Choosing Melbourne as your next travel destination will allow you to experience a vibrant city known for its arts, culture, and culinary scene.
Founded in 1835, Melbourne became the capital city of the state of Victoria. With a history spanning almost two centuries, it is unsurprisingly a city rich in heritage and attractions.
Melbourne remains one of Australia’s most popular destinations for local and foreign tourists, and people flock to this beautiful city all year round. With a large influx of international travelers, Melbourne introduces new attractions and experiences regularly, making it a destination worth returning to—so if you have already visited the city, there surely is something new to discover there!
What to Do in Melbourne?
As a city covering more than 9,000 square kilometers, all Melbourne neighborhoods offer unique experiences, from hands-on classes and workshops to cultural events and museums. From science and history to art and cuisine, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Here, we will look at less well-known and unusual Melbourne activities to inspire your next Australia trip. The city really has a lot to offer, so be sure to explore less touristy places in Melbourne!
Unusual Things to Do in Melbourne
So, you want to avoid the typical tourist traps and find something truly worth your time? We have a selection of some of the best offbeat activities in Melbourne that will bring something different to your Australia trip.
Find ways to spend time in the city without following the crowd and discover places you might not have heard about before. It is worth venturing off the beaten path!
Surround yourself with street art on Hosier Lane
City back alleys do not necessarily sound like a tourist attraction, but in Melbourne, there is a spot unlike any other – Hosier Lane. This unique street has been a canvas of choice for hundreds of artists from all around the world, resulting in an ever-changing display of vibrant murals.
A self-guided walk of the lane and surrounding areas marked with colorful graffiti is a great way to spend an hour or two in Melbourne, especially during the daytime. Take a picture or two to show your friends and family back home the vivid Hosier Lane art.
If you’re an artist, you can leave your mark in this creative hub, too! Just remember to respect the existing artwork and follow the general street art etiquette.
Explore the hidden gems of Melbourne’s Chinatown
It is not uncommon in Australia for cities to be multicultural, and Melbourne’s Chinatown is a great example of the country’s diversity. With a vibrant atmosphere, fantastic eateries, and unique shops, the neighbourhood is a must-visit for anyone looking for a new cultural experience.
Check out the Museum of Chinese Australian History to learn more about the customs, history, and contributions of the Chinese community in Australia. Gain a deeper understanding of how the two cultures blended and influenced each other over time.
Visit the Chinatown Cinema to see the latest Chinese films, or attend one of the many cultural events that take place in the neighbourhood. Want to experience some extra fun? Be sure to visit during the Lunar New Year to witness the traditional celebrations.
Get your gaming fix at Fortress Melbourne
Do you and your friends love to spend time playing online games, but wish you could do it in a more social environment? At this unique venue, you can enjoy a wide range of PC and console games using top-quality equipment, while also having the opportunity to hang out with your group in real life. With a bar with several different food and soft drink choices, Fortress Melbourne can surely provide a fun experience.
It is a great activity for all ages and a perfect way to bond with friends when competing in your favourite games together. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer or just a casual player, it’s certainly a nice place to hang out. It is truly the best Melbourne place for gaming solo, with friends, or family.
Grab a drink or two at Nubilum Distilling
If you want to enjoy a tasty cocktail, Melbourne bars and pubs are plenty. However, not many locations are as charming as Nubilum Distilling, a hidden spot that offers delicious cocktails and a great atmosphere.
Conveniently located in the city center, the distillery is known for a range of its own spirits, from dry gin to rum. It is far from a loud, crowded bar, making it the perfect place to unwind after a long day of sightseeing with friends. You can also enjoy custom, limited batches of European-style liqueurs that you won’t find anywhere else in Melbourne or even in Australia!
Why not stop by Nubilum Distilling for a nice night out?
Go diving in the pleasant waters
Ever gone swimming with sea dragons?
If not, this is your chance to participate in this unique activity. The waters near Melbourne are home to many beautiful ocean creatures, including seals, nudibranchia, and colourful fish.
Sounds good? Book a reliable diving tour company to ensure a safe experience, and you’re all set. Just make sure your equipment is all in good condition before diving in!
There are several locations where you can submerge yourself and see the amazing underwater world: Blairgowrie Pier is a popular spot, and so are Rye Pier and Flinders Pier.
Portsea Pier is also a great choice—if you’re lucky, you may spot a Smooth Ray there!
Wander around the Old Melbourne Gaol
This attraction is a bit dark and morbid – certainly not for the more sensitive tourists. The Old Melbourne Gaol was built in 1839 and used to house a prison, where some of Australia’s most infamous have spent their final days.
Visitors can take a tour with a guide, and even take part in an execution reenactment. It’s a unique opportunity to learn more about the darker side of Melbourne’s history and the harsh realities of the past.
Just remember that some of the stories told during the tours can be a bit graphic and unsuitable for younger people—the activities are available for visitors aged 16 and older.
The walk around the Gaol includes spending time in confined spaces, so keep that in mind if you get anxious in such settings.
Melbourne Trip: Less Common Activities for Tourists
If you have already seen the main tourist attractions in Melbourne and are looking for something less typical, our recommendations are surely worth considering. Whether you are a history buff or a party person, traveling solo or with friends, there is a wide range of experiences to find.
All things considered, Melbourne is a city that offers something for everyone, so pack your bags and get ready for an adventure.
