
• Hosier Lane is a common mental image for many when they consider the city of Melbourne.
• It's a hip area filled with hip cafes, stylish shops, and tonnes of graffiti art.
• At night, when the bright graffiti and energetic street performances come to life, the area becomes a favourite destination for strolls by both locals and tourists.
• Don't miss out on some of Australia's best cafes, located on and around Hosier Lane.
• A romantic evening for two can be had at any of the following restaurants.
• Put in an order for a bottle of wine to go with your lunch and the murals you'll be seeing outside.
• Southbank Pomegranate is ideally situated in Melbourne's CBD, making it an ideal destination for a quiet evening out.
• The Yarra River vineyard is a popular place for evening strolls and tastings.
• In the summer, Southbank Pomegranate turns into a hive of activity as diners and ballplayers alike take advantage of the season.
• It's likely that you'll be requested to take pictures of people under the pomegranate tree.
• A lot of people congregate at the rooftop bar during the warmer months of the year in Melbourne.
• Almost every night of the week, Rooftop Bar will show a film on the giant screen above the bar.
• Relax with a movie night if you buy a ticket, grab some concessions, and snuggle into a lounge chair.
• It's an acceptable substitute for a standard Melbourne Saturday night out, with all the necessary components present.
• The Rooftop Cinema is the perfect place to spend an intimate evening with your loved one while on the road.

15 Unmissable Things To Do In Melbourne At Night

Found near Port Phillip Bay in Australia is the city of Melbourne, which is also the capital city of Victoria state. It is one of the biggest cities in the country coming second only to Sydney and is also considered to be one of the most liveable cities in the world! With beautiful lush nature parks, a rich culture and an organized suburban area that is still expanding you will soon understand why. Melbourne stands as an important and significant city in Australia as it is the communication hub, financial center and seat of government.

You should make the most of every day in this great city, which means doing as much as you can both during the day and at night, and we can help you find the best activities to take part in after the sun goes down. Find the nearest suitcase storage spot in Melbourne to keep your backpacks and bags safe while you are enjoying the nightlife in the city.

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See Amazing Views in the Eureka Skydeck

One of the best ways to see Melbourne is from the top of the Eureka Tower and the views are even more spectacular at night. The Eureka Skydeck is located on the 88th floor of the tower and the view of city lights shining below you is incredible.

Those who are adrenaline seekers and want to feel a real thrill can take it a step further by venturing out onto The Edge. This glass cube offers an impressive 360 degree panoramic view of Melbourne and is an unforgettable experience. It is not recommended for anyone who is afraid of heights!

Be Entertained at the Comic's Lounge

If you are someone who is into comedy, you should definitely visit in late March, which is when the International Comedy Festival is in full swing. This event happens every year and goes on for four weeks, so you have a big window of opportunity to visit.

The lineup at the festival is pretty diverse, so you can watch well known performers from around the world or get a taste of what the local talent in Australia is like. If you can't make it for the festival you can still have a fun night at the Comic's Lounge comedy club. This is where locals come to practice and many of them are quite talented so they are sure to make you laugh.

Visit Luna Park

This is a terrific theme park in Melbourne as well as the oldest one in the country that is still running. Visiting Luna Park is one of the best activities for families and, since it stays open fairly late into the night, it is also one of the best late night Melbourne activities.

The iconic entrance to the amusement park is a huge clown face welcoming you through its smiling mouth so it is pretty hard to miss. There are roller coasters and rides perfect for thrill seekers as well as carousels and carnival games for the more tame visitors, so everyone can have a fabulous time.

Stop by Queen Victoria Night Market

Queen Victoria Market is one of the most popular markets in the city and is open for business both during the day and at night. Since 1878 locals have been visiting the market to buy all sorts of things including fresh produce, clothing, handmade trinkets and secondhand items. The market spans two city blocks so there is a lot for you to discover, and there are even food trucks set up in the area in case you get hungry.

The market is open year round every Wednesday night and sometimes follows different themes. Check out the winter night market during the colder months or the summer night market throughout the rest of the year. Events and celebrations are often going on at the same time so there is much more to do here than just shopping.

Get Spooked on a Ghost Tour at the Old Melbourne Gaol

For those who aren't familiar with it, the Melbourne Gaol is the oldest prison in the city and is now a popular tourist attraction for everyone who visits Melbourne. You can visit for an educational tour during the day but if you are looking for something to do at night we recommend trying out the Hangman's Night Tour or the A Night in the Watch House event!

The gaol was used to house criminals as well as mentally ill patients from the mid 1800s to 1929, and a total of 133 prisoners were hanged here for their crimes. One of those prisoners was Ned Kelly, the well known outlaw, gang leader and bushranger. This is the perfect nighttime activity for anyone who likes to get spooked.

Catch a Performance at a Local Theatre

Melbourne has a terrific performing arts scene and if you are interested in catching a show, a concert or a play, there are several theaters that you can visit. The Legendary Princess Theatre is a nice choice since it is both an architectural wonder and hosts international shows.

Check what is happening at the Athenaeum Theatre, which is actually the city's oldest and puts on a variety of entertaining performances like Shakespeare reenactments or comedies. Go to Her Majesty's Theatre for musicals and dance performances or the Malthouse Theatre for unique cultural events and new artistic productions.

Grab Drinks at a Hidden or Rooftop Bar

This city has a fairly active nightlife so if you are the type who enjoys partying in bars or clubs, no need to worry. You won't have a hard time finding a club or bar open late in the Melbourne City Centre, but the truth is that the best bars are the ones that are hard to find.

Make sure to check down alleyways or on rooftops, and if you know where to look you'll notice that there are a lot more options than you first thought! We'll let you in on the secret and name some of the best bars for you to start off with; try the Berlin Bar, the Heartbreaker or the StoryVille. The Above Board Bar is also an excellent choice and if you can find the Lay Low Bar , which is located inside a clothing shop, we definitely recommend it. See if you can find any others on your own.

Ride the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel

The Melbourne Star Wheel is the city's very own observation wheel and taking a ride on it is another wonderful way to see the city from above. The views are incredible during the day and even more magical during the night as you watch Melbourne City Centre lit up below you.

The wheel stands at an impressive 120 meters high and is the only of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. Grab a couple friends and a camera to ride the Melbourne Star all the way to the top!

Take a Relaxing Walk on the Southbank Promenade

Not too far away from the city centre of Melbourne is the lovely area called the Southbank Promenade. If you just want to spend the night relaxing and enjoying the fresh air, this is the perfect activity for you.

The promenade takes you along the gorgeous Yarra River which also offers its own attractions. Bring your own dinner for a nice sunset picnic or just take a walk after dining at one of the restaurants. If you want to continue your walk you can exit the park to see all the street art in the surrounding area, and you can even continue to the Royal Botanic Gardens of Victoria since they are located close by.

Watch the Sun Set at St Kilda Beach

St Kilda Beach on Phillip Island is a beautiful area by the coast of Melbourne that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. While the sun is up you can enjoy water sports and activities like kite-surfing, fishing or swimming, but the best time to visit is actually as the sun is setting.

Visiting at dusk is not only recommended because of the amazing sight of the sunset on the water but because it is when the small community of penguins returns to their nests on the beach. They are truly adorable and seeing them waddle through the sand is something that you won't want to miss! This is a fabulous nighttime activity that is also free !

Have a Slumber Safari at the Werribee Open Range Zoo

Animal lovers, this nighttime activity is for you. You are welcome to visit the Werribee Open Range Zoo anytime during the day but if you want to have a truly unforgettable experience we recommend staying throughout the night.

Tickets for this event will give you access to the zoo for two whole days so you won't have to worry about rushing through the exhibits. You will also get a guided tour of the zoo and will be fed an exquisite African inspired dinner at night after you take a sunset safari. In the morning you can fill up on a buffet breakfast before circling around to see the animals again.

Eat Delicious Food on a Dinner Cruise Along the Yarra River

The best way to start off a night in Melbourne is by sightseeing or trying some of the tantalizing local food, so why not do both at once by taking a dinner cruise on the Yarra River? You will be treated to a delicious meal while watching the city lights go by from the water.

This is the perfect recipe for a romantic night and a fun activity for couples or a group of friends that want to relax and experience the city in a new way. Make sure to book your tickets in advance and arrive in time before the boat sets sail.

Party at the National Gallery of Victoria

The best way to spend a Friday night in Melbourne is at the National Gallery . What is a calm and sophisticated venue during the day turns into a wild party at night, so make your way here for some live music, drinking and a memorable time with friends.

These nighttime events are often themed and we recommend checking the schedule beforehand so you know what you're getting into. The parties happen almost every week all summer long so you can come to visit anytime. The gallery is also worth visiting during the day if you have the chance, especially since daytime entrance to the exhibits is free.

Enjoy the Shows at the Butterfly Club

Make your way to Carson Place where you will find the Butterfly Club. This theatre is smaller than some of the others found around town but unique and still worth a visit. The most common performances here are either burlesque, cabaret or comedy shows, so if that is your sort of thing make sure to check it out.

Shows happen about two to eight times per night, six days a week so you will have lots of opportunities to catch a performance. Be prepared for a night full of drama, dancing and singing!

End the Day with a Moonlight Kayak Ride

Another way to see the beautiful city of Melbourne from the water is on a moonlight kayak ride. This activity will take a few hours but there is no need to worry if you don't have any kayaking experience since your trusty guide will teach you how it works.

Your journey will begin at the Victoria Harbour and ends at the Rowling Sheds boat landing area. Be there before sunset and don't eat beforehand, since you will be treated to fish and chips during the trip.

The Best of Melbourne Nightlife

The city of Melbourne is ready to entertain you at all times of the day or night. Whether you prefer going on spooky night tours, seeing the views from the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel, riding a kayak down the river at night or spending Friday nights at a bar with live music, Melbourne is a marvelous place for a vacation. You won't want to miss visiting these Melbourne attractions so do your best to try as many of them as you can!

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THE 10 BEST Melbourne Nightlife Activities

Nightlife in melbourne.

• Bars & Clubs
• Bar, Club & Pub Tours
• Dance Clubs & Discos
• Comedy Clubs
• Karaoke Bars
• Jazz Clubs & Bars
• Coffee Shops
• Blues Clubs & Bars
• Gay Clubs & Bars
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Central Business District
• North Melbourne
• Lygon Street
• Chapel Street
• South Melbourne
• Port Melbourne
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Budget-friendly
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Kids
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Paris Cat Jazz Club

2. Depot Adventures

Recommended Nightlife Experiences (5)

3. Bartronica

4. Young and Jacksons

5. Whisky & Alement

6. Section 8

7. Bird's Basement

8. Whisky Den

9. Royal Standard Hotel

10. Cinema Nova

11. The Comics Lounge

12. KINGS PF COMEDY

13. Union Electric Bar

14. IceBar Melbourne

15. The Lui Bar

16. The Mitre Tavern

17. Imperial Hotel Bourke Street

18. PJ O'Brien's

19. Holey Moley Golf Club Melbourne CBD

20. Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq Melbourne

21. The Palms at Crown

22. Melbourne Urban Adventures

23. Cabinet Bar and Balcony

24. Kingpin Crown

25. Drinking History Tours

26. 56 Bricks

27. GoGo Bar

28. Beneath Driver Lane

29. Madame Brussels

30. Seven Seeds Specialty Coffee

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29 Fun Things to do in Melbourne at Night

By: Author The Aussie Tourist

Posted on Last updated: 08/04/2021

Categories Victoria (Vic)

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Looking for fun things to do in Melbourne at night?

To be honest Melbs is a pretty cool city for night owls like me, as there is seriously tonnes of fun stuff to do after dark, other than the obvious like go to a bar (but I’ll include some of the best of those too!)

Luckily, the city of Melbourne is full of life and there are plenty of fun night activities to enjoy. Here are 29 of our favourites:

• See more: Romantic Date Ideas in Melbourne
• See more: Best Day Trips from Melbourne
• See more:   Best Breakfast Melbourne CBD
• See more: Romantic Restaurants in Melbourne
• See more: Melbourne bucket list.

29 Things to do in Melbourne at Night

Loop roof cocktail bar.

Loop Roof Cocktail Bar is an open-air rooftop café/bar with awe-inspiring views and a garden setting. Here, you can enjoy cocktails that are crafted by the skilled bartenders. All guests claim the cocktails are delicious and worth the trip to the bar. You should also try their crafted beers, local wine and champagne.

Along with the drinks, they serve light snacks in the form of calamari strips, chicken bites, salads, fries and etc. The bar is fully equipped to handle Melbourne’s changing weather all-year round with awnings that are retractable for rain and heaters for when its cold.

And, you’ll just love the views from the Loop Roof – trust me!

Visit Legendary Princess Theatre to Watch a Movie

After its reopening in 1986, the Princess Theatre become a hot spot in Melbourne and it has hosted popular shows like Cats and South Pacific.

The theatre is lined with comfortable seats, booster cushions and wheelchair places along with a bar from where you can pre-order your drinks to avoid queuing at the bar.

For purchasing tickets, you should pre-book them online and then collect them from the box office before the show. The box office is opens 1 hour before the show. One of the best Melbourne attractions at night.

Climb to the Eureka Skydeck

Dubai, the capital of United Arab Emirates, has sky-high buildings like the Burge Khalifa but Melbourne has something even better, not to mention exciting.

You’ve guessed it! It’s the Eureka Tower that reaches 300 metres into the sky. The Eureka Skydeck is on the 88th floor of the tower and is the go-to place in the city if you want to treat yourself with iconic and exciting views of the city. One of the best melbourne night views.

The Skydeck is open all year round for the public and you can even participate in an event as Eureka Climb in which the participants race up the 1642, competing for first place.

Book your tickets here .

Image credit: Skydeck IG

National Gallery of Victoria (Friday Night)

Hosting more than 75,000 artworks, the National Gallery of Victoria has two galleries which are a short walk from each other. The galleries house artworks from European, Oceanic, American and Asian collections and is a wonderland for people who love art in all its forms.

Entry into the National Gallery is free of charge and Friday nights a thing to look forward to with live fabulous music and stunning artwork collections by true artists like Keith Haring and others.

The Gallery also holds tours, talks, collection displays, films and even A program for children. One of the best night activities in Melbourne!

Post-war Themed Berlin Bar

To gain entry into this juxtaposition bar, you will have to ring the bell. When you ring it, you’ll be transported through time to Berlin. The bar is divided onto East and West Berlin based on its décor, music, seriously committed staff and of course the drinks.

The bar shows a bizarre mingling of luxury with the gloom of war but the strangeness makes it more enticing.

For seating, the bar has comfy grenade crates and leather booths along with soft or light lighting to get you into the bar mood. Skilled bartenders make amazing cocktails that’ll seriously make your day!

Queen Victoria Market Summer Night Market

It’s an epic place to visit with international food stalls, a flea market featuring handmade items and other things and live music.

It opens it doors or stalls to be precise to the public in summer on every Wednesday only – the latest summer might market was from 20th November 2019 to 11th March 2020. It was quite an event, just like it always is, and around 55 food and drinks stalls lit up the summer nights from November to March.

Be sure to check the dates for the next Summer Night Market and mark it up on your bucket list!

Watch Sunset at St. Kilda beach

St Kilda isn’t just a beach but it’s a playground that’s right across from the blue sea and it’s also one of the best locations to see a magical sunset. Located in Port Phillips, the beach is about 6km in the Southern direction from Melbourne city centre.

It’s the beach to be if you’re looking for a splendid sunset to watch or out on a date. You can submerge your feet in the Port Phillip bay and gaze at the enigmatic sight of the setting sun or walk along the pier – it’ll show you the best sights of the sunset.

Butterfly Club Cabaret Show

In Carson Place, the Butterfly Club is a small-scale theatre that is open 6 days a week year round and closed on Sunday.

This theatrical venue is famous for its comedy, cabaret and burlesque performances. The club does 2 to 8 shows every night and all of them are entertaining for the crowd gathered. Its cabaret shows, ripe with drama, music and singing, is a sight for sore eyes if you like cabarets.

Go on a ghost tour of the Old Melbourne Gaol

Once a jail and now a museum in Russell Street, Old Melbourne Goal is a scary place with a very dark history clinging to its eerie walls.

Russel Street has been the heart of crime and Law and order in the city from way back in the 1840s. This much time has generated many stories about the ghosts of the former inmates.

Among the stories, Cell 17 has the most interesting one. It’s said to have experienced the most supernatural events like trained dogs going berserk when inside it and a spirit having pulled a journalist from the doorway. Don’t let that scare you and see for yourself if ghost haunt the building or not.

Hosier Lane at Night

Hosier Lane is the go-to place if you’re into street art or just enjoy looking at artworks splattered by both locals and foreign artists. During the day, vibrancy of the art lining the lane comes out in full effect but at night when the streets are somewhat deserted and empty, the art takes on a sheer darkness of its own.

The artworks get transformed by the dimness of the light and invite passers-by to take deeply look at them to notice the details in the shape and structure of the artworks. At night, art plays a game of light and shadow that is intriguing and worth checking out.

Join Overnight Safari at Werribee Open Range Zoo

You can visit the Werribee Open Range Zoo to see the animals but if you want to do it right, you should join the Overnight or Slumber Safari at the zoo.

For two days, you’ll have access to the entire zoo and can view the animals at your leisure. You’ll also be given a fully-hosted safari tour and at night, you’ll be awarded with an African Cuisine dinner.

Then, you’ll wake up in the morning to the roars of the lions and have a buffet style breakfast before going out again to some animal viewing. It’ll be a blast as a family vacation.

Join a sunset safari here .

Ride Melbourne Star Wheel

In the Docklands area at the Waterfront City precinct, the Melbourne Star Wheel is a Ferris Wheel waiting to be ridden. The wheel rise at a sheer height of 120m and the views of the city it offers, especially at night, are breathtaking.

It basically gives 360 degrees views of the surrounding bay and attractions in the Waterfront City precinct. You can take the “ Welcome to Melbourne” flight up the wheel in which you’ll be given sparkling wine or beer drink while on-board the wheel.

Besides, the sight of the lit-up Ferris Wheel at night from the ground is awesome. One of the best late night Melbourne activities.

Melbourne Rooftop Bar to watch a film (Lido Rooftop)

At Curtin House, the Lido Rooftop is one of the best open-air cinemas in Melbourne. This rooftop cinema has screened many blockbusters and arthouse classics and all combined with appealing views of the city.

Films that they have shown before are Ford V Ferrari , Doctor Sleep by Stephen King, Marriage Story, The Two Popes and Charlie’s Angles . Some other entertaining films they have screened are Jumanji, Little Women, Frozen 2 and Cats among others.

The cinema also doubles as a bar and you can just buy food and drinks in-house without having to go anywhere else.

Walk the Southbank Promenade

Southbank Promenade is a perfect location to go for a nice walk to clear your head with its ambience. It’s also the busiest place in the whole city so you might a hidden gem somewhere around there. It has good restaurants like the Leftbank that you can visit for a date night or some family fun.

Love art? Then, head over to the National Gallery Victoria International to view awe-inspiring collections. The Southbank is also known for its river cruises across the Yarra River and markets.

One of the best things to do in Melbourne at night for free.

Late Night Fondue at Milk the Cow

Milk the Cow is a late-night type of bar that is located in St Kilda and Carlton and it’s the home 180 varieties of cheese.

All that delicious and interesting cheese is kept in the 6m cheese cabinet and the cheese is looked after and skilfully curated by the cheesemonger team there. You can visit the bar on Monday to Friday for takeaways and drive-ins and buy cheese for under $40.

You have the option to choose from Cheesemonger’s Choice Cheeseboards and every cheeseboard is complemented with bread and quince pasta, etc. If you love cheese, you’ll love this place.

The Comic’s Lounge Comedy Show in North Melbourne

For many years now, the Comics Lounge has attractions hordes with its unique and singular comedians, both local and international.

The Comics Lounge is considered the all year-round Comic Festival in Melbourne that pulls in people and puts smiles on there faces. If you’re a comedy geek from ages 18 to 80 or just have a good sense of humour, you should really drop by the club sometime.

The club shows a 2 ½ hours live show followed by a tasty menu and delicious cocktails.

Crown Melbourne – Australia’s largest casino.

Open 24/7, Crown Casino is Australia’s largest casino located on Yarra River’s south bank.

The casino contains 50 poker games like Caribbean Stud . Other games that you can indulge in are Blackjack, Big Wheel, Baccarat, Casino War, Craps, Pai Chow and others. Crown Casino prides itself on promoting and following responsible gambling so be sure to follow their rules while you’re there.

Go on a scenic dinner cruise on The Spirit of Melbourne

The Spirit of Melbourne is a cruise restaurant that is reservations only and it cruises across the Yarra River and you can take in all the sights close to it.

The cruise will last for 3 hours in which you’ll be served with a 4-course menu along with drinks. You will have the option of choosing your food and the restaurant has vegetarian options too so don’t let being a vegan stop you from cruising. It’s open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

If you find yourself in Melbourne at the end of the year, there is a fun NYE Dinner Cruise.  It’s a 4 hours long cruise but it’s only for 31st December 2020.

Another dinner cruise you can take is the Private Romantic Dinner Cruise for 2. It offers a 3-course meal and lasts for 1 hour and 30 minutes and is perfect for a romantic night.

Book your cruise here .

Luna Park Melbourne

Luna Park is an amusement park at St. Kilda in the foreshore of the Port Phillip Bay. It’s been popular since its opening in 1912 and it’s a total funhouse with amazing games and rides.

Be sure to ride the Great Scenic Railway which will show you a great many spectacular views of the city and Port Phillip Bay. Also, rides like Supernova, Speedy Beetle, Moon Balloons and the Twin Dragons will keep you entertained and excited. You can also enjoy Carnival Games – good choice for little kids.

Go glamping on the rooftop of Melbourne Central Mall

On the rooftop of Melbourne Central Mall, you will be able to find a camp in the middle of the city. But, it’s not ordinary camping. It’s glamping – a term that refers to camping in luxury.

The space used for this purpose is called St. Jerome and it’s divided into two sections, the East Wing and the West Wing. Tents have been stationed across the entire space along with potted plants. The rooftop also has mobile toilets at one end along the small art gallery and a café/bar hut in another corner that is basically the General Store there.

The rooftop has all the necessities for a comfortable stay, after all it camping in the concrete jungle.

Explore laneways to find interesting street art (e.g. Hosier Lane)

Melbourne is considered the art centre of Australia and it showcases some of the best street art ever seen in the world. Hosier Lane is one such lane ripe with street art and graffiti but Melbourne has other as well.

ACDC Lane has every inch lined with street art that illustrated musicians. Duckboard Lane is another lane where wine and food lovers and artists gather and it has widely entertaining and skilfully drawn street artworks. Other lanes you can visit are Caledonian Lane, Croft Alley, Rankins Lane among others.

You can join a street art tour here .

See the Phillip Island Penguins

Australia is home to small cute Penguins that have made the burrows at the Summerland Beach their home. They’re native to Australia and they’re only 33cm long and they waddle onto the beach after sunset.

Seeing the little fellas rising up from the water is a sight to behold – there’s something magical about it. The penguins display a lovely Penguin Parade in which they walk to the beach to get to their burrows. This parade attracts tourists from across the globe at dusk.

Book your tour here .

Moonlight Kayak Ride

A Kayak tour is a good way to see the city from the waterways. The Moonlight Kayak Ride is 2 ½ hours long and it starts from the Victoria Harbour a little while before sunset and ends when the kayak reached the boat landing area in the Rowling Sheds.

You’ll also be fed chips and fish along the way in the boat and you don’t need to have kayaking experience for this tour since a guide will go along with you and teach you the basics.

Book your kayak tour here .

See an old movie at Astor in St Kilda

Located at 1 Chapel Street, the Astor Theatre is a classic and single-screen movie theatre that is lined with a pre-television atmosphere.

Despite the fact that its décor is designed to show pre-television times, it’s still up-to-date and has good air condition facilities and sound system. It’s the only vintage cinema in Australia and it screens old classics and latest blockbusters.

Visit IceBar Melbourne

Nestled at the Atrium in the Federation Square, IceBar Melbourne is the go-to ice bar in Australia for an arctic experience. You will be given the Ice Bar’s distinct snow gear to wear.

This fun bar is a fortress of ice and it’s made with 30 tonnes of ice and you’ll be served cocktails and other concoctions in a room that’s about 10 degrees below 0 degree. It’s the best place to chill (literally) and savour a drink.

Book your visit here .

Stay in a hotels with a spa in Melbourne 

Go on a night time horse and carriage ride

Horse and carriage rides are a fun way to tour Melbourne city at night. A coach driver will wait for you in Federation Square, all dressed up in traditional clothes. You can have the hood of the carriage up or down as you prefer.

Visit the Melbourne Observatory

If you like looking at the cosmos, you should visit the Observatory where you’ll be able to see the stars up close from a telescope.

The Observatory is managed by the Royal Botanic Gardens and it provides night tours and solar tours. In the night tour, you’ll get to explore the history of the Observatory and its role as a weather forecast, star charting and time keeping.

Melbourne’s Moonlit Sanctuary

It’s a popular wildlife park in Melbourne that houses many friendly animals like kangaroos, koala, wallabies, dingoes and others like vibrant birds and reptiles. The park is about 50 minutes away from the centre of Melbourne and its night tours are magical.

You’ll encounter pythons, quoll, potoroos and other nocturnal animals. A great way to experience Australia’s wildlife.

Melbourne’s Chinatown

Behind the red gates of Chinatown, another world thrives in Australia with its hot Asian food, karaoke, fashion shops and drinks.

You should have dinner at one of Chinatown’s renowned restaurants like HuTong Dumpling Bar or the Shandong Mama – they both serve the best dumplings in town. Chinatown also has a Chinese Museum, Chinatown Cinema and other attractions.

You can also browse its shops and fashion boutiques for gifts and beautiful clothes.

More Fun things to do in Australia

We hope you liked these places to visit in Melbourne at night. If you are traveling around Australia, you might also like to check out:

• Fun things to do in Brisbane at night
• Things to do in Maleny
• Things to do in Yeppoon
• Fun things to do in Dalby

Note: If you are a backpacker and want to work in Melbourne, you may want to do an RSA Course. Here’s the full backpacker guide on how to get an RSA Certificate .

12 Fantastic Things to do in Melbourne at Night

Disclosure: I may earn a small commission from the companies or products mentioned in this post.

From hipster rooftop bars and drive-in cinemas to themed night markets and penguin-watching on the beach, Melbourne is a city that really comes alive after dark.

Whether you’re planning for a romantic date night or an evening out with friends, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in Melbourne at night…

The best things to do in Melbourne at night

1. head to a rooftop bar.

One thing that hipster Melbourne does particularly well is its cool city bars, with a buzzing nightlife scene open late into the night  (and by late I do mean the next morning in most cases) .

One of Melbourne’s unique quirks is its many multi-level drinking establishments , with either one large bar taking up several floors, or several different bars connected by a shared staircase, often cumulating in an amazing rooftop bar.

Adequately named Rooftop Bar is one of the most well-known rooftop bars in Melbourne.

Nestled in the heart of Melbourne CBD, the relaxed and unpretentious 7th-floor venue has incredible 360 views out to the surrounding skyscrapers and shining lights of Melbourne CBD.

During the hot summer months, you’ll find faux grass and garden furniture packed with people enjoying chilled local beers and refreshing sangria.

Then during the colder winter months, you can huddle around the heaters while sipping on a mug of warming mulled wine.

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Another favourite rooftop bar of mine has to be  Naked in the Sky , the restaurant and rooftop bar sitting on the top floor of Fitzroy’s popular multi-level bar Naked for Satan .

Found in a northern suburb of the city, the rooftop bar has fantastic views back over the soaring skyscrapers of Melbourne CBD.

The area of Fitzroy is known for its hip, young nightlife scene. And Naked in the Sky is no exception. The bar has a cool vibe, a creative cocktail menu, and some of the tastiest bar food you’ll find in Melbourne.

2. Wander Down Southbank Promenade

Taking a stroll down Southbank Promenade is a relaxing way to spend an evening in Melbourne.

Take in the bright lights of the surrounding city and pop into one or two of the countless restaurants and busy bars lining the river on either side.

Some of the best bars and restaurants along Southbank Promenade are:

• Yarra Botanica – a two-level floating bar and restaurant right on the river itself
• Hopscotch – quirky riverside brewpub with an in-house microbrewery and ice cream parlour
• Left Bank – elegant and stylish lounge and restaurant with a modern food menu, extensive cocktail list, and river-facing terrace

3. See the Sunset Over the City from Eureka Skydeck

Sat close to the Yarra River on Southbank, you’ll find one of Melbourne’s tallest buildings; the Eureka Tower. The tower is home to the  Eureka Skydeck  – the tallest viewing platform in the Southern Hemisphere.

Sitting almost 300 meters above ground level on the tower’s 88th floor, Eureka Skydeck boasts amazing 360 views across Melbourne’s skyline and even out to the wider peninsula.

Open until 10pm, watching the sunset over the city from the Eureka Skydeck is one of my favourite things to do in Melbourne in the evening.

Book your tickets in advance here.

4. Get Lost in Crown Casino Complex

Crown Melbourne is a huge entertainment complex on the south bank of the Yarra River in central Melbourne. The complex features 3 luxury hotels, an elegant spa, and a large multi-floor casino, plus numerous shops, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs.

In other words, it’s Melbourne’s own mini answer to Las Vegas.

Start with a game of crazy golf at the  Holy Moly indoor mini-golf  course. Then head for dinner at one of the complex’s  luxury restaurants   (or for a cheaper night out try the Crown food court) . Finally, head on a bar crawl around the complex’s many  bars and nightclubs , which are dotted throughout the busy casino.

And if you feel like belting out a few bangers at the end of the night, don’t miss Jukes Kareoke .

Getting glammed up  (although there’s no strict dress code in most places so come as you want)  for an evening out at Crown Casino is one of my favourite things to do in Melbourne at night for a special occasion.

Upgrade your night in Melbourne:  If you don’t mind splashing the cash a little and fancy a luxury staycation in Melbourne, book a night at one of the  Crown’s stunning hotels . Then at the end of the night, all you have to do is jump in the lift and head back up to your 5* room with spectacular views across the city.

I stayed at the gorgeous Crown Metropol and it was one of the highlights of my time in Melbourne.

5. Challenge Yourself to an Escape Room

One of my favourite things to do no matter where in the world I am is an Escape Room. And this is definitely a great option for a fun activity to do in Melbourne at night.

Whether you’re looking for an evening activity with friends, some family-bonding time, or a romantic date night in Melbourne , an escape room is an excellent choice.

Some of the best escape rooms in Melbourne include:

• Adventure Rooms
• Mystery rooms
• Escape Hunt
• Red Herring Escape
• Virtual Reality Adventure

6. Watch a Movie at a Drive-In Cinema

Depending on where in the world you’re from, this one may range from normal everyday activity to a super exciting novelty.

As a Londoner who has only ever seen drive-in cinemas in American movies set in the 1950s, I was extremely excited to experience my first drive-in cinema screening in Melbourne.

Village Cinemas Coburg Drive-In , in the northern Melbourne suburb of Coburg North, is a 3-screen drive-in movie theatre  (the largest in the Southern Hemisphere)  showing modern blockbusters and foreign films.

You simply drive in, pay  $10 entry per person  in the car, pick your movie, and set your car radio to the correct FM channel for sound.

There’s also an on-site diner selling food and drinks to enjoy with the movie. Or you can bring your own with you. Grabbing a delicious burger from nearby Rude Boy Burger is my suggestion.

The films begin after dark, with start times ranging from 9pm – 11pm.

7. Explore a Night Market at Queen Victoria Market

Queen Victoria Market is certainly one of the best Melbourne attractions at night.

Every Wednesday between late November and early March, Melbourne’s iconic Queen Vic Market holds its popular and free-to-visit  Summer Night Market .

Open from 5pm to 10pm, the Night Market includes delicious street food stalls, pop-up cocktail bars, shops selling local artisan products, and free live entertainment.

Queen Vic Market has also begun hosting a free  Winter Night Market  every Wednesday from early June to late August. Similar to the summer market, the winter market has a number of global street food stalls, festival bars, specialty artisan goods stalls, and live entertainment.

For the 4 Wednesdays of July, the market takes on the theme ‘Christmas in July’ where visitors are transported to a winter wonderland, complete with a snow machine, Christmas decorations, and an ugly Christmas jumper competition in homage to Christmas in the Northern hemisphere.

Travelling on a budget? Check out more free attractions and activities in Melbourne .

8. Eat Delicious Italian Food on Lygon Street

Lygon Street, which runs through the inner-northern suburbs of Carlton and Brunswick, is known as ‘Little Italy’ among Melbournians due to its abundance of Italian restaurants, gelaterias, and wine bars.

The lively Lygon Street is a favourite with locals, students, and tourists alike, with its authentic European vibe and late-night al fresco dining establishments.

There are plenty of options for great food and drinks on Lygon Street.

These are a few of my favourites:

• 400 Gradi  – The Italian restaurant which won the world’s best margarita pizza back in 2014, and the best Pizzeria in Oceania in 2019, 400 Gradi serves some of the tastiest and most authentic pizza and pasta in Melbourne.
• Pidapipò Gelateria   – Home of the best ice cream in Melbourne, straight out of high-quality steel tanks (the real Italian way), with creative flavours and warm Nutella drizzled on top.
• Heart Attack and Vine  – A cosy cafe perfect for your morning coffee fix, delicious filling sandwiches, or a relaxing glass of vino in the evening.
• Jimmy Watson’s  – One of Melbourne’s oldest wine bars, with tasty food options too.

Looking for more of the best places to eat in Melbourne?

Check out my Ultimate Melbourne Food Guide

9. Spot the Little Penguins at St Kilda Beach

St Kilda is one of Melbourne’s southern suburbs and is home to the  city’s most popular beach .

On a sunny day, the 700 metres long St Kilda beach is packed with people, from families splashing around in the water to keep cool, to groups of young people enjoying a picnic and drinks on the sand.

Along the shorefront,  St Kilda Esplanade  is full of restaurants and bars with a lively but relaxed atmosphere and gorgeous ocean views.

But while many people head to the beach during the daytime, St Kilda is also one of the best places to visit in Melbourne after dark.

As the sun sets, head along the beach to the end of St Kilda pier to find St Kilda breakwater .

If you’re lucky, you’ll spot some of Southern  Australia’s tiny   Fairy Penguins  waddling out of the ocean and onto the beach after a long day hunting for fish.

10. Watch a Musical at the Iconic Princess Theatre

Melbourne’s   Princess Theatre  is a 1488-seat theatre in the city’s East End Theatre District and has gained its icon status due to being the  oldest continuous entertainment site on mainland Australia .

The original building on the site dates back to 1854. However, the theatre was rebuilt in 1886 after becoming a little too rundown.

Over the years, the Princess Theatre has played host to a number of well-known musical theatre productions, including Cats, Les Miserables, The Phantom of the Opera  (which established a new record for the longest-running show ever staged in Victoria) , MAMMA MIA! and The Book of Mormon.

Currently, Princess Theatre is playing host to the exclusive Australian season of London’s  Harry Potter and the Cursed Child  stage show.

11. Go Back in Time at Post-War-Themed Berlin Bar

Back to Melbourne’s exciting bar scene, this hipster city has plenty of fun themed drinking establishments to explore at night.

One of the most original has to be Berlin Bar , a hidden bar in Chinatown that is split into two areas; a  Western Capitalist side  and an  Eastern Communist side .

The Western side of the bar is slightly more extravagant, with plush booths, a number of central tables, and a large “Ich bin ein Berliner” sign.

The Eastern side, on the other hand, is much darker  (somewhat like a bunker)  and is full of Communist propaganda.

Despite the divide, the entire bar has  old-fashioned table service  and an extensive drinks menu consisting of a variety of German beers and a  creatively-themed cocktail menu . Be sure to ask what the cocktail of the week is!

Interested in cool bars in Melbourne?  Take a Hidden Bar Tour .

12. Get Spooked at Melbourne Gaol

Between 1842 and 1929, Old Melbourne Gaol was the  imprisonment site of short-term prisoners, lunatics, and some of the colony’s most notorious and hardened criminals .

It was also the location of a number of hangings, including Australia’s most infamous citizen, the bushranger Ned Kelly.

Now, the Goal is a museum where visitors can discover what life was like for the men and women who lived and died there years ago.

The museum runs a number of  evening tours and events  and is certainly one of the scariest things to do in Melbourne at night.

Visit the goal after dark for stories of unexplained sights, sounds, and encounters, and learn about the building’s dark history, while exploring the many dark confined spaces seeping with history.

And for the really brave, you can take on the immersive  ‘Night in the Watchhouse’  experience set in the original cell block inhabited by the likes of Squizzy Taylor, Chopper Read, and other unsavoury characters.

Enjoy learning about the city’s spooky history?   Book a Melbourne Ghost Tour.

Visiting Melbourne? You might also like:

The best things to do in Melbourne

The top day trips from Melbourne

The ultimate 3 day Victoria road trip from Melbourne

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Emily is a born and raised London girl, starting life in the north of the capital then moving down to Fulham in the southwest. She has a master’s degree in Social and Cultural Anthropology from University College London and now works full-time running this blog and as a freelance travel writer, splitting her life between London and travelling the world as a digital nomad.

Find me on: Instagram

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16 Exciting Things To Do In Melbourne At Night

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Melbourne is a great place to explore during the day, but once the sun goes down, the city truly comes alive. Of the many things to do in Melbourne , those that take place in the nighttime hours are the most thrilling. There are hip and hidden bars to explore, restaurants of every cuisine imaginable to dine in and plenty of other fun things to do in Melbourne at night , from nighttime kayaks along the river to sleeping overnight at a zoo.

Some people say that Melbourne is Australia’s most European city and indeed, Victoria’s capital is sophisticated and stylish. Its hidden laneways and grand arcades are packed with shops, bars, restaurants and plenty on the cultural calendar. 

Even wandering around the city has its own rewards, as Melbourne is utterly beguiling at night. You don’t have to restrict yourself to the city’s CBD (Central Business District), now that the transport hours for the tram network have been extended. Here are a few things to on in Melbourne at night, to see the city from a different point of view.

Top 3 Melbourne Night Tours

1- ride the melbourne star, 2- enjoy the sunset from eureka skydeck 88, 3- explore the laneways of the city, 4- tour the old melbourne gaol, 5- belly laugh at the comic’s lounge, 6- drink at a themed, rooftop or secret bar, 7- eat at queen victoria night market, 8- go for late-night fondue at milk the cow, 9- watch a movie in an outdoor cinema, 10- catch a double feature at a beautiful old cinema, 11- take a dinner cruise along the yarra river, 12- go on a moonlight kayak, 13- visit luna park historic amusement park, 14- see the phillip island penguins, 15- go on an overnight safari, 16- check out the nightlife in st kilda, 16 exciting things to do in melbourne at night.

• Spirit Of Melbourne Dinner Cruise – includes a four-course meal, drinks and twinkling city lights.
• Pentridge Prison Tour – go on a spooky 1.5-hour ghost tour and learn about Australia’s worst criminals.
• Private Melbourne Nightlife Experience – enjoy a progressive dinner at three venues while learning about the city’s colourful history.

Melbourne At Night

It seems most big cities these days contain a giant Ferris wheel and Melbourne is no exception – although it is the only city in Australia to have one of this magnitude.

Located in the Docklands district of the city, the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel allows patrons a full 30 minutes to take in the sights of the city.

You can ride by day but boarding the Melbourne Star is one of the fun things to do in Melbourne at night.

There are plenty of add-ons available if you want to spice things up a bit, from sangria jugs to flights of sparkling wine.

You can book a private cabin, join a yoga class and it’s a popular place to propose, as well!

Melbourne Star ticket prices start at $16.50.

Melbourne is a beauty after dark and one of the nighttime activities in Melbourne, if you want to see the city in all its sprawling glory, is to head to Eureka Skydeck 88.

The tallest observation deck in the Southern Hemisphere is an impressive Australian landmark .  

Sipping on wine, beer or champagne on the Skydeck itself is one of the more romantic things to do in Melbourne at night.

Take your experience one step further and brave “The Edge” – adjoining glass cubes, suspended 300 metres above the city.

These cubes (glass ceiling, walls and floors) project out from the floor, giving visitors a clear view of the city from all angles.

It’s not for the faint-hearted, or sufferers of vertigo!

Eureka Skydeck 88 is also home to the tallest post office box in this part of the world – a fun fact you can add to any postcard to send home. 

Eureka Skydeck is open until 10 pm each night. Avoid the queue and book your Skydeck ticket here . 

The city centre of Melbourne is famous for its laneways that are filled with restaurants and cafés, bars that offer plenty of late-night Melbourne activities to keep you going to the wee hours.

These lanes are often adorned with an impressive display of Melbourne street art and one of the fun things to do in Melbourne at night is to scour the streets for the best murals.

The artwork takes on a different dimension after dark and you will find the best ones in these places: 

• Hosier Lane
• Degraves Street

A word of warning. Although these lanes are interesting to explore in Melbourne at night, I wouldn’t wander down any that look too creepy – safety is paramount after all!

These Melbourne lanes are where you will find the best coffee in Melbourne .

Melbourne Gaol officially closes at 5 pm each day but opens its doors to anyone plucky enough to join the nightly ghost tours.

There are three tours on offer, including A Night in the Watch House , which allows you to take an hour-long tour of the original cell block.

You can spend an hour ghost hunting throughout the gaol or go on a night tour with a Hangman, who can tell you many stories about those who were hanged at the gaol, including famous Australian bushman Ned Kelly.

If ghosts are your thing, there are a range of other spooky tours you can do around Melbourne at night. 

It’ll allow you to get acquainted with Melbourne’s many streets, laneways and even outer suburbs while learning a little about its slightly macabre history.

Tour the city’s CBD, the disused Pentridge Prison in Melbourne’s north, the old port town of Williamstown and even a haunted homestead out west in Altona. 

A tour of Old Melbourne Gaol costs $38 (adults) and here are some ghost tours to book:

• Melbourne Ghost Tour
• Haunted Melbourne Ghost Tour

Melbourne is the place to be for comedy and is host to the four-week annual International Comedy Festival that starts in late March.

So it’s not surprising that going to a comedy show can be a fun night out in Melbourne.

You can see shows by local, Australian talent, or mix it up with comedians from further-flung places around the globe.

If you’re not in the city during this time, visit The Comic Lounge, where up and coming comedians practice performing.

Well established comics often visit to test new material in front of an audience.

The bars in Melbourne are some of the best in Australia. You can’t have a night out in Melbourne without grabbing a tipple at one of the many bars that populate the city, offering a myriad of late-night activities in Melbourne. 

• There’s Berlin Bar, where you must make a choice to sit in affluent West Germany or grungy East Germany.
• Storyville has a fairy tale theme and Lui Bar is fabulous for views of the city.
• Murmur Piano Bar conducts crowd sing-alongs and at Holey Moley, you can play a round of mini-golf whilst sipping from a cocktail.
• If you’re after rooftop views, Madame Brussels puts on an exaggerated garden party
• The Rooftop Bar screens movies alongside serving drinks. 
• At Easey’s in Collingwood, you can eat hot dogs and burgers in an old, converted train.
• For secret bars, enter through the sliding fridge door in Boston Sub in Prahran to get to Jungle Boy.
• The tiny Above Board bar is accessed via an unmarked alleyway and Lay Low Bar is hidden inside a clothing store.
• Vue de Monde on the 55th floor of the Rialto Tower has stunning city views. 
• Transit Cocktail Lounge has a rooftop bar with black leather sofas and late-night jazz. 
• Seamstress Bar has a colourful past as a Chinese textile factory, brothel and a Buddhist Monastery. 

If you’d prefer to follow along and be surprised, here are some excellent tours:

• Melbourne’s hidden bars
• History and Whiskey Bar Tour of Melbourne

Head to the Queen Victoria Night Market if it’s summer or winter and a Wednesday.

There are many food options on offer, from pizza to burgers – you can even grab a dozen oysters for an appetiser if you feel so inclined.

The area is licensed so you can stroll around with a cold beer or cider in the summertime to cool you down.

A mulled wine or hot cider in the winter is just the thing to keep you cosy.

If you’re a foodie, it’s worth taking a tour of the Victoria markets with a local who can guide you to find the best spots to eat. 

Milk the Cow is a fromagerie with locations in both St Kilda and Carlton.

Here, you can order delicious cheese to have on its own, choose to pair it with your beverage of choice (from wine to whisky and sake) or tuck into a delicious pot of fondue.

It’s one of the things to do in Melbourne at night in winter with a group of friends. 

They also do to-go bags, so if you try something you love, you can take it back to your accommodation to snack on later. You may also like to join the Night Bites — Experience Melbourne’s best street eats tour.

Melbourne is a city of film buffs and in the warmer months, outdoor cinemas spring up all over the city.

The most popular is the Moonlight Cinema in the Royal Botanic Gardens, which screens a range of new flicks and old favourites (such as Home Alone and Love Actually before Christmas and Australian cult classics like Muriel’s Wedding and The Castle).

There are bean beds on offer, or you can bring your own blanket and a picnic.

The aforementioned Rooftop Bar is also the location of the Rooftop Cinema, where you can chow down on burgers and sip drinks, while you watch the latest flick.

There’s the South Wharf Pop-Up Cinema and Park Cinemas at Docklands.

At the Gourmet Cinema in the city’s east, you can watch a flick surrounded by food trucks from local restaurants, selling delicious wares.

Melbourne’s famous stadium, the MCG even opens its grounds occasionally for outdoor cinema and many suburbs around the city will close a street every few weeks, lay down some astroturf, pop some popcorn and throw a flick on, as a fun, family-friendly activity.

Keep in mind that just because it’s summer in Melbourne, doesn’t mean it’ll be warm. Make sure you check the local weather forecast and bring some extra layers to snuggle up in if it’s going to be a cool night.

The Astor in St Kilda is a one-screen cinema, which showcases films old and new.

It tends to have feature nights with double screenings and much thought is put into the program.

Movies will be paired together based on a common theme (such as Clueless with Mean Girls), or director (like a double billing of Alfred Hitchcock or David Lynch).

They often have movie marathons too, such as all the Harry Potter or Fast and the Furious films back to back.

I sat through 14 hours of Mission Impossible films once, which was… interesting.

The cinema is also home to a fluffy and friendly cat called Duke, who’ll usually be waiting around for pats from patrons, once the movie is over.

For more about Victoria, read:

• 16 Things To Do In Melbourne At Night
• 23 Beaches in Melbourne and Beyond
• 5 Day Trips From Melbourne
• Where To See Street Art In Melbourne
• How To Rent A Car In Melbourne
• 10 Things To Do In Daylesford
• 10 Things To Do In Grampians
• Geelong Travel Guide
• Victoria Road Trip

I believe a city is always best seen from the water and Melbourne is no exception. Night sightseeing in Melbourne delivers a different perspective compared to during the day. 

This three-hour cruise will take you along Melbourne’s best-known waterway, while you stuff yourself full during a four-course meal (inclusive of beverages, to boot!).

If you don’t want to be stuck on a boat for hours but still want to get out on the water, opt for a kayak ride instead! 

This tour leaves from the Docklands area at sunset, with patrons paddling up Victoria Harbour, stopping to have fish and chips in their kayaks for dinner.

The tour then continues up past the city, Crown Casino and Flinders Railway Station, before ending in the sports precinct.

Luna Park in St Kilda opened in 1912, making it the oldest continuously running theme park in the country.

Its most famous ride is the Scenic Railway, which runs around its perimeter.

The park is open until 11 pm at night and there’s plenty to do onsite – dodgem cars, carousels, carnival games and a ghost train.

Don’t forget to snap a picture under the giant face that serves as the entrance to the park, which definitely won’t haunt your dreams later on that night. Hrmm.

One of Australia’s most popular attractions, it’s worth making the journey out to Phillip Island to see its population of Little Penguins returning home at sunset, after a day spent fishing for food.

The island itself is home to many other attractions, such as a giant maze and chocolate factory.

You can make a day trip of it, exploring the island for a few hours before heading to Penguin Parade to see the little cuties waddle on home.

Find out more about the Phillip Island day tour here . 

If you want to make your day out at Werribee Zoo in Melbourne’s west memorable, consider booking a place on the Slumber Safari .

You’ll glamp in tented lodges, be fed an African-inspired dinner and breakfast buffet and receive a two-day entry pass into the zoo.

The deal also comes with private tours and unique animal encounter and viewing opportunities. 

Victoria is Australia’s smallest mainland state and one of the advantages here is that it’s small.

In a vast country like Australia, which has wide-open spaces, it’s not uncommon to travel for days without seeing another soul.

So being a small state has obvious advantages for travellers wanting to explore a variety of regions. 

You can go from the city to the wilderness in less than an hour, from the city to Phillip Island, where little penguins are an attraction, or along the spectacular coastal drive of the Great Ocean Road, which is one of the Australian landmarks to put on your bucket list.  

As you can see, there’s a wide variety of things to do in Melbourne at night, no matter what your travel style, budget or preference. And if you’re looking to spend a few days in the city, here are the best neighbourhoods to stay in Melbourne .

St Kilda is a beachside suburb famous for football, cool restaurants, trendy bars and live music.

From historic puns to cool nightclubs, St Kilda is the spot for a lively night out in Melbourne with a group of friends.

Rub shoulders with the cool crowd at Republica, which is right on the beach, or bop to the beat of live music at the Espy or the Prince of Wales Hotel.

If you’re travelling alone or are looking for a way to meet people, join one of these St Kilda night tours and have a ball:

• Melbourne Night Tour
• Nightlife in Melbourne – St Kilda

Other Resources:

Plan ahead and book these online to make your trip go smoothly. 

• Melbourne Attractions Pass
• Melbourne After Dark Tour (includes two-course dinner)
• Melbourne By Night Tour
• Melbourne Airport Transfer

For more exciting cities at night, read:

• 20 Things To Do In Boston At Night
• 21 Things To Do In Los Angeles At Night
• 20 Things To Do In San Francisco At Night
• 20 Things To Do In London At Night
• 15 Things To Do In Rome At Night
• 20 Things To Do In New York At Night
• 20 Things To Do In Miami At Night
• 22 Things To Do In Pittsburgh At Night
• 20 Things To Do In New Orleans At Night
• 20 Things To Do In Atlanta At Night
• 26 Things To Do In Toronto At Night
• 20 Things To Do In Vancouver At Night
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16 Best Things to do in Melbourne at Night

Melbourne is consistently ranked one of the best cities in the world. It is the capital of the Australian state, Victoria, and the second-largest city in the entire country. Given its size, importance, and coastal location, it’s no surprise that the city has become a popular travel destination for people all over the world. Specifically, Melbourne is known for its culture and activities at night. From top-notch bars and restaurants to incredible street art, you’ll never be bored in this Australian city in the evening. Check out the 16 best things to do in Melbourne at night.

Table of Contents

1. IceBar Melbourne

Spend your evening at the coolest bar in Australia – literally! IceBar Melbourne; Australia’s only sub-zero bar, keeps things fun and freezing with a constant temperature of -10 degrees Celsius. Upon arrival, you’ll be given comfortable outdoor gear to prepare you for the cold climate in the bar. Once inside, you can expect an arctic experience suitable for people of all ages. In total, over 30 tonnes of ice were used in the bar.

• Duration : 1-2 hours
• Address : The Atrium Federation Square, Melbourne.
• Inclusions:  Entry into the icebar, one cocktail or non alcoholic drink, use of hooded cape, gloves, and boots.

Book Tickets Official Site

2. Melbourne Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour

See Melbourne at night on this unique horse-drawn carriage tour around the city. Classic Carriage Hire has professional drivers dressed in period attire to add to the experience. There are 4 different tours to choose from including Garden Highlights, Extended Garden Tour, Premium Garden & City Tour, and Deluxe Romantic Tour. You can expect to pass sites such as the Victorian Arts Centre, Walker Fountain, King Domain Gardens, and the Melbourne Observatory. Carriages operate in all weather conditions and blankets are provided on cold days.  Bookings are available up to 9pm so you can pick the perfect time slot to see Melbourne light up at night!

• Duration : 30 – 60 minutes
• Departure Point: Federation Square/Swanston St, Melbourne VIC
• Inclusions:  All taxes, transport by private vehicle.

Official site

3. Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise

What could be better than an evening cruise down the Yarra River? This dinner cruise will have you hopping aboard the Spirit of Melbourne vessel. Gaze at the city’s illuminated skyline from the river, which offers one of the best views of Melbourne. Sip on beer or wine on the upper deck and indulge in a 4-course meal. All meals are prepared by expert chefs on board and paired with Australian wines. As you float along the river, keep your eyes peeled for the Royal Botanic Gardens and Federation Square.

• Duration : 3 hours
• Departure Time: 7:30 pm
• Departure Point: Southbank Promenade, Southbank VIC
• Inclusions:  Dinner, beer, wine, soft drinks

Book Cruise Official Site

4. Burlesque Showboat Cruise

Spend an unforgettable night on a burlesque showboat cruise. This cruise tour is one of Melbourne’s longest-running burlesque events. The city’s top burlesque dancers will be performing. In addition to the live burlesque show that takes place on board, canapes and cocktails will be served. The burlesque show will be presented on the upper deck while the main deck features cocktails and DJ music.

• Duration : 3 hours 30 minutes
• Departure Point: Central Pier, Docklands
• Inclusions: Canapes, live show, dinner, beer, wine, soft drinks

5. Yarra River Sunset Kayak Tour

You’re never far from nature in Australia – especially in the city of Melbourne. Take advantage of the city’s scenic coastal location by going kayaking on the Yarra River. And there is no better time to kayak than at sunset. This 2.5 tour will have you paddling by some of the city’s top attractions. And before getting into your kayak, you’ll be treated to an on-the-water fish and chips dinner in Victoria Harbour. All tours conveniently end next to the Princes Bridge in the city centre.

• Duration : 2 hours 30 minutes
• Departure Point: The wharf behind the Community Hub at The Dock
• Inclusions:  Bottled water, dinner, use of all equipment, fish and chips, experienced guide

6. Melbourne Observatory

Spend an evening stargazing at Melbourne’s very own observatory. The observatory was built in the 1860s as the centre of the city’s weather forecasting. Although initially just a research institution, it is now open to the public. It is located in the Royal Botanic Gardens. The observatory allows locals and visitors alike to learn more about space and the stars. There are even giant telescopes on site for the public to use.

• Duration : 1 hour 30 minutes
• Departure Point: Kiosk, 100 Birdwood Ave, Melbourne VIC
• Inclusions:  Parking fees

Book Tour Official Site

7. Hidden Bar & Cocktail Walking Tour

Wander off the beaten path on this beer and cocktail walking tour. Melbourne is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, which is why visiting a bar while in the city is a must. This tour takes you to 10-15 bars over the course of 3.5 hours. It is the most comprehensive beer and cocktail tour in Melbourne. Discover the city’s unparalleled hidden bar culture and be treated to two delicious complimentary cocktails along the way. The tour can even be customised to your preferences.

• Departure Time:  7:00 pm
• Departure Point: Bourke Street Mall
• Inclusions:  Local guide, two cocktails

8. Melbourne Dumpling Experience

The culinary vibe in Melbourne is as diverse as its residents. Asian food is extremely popular in the city, so if you love dumplings, you’ve come to the right place! Melbourne has tours for all kinds of foodies. When it comes to dumplings, there is a walking tour of the city that takes you to all the best dumpling restaurants. Or there is a dumpling-making party where you’ll learn how to make the delicacy from scratch with the help of a local instructor. Whatever you choose, you can bet the results will be delicious!

• Departure Time:  6:00 pm
• Departure Point: 28-32 Elizabeth St, Melbourne VIC 
• Inclusions:  Local guide/instructor, dumpling dinner, tea and water

Walking Tour Dumpling Making Party

9. Melbourne Ghost Tours

Melbourne has a long, spooky history. Australia was once where the British Empire sent its prisoners so it’s no surprise that some people believe the city is haunted. If you’re into all things supernatural, then a ghost tour is a must while visiting the Victoria capital. There are all kinds of walking tours, including ones that specifically focus on ghosts and vampires. Each tour will take you to some of Melbourne’s most haunted sites, including Old Melbourne, Pentridge Prison, and Williamstown. Expect to hear legendary ghost stories that will give you a whole new perspective on the city. Also read 9 Scariest Ghost Tours in Melbourne .

• Local guide

Check Tours

10. Night Photography Sessions

Melbourne is one of the artsiest cities in Australia, which means you can bet it has a booming photography scene. This night photography tour puts you behind the camera. You’ll learn how to use your best digital camera in manual modes and master composition. Meanwhile, a local professional photographer will be guiding you around the city, taking you to the best photo locations in Melbourne. This tour provides a unique opportunity to learn a new skill while travelling and get some amazing photos out of it! Whether you’re totally new to the world of photography or already an amateur photographer, this is a great way to spend an evening in Melbourne.

• Departure Time: 5:30 pm
• Inclusions:  Photography guide, course notes, photography advice

11. Melbourne’s Moonlit Sanctuary

A night at the zoo? Yes, please! At Melbourne’s Moonlit Sanctuary, you can experience nocturnal wildlife like never before. Watch nocturnal animals awake from their slumber at this special conservation area. Evening tours of the sanctuary allow you to see owls, feathertail and squirrel gliders, quolls, pademelons, and bettongs. In addition to taking photos of them, you can even hold or pet some of the adorable nighttime creatures. There are also kangaroos and wallabies on site that can be hand-fed.

• Duration : 4 hours
• Departure Times: 5:30 pm or 7:00 pm depending on time of year
• Departure Point: Melbourne Tour Coach Centre
• Inclusions:  Drive/guide, city pick up and drop off, entry fees, transportation, animal food for feeding

Check Tours Official Site

12. Melbourne Skydeck

The best way to experience the Melbourne skyline is from 88 storeys above the city! The Melbourne Skydeck offers 360-degree views of Melbourne. Located on the 88th floor, this stunning observation deck is not for those afraid of heights! From the Skydeck, you can spot Port Phillip Bay and the Dandenong Ranges. Before you go, be sure to wander out onto ‘The Edge,’ an all-glass section that even has a glass floor. This is a great spot to pose for pics and see the city illuminated beneath you.

• Duration : 1 hour
• Departure Point: 7 Riverside Quay. South Bank, Melbourne
• Inclusions:  Express elevator, entry fees, use of viewfinders and binoculars

13. Graffiti in Hosier Lane

Melbourne is famous for its street art. Much of the city’s best and brightest graffiti can be found on Hosier Lane. This “hidden” laneway that was once forgotten about now attracts visitors and locals alike. It is now essentially an outdoor art gallery, with new street art being added regularly. There is also a series of light boxes that exhibit the work of up-and-coming contemporary artists. Many walking tours of Melbourne will take you to this vibrant spot so you can see the art for yourself.

• Professional guide
• Transportation

14. Melbourne’s Chinatown

A walk through Melbourne’s Chinatown will make you feel like you’ve been transported to Shanghai. Right in Melbourne’s CBD is where Chinatown is located, beginning on the corner of Swanston Street. Fun fact: Did you know that Melbourne’s Chinatown is the second oldest in the world after San Francisco? It was established in 1851 and quickly grew to become a thriving centre of Melbourne’s Chinese community. Therefore, this historic part of the city is a must-see for all travellers. While walking through the neighbourhood, you can expect to find a mix of colourful shops and restaurants serving everything from dumplings to Sichuan cuisine.

15. Magic Show

Experience an unforgettable night filled with magic and illusion! Impossible Occurrences is Melbourne’s very own 75-minute magic show. Held at the Marriott Hotel, the show provides a fun night out for family and friends. You can expect non-stop entertainment from one of the country’s premier magicians, Luke Hocking. Hocking is known for his magic tricks, as well as his mind reading. Alternatively, if you prefer a few laughs while seeing magic, Sam Angelico’s show – Illusionaire, might be the better option. With the help of his assistant, he’ll make you laugh all night and showcase his creative talents. You’ll love this interactive magic show!

Tour details

• Duration : 1 hour 20 minutes
• Departure Times: 7:30 pm or 9:30 pm
• Departure Point: Marriott Hotel
• Inclusions:  80-minute magic show, entry fee, general admission seating

Impossible Occurrences

As one of Australia’s biggest cities, Melbourne is crawling with fun activities. And the fun in Melbourne doesn’t stop when the sun sets! In fact, there is just as much to do in the evening as there is during the day, maybe more! From cruising down the Yarra River to taking a ride on the observation wheel, we hope this list has helped you plan your upcoming trip!

More reading:

• 23 Best Things to do in Melbourne for Adults
• 12 Best Day Trips from Melbourne for Families
• 17 Fun Things to do in Melbourne with Kids
• 21 Romantic Things to do in Melbourne for Couples

Find more Things to do in Melbourne

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Melbourne Nightlife • A Complete Guide

Melbourne is the capital and most populous city of the Australian state of Victoria, and the second-most populous city in Australia.

With that, comes a rich and varied nightlife culture unique to Melbourne. You’ll find a little bit of everything in this city, just read on to discover what you’ll find.

The city is home to many of the best-known cultural institutions in the nation, such as the Melbourne Cricket Ground, the National Gallery of Victoria and the World Heritage-listed Royal Exhibition Building. It is also the birthplace of Australian impressionism, Australian rules football, the Australian film and television industries, and Australian contemporary dance. More recently, it has been recognized as a UNESCO City of Literature and a global center for street art, live music, and theatre. It is the host city of annual international events such as the Australian Grand Prix, the Australian Open and the Melbourne Cup, and has also hosted the 1956 Summer Olympics and the 2006 Commonwealth Games. Due to it rating highly in entertainment, tourism, and sport, as well as education, health care, research and development, the EIU currently ranks it the second most liveable city in the world, and it was ranked as the world’s most liveable city for seven years in a row, from 2011 until 2017.

The main airport serving the city is Melbourne Airport (also referred to as Tullamarine Airport), which is the second busiest in Australia, and Australia’s busiest seaport the Port of Melbourne.

So as briefed above the city of Melbourne offers a wide and great range of Bars, Restaurants, and Nightclubs which has actually improved the nightlife experiences for their locals as well as foreigners, in context of the same, here in this article we are going to take a deep look into such features of Melbourne which will make your journey excellent.

The Nightlife of Melbourne

Melbourne is a very exciting city filled with great places for various people. The city is very busy and beautiful during the day, however, during the night it becomes a relaxing, quirky and shining city. No wonder it is often called as the city with the best night skyline in all Australia. Also, it has plenty of great Bars, Restaurants and Night Clubs where you can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and socialize with friendly locals and other tourists or you can enjoy quality time with your loved one at a beautiful night at Melbourne.

While visiting Melbourne try to get out more at night in order to truly experience this wonderful city, so check out our suggestion here and explore the city’s nightlife attractions to accomplish your trip at it’s best:

Old Melbourne Gaol – Night Tours

Once occupied by Victoria’s most notorious criminals, the Old Melbourne Gaol now operates as a museum with a range of spine-tingling night tours on offer. Explore the original cell blocks in A Night in the Watch House, tour the gaol with a hangman in the Hangman’s Night Tour and listen to frightful stories in Ghost? What Ghosts! Cast in candlelight, these tours will provide a thoroughly terrifying insight into prison life.

Unleash your inner superstar at one of Melbourne’s many karaoke bars. From FM Karaoke on Bourke Street, Jankara on Russell Street, KBOX Karaoke on La Trobe Street and karaoke at Strike Bowling on Little Lonsdale Street, these venues embrace embarrassment and celebrate performance which is rarely pitch-perfect. Let loose with friends or colleagues. You never know, you may discover a hidden talent.

Milk the Cow

Satisfy those late-night cheese cravings at Milk the Cow, a sophisticated wine and cheese bar. This licensed fromagerie boasts a selection of over 150 artisan cheeses from across the globe as well as seasonal cheeses which are available to enjoy on-site, by the gram or in a takeaway Cheesebox. Try a Cheesemonger’s Choice Cheeseboard, the Cheese & Booze Flights or indulge with an individual fondu pot in winter and artisan cheese gelato in summer.

Best Bars in Melbourne

Bar liberty.

To drink at Liberty is to drink in heaven where all kinds are available. The only rule about each drop here is that it must be a superlative example of its style. Whether it’s wine, cider, cocktails, whiskey, vermouth or even housemade soda, every item on the long menu is carefully curated, the variety and quality on offer hard to overstate. You should eat here, too. Raw beef is diced and mixed with capers and Dijon for a velvety texture, ready to be scooped mouthward by crisps of dehydrated polenta and sweet caramelized onion.

Black Pearl

Melburnians never needed the succession of big international awards to know that the Black Pearl is where you go for a bloody good cocktail – though undoubtedly those accolades benefited the travelers who now flock to the bar as a checklist destination. Tash Conte’s family-run bar has been a beacon of excellence for 16 years now. Not content to sit pretty on tried-and-tested masterpieces, the list is always on the move, keeping step with moods and seasons. 

Clooney Kitchen and Bar

Clooney might be young, but Shannon McFarland and Will Crennan together have clocked decades in the industry, and it shows. The cocktail list confidently stretches from the elegant restraint of a Modest Proposal to the exuberance of the Screw Pine Delight. In the kitchen, Leigh Stanicic is also splicing textures and flavors, reaching across borders to put white anchovy frito inside crisp lettuce cups with kewpie mayo, chili and mint, or fold ribbons of jamón over whipped pea and pickled shallots.

Kirk’s Wine Bar

opened in 2015 this place immediately felt like a substantive thread in our city’s fabric, with its familiar, lived-in feel, confident service, and mature wine list. At last, Spring Street sophistication had come to the shouty end of town. Years have passed, but it feels as essential as ever, proving that a classic wine bar, done well, never goes out of fashion. The list is as deep as it is broad, paying respect to all the old-world staples before giving equal ardour to trailblazing makers like Radikon and local innovators like Memento Mori. 

The Elysian

A bad vote can lead to true devastation but the people of Melbourne are using it carefully, Which is why it’s a relief to see that the people of Melbourne are still wielding their powers wisely, anointing the Elysian Whisky Bar their favorite place to drink for a second year running. Key to this specialty bar’s success is the painstakingly built a 350-strong back bar of rare and independently bottled whiskeys. Each bottle has been hand-selected, resulting in an eclectic collection full of one-offs you won’t find elsewhere in the city. 

Galah’s point of entry might be a bottle-o, but a cursory squiz at the shelves neatly stacked with Si Vintners and cloudy pet-nats is your first indication that this bar is more bougie than bogan. No one is greasing the wheels with pints of Carlton or tangy Yellowglen – they’re using organic, small producer and minimal intervention wines from across our wide brown land. And given it might be new territory for some, a short, sharp list is a blessing – just ten Australian reds and whites, a Gippsland rosé and a single Champagne sneaking past border patrol like a well-connected au pair.

Best Bar Restaurants in Melbourne

This place is located in a converted car park in Melbourne’s CBD. Whitehart is a container bar (shipping containers, that is). Besides its unusual industrial design, Whitehart has a reputation for great live music, craft beers, and cocktails. One of the signature cocktails is the Wrong Island Iced Tea, with English breakfast syrup. Whitebar hosts a rotating lineup of food popups too, including Pok n Kok, a local Thai  food truck .

Corner Hotel

Corner Hotel is known as one of the best  live music venues  in Melbourne. But what a lot of locals don’t realize is that the Corner Hotel also has a large rooftop bar and restaurant. The food menu includes share plates, counter meals, and mains, such as whole Korean fried chicken and braised lamb shoulder. The Corner Hotel also does a steak and pot deal on Mondays for $20, trivia on Wednesday nights, and a $15 local lunch from Tuesday to Friday.

Easey’s  has to be one of the most unusual restaurants in Melbourne (and perhaps Australia). It consists of several floors, but the pinnacle is the three retired train carriages on the rooftop. You can dine either in the carriages or in the small courtyard. The graffiti inside and outside the carriages is constantly changing too. The food menu at Easey’s is a fusion between American and Australia. It includes ‘hot dawgs’, mac and cheese, and burgers, alongside Australian stalwarts like potato cakes and dim sims.

Campari House

Campari House is a rooftop bar, lounge, and restaurant that’s been trading in Melbourne’s iconic  Hardware Lane  for 50 years. It’s prepared for Melbourne’s unpredictable weather, with heaters and a retractable roof. The drinks menu includes wines from both Australia and Italy, as well as a range of unique cocktails. The modern Italian-inspired cuisine also includes pizzas, sliders, and small plates. Visit Campari House from Monday to Thursday for a Laneway Lunch. select from a pizza, pasta, or alternative dish with a glass of beer, wine, or soft drink in most affordable rates.

Loop Roof is a rooftop cocktail bar in Melbourne’s CBD that was designed by Jesse Judd. It features fairy lights, colorful furnishings and decorations, and a jungle-like botanic vibe. The award-winning bartenders at Loop Roof present “a cocktail experience like no other”. The Grown-Up Fanta is just one of the creations and includes gin, tonic, blood orange, and sparkling wine. Loop Roof also serves share plates and tacos and is equipped with a retractable awning, heating in winter, and subtle misting in summer..

Best Nightclubs in Melbourne

When beloved Melbourne club Lounge closed in 2018, it sent tear-streaked eyeliner running and club kids scurrying to find a new space for an all-night boogie. The lounge had operated on the site for 29 continuous years. But hospitality veteran Maz Salt came to the rescue, taking over the Swanston Street site and giving it new life as Radar. Radar focuses on catering to the dance music community, with a Function-One rig blasting until 6 am on weekends. The club is also committed to supporting Melbourne’s live music scene, so there are also occasional live shows. It’s kind of like Lounge, but Radar has its own personality.

Angel Music Bar

Music is absolutely front and center here, with a collection of records pumping out of Funktion One speakers specifically installed to fill the room. DJs play the likes of John Coltrane, Susan Wong, Esther Phillips and Ute Lemper with scatterings of David Bowie downstairs, or you can head upstairs to the 80-room black box venue and party to events put on by Animals Dancing, Crown Ruler, Cool Room and Pelvis. It’s super dark in the room, with a singular light that projects onto a disco ball that casts an eclipse shadow above the DJ booth. And we’re not kidding about the speakers – those Funktion Ones really pack a punch.

rne to enjoy the true feel of a night out in the city.

Let us conclude the topic, here in this article we had a brief introduction of Melbourne along with highlighting some of its prominent norms, culture, and nightlife features. We also went through different activities and places to enjoy the nightlife of the region, Musical venues, Bars, Restaurants and Nightclubs as well. Such activities provide a great source of entertainment for tourists and locals as well.

There are plenty of pubs & bars throughout the City areas and they are truly satisfying the desire of thirsty visitors where you can enjoy your cocktails with the mesmerizing architectural beauty of the hand-crafted beers and their decors. You don’t feel any hunger during your trip, that is why we also suggested some of the finest restaurants in the city that offer exotic and delicious food along with your favorite drinks. You can enjoy the taste of good food along with some great booze.

And lastly, we went through comprehensive options of nightclubs of the city that offers great music and fun with some delightfully exotic choices of drinks and cocktail that will delight your overall experience of charming nightlife during your stay at Melbourne.

All of the experiences as mentioned above will work together to make your journey to Melbourne absolutely a memorable one. A perfect and balanced blend of the above-identified activities can actually boost your experience and make your trip extremely unforgettable for you.

Video To Watch To Discover

Is Melbourne good for nightlife?

One thing’s for sure: you’re never short of places to party in Melbourne.  The Victorian capital is famous for its nightlife . From bars and restaurants to clubs that keep going until the sun is up, Melbournites are spoiled for choice every weekend.

Which city has the best nightlife in Australia?

Brisbane . One of the best places for nightlife in Australia, Brisbane is a hub for music, drinks, and dancing the night away. Embrace beautiful summer weather at a sophisticated rooftop bar like Eleven, where you’ll take in unobstructed views of Fortitude Valley and Brisbane City.

Keep exploring!

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MELBOURNE BY NIGHT: THE BEST NIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY SPOTS IN MELBOURNE – AUSTRALIA

Melbourne by night – The best night photography spots in Melbourne. A guide to our favourite inner city night photography locations.

Living in Southbank, Melbourne, we are fortunate to be surrounded by some lovely places for an evening stroll right on our doorstep. We are spoilt for choice when it comes to night photography spots. Although we both generally prefer getting a little off track, hiking and photographing wildlife outside of the city, it can also be very rewarding exploring Melbourne by night. We especially love those still nights along the Yarra River and around Docklands. And we love trying to capture those beautiful moments. Here’s just a small selection of some our favourite spots, that we consider to be the best inner-city Melbourne night photography locations.

Princes Bridge

A nice and popular one to start. From the middle of one of the oldest river crossings in the city, the Princes Bridge offers great views down the Yarra River. It’s also a good spot for sunset.

Checkout our  Best sunset photography spots in inner-city Melbourne  for some other sunset ideas.

Victoria Harbour Promenade – North Wharf, Docklands

This has to be one of the best night photography spots in Melbourne! Head down to Docklands and walk around Victoria Harbour Promenade towards the Bolte Bridge. There’s usually boats docked in the harbour, but there’s gaps to photograph through. The further you head down the Promenade, the more you can fit it the frame.

Opposite Birrarung Marr

We love the section of the Yarra from Swan Street Bridge down to Princes Bridge. It’s a nice quiet section at night and the area opposite Birrarung Marr provides one of the best night photography spots in Melbourne in our opinion.

Webb Bridge

The Webb Bridge links the Docklands on the north side to the residential developments to the south. The new bridge design fused the decommissioned Webb Dock Rail Bridge with a new curved 80m long ramped link. And this new modern structure, said to be inspired by Koori fishing traps, is a really interesting night photography subject from all angles.

Central Pier in Docklands

On a still night, the Central Pier in Dockland is a great place to come for some photos. With the colourful Bolte Bridge in the distance and the white domed pier pillars in the foreground, there’s plenty of reflections to play with.

West Gate Freeway Archways

It’s not all about Yarra River and its reflections! Melbourne is Australia’s cultural capital and there is ‘art’ everywhere, including the freeways. At the back of the South Wharf DFO, you can take some interesting long exposures of one of these pieces of art. We love the effect of the traffic passing through the ‘blue-zones’ of the two West Gate Freeway Archways.

Swan Street Bridge

This is a great bridge to head to early evening, as it can be an awesome spot for sunset. Watch the sun drop behind the city, as Melbourne CBD lights up as the colourful sky behind turns to night.

Spencer Street Bridge

Hourly at night the 8 towers along Melbourne’s Southbank shoot the ‘world’s largest fireballs’ into the night’s sky. And the Spencer Street Bridge is a great spot to watch Melbourne’s Crown Casino Gas Brigade’s evening shows from. Check HERE for timings, as it varies throughout the year.

d’Albora Victoria Harbour – Docklands

Similar to the Victoria Harbour Promenade location, this is a little closer to the action, with a slightly different perspective from out on the water. There’s a variety of harbour sections to choose from just wander around to see which ones you have access to.

Pony Fish Island & the Evan Walker Bridge

The Evan Walker Pedestrian Bridge which links Flinders Street Station to Southbank is a night photography favourite of ours. It’s nice from both near and far and never more so than on still night on the Yarra.

Yarra’s Edge Marina

The Yarra’s Edge Marina was on our ‘Covid Walk’ route during Metro Melbourne lockdown, so we got to know it well. Much quieter than the Marina in the main docklands area this is a nice calming area to explore with plenty of night photography spots.

Underneath Swan Street Bridge

This is something a bit different. On a still night the colourful reflections make for an interesting shot. So if you’re wandering around the Swan Street Bridge on a rare calm night, make sure you check it out.

Flinders Street Station

Arguably Melbourne’s most iconic building, Flinders Street Station is photo-worthy from all angles. Playing with some long exposures as it lights up at night can make for some cool shots.

Broken Pier by Southbank Promenade

Head down to the lower section of the promenade by the Broken Pier for some nice angles of the city. This whole stretch of lower promenade gives lovely views of the Evan Walker Bridge, Flinders Street Station and the high rises beyond.

In front of the Rowing Clubs on Boathouse Drive

On a still night, this is without doubt one of the best night photography spots in Melbourne. The reflections really make it. People don’t really seem to head out along the Yarra past Princes Bridge at night, preferring to stick to busy areas to its east. But if you like your night photography, we think it is definitely worth it!

Swan Street Landing

The colourful Swan Street Bridge really is photogenic. With a city backdrop the Swan Street Landing and Public Berth just off the main Yarra Trail is a beautiful place for a colourful night shot.

Shrine of Remembrance – World War Two Memorial Forecourt

One of those lovely peaceful places to watch day turn to night. Coming here early evening for sunset and then waiting as the twilight colours fade into the night sky is both beautiful and poignant. ‘Lest we forget’ the significance of this place. The World War Two Memorial Forecourt which includes the Eternal Flame and Cenotaph commemorates the service and sacrifice of the brave Victorians in the Second World War (1939–45).

Yarra Promenade – by Kings Street Bridge

Same same, but different. Another angle of the ever popular Crown Casino’s Gas Brigade evening shows. Get a good spot along the Kings Street Bridge or the area of Promenade just in front of it for views of the fireballs with a Spencer Street Bridge, Melbourne Exhibition Centre and Crown Plaza backdrop.

So there it is, Melbourne by night – Our guide to the best night photography spots in inner city Melbourne. We hope it helps anyone wanting to get out and about and photograph the picturesque city at night. All of the above locations are free, easily accessible and walking distance from central Melbourne.

Tips and Tricks

We are certainly not experts, but here are a few things to consider that have helped us improve our night photography:

• Pick your nights. It may sound obvious, but if you want those reflections don’t bother going out on wet and windy night. If the Yarra River is choppy you won’t get what you’re looking for.
• Play with shutter speed. Slow shutter speeds can make photographs really interesting. Whether it be flattening out the ripples on the river with a longer exposure or creating motion blur. Or use faster shutter speeds to eliminate movement. Trust us, there are a lot of boats on the Yarra and it’s never flat or calm for long.
• Use a tripod, especially when using slower shutter speeds.
• If the weather isn’t playing ball, lookout for puddles to create different reflections. They are often a lot stiller than larger bodies of water.

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Planning a trip to Victoria – Australia? Check out our guides to help you plan the perfect trip!

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10 Things to do and see in Melbourne’s Central Business District

Melbourne’s Central Business District is at the heart of the city. The CBD offers more than a hundred attractions, from learning history at the Old Melbourne Gaol, to watching a show at Regent Theatre. Culture Trip has narrowed down the top 10 things to do in the area.

Take the vintage city circle tram.

If you are thinking about touring the city but can’t figure out the most convenient route, just take the City Circle Tram 35 . This vintage mode of transport goes around the city, stopping at almost all the major attractions of Melbourne CBD. The heritage trams are more than just practical transport, and are completely free. Word of warning: remaining historically authentic, the trams have no air conditioning installed in them so consider taking water on board.

Watch street performances

Street performances are among the defining features of Melbourne and there is no greater concentration of them than in the CBD. Walk along Bourke Street Mall for the biggest performances in front of the General Post Office . Wandering around the streets is a great way to discover new talent. Many of the artists also have CDs and YouTube channels.

Melbourne may be a concrete jungle of skyscrapers, but it is also littered with Victoria’s oldest buildings. The General Post Office and Parliament House were both built in the 1850s, while the Old Treasury Building is more than 150 years old. If you wish to delve even deeper into the history of Melbourne, then head to the Immigration Museum and the Shrine of Remembrance . If you wish to explore the darker side of Melbourne, the Old Melbourne Gaol (1853) is worth a trip.

Explore graffiti lanes

Graffiti lanes are another unique characteristic of Melbourne. These are not just instances of random, rebellious vandalism, but respected and much appreciated forms of art. Croft Alley in Chinatown and Caledonian Lane off Little Bourke Street are filled with creative wall paintings. However, the truly unmissable place is Hosier Lane , opposite the ACMI , possibly the most photogenic location in Melbourne’s CBD. You have not really been to Melbourne CBD if you have not seen Hosier Lane.

Go food hunting

Melbourne has always been famous for its brunch cafes . However, for a truly rewarding food experience, you must dig deeper. Melbourne attracts people from all around the world. As a result, you can find global cuisine in abundance. In the CBD, there is no need to travel far for good food, just about any type of cuisine ( Middle Eastern , Vietnamese or Mexican ) and even fusions ( Chin Chin ) are available, but you have to learn to spot the best of the best .

Enjoy a theatrical show

There are theatres surrounding the CBD, including the Forum , Regent Theatre and Her Majesty’s Theatre . From The Lion King to Kinky Boots , the best musicals are always in the CBD.

Go bar hopping with friends

Although most shops close between 5pm and 6pm, the night in Melbourne CBD is still young. The CBD has a wide range of cool bars, both eccentric and classy. Drinking in one bar is simply not enough to fully experience Melbourne after nightfall, so go bar hopping with your friends to the coolest bars in the CBD – you won’t regret it.

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6 great beaches to visit at night in Melbourne

Experience Melbourne's best stretches of sand after dark

As the weather heats up it's time to pack the esky, dig out the frisbee and head to your nearest patch of sand and surf. Unfortunately, there's this little thing called work that means most of Australia is kept away from the beach during work hours – but that doesn't mean you have to join the throngs of weekend beachgoers. The extra long daylight hours mean heading to the beach after work is not only a viable option – sometimes it's the best. Avoid the searing heat, crowds and sunburn by hitting these great beaches in the evening. 

After more summer fun? Consult our guide to the 25 best things to do in Melbourne this summer.

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Six Melbourne beaches to visit at night

1.  St Kilda Beach

Possibly Melbourne’s most loved city beach, the sands at St Kilda draw locals and tourists in equal measure. Once the sun sets St Kilda loses none of its magic either – if anything it gets more magical as the suburb’s restaurants and bars light up. The biggest plus to visiting St Kilda beach at dusk? If you’re lucky you might catch a glimpse of a little penguin or two by the pier.

2.  Brighton Beach

Brighton is known for its colourful bathing boxes but there’s more to the beach than them. It’s a pretty good place for a few dunks in the surf before night falls and if you want to pat some friendly dogs Brighton has plenty out for walkies. Despite being deep south (to northsiders at least) Brighton beach is easy to reach by train. Once you’re among the stuccoed mansions you’ll feel hours away from the city.

3.  Port Melbourne Beach

If you’re looking to dip your feet post-work but don’t want to travel far then Port Melbourne beach is your best bet. It’s the closest beach to the Melbourne CBD – catch the 109 from Collins Street and you’ll have sand in your toes in under 30 minutes. For a Port Melbourne special find yourself a comfy patch of beach and watch the Spirit of Tasmania depart on its overnight journey.

4.  Half Moon Beach

The name isn’t for nothing - Half Moon beach curves around just like a crescent moon. It also has the added benefit of being at the bottom of a scrub covered cliffs not unlike those you find along England’s west coast (okay which both shelter the waters and give an excellent view of the sunset over the bay. But if you can’t handle walking steep inclines you might have to give Half Moon a miss.

5.  Williamstown Beach

The fun doesn’t have to end once the sun sets at Williamstown beach. The once industrial seaport is now a favourite seaside destination for Melbourne and is often packed on hot summer days. Avoid the crush by visiting at night where the streetlamps on the boardwalk give your evening stroll a magical twinkle.

6.  Altona Beach

Need some space from people and the city? Head west from the CBD (the Werribee line is your friend) and you’ll find that Altona beach has sandy stretches that could compete with Bondi (a beach can dream). All that space makes it an ideal beach if you’re after a match of beach cricket or soccer. Plus the nearby Logan reserve has a playground for the kids and barbecues for a picnic dinner.

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Melbourne Suburbs – City & CBD

Melbourne’s central business district ( the City & CBD ) is the major business hub of Melbourne . Some of the most notable skyscrapers, shopping malls, museums and popular public buildings are located here.

In addition, a number of the venues in the city host major sporting events , festivals, concerts and internationally renowned musicals.

Fun Things & What to Do in the City, Melbourne CBD Attractions

The famous Melbourne festival draws visitors from all parts of the country every year. In addition, the International Flower and Garden Show is also hosted in the city. Other festivals held in the city include the Australian Open , AFL Grand Final , the Melbourne International Comedy Festival , the Food and Wine Festival and many various other popular events.

This cosmopolitan city is also home to excellent theatres, a world-class casino and a number of internationally renowned museums. The central business district boasts the majority of the major attractions of the city. Here, you’ll find 19th-century gothic buildings, historic gardens, urban office spaces and high-rise apartments.

When it comes to activities and things to see & do for tourists in Southbank , the Eureka Tower Skydeck reigns supreme. Tourists come here to visit the observatory deck – 88 floors up! The Skydeck experience is unique and visitors should experience “The Edge”, which is the only observation deck in the world that can thrill you with a glass cube that protrudes 3 metres out from the building with you in it.

Visitors are welcome to tour the historic properties and venues; including cathedrals, gothic style churches and museums. The city area also boasts a countless number of malls, department stores, fashion boutiques, rows of sophisticated cafes and many, many shops.

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The Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium is a unique aquarium that is home to thousands of aquatic animals and marine creatures from all over the world. Whilst holidaying in Melbourne, stop by this famous attraction and check...

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30 Best Things to do in Melbourne at Night with Kids

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Melbourne is a very diverse destination with plenty of things to see and do both during the day and at night.  The day time can be spent exploring many of the local cafes, enjoying beautiful food, catching a sports event or theatre show and plenty of parks dotted around to take the family. However what happens when the sun goes down – what are the best things to do in Melbourne at night with kids? What can you do with the family at night in Melbourne? 

We all have busy lives these days. Trying to balance work and lifestyle can be tricky.  The working world no longer stops at 5pm. We need to get smart about how and when we spend time together.  With businesses being available for more unusual and unsociable hours, families are often struggling to find a balance.

What does this mean? What can you do in Melbourne at night? Some of the best things to do in Melbourne at night with kids are listed below – we know in some cases trying to find time with the family means thinking outside the box.  Why not try nocturnal activities? This list of things to do in Melbourne at night is especially good for the school holidays! There is PLENTY of fun to be had later in the day. Why not find time with your kids to enjoy the activities that Melbourne can offer when the sun goes down.

RELATED: We love this list of ideas of indoor activities in Melbourne too!

If you find yourself in Melbourne visiting places, the public transport is a great way to get around the city and explore. A tram ride in itself is good fun, but there are also trains and buses that run around the area making life easier if you want to ditch that car!  As the online world becomes ever popular, families are having to become smarter about the time in which they spend together. 

Looking for family things to do in Melbourne at night? Look no further – we have organised an adventure list for you of things to do at night in the Melbourne area. We have broken our list into ages groups, but of course this is not a hard and fast rule. I know teens who would love to see penguins and toddlers who would be bang up for some of the ideas on the teens list…

10. Picnic in the park

20. caribbean rollerama – roller skating, 30. take in a theatre show.

Grab the family. Gear up for some fun in the dark. No matter the age and no matter the preferred activity – there is sure to be something on this list that will be worth a go!! Melbourne things to do at night……….. GO!

10 Best things to do in Melbourne at night with toddlers

If you want to entertain toddlers with activities at night in Melbourne, then these are the ideas we recommend:

1. Phillip Island Penguin Parade

One of the top things to do at night in Melbourne is a visit to this fab place. This is a beautiful site and the kids will absolutely love it.  Every evening the penguins put on a ‘parade’ and dash across the sand as the sun is going down. The Phillip Island Penguin Parade is just 90 minutes from Melbourne city centre and a spectacular way to finish your day.

You may even like to spend the full day on Phillip Island and do a Phillip Island Nature Tour.

Purchase your tickets here .

2. Aura Show, Sovereign Hill

A story about Australia’s Gold Rush filled with 3D projection technology, this high tech multi-sensory show will keep your youngest members (and the older ones too) entertained. This show is very very popular and you will need to book ahead (there are now two shows per day to keep up with demand).  Get in quick!

Address: 39 Magpie Street, Ballarat

Get in quick and book your tickets now!

3. Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium

Open until 6pm this is a fabulous way to enjoy the early evening with your toddler. With the massive Mermaid Garden Oceanarium which is home to plenty of underwater creatures including nurse sharks and sting rays.  You will also find Saltwater Crocs and quirky penguins.

Address: King Street, Melbourne

For more Sea Life info, please visit here

4. Airoworld Trampoline Park

Not just toddler related but one for kids of all ages to enjoy.  Not just a trampolining activity, but there are also over inflated structures and bouncy slides to slide down, so are perfect for the younger age group!  Open til late on Fridays.

Address: 61-69 Dohertys Road, Altona North Victoria

For more trampolining info, please click here

5. State Library Victoria

The library is a great place to hang out. With something for everyone, and a free activity, why not check out the website to see what kid-friendly events are going on.  There are always activities such as story time and play dates where arts and crafts are provided, but dates and times change, so check out what is on when you visit! You will need to check the website for times and activities, opens until 6pm so early evenings are sorted here!

Address: 328 Swanston Street, Melbourne

Check out the library activities here

6. Aquapulse swimming pool

A fun activity – a little swimming and jumping into the water. This indoor pool provides great shelter and helps enhance those swimming skills while having fun!  Water babies will LOVE this!

Address: 80-82 Derrimut Road, Hoppers Crossing

For more information please check their website

7. Ninja Parc

With hit TV shows telling you how this is done, these parks are becoming ever popular with kids of all ages.  If you have a kid that loves to climb, jump and clamber over obstacle courses, this is definitely one for them.  They even have after school programmes available if they are really keen to improve!!

Address: 13-17 Burton Court, Bayswater

Please check the website for more detail

8. Local taverns for dinner

Night activities around Melbourne can mean a visit to one of the many taverns that now cater for the younger members of the family.  A lot have little play areas designed for toddlers and older children so they can have fun and let off a little steam.  Menus will also cater to younger kids with their very own children’s options. Often there is a combination which includes drinks and dessert.  Designated rooms or play areas are a great way to combine your family meal with a bit of fun and they are literally everywhere.  Look up your local tavern, wherever you may be, and see what fun activities are available for your youngsters!

Find some family friendly restaurants in Melbourne here.

9. Ice cream

While on your travels, why not stop into one of the many ice cream parlours/shops in Melbourne.  Pidapipo is a hugely popular gelato shop with many flavours to choose from and enjoy. Enjoy a sugary treat.  Your toddler will absolutely love trying out some of these.

Address: 299 Lygon Road, Carlton, Vic

Check out their website with all their locations here!

A popular thing to do in Melbourne at night is a visit to one of the many many parks situated in and around Melbourne inner city and the suburbs – you are literally spoilt for choice! This is a wonderful idea and one of the many free things to do in Melbourne at night. The Royal Botanic Gardens are beautiful (open til 5pm), and some are open a lot later. 

Outdoor activities don’t come much better than a little park time. Why not grab the picnic basket or grab a few items on your way to the park and enjoy watching the sun go down, playing in the park, throwing a ball around – the options are endless. A great way to enjoy the evening in one of the best places to see the sunset in Melbourne.  

10 Best things to do in Melbourne at night with young kids 5-12

If your kids are a little bit older and can stay up later than your little toddlers, then we have found that these Melbourne kids activities are perfect for night time!

11. Melbourne Skydeck

Open five days a week (excluding Monday and Tuesday), the Melbourne Skydeck is a great vantage point to take in of an evening. See Melbourne by night with this birdseye view across the city which takes in many great Melbourne icons such as the Melbourne Cricket Ground.  Some of the best views of Melbourne at night are here! The city all lit up at night time will surely create a memorable evening for the family.

Address: Melbourne Skydeck 88 – 88 Riverside Quay, Southbank, VIC 3006              

Why not grab your tickets here!

12. Miniature Glow Golf, Melbourne Docklands

Evening activities for families don’t come much better than this! If you and your family are looking for things to do on a Saturday night, look no further.  Glowing golf balls, weird noises trying to put your off your game, great atmosphere and even greater fun.  This is a fun way to spend the evening with the kids.  Note at this point, the venue is open at weekends but this will increase over time.

Address: 35 Star Crescent, Docklands

Find out more from their website by clicking here

From trampolines, to basketball to obstacle courses, this place has everything a bouncy child could need!  Why not let them loose and enjoy the bouncy fun that this place has to offer!.

Bounce now has 5 locations in Melbourne – so you are bound to find one nearby:

• Essendon Fields
• Keysborough

Please check their website for locations and times

14. Rampfest Indoor Skate Park

Fun things to do in Melbourne …. A little skateboarding fun!  If your child/ren is into activities involving wheels, or you are just looking for some indoor activities to try then this would be right up their street!  BMX, roller skates and skateboarding are all covered here – grab your wheels and get moving!

Address:  47-85 Hillary St, Braybrook

More info can be located at their website by clicking here

15. O’Brien Icehouse

Why not get rugged up and enjoy learning a new skill with fun on the ice!  The staff are friendly and helpful, equipment is available to hire including free helmets. 

Address: 105 Pearl River Road, Docklands

Check out their website here

16. Clip ‘n Climb

There are a few similar venues in and around Victoria, so if you have a family of adrenaline junkies who love to climb or experience something new (and undercover), this is for you! From climbing walls, to obstacle courses, leap of faith and other attractions, this will keep your family entertained for many many hours! Open every day (most days until at least 7pm)

Address: 39-51 Intrepid Street, Berwick

Click here to learn more

17. Bowling

Fun night activities will always include a great bowling session! There are a number of various bowling activities in and around Melbourne, we have selected this one as it has a number of other activities to try including an Escape room AND karaoke. So once the competitive bowling is out of the way, you can sing your heart out and escape.

Address: Shop 305, Level 3, 211 LaTrobe Street, Melbourne

See what packages are on offer via their website here

Family things to do in Melbourne at night are such a great way to enjoy your family – a good movie and a cuddle up is a top idea! There are any number of cinemas in and around the Melbourne area and these are great, particularly in school holidays when there are always a number of film options for children.  Grab the popcorn and get the group together a movie extravaganza!

For up and coming movies, click here

19. The Big Bash, T20

This is a fabulous night out for the entire family, even if you are not a huge sports fan.  With the season during the summer, this interactive sporting event is sure to be great fun for all.  Fireworks, music, dance groups, interactive audience participation – your kids will have a great time!

Check out the T20 Big Bash website for information on games and dates

Situated 29km east of Melbourne CBD, this great place offers something for everybody. With skate nights available til late, skate lessons, equipment to hire and much much more (including retro nights!), this is a fabulous way to spend an evening with the kids.

Address: 1298 Ferntree Gully Road, Scoresby

Have fun – check out their website

10 Best things to do in Melbourne at night with teenagers

Teenagers! They are pretty tricky to keep entertained at the best of times, but we have found some awesome ideas that will definitely keep them happy these school holidays. (We have a huge article dedicated to things to do on the Melbourne with teenagers if these ideas don’t work!)

21. Escape Hunt Melbourne

When checking out places to visit in Melbourne at night, why not give this a go! If you and your family enjoy a bit of detective work and perhaps envisage yourself as a CSI, then this is definitely one to try. You have 60 minutes to solve the mystery and get out.  There are a number of escape rooms to choose from, not just the ‘law and order’ room, you could even solve the mystery of the missing jewels. 

Address: 190 Queen Street, Melbourne

Purchase your escape today.

Well a little axe-throwing activities will certain notch up the adrenaline for your teenager!  This is a great way to get your teenager out of the online world and into a very different environment!  Yes, it sounds dangerous, and a little unusual, but that is the attraction.  The staff and venue ensure the activities are safe for all, so why not give this a go! Most nights have a ‘last throw’ timeframe (usually at 8 pm).

Address: 19-21 Russell Street, Abbotsford

Check out their website for more information

23. The Magic Show at The Marriott Hotel

Looking for things to do on a Friday night? This wonderful (and unbelievable) experience will leave you wondering what just happened. This weekly Friday night event held within the fabulous Marriott Hotel, will wonder and amaze you.  Suitable for family members over 10 years old!

Address:  The Marriott Hotel, Corner of Lonsdale & Exhibition St, Melbourne

Book your tickets today!

24. Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq

Good old-fashioned arcade games, high tech reality games, bumper cars, thrill rides and old favourites such as NBA Hoops and Mario Kart race car driving game – what is not to love!! You and your kids will thoroughly enjoy this night time activity.

Address: 440 Docklands Drive, Docklands

Get your hour package here

25. Old Melbourne Gaol

When looking for things to do in Melbourne this weekend – this is definitely not for the faint-hearted, but a very very cool place – definitely one for the older members of the family (not suitable for younger children).  This eerie place built in the mid 1800s was home to many dangerous criminals of its time including Ned Kelly.  You can actually enter the cells (and even be arrested by the tour guide).  Open until 6pm with last entry at 4.15, this is really one for those who want to get started with an early evening activity!

Address: 377 Russell Street, Melbourne

Check out tickets and packages

26. Go Karting

An ideal activity for teenagers (13 and over).  Get your group together and enjoy the track with speeds of up to 60 kpm, hairpins bends, switch tracks and sunken corners, your teenagers are going to have great fun!

Address: 50 Salmon Street, Port Melbourne

Grab your packages here

27. Flight Experience

We LOVED doing this experience. Master 16 took to the skies (almost!) with this ultimate flight experience. This is as close as it gets to operating a full-size passenger airliner. He got to step inside Australia’s state-of-the-art flight simulator experience and we got to be his passengers! He took off and landed at airports of his choice (he chose Melbourne, Paris, London and Brisbane) in a 1 hour long experience. He pilot who trained him was wonderful and I can hand on heart highly recommend this activity if you have a teen who is interested in flying! Your teen will get the ultimate Boeing 737 experience as a pilot and is a great rainy day activity for teenagers.

Address Shop 9, Level 2 QV Square, Cnr Swanston & Lonsdale St, Melbourne

See the different packages and options available here

Following on from being a pilot, why not now experience the sky-diving experience (but without the need of a plane!).  This unique experience will give you the opportunity to sample what it feels like to sky-dive.  Great for all ages (apparently from 3-103!),  the whole family can give this one a go! Available most nights so plenty of opportunity including when looking for things to do in Melbourne on a Sunday night.

Address: 2 Burns Street, Essendon Fields

29. Escape Rooms

Escape Rooms are becoming ever popular – there are a number to choose from around Melbourne.  Here is one located in South Melbourne that has a number of rooms to try and 70 minutes in which to escape using a number of clues.  There is also an online version should you wish to give that a go.  Great fun for small groups of people wishing to ‘escape’!

Address: 12-18 Yarra Street, South Melbourne

Visit their website today for more info

If visiting, one of the best things for visitors to do in Melbourne at night is to catch a show. There are many great shows and musicals around at the moment and any number of theatres in which to enjoy them.  Melbourne is very lucky to play host to some big travelling shows and they are ever changing.  The theatres include the State Theatre, Southbank Theatre and Her Majesty’s Theatre, so why not check them out and see what you can enjoy on your evening.

Best things to do in Melbourne at night with kids

We hope this helps with a few ideas as a good place to start your night time adventure with your family.  Plenty of things to do at night in the city but we would love to hear from you as to how these worked out or any fabulous ideas to share with others trying out those after dark get togethers!!

Even more VIC school holiday ideas:

If you are heading off on a Victorian road trip these school holidays check out our other articles:

• Bendigo school holiday activities
• Geelong school holiday activities
• Ballarat school holiday activities
• Warrnambool school holiday activities

And if you are heading to our nations capital, we have listed he best school holiday activities in Canberra too!

Janine Mergler

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The ultimate list of 17 romantic things to do in Melbourne

Looking for a little romance in Melbourne? Check out these ideas! Spending time with your partner is important, but sometimes it can be hard to come up with new fun, exciting and romantic things to do in Melbourne together. If you’re feeling stuck in a rut, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered in Melbourne with romance.

In Melbourne, there are numerous couple activities from classic ideas like going on a picnic to trying something new like dance lessons. Melbourne is renowned for its romantic places, there’s sure to be something here that sparks your interest. So what are you waiting for?

Visit the NGV in Melbourne

Romantic things to do in melbourne.

Some of the ideas we have in this romantic things to do in Melbourne guide may not be to your taste but there is someone out there that will love it. We’ve done our best to include all types of activities in Melbourne for romance!

Stay at a 5-star hotel

Book a staycation in the Melbourne CBD at one of the many 5-star hotels in the city such as the Langham on Southbank , or Movenpick on Spencer Street . Pick a room with a view and a bath, order some room service and get into your fancy robes.

Mövenpick has suites featuring freestanding bathtubs with a small side table, perfect for a bubble bath and a bottle of wine. The Langham has its well-renowned High Tea and the Chuan Spa, which offers an array of revitalising wellness treatments. Be dazzled by the city lights when visiting Melbourne .

Have a picnic – romantic places in Melbourne

A romantic picnic in Melbourne is such a great idea. The city is home to great green areas where you can spread out a picnic blanket and unpack some yummy food and drinks, maybe have a sneaky sparkling wine.

Take your special person to the Botanical Gardens, The Banks of the Yarra River, Treasury Gardens, Flagstaff Gardens and more. Picnics are made much easier these days with a range of companies selling ready-made picnic hampers for your day out in Melbourne.

Explore Victoria:   13 amazing places to experience autumn in Victoria

Watch a sunset

Why not watch a perfect Melbourne sunset with a drink in your hand from one of the many bars or restaurants on South Wharf? Places such as Munich Brauhaus, The Boatbuilders Yard or Bangpop South Wharf are the perfect places to have a romantic sunset meal in Melbourne.

All these establishments have outdoor seating on the river, so you will be able to see the sunset in the west as it goes down along the Yarra River. This is one of the most popular romantic things to do in Melbourne.

Watch a sunrise

The sunrises in Melbourne, Australia, are some of the most beautiful in the world. The colours are so vibrant, and the sky is so clear. It’s a perfect romantic experience to start the day watching the city of Melbourne wake up.

Places with views to the east are excellent for watching a Melbourne sunrise, maybe an early morning stroll along the Yarra towards the MCG or somewhere along the South Bank for breakfast. This is one of the best romantic things to do in Melbourne for early risers.

Melbourne on a budget?  Here are all the best free things to do in Melbourne

Couples massage – romantic things to do in Melbourne

A romantic couples massage is a great way to spend quality time with your partner while also enjoying the benefits of massage therapy. A couples massage can help you relax, rejuvenate, and reconnect with your partner.

It is important to find a reputable massage therapist experienced in performing couples massages so that you can feel comfortable and safe during your session. Make it a relaxing date, a perfect date.

Take dancing lessons – romantic activities in Melbourne

Dancing is a great way for couples to spend time together and express love. It can be a fun activity for date night in Melbourne or a way to add romance to a special occasion.

There are many dance styles, so couples can find the one that best suits them. With a little practice, anyone can learn how to dance with their partner and create lasting memories.

Planning a day at Luna Park?  Here is everything you need to know to plan an epic visit to Luna Park

Hot air balloon ride – romantic experiences in Melbourne

Romance in Melbourne can be had in many locations, including a hot air balloon. It’s an experience you’ll never forget, floating high above the cityscape with only the sound of the burner to keep you company.

The views are amazing as you float through the city centre along the Yarra River, spotting a few of Melbourne’s famous landmarks. If you’re thinking of giving hot air ballooning a go as one of the best romantic things in Melbourne, Melbourne is the perfect place to do it. Book your Hot Air Balloon date in Melbourne

Romantic date ideas in Melbourne – Dinner

A romantic dinner in Melbourne date can be an exceptional and memorable experience. Whether it is your first date or you have been together for years, a romantic dinner can help rekindle your relationship’s romance.

First, choose a restaurant that you know your partner will love. It should have a romantic atmosphere, good food, and attentive service. In Melbourne, we recommend a romantic restaurant like Eureka 89 Fine Dining Restaurant, some 280 meters above the ground, or find intimate laneway venues throughout the city for an unforgettable night.

Plenty of candles, wine and amazing food at romantic restaurants will make your evening in Melbourne romantic.

Stargazing in Melbourne – Melbourne Observatory Telescope

A date spent stargazing is a romantic and fun way to spend time together while getting to know each other. It’s a great romantic activity in Melbourne for any couple, whether just getting to know each other or having been together for years.

On romantic things to do in Melbourne date night, do a guided tour of the Melbourne Observatory Telescope and look at the stars together. You could also lay a blanket on a clear summer night at any of Melbourne’s parks and gardens and look at the night sky. All you need is a clear night sky and some patience. Make it the ultimate romantic evening.

Planning to explore Victoria more?  Here are 11 fun-filled day trips from Melbourne

Find an outdoor cinema.

A summer night in Melbourne wouldn’t be complete without an outdoor cinema experience. There’s something special about watching a movie under the stars that can’t be replicated indoors. Whether you’re cuddled up with a blanket with some snacks or enjoying a picnic dinner, the outdoor cinema is the perfect romantic thing to do in Melbourne on a warm summer night.

Go to the Theatre

A night at the theatre is the perfect way to spend a romantic evening in Melbourne with your significant other. Many types of theatre productions can be seen in Melbourne, from musicals to comedies and dramas.

Whether you’re looking for a night of laughs or tears, you’re sure to find a production to suit your taste. As a couple looking for romantic things to do in Melbourne , the theatre is a chance to dress up, enjoy some great entertainment, and just relax together. The Theatre is one of the best romantic nights out in Melbourne. Book theatre tickets in Melbourne today.

Romantic dinner cruise in Melbourne

There are plenty of cruise options for you on the Yarra River. We can go on a sightseeing cruise, a romantic dinner cruise, a high tea cruise and even a booze cruise with cocktails thrown in.

You can hire your own boat, pack some food and drinks and head upriver. All these cruise options are available from the South Bank if you’re looking for a Melbourne romantic day out.

Need some inspiration? Here are the top date night ideas in Melbourne

Hire a row boat

Just a few kilometres out of the city at Studly Park Boathouse you can hire your own row boat for a romantic paddle. On the banks of the Yarra River, a fleet of paddle boats is waiting for you and your loved one. Why not combine a boat hire with some fantastic food at the Boathouse Café, and you are all set for a romantic day in Melbourne?

Visit popular Rooftop bars – fun things to do in Melbourne for couples

Melbourne, Australia, is not only known for its vibrant culture but also its thriving rooftop bar scene, making it the perfect backdrop for a memorable date night.

As the sun sets and the city comes to life, you and your partner can indulge in the magic of Melbourne from above.

Each rooftop bar offers a unique atmosphere, crafty cocktails, and breathtaking views that set the stage for an unforgettable evening of romance and connection. We recommend heading to places like The Stolen Gem, The Rooftop at QT, Goldilocks or the Transport Bar.

High Tea in Melbourne

High Tea started out as a quintessentially British thing. This afternoon tea tradition involves savoury sandwiches, cakes, pastries, and tea. There are many great venues to have a high tea in Melbourne as a romantic gesture for your partner. Put on your best clothes and be ready to sip tea and eat cakes on a romantic date in Melbourne.

Book High Tea at the Windsor Hotel ↗

Book high tea at the national gallery ↗, take in a game.

Sports, romantic? Yes, they are. Everyone has different tastes and likes in life and for some, a night at the footy, basketball game or even rugby is a great way to spend some time with their significant other. Melbourne is home to teams from the AFL, NRL, A-League, NBL and more.

Begin your unforgettable date by leisurely exploring the NGV’s renowned art collections. As you meander through the galleries, you’ll be immersed in a captivating world of classic and contemporary art.

Take time to appreciate the beauty, and let the art spark conversations and deepen your connection with your partner. Afterwards, have lunch at NGV’s Garden Restaurant, which overlooks the tranquil garden, moat, and sculptures at NGV in Melbourne . Romantic things to do in Melbourne’s CBD don’t get any better or easier than this.

Melbourne offers many fun things for couples, such as exploring the vibrant street art scene, enjoying romantic walks along St Kilda Beach , and indulging in delicious food and wine at the city’s famous laneway restaurants.

Melbourne offers a variety of romantic day trips for couples looking to explore the city’s scenic beauty and cultural attractions, such as Peninsula Hot Spring Spa or even a trip to Phillip Island.

We hope this article from us here at Explore Victoria has inspired you to embark on your adventure in Victoria, Australia, from popular  caravan parks  and  pristine beaches  to drives along the  Great Ocean Road . Enjoy weekends away on the Mornington Peninsula and discover the cosmopolitan charm of  Melbourne, Victoria ,  with a range of experiences for every traveller who wants to visit Victoria.

Whether you’re drawn to the rugged beauty of the Grampians, the cultural richness of Ballarat , or the autumn colours of  Bright  and  Northern Victoria , there’s no shortage of hidden gems waiting to be discovered in Victoria.

Even if you love  exploring Gippsland  or driving the  Great Alpine Road , Victoria has something special for you, and there is so much more for you to discover. If you are looking for more incredible and best places to  visit in Melbourne  or more travel in Victoria destinations,  Explore Victoria  has some more articles below for you to check out. Expand your horizons and get out and about in Victoria, Australia, for an unforgettable experience. 

If you have an idea, attraction, or top spot in Victoria, please comment or email us at  [email protected] .

More travel in Victoria inspiration

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Mark Wyld is a passionate writer and explorer, weaving tales inspired by a deep love for his home state of Victoria. With local knowledge, Mark seeks to share insights and experiences that captivate and inspire readers. When not immersed in writing, you can find him working in Disability Support or spending time with family and friends. Follow Mark for a journey through Victoria’s best sights, tastes and attractions.

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How to spend a vibrant weekend in Melbourne

A long with its position at the very bottom of the continent – only Hobart beats it for southerly latitude and Southern Ocean chill – Melbourne might have been purpose built to challenge accepted notions of Australian city life. It can seem topographically bland, prone to capricious cold and hot snaps, and, if blessed by a sandy fringed bay, far from what you'd call a beach destination. 

What Melbourne offers instead of sun and surf is a slowness and intent around everything culinary, plentiful museums and galleries, and a late night culture that’s definitely the country’s most varied and vibrant. It's fashion conscious and trendsetting, defiantly intellectual, and a champion of diversity and multiculturalism. Its city centre is a joy to traverse by foot or tram and just beyond lie some delightfully intact Victorian streetscapes. Outdoorsy action comes in the form of an enviable sporting calendar and miles of gorgeous parkland. It’s a subtle, intriguing and enveloping mix – Melburnians wouldn’t have it any other way.

For further Melbourne inspiration, see our guides to the city's best hotels , restaurants , bars , cafés , beaches , attractions and things to do for free . For further inspiration plan the ultimate road trip from Melbourne down Australia's Great Ocean Road.

In this guide

How to spend your weekend, insider tips.

When should I visit Melbourne?

Where to stay in Melbourne

What to bring home

Essential information: what to know before you go

This being Melbourne, you’ll have to wake up and smell the coffee, so grab a three-quarter flat white to-go at smart laneway hangout, Dukes . If you're hungry, Fitzroy’s croissant phenomena  Lune  now has a city outpost just up the road.

Now wander down the city's street art hub, the technicolour  Hosier Lane – being first thing in the morning, you’ll miss the perpetual photoshoot – then head to the Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia . There’s everything from the sublime, mysterious colonial landscapes of John Glover and splendid works from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island communities to Australian Modernists from Grace Coddington Smith to John Brack, and highlights of Melbourne’s thriving contemporary scene.

Afterwards, browse the shops of Flinders Lane: Alpha60  does wearable Melbourne irony in an Anglican chapel, there’s a beautiful hometown Aesop  and makers’ hub Craft . Finish up at the beautifully preserved 1920s Nicholas Building: its eight levels are home to eclectic shops and contemporary art spaces. Shop for designer vintage clothes at Reina, or both rare and new art and design books at World Food Books, then a look around Blindside gallery. Find more of the best things to do in the city in our guide .

You’ve not yet ventured far, but Movida , will transport you far away, to Spain. This is Iberian eating that’s as innovative as it is earthy: think air-dried Wagyu with poached eggs and truffle foam and Milawa duck with local shitake.

The Victorian-era Fitzroy Gardens with its leafy avenues of European trees will lead you to the home of Australian Rules Football, the Melbourne Cricket Ground . Take a tour and clock the city skyline from one of the lofty terraces.

Before it gets dark, bus or Uber it to St Kilda ; local singer-songwriter Paul Kelly once name-checked the Esplanade’s 'sweet promenade' and sunset from the historic pier, and it's a view certainly worth taking in yourself. At the very least, the Esplanade’s namesake pub, aka the Espy , is a sweet sight indeed. After a sunset ‘pot’ – a small beer – and a peek at its legendarily rambling, if recently refurbished, interiors, it’s only a short stroll to Bar di Stasio, where the smartly uniformed bar staff will have aperitivo ready for you. Snack on a cone of fritto misto  or wild greens frittelle and savour what might be the city’s best Negroni. Find more of the best bars in the city in our guide.

Continuing the Italian culinary theme after a short tram ride back into the city to at Tipo 00 , have a late dinner of pappardelle with Gippsland rabbit, hazelnut & marjoram. Or, from May until August, feast on risotto or linguine with local truffles (it's best to book ahead, especially during winter truffle season). Find more of the best restaurants in the city in our guide.

For twinkling city lights, whatever the chill factor, head to Rooftop Bar & Cinema , or if you’re craving some big city glamour, head to the deliciously moody Apollo Inn for a nostalgic nightcap at the bar.

Melbourne’s inner neighbourhoods are full of charm, but take a little to get to know. Down a quiet residential backstreet you’ll find Cibi , an all-in-one café, produce store and Japanese homewares emporium. The coffee is faultless, and there’s matcha or yuzu pound cake, but it’s the delicate but grounding special breakfast – miso, grilled salmon, tamagoyaki (a rolled omelette), greens, rice and grains that you’ll remember. Find more of the best coffee in the city in our guide.

From here Uber out to the Heide Museum of Modern Art , set in a suburban bush valley. The Heide II gallery is a beautiful example of Australian mid-century architecture, while Heide I is set in the bucolic 19th-century farmhouse of legendary art patrons, John and Sunday Reed. On the way back into town, stop in to see the fascinating, Melbourne-focussed contemporary art collection at Lyon Housemuseum , not to mention its similarly thoughtful architecture.

Back in the Uber to Fitzroy and another backstreet beauty. Napier Quarter ’s bluestone bones once housed a corner shop. You can now lunch on fig and goat curd tart or a bowl of kale and buffalo yoghurt soup and there’s excellent coffee, cakes and natural wine in lieu of meat pies and mixed sweets.

Take Fitzroy’s pretty back streets to Brunswick Street to browse at Brunswick Street Bookstore  and then stop for an espresso at Industry Beans .

Then take your time winding your way up shop-lined Gertrude Street: Bruce , Megan Park  and Standard Store  and many other small boutiques here are worth a long, leisurely browse.

Cutler & Co  is considered one of Melbourne’s best restaurants. Book ahead and you can head out to the low-lit back room for some thoughtful, laid-back fine dining surrounded by contemporary art and a crowd of locals. But a casual bar stool is no second prize here, with a glass of Duval-Leroy Brut in hand and elegant snacking to be had (say warm donuts with sour cream and salmon roe or zucchini flowers stuffed with local scallops and crab).

Live music is alive and well in the southern capital, as is staying out late: catch an underground band or DJ playing at the nearby Grace Darling Hotel, or hire an Uber over to Corner Hotel for international indie acts (and a suitably louche band room) or to Brunswick’s Jazzlab for serious improvised tunes.  If you’d prefer a nightcap sans discernable soundtrack, intimate Everleigh  is a short stroll, and they’re all about artisan booze and murmured conversation.

If you miss out on a place or don't have time to do a full tour of Melbourne's much revered street art sites , the City of Melbourne council has a very easy to use downloadable map. Walk the four-mile, two-hour route or just use it to find key sites. It also has details of the city's best public art works.

Neighbourhood watch

One of the last inner neighbourhoods to gentrify, Collingwood’s booming wine bars (The Moon, Commis and Above Board are good places to start), cafés (try Terror Twilight and Everyday Coffee) and artisan delis (such as Meatsmith) and contemporary galleries (like Futures) still share real estate with Vietnamese bakers and $2 shops. Explore on and off Smith Street, take in Collingwood Yards , a bustling new arts precinct, then take time to discover a fascinating mix of old industrial sites – it was once known as ‘little Manchester – workers’ cottages and grand 19th-century shopfronts, from Smith Street and down into Perry, Oxford, Cambridge and Peel Streets.

Attractions

The NGV International ’s blockbuster shows often attract huge crowds. Book ahead for the NGV Friday Night sessions though and you’ll skip the long queues and also get talks, live bands and DJs for a price not much higher than the usual entrance. And on the dance floor, the crowds are a bonus, not a curse.

Take the lift up to Hotel QT ’s bar for one of the city’s most glamorous views and refreshingly laid-back vibes – it attracts a younger, more fun crowd than most CBD hotel bars and can sometimes feel more like a private party. For plenty of time out on that skyline-backed terrace, get here early – it closes at 11pm.

Did you know?

Think Aussie Rules football is an Antipodean upstart? The ‘Melbourne Rules’ codification in 1859 predates that of soccer, rugby union and Gaelic football (respectively codified in 1863, 1871 and 1885). The still-going-strong Melbourne Football Club , whose first games happened on the scrubby parkland by the Melbourne Cricket Club, is also one of the world’s oldest football associations.

Melbourne's jam-packed events calendar, and Victoria's geographic diversity, makes this corner of Australia a year-round destination.

Summer is the most popular season with visitors, with the longest days and good beach weather (especially from January to mid-March). The Australian Open (January) draws huge crowds to Melbourne, as does LGBT+ cultural festival Midsumma (January-February) and White Night (February).

Autumn is arguably the best season: days are warm to mild; blazing foliage graces Victoria's parks; and Melbourne's festival season revs up with the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival (February-March), International Flower and Garden Show (March), and International Comedy Festival (March-April).

Winters are grey and chilly, but always atmospheric. The AFL (Australian Rules Football) season is in full swing, the ski slopes are open for business, and the major cultural events continue, among them the Melbourne International Film Festival (July-August) and the National Gallery of Victoria's Winter Masterpieces exhibition (months vary).

Spring offers spring blooms and sporadic weather. Winter is over and there's a celebratory feeling in air, with big-scale events including the AFL Grand Final (September), Fringe Festival (September-October), Melbourne Festival (October), and all the millinery, glamour and galloping of the Melbourne Cup Carnival (November).

Where to stay

Luxury living.

The shimmering gold, 33-level Grand Hyatt luxuriates in an understated opulence befitting of its city. Facilities include an outdoor tennis court, half-court basketball court and golf practice cages. The hotel is located on central Melbourne’s most prestigious thoroughfare, flanked by luxury boutiques, heritage architecture and iconic skyscrapers.

Double rooms from AUD 355 (£217)

Designer Digs

United Places is a smart, sexy and stylish sanctuary. Guests are treated to luxury hotel essentials – bespoke service and a high attention to both aesthetic and experiential detail – while doing away with show pony overstatement. With only 12 suites, it’s calm and intimate. A nonchalant façade and striking contemporary architecture combine with décor that’s beautiful, tactile and practical.

One-bedroom suites from AUD 650 (£360)

Budget Bolthole

Perforated, blonde-wood wall panels and space-age edges set a millennial tone in The Larwill Studio's expansive lobby. Dramatic black text runs across mirrored wall panels, floor-to-ceiling windows frame the Melbourne skyline and the spaces are energised by original, soul-lifting artworks by the late Australian artist David Larwill – this is where Scandi-style aesthetics meet homegrown creativity.

Double rooms from AUD 159 (£87)

Instantly recognisable to savvy Melburnians around the globe, Brunswick’s Dejour Jeans are not only cheap, they’re custom fitted for you on site, making this shop worth the tram ride.

A bag of magic beans you say? DIY Melbourne coffee with a pack from Market Lane  or, for traditionalists, a smooth old school blend from veteran torrefazione Genovese .

Know before you go

Essential information.

• British Consulate-General:  00 61 3 9652 1600; Level 17, 90 Collins Street, Melbourne, 3000.
• Emergency services:  Dial 000
• Tourist office and information: The Melbourne Visitor Centre ( visitmelbourne.com ) is on Federation Square, right across from Flinders Street Station. Open daily, 9am-6pm. A smaller information booth is located in the Bourke Street Mall, between Swanston and Elizabeth Streets and at the Town Hall on Swanston Street. Open daily, 9am-5pm. Tourist information is also available in the Arrivals Hall at Melbourne International Airport
• Currency:  Australian dollar. Prices are rounded off to the nearest 5c (1c and 2c coins are not used in Australia)
• Time:  +10 hours (+11 hours during daylight savings Oct-Mar)
• Travel times:  Flying time from London to Melbourne is around 21.5 to 23 hours. Flying time from Sydney to Melbourne is around 1 hour and 15 minutes

Local laws and etiquette

• In the Central Business District (City Centre), many intersections require you to make a right turn from the left lane in order to keep tram tracks clear. This is called a hook turn, marked with a 'Right Turn From Left Only' sign, either overhead or to the side of the road. Approach and enter the intersection from the left lane and indicate that you are turning right. Move forward to the far left of the intersection, keeping clear of pedestrian crossings and remain stationary until the traffic lights on the road you are turning into have gone green, then turn right.
• Tipping:  As in the UK, tipping in restaurants and cafes is customary not compulsory. If you receive good service, 10 per cent of the bill would be reasonable. If you wish to tip your hotel porter, AU$2 (£1) to AU$5 (£3) per bag is a suitable amount. In taxis, you may choose to round up the payment to the nearest dollar

Donna Wheeler is Telegraph Travel’s Melbourne expert. She was lured south from Sydney by the city’s moody streets and booming arts scene. Donna lived in the city’s inner north for two decades, where she was never more than a block away from a strong flat white and a glass of small producer pink or orange wine.

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The moment I knew: she stood up in court and put on the performance of a lifetime

Watching Gemma advocate for a vulnerable client, Sam Elkin knew he could tell her about his desire to transition – and that she’d always have his back

G emma and I were both junior lawyers working at a Melbourne legal aid office, providing free advice to disadvantaged people facing eviction. Having experienced housing insecurity myself as a young person, it was a dream to give back to my community by helping others in the same situation.

Our office romance began in 2017 after we both attended a colleague’s apocalypse-themed house party in Brunswick West. Gemma had gone to a lot of effort to dress up as Octavia Blake from the sci-fi show The 100, while I only managed to find an aged, pilled black hoodie for the occasion. Over a few too many dirty martinis, I fessed up to my raging crush on her and we spent the rest of the night canoodling in the back yard on a structurally unsound velvet couch.

Our new relationship blossomed in secret over overpriced lattes served on crates in the Melbourne CBD and in tucked-away laneway bars after work. We had some great fun in those days, swapping war stories about our hectic days in the tenancy tribunal and laughing about the endless office dramas in our quirky, underfunded office.

I adored her passion for sticking up for the underdog and skill in bringing people together. Whether we were in a casework meeting or doing the lunchtime quiz, Gemma always found a way to keep us all feeling merry. But I wasn’t expecting things to become serious. I’d just had a big breakup and this was Gemma’s first queer relationship. I kept reminding myself to enjoy things while they lasted.

Then early the next year, one of our most important cases was appealed by the landlord to the supreme court of Victoria. This was a big deal, since the decision would affect all renters across the state. Somebody had to step up, dust off the communal office wig and gown, and advocate for a vulnerable client facing homelessness, in an imposing, Renaissance-style sandstone building.

After agonising for a moment, Gemma put up her hand to do it. The rest of us breathed a sigh of relief. Over the next two weeks, Gemma put her head down to learn everything there was to know about homelessness law, civil procedure and arcane supreme courtroom etiquette. I made her strong cups of tea while she stayed up late working, while my housemates and I drank wine and watched TV.

On the big day, I took a seat on the hardwood pews at the back as Gemma began to speak. I noticed a few journalists sitting beside me jotting down notes. This was a big deal and I felt terrified on Gemma’s behalf. I needn’t have. Gemma put on the performance of a lifetime, advocating for our client’s right to shelter and safety with poise and skill far beyond her years.

Hours later, Gemma and her client hugged in tears of joy and relief on the steps of the supreme court. I felt an immense sense of pride. I knew at that moment that Gemma wasn’t just a great person who was fun to be around, but a brilliant advocate full of compassion and empathy. It made me believe that Gemma would have my back if I needed her too.

A few weeks later, despite feeling incredibly nervous, I told Gemma that I wanted to transition. At first she was scared, worried she wasn’t informed enough to know how to support me. But she took up the challenge to learn all she could, and had me smiling and laughing as she drove me to what felt like an endless stream of healthcare appointments. Since then, she has been a constant source of stability and support, and even become an expert in transgender legal issues.

This year, we’ll celebrate our seventh anniversary. Gemma is now a successful human rights barrister and I’m still working in community law. We’re the proud fur-parents of a black cat and a senior dog, and still love a night out now and then in Melbourne’s tiny laneway bars.

Sam Elkin is the author of Detachable Penis: A Queer Legal Saga (Upswell Publishing, RRP $29.99). His book launch is at the Wheeler Centre Performance Space in Melbourne at 6.30pm on 6 May.

Do you have a romantic realisation you'd like to share? From quiet domestic scenes to dramatic revelations, Guardian Australia wants to hear about the moment you knew you were in love. 

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• Life and style
• The moment I knew
• Australian lifestyle
• Relationships
• Transgender

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