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Melbourne is the cultural capital of Australia and is regularly named the most livable city in the world. There’s always so much going on day or night, from the unusual city laneways, unique rooftop bars, and an incredible shopping scene. And then, there are also heaps of unique things to do in Melbourne that are only a short drive from the city.
I grew up in Melbourne and even after traveling to so many countries around the world I still think Melbourne is one of the best cities on earth. So I have teamed up with a bunch of other travel bloggers to give you some awesome ideas of unique things to do in Melbourne and some of the best day trips from the city.
If you’re planning to visit Australia’s cultural capital or if you live near Melbourne keep reading for a bunch of awesome ideas.
Have a Drink At One Of Melbourne’s Unique Bars
Going to a bar might not seem like an unusual thing to do in Melbourne. But Melbourne has a ton of unique bars that visitors might not be aware of! From classic rooftop bars to themed bars, and bars hidden down alleyways, there are many unusual spots for a drink around the city.
Finding the bar is half the fun in Melbourne, and there are popular watering holes where you least expect them. Hidden behind an industrial fridge door in sandwich shop Boston Sub, is Jungle Boy. A tiny tiki-style speakeasy known only by few, on Chapel Street. And slide open a bookshelf and descend down some stairs in State of Grace, to find a second hidden bar, Fall From Grace.
Melbourne bars do themes well, and whatever vibe you’re chasing you can probably find it in Melbourne! Step back in time to the Cold War era at Berlin Bar. Experience both East Berlin and West Berlin in two bars separated by the Berlin Wall. Asian Beer Café is a local favorite, known for its incredibly affordable drinks and Asian anime décor. And for an Alice in Wonderland, garden party head to Madame Brussels.
If sitting at a bar nursing a drink sounds boring to you, never fear! Melbourne is full of bars that combine alcohol with amusement. Try Ballers Clubhouse, a 2,500sqm sports-themed super venue, with everything from shuffleboard, to dartboards and ping pong. And Pétanque Social on the banks of the Yarra River offers revellers pétanque courts, a game like lawn bowls.
And you can’t talk about bars in Melbourne without mentioning a few rooftop bars, offering the best views of the city. Try Good Heavens, the aptly named Rooftop Bar or Naked in the Sky.
Cheers!
Submitted By: Sally from SallySees, | IG @sallysees
Discover Melbournes Famous Street Art
Hosier Lane is a tourist destination in itself because of all the graffiti and murals that dot the walls of this Melbourne street. The street art can be seen throughout the Central Business District but Hosier Lane showcases the most & best art. The images are constantly changing and the urban artists have no fear of spray painting since the laneway is deemed a “graffiti tolerance zone”.
These bright splashes of color, social themes, and messages are peppered throughout the area. Visitors should also check out ACDC Lane, Degrave Street, Union Lane, and Croft Alley in Chinatown.
For locals, this is not one of those unusual things to do in Melbourne, since it is part of the culture of the city. One mural on Johnston Street, by artist Keith Haring, has been part of the cityscape since 1984.
A walking tour can take two hours or more so comfortable walking shoes are essential. But for photo enthusiasts, a day could easily be spent walking around and snapping pictures.
Also, don’t forget, Melbourne has a bustling foodie scene so it is easy to sneak a snack (or two!) while admiring the graffiti art. Visitors should watch out for the many independent coffee houses and try a flat white, a type of latte created in Australia in the 1980s.
And of course, a jaffle, or closed sandwich, to have the energy to see all of the murals. For those that like ethnic food, Australia has its own fusion takes with the dim sim (fried dumplings), pippies in XO sauce (clams), a Halal snack pack (fries and toppings), and Sichuan fried eggplant.
Submitted By: Bernadette Young from Book Retreats
Experience All The Unique Things To Do Along Southbank in Melbourne
If you’re wanting to experience why Melbourne is the “cultural capital of Australia”, you need to spend some time at Melbourne’s inner-city neighborhood of Southbank.
There’re many unique things to do in Melbourne & heaps are along the banks of the Yarra River at Southbank.
Southbank is right next to the CBD, so to get there walking is generally the best option. Although you could jump on one of the regular inner-city trams & the closest train station is actually Melbourne’s biggest, Flinders Street.
One of the best things about visiting Southbank is the awesome variety the area offers. Whether you’re looking for incredible viewpoints, unique bars, fun activities, or Melbourn’s famous art scene; Southbank has you covered.
For the best views visit the Eureka Skydeck at the top of the Eureka Tower. The Skydeck is a unique thing to do in Melbourne because apart from giving you views of the city, it’s home to the Edge Experience! This is the world’s first of its kind, visitors can stand on the edge; a glass cube that extends out from the Eureka Towers 88th floor.
The absolute best place to eat & drink around Southbank is at the Arbory Bar & Eatery. It’s located along the Yarra River & next to Flinders St station. And, if you’re visiting during summer, take it one step further & grab a drink right on the Yarra, at Arbory Afloat – Melbournes #1 floating cocktail bar.
Then for a bit of fun, definitely check out the Crown Casino complex and try your luck with a bit of gambling (responsibly).
Or, if you’re after something with a slower pace, Southbank is the home of Melbourne Arts Precinct. Venues in the area present thousands of different performances & exhibitions each year. Plus, you can also visit the National Gallery of Victoria.
Submitted by: Elyse Dickie from A World To Live | IG: @aworldtolive
Visit The Pink Lake in Melbourne
One of the most unique things to do in Melbourne is to visit the Pink Lake. A spectacular sight to behold tucked away under the Westgate Bridge.
Just a few kilometres from Melbourne’s CBD, amongst the industrial area. This saltwater lake has become a huge attraction for its naturally occurring, striking shade of pink.
The magical colour is due to a special formula of algae, sunlight, heat, lack of rain, high levels of salt & harmless bacteria.
The water transforms from its normal murky brown colour to a vibrant pink. As part of the photosynthesis process, a particular type of algae that grows at the bottom of the lake’s salt crust turns into beta carotene, the red pigment that makes the water pink. Mother nature is truly marvellous.
Then the water in the lake returns to its usual appearance when the weather cools & the rain comes. Diluting the concentration of the colour.
At the lake, you can sit, relax & soak up the pretty pink view. And also enjoy bird watching, or having a picnic. The surrounding park is also a popular spot for walking & cycling. Unfortunately, you’re not allowed to swim in the water.
Make sure to respect the signed rules and be careful not to damage the fragile edges of the salt marsh.
The best way to reach the lake is by car. In fact, you can admire it from above whilst driving over the Westgate Bridge.
Parking can be tricky, as the lake is such a popular place to visit when pink.
You don’t want to miss this mesmerising & unique experience in Melbourne. So if you get the chance to see it, I recommend you do, as pink lakes are quite a rarity in the world.
Location: Westgate Park, Port Melbourne
Parking: Todd Road car park
Best times to visit: Summertime, when it has been hot with no rain, midweek (weekends get very busy)
Facilities: BBQ, toilets
Open: Every day
Cost: FREE
Submitted By: Tania Muthusamy from Snazzy Trips Travel Blog | Facebook Page @snazzytrips
[Tania’s photos have not been edited – this is the real color of the lake!]
Day Trip To The Dandenong Ranges
I would recommend a drive up to the Dandenong Ranges any time of year, however, going in Autumn is especially beautiful with the changing colours of the leaves.
You can’t miss a stop at the iconic Miss Marples Tearoom which is renowned for its delicious tea and scones in what looks like a traditional English cottage.
Being up in the hills you can witness some spectacular views, with Sky High the most well-known viewpoint (there’s an entry fee of $7 per car).
Although, if you’d prefer somewhere a little less crowded & without the fee, Burkes Lookout is just before the Sky High turn-off. Then a short walk will lead you to a clearing that has impressive views out to the city & beyond. Also, depending on when you go, you’ll often have it all to yourself.
The Dandenong’s are home to an array of remarkable gardens, my personal favorite, the Alfred Nicholas Memorial Garden. There’s so much to see there, including an old wooden boathouse and an abandoned mansion which you can view from afar.
If you’re after a fun activity, drive to Emerald Lake where they offer paddleboat hire for $17 for 15 minutes or $28 for 30 minutes for two people. You will enjoy the serenity of being on the water surrounded by a picturesque setting that feels like it’s right out of a movie.
Whatever you choose to do you can’t go wrong, with the drive itself a scenic experience and only an hour’s drive from Melbourne CBD. Meander your way along the winding roads and immerse yourself in the forests that make up the Dandenong Ranges.
Submitted By: Kirsten Milligan from Life With Kirs | IG: lifewithkirs
Melbourne to Marysville, a Fun & Unique Day Trip
Only 90 minutes from Melbourne, Marysville is a small town that lies on the other side of the infamous Black Spur between Healesville and Narbethong. I love this place because it has something for everyone; plenty of great views, cute cafes, waterfalls, hidden gardens, and picturesque drives! Yes, that’s right – you don’t have to travel far to get all of these in one place!
Here’s a brief day trip itinerary for those looking to check out all the best places in Marysville:
Steavenson Falls
It’s super unusual for waterfalls in Victoria to be viewed at night, let alone until 11.00 pm under floodlights – but this one is! You can view Steavenson Falls from two platforms at the base of the falls, a bridge over the river in front or from the very top.
Bruno’s Art & Sculpture Garden
You don’t have to be an art buff to love this place. And, it’s probably the best sculpture garden I’ve ever been to. With over 160 handmade terracotta sculptures all created by the one very talented man (Bruno), you’re in for an absolute treat!
Keppel Lookout
A lookout you can both hike and drive to! Keppel Lookout overlooks the peaks of the Cathedral Ranges in the distance and the town of Marysville below from a pretty sweet viewing platform!
Gould Memorial Drive
Then just outside of town, you’ll find Gould Memorial Drive, a picturesque stretch of road lined with giant poplar trees that turn golden during Autumn and make for an impressive insta-worthy shot!
Submitted By: Elise McLean from Elise’s Travel Diary | IG: @elises.traveldiary
Visit Philip Island & See The Penguin Parade
It’s located about 140 kilometres or two hours drive away from Melbourne. Philip Island truly makes for at least a day trip. But if you have the time, consider spending a weekend here as well as there’s plenty of things to do.
For those who love wine and don’t mind getting all tipsy and giggly in the middle of the day, the Phillip Island Winery has some of the finest wine tastings in the region & great food to accompany your wine tour!
Then if you’re into a bit of souvenir shopping, the Serendipity Lavendar Farm at Churchill Island is worth checking out. They have a line of lavender products ranging from soaps to candles to essential oils! And, a weekly farmer’s market for all things organic.
But if there’s one thing that steals the show at Phillip Island, it has to be the daily penguin parade near the Nobbies.
The Little Penguin, found only in Australia, is the world’s smallest species of penguin.
Submitted by: Avantika Chaturvedi from Wayward Wayfarer | IG: @waywardwayfarer_
Visit Bushrangers Bay From Melbourne
Growing up on the Mornington Peninsula allowed me to explore a majority of its beautiful coastlines. However, there’s just something about Bushrangers Bay that keeps on drawing me back.
Only a 90-minute drive from Melbourne’s CBD, it’s the perfect spot for a day trip to immerse yourself in nature. There are two walking tracks in to reach the bay. The Boneo Road entrance boasts a beautiful picnic area with multiple tables and chairs. I recommend bringing a packed lunch to enjoy pre-or post-hike. The reasonably flat trail leads you through fairy-like woodlands with views overlooking the surrounding farmlands.
As well as the added bonus of avoiding the crowds, visiting at dawn or dusk is the best time to spot kangaroos crossing over the walking path. The last time I visited, there were over 50 kangaroos crossing on either side of me!
Once you reach the end of the path, there’s quite a steep set of stairs leading down to the bay itself.
The 5km round trip can be done in an hour but I recommend spending a few hours down in the bay exploring. I’ve seen photos of some pretty epic rock pools but they must only be visible during low tide as I always seem to miss them.
Also, make sure you take your shoes off and wade across the creek to adventure down the beach. While keeping an eye out for the critically endangered bird, hooded plover!
The other trail is accessible from the Cape Schanck car park and offers more views of the coast. It’s a similar length, just a bit hillier. Definitely my favorite hike on the Peninsula, Bushrangers Bay is one ‘unique thing to do in Melbourne’ which can’t be missed!
Submitted By: Alex Baxter from Baxter Backpacks | IG:@baxterbackpacks
I have no doubt you’ll fall in love with Melbourne, its diverse & unique vibes are definitely something that needs to be experienced.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to this article!
So, now that lockdown is over, who else is excited to explore more of Melbourne?
Thanks for reading,
Happy Travels
Check out more ideas for things to do in Victoria
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Elyse is the author & content creator behind A World To Live. After traveling to over 40 countries, she has a passion for discovering new places. Elyse is a money-conscious traveller who loves writing independent travel guides to help her readers get the most out of their travels.
I’ve always wanted to visit Australia. The pink lake would be incredible to see in person!
That’s awesome, we’d love to have you
I just love Melbourne – there is so much to see and do. I particularly love the Yarra Valley.
This is such a great compilation. I haven’t been yet, but this is the perfect list of things for us to do when we go! I just finished a book that took place in Melbourne and I’ve been eager to visit ever since! Thank you for putting this together! – Linzey @thefamilyfuntour
So glad you like it. Melbourne is just an amazing city, I’m sure you’ll love it
I have never been to Australia, and I cannot wait to visit it one day. Melbourne seems to be a lovely place, I would love to go to the unique bars and visit Pink Lake.
Melbourne is an awesome city, I’m sure you’ll love it
Interesting! I didn’t know that Melbourne had a pink lake in it. I can’t wait to explore this city when I visit Australia!
It looks amazing, doesn’t it! We look forward to having you in Australia
We did not get to Melbourne on our first trip to Australia. And sadly our 2020 trip got cancelled. But we definitely have Melbourne on our list for when we finally get Australia back on the planning board. I love the variety of things that you have showcased to do in Melbourne. And I love when there are good day trips to add to our plans. Especially when they can include wine tasting and a penguin parade!
Thanks so much for reading Linda, you would definitely love Melbourne then! So much good food too
So sad that I was in Melbourne and didn’t know about the Pink Lake. I totally would have gone to see that. I did get to see my first beach boxes though, and those were awesome.
What a great article! I’ve never been to Australia, but I always wanted to travel there… Definitely, I am going to add a couple of things to my bucket list.
Interesting blog to read! I relished reading every single line about Melbourne’s tourist attractions. I am eager to visit this city. I think the Christmas time will be good. What do you think?
Thank you so much for your comment. Yeah I definitely think Christmas is a great time to visit, it’s also summer then so heaps happening in the city