Best Things to do in Melbourne | Must-see attractions 2025

Victoria Police Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

World Trade Centre 637 Flinders Street

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Victoria Police Museum in Melbourne displays the largest collection of Kelly Gang armor and forensic evidence from notorious crimes, showcasing the history of policing.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Polly Woodside

10:00-16:00

Museum

Melbourne Maritime Museum 2A Clarendon St South Wharf

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Melbourne Maritime Museum home of Polly Woodside features an 1885 tall ship and interactive exhibits that bring maritime history to life in Melbourne, Australia.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Cooks' Cottage

Mo-Su 09:00-17:00

Museum

Fitzroy Gardens Wellington Parade

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Cooks' Cottage in Melbourne's Fitzroy Gardens is the oldest building in Australia, built in 1755 by Captain James Cook's parents and reconstructed in 1934.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Entry Fee: AUD 12 Adults, AUD 6 Children. Discounts available for families and groups.

Fawkner Park

6:00 AM–9:00 PM

Park

24-88 Commercial Rd Toorak Road West

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Fawkner Park in South Yarra, Melbourne features walking paths and tennis facilities, offering a green escape in the bustling city.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events or special activities may have fees.

St Augustine Church

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

631 Bourke St

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St Augustine Church in Melbourne features exquisite Gothic Revival architecture and a rich community history that dates back to the 19th century.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for church upkeep.

Salvation Army Heritage Centre

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

69 Bourke St (Exhibition St)

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Salvation Army Heritage Centre in Melbourne explores the organization’s origins, war contributions, and its role in Australia's film industry, featuring memorabilia displays.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

National Gallery of Victoria

Mo-Su 10:00-17:00

Museum

180 St Kilda Rd (at Southbank Blvd)

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The National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne features extensive collections of Australian and international art across two buildings, hosting 40+ exhibitions yearly.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may have a paid ticket requirement.

Supreme Court of Victoria

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Architectural Building

450 Little Bourke St. (Lonsdale Street)

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The Supreme Court of Victoria is the highest court in the state of Victoria, located in Melbourne, overseeing serious civil and criminal cases.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Guided tours may have a nominal fee.

South Melbourne Town Hall

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Architectural Building

210 Bank St (Clarendon St.)

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South Melbourne Town Hall is a historic civic building located in Melbourne, Australia, known for its unique architecture and community significance.

Duration: Around 1 hour.

Free. Special events and exhibitions may incur charges.

Monash University Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

University

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Monash University in Melbourne, Australia, is a leading educational institution founded in 1958, renowned for its pharmacy faculty and diverse campuses.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free access to campus facilities. Some special events may require a ticket.

Arts Centre Melbourne

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

100 St Kilda Rd

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Melbourne Arts Centre is a leading performing arts complex featuring theaters, a concert hall, and an outdoor arena, located in Southbank, Australia.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Adult $25, Child $15 for daily tours. Free access to certain areas.

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

10:00 AM–5:50 PM

Park

Private Bag 2000

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Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne features over 10,000 plant species across 36 hectares, showcasing native and exotic flora within a city oasis.

Duration: More than 3 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Melbourne Showgrounds

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Event hall

Epsom Rd. (Langs Rd)

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Melbourne Showgrounds is an event venue in Melbourne, Australia, hosting exhibitions, trade shows, and community events, featuring modern facilities and ample space.

Duration: Approximately 2-4 hours, depending on the event.

Free entry for public events; specific ticket prices vary for special exhibitions and shows.

La Trobe University

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

Plenty Rd.

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La Trobe University in Bundoora, Australia, offers diverse programs across multiple campuses, set in a vibrant cultural and natural environment.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some events and workshops may require a ticket.

Yarra Bend Golf Course

6:30 AM–7:00 PM

Golf Course

Yarra Bend Road

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Yarra Bend Golf Course in Melbourne offers a challenging 18-hole public course surrounded by picturesque landscapes and native fauna.

Duration: 3 to 5 hours.

Paid. Green fees apply, pricing varies by time and day.

Melbourne City Conference Centre

8:00 AM–10:00 PM

Event hall

Swanston St. (Little Lonsdale St.)

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Melbourne City Conference Centre, a versatile venue, hosts events from conferences to exhibitions, centrally located in the heart of Melbourne, Australia.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free entry for public exhibitions and events; paid for specific conferences.

The Australian Events Centre

9:00 AM–10:00 PM

Event hall

1 Larkin Street

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The Australian Events Centre in Melbourne hosts a variety of events, including conventions, exhibitions, and corporate functions, featuring modern amenities and versatile spaces.

Duration: 2-4 hours, depending on the event.

Entry is generally ticketed for specific events; prices vary based on event type and seating.

Crown Conference Centre

9:00 AM–10:00 PM

Event hall

Crown Complex

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Crown Conference Centre in Melbourne offers state-of-the-art meeting facilities, catering options, and accommodation, making it a premier choice for events.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free entry to the venue. Event costs vary based on the type of event and services requested.

Leonda By The Yarra

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Event hall

2 Wallen Rd

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Leonda By The Yarra is a picturesque venue in Melbourne, Australia, situated alongside the Yarra River, known for weddings and events.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free to visit. Event-specific pricing may apply.

Melbourne Park Function Centre

9:00 AM–10:00 PM

Event hall

Batman Ave (in Melbourne & Olympic Parks)

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Melbourne Park Function Centre hosts various events, featuring modern design and flexible spaces. A hub for conferences, weddings, and exhibitions in Melbourne.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours based on event size.

Varies by event. Some events may be free, while others require paid tickets.

Waterfront City

10:00 AM–9:00 PM

Mall

429-437 Docklands Dr

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Waterfront City in Docklands, Melbourne, offers a blend of recreational activities, dining options, and waterfront views, attracting both locals and tourists.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free. Some activities and attractions, such as the Melbourne Star wheel, may require a paid ticket.

La Mama Theatre

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Theater

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La Mama Theatre in Melbourne is a pivotal venue for alternative and independent theatre, showcasing innovative productions and supporting emerging artists.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Prices vary by production; typically ranges from $20 to $40.

Palais Theatre

12:00 PM–10:00 PM

Theater

14 Lower Esplanade (Corner Cavell St.)

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Palais Theatre in St Kilda, Melbourne, is a historic venue dating back to 1927, hosting live music and ballet in a stunning architectural setting.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours for events.

Varies by event. Many performances require a paid ticket.

Crown Melbourne

24/7

Casino

8 Whiteman St

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Crown Casino in Melbourne features a 24/7 casino, hotels, restaurants, and entertainment options, all under a unique no-natural-light setting.

Duration: 3 to 4 hours.

Free entry to the casino. Additional costs apply for dining, entertainment, and hotel accommodations.

University of Melbourne

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

Grattan St

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University of Melbourne, founded in 1853, is one of Australia's leading universities, featuring diverse architecture and extensive campus grounds.

Duration: 2–4 hours.

Free. Access to museums may vary; some exhibitions might incur charges.

SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium

Mo-Fr 10:00-17:30; Sa-Su 09:30-18:00

Aquarium

corner of Flinders Street and King Street

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Melbourne Aquarium houses diverse marine life, including sharks, rays, and penguins. Interactive exhibits and educational programs cater to all ages.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Adult: $39, Child (4-15 years): $29, Family: $109. Discounts available for groups and online bookings.

Swinburne University of Technology

8:00 AM–10:00 PM

University

William St. (John St.)

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Swinburne University of Technology in Melbourne offers diverse study options, advanced research facilities, and vibrant campus life, making it a premier institution in Australia.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events and workshops may require registration or fees.

Rippon Lea House and Gardens

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Garden

192 Hotham St.

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Rippon Lea Estate is a historic 19th-century mansion in Melbourne, featuring 7 hectares of Victorian gardens, recognized for its national heritage significance.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Business Center

1 Convention Centre Pl.

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Melbourne Exhibition Centre, part of MCEC, hosts diverse events ranging from trade shows to cultural exhibitions in the heart of Melbourne, Australia.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Varies by event. General access to the exhibition spaces is usually free.

Melbourne Zoo

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Garden

Elliott Avenue Parkville

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Melbourne Zoo, established in 1862, houses over 320 species in landscaped gardens. Located in Parkville, it's only 4 km from Melbourne's center.

Duration: Approx. 3–4 hours.

Paid. Adult: $38, Child: $19. Discounts for families and seniors available.

Immigration Museum

Mo-Su 10:00-17:00

Museum

400 Flinders Street

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The Immigration Museum in Melbourne, Australia explores the rich tapestry of migration history through multimedia exhibits in the historic Customs House.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Old Melbourne Gaol

09:30-17:00; Dec 25 closed; easter -2 days closed

Museum

330-377 Russell St (btw La Trobe & Victoria St)

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Old Melbourne Gaol, a former 19th-century prison, is now a museum offering insights into Australia's criminal history and infamous inmates like Ned Kelly.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Adult: $30, Child: $15; concessions available.

Melbourne Museum

Mo-Su 10:00-17:00

Museum

11 Nicholson Pl Carlton

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Melbourne Museum, located in Carlton, Australia, explores Australian culture, history, and environment with engaging exhibits, including a living forest and IMAX theater.

Duration: 3 to 4 hours.

General Admission: $15 adult, $7 child. Free for children under 3. Discounts available for families and concession holders.

Chapel off Chapel

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Theater

12 Little Chapel St.

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Chapel off Chapel is a versatile theatre venue in Melbourne, Australia, hosting a range of performances from live music to theatre and dance.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Varies by event. Some performances may have a paid entry, while community events can be free.

Myer Melbourne

9:00 AM–9:00 PM

Mall

314-336 Bourke St

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Myer Melbourne is a nine-floor department store offering a wide range of consumer goods, from high-end fashion to home entertainment, located in the heart of Melbourne, Australia.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Shopping and browsing available without entry fees; product purchases apply.

Fitzroy Gardens

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Park

230-298 Wellington Parade East Melbourne

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Fitzroy Gardens in Melbourne features 26 hectares of Victorian-era design, including Cooks' Cottage, a Tudor village, and diverse flora.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Cooks' Cottage entry requires a ticket.

Rod Laver Arena

Always varies by event

Stadium

Melbourne Park

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Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne, Australia, serves as a premier tennis venue and concert space, renowned for hosting the Australian Open and major international events.

Duration: Typically 2-3 hours for an event.

Ticket prices vary based on event type. Check the official website for details.

Old Treasury Building

Su-Fr 10:00-16:00

Museum

20 Spring St

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The Old Treasury Building in Melbourne showcases 19th-century architecture, gold vaults from the gold rush, and significant historical documents.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Original Authentic Aboriginal Art

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

90 Bourke St

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Original Authentic Aboriginal Art in Melbourne features traditional and contemporary Indigenous art from Central and Western Deserts, the Kimberley, and Arnhem Land.

Duration: More than 1 hour.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Malthouse Theatre

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Theater

113 Sturt St (access via Grant St

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Malthouse Theatre in Melbourne is a prominent venue for Australian works, housed in a converted historic malthouse, showcasing both local and international productions.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Prices vary; check the website for event-specific ticket information.

Hisense Arena

Open on event days, hours vary.

Stadium

Melbourne Park

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Hisense Arena in Melbourne is a multi-purpose venue, primarily hosting Melbourne United basketball games, Australian Open tennis, and various entertainment events.

Duration: 3-4 hours, depending on the event.

Varies based on event. General admission prices typically range from $30 to $150.

Comedy Theatre

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Theater

240 Exhibition St

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Melbourne's Comedy Theatre, established in 1928, features a Spanish-style architecture dedicated to comic theatre, stand-up, and musicals.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Paid. Prices vary based on the performance and seating selection.

Emporium

Mo-Su 10:00-19:00

Mall

287 Lonsdale St

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Emporium Melbourne is a shopping hub featuring 225 premium stores, connecting local and international designers in the heart of the CBD.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Shopping and dining costs vary by store.

Ascot House Receptions

9:00 AM–11:00 PM

Event hall

Australia

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Ascot House Receptions in Melbourne offers a historic venue for weddings and events, featuring elegant decor and manicured gardens, ideal for memorable celebrations.

Duration: Up to 5 hours for events.

Venue rental fees vary based on event type; contact for details.

DFO- Essendon

10:00 AM–9:00 PM

Mall

100 Bulla Rd

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DFO Essendon in Melbourne offers discounted designer brands and a variety of retail experiences, conveniently located near the Melbourne Airport.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Shopping and dining do not require an entry fee.

Luna Park Melbourne

Sa-Su 11:00-18:00

Theme Park

18 Lower Esplanade

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Luna Park Melbourne offers a family-friendly amusement experience with rides, games, and food right by St Kilda Beach. Entry fee helps preserve its heritage.

Duration: More than 3 hours.

Entry fee: $5. Unlimited Rides: Adult (13+): $49.95, Child (4-12): $39.95, Toddler (0-3): $17.50, Family Pass (x4): $149.95.

Healesville Sanctuary

09:00-17:00

Zoo

Badger Creek Road Healsville

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Healesville Sanctuary, located in Melbourne's Yarra Valley, showcases Australia's unique wildlife in their natural environment, promoting conservation and animal interactions.

Duration: 3-4 hours.

Adults: AUD 38, Children (4-15): AUD 19, Family (2 adults, 2 children): AUD 95. Free admission for children under 4 and kids on weekends and holidays.

Melbourne Olympic Parks

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Stadium

Olympic Boulevard

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Melbourne Olympic Parks is a multi-purpose stadium located in Melbourne, Australia, hosting various sports events, concerts, and more.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special events may have paid tickets.

Heide Museum of Modern Art

Mo closed; Tu-Fr 10:00-16:00; Sa-Su 10:00-17:00

Museum

7 Templestowe Rd

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Heide Museum of Modern Art in Melbourne features unique exhibitions and a sculpture garden, showcasing works by famed artists like Sidney Nolan.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

State Theatre

6:00 PM–10:00 PM

Theater

100 St Kilda Rd

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State Theatre in Melbourne, Australia, features a grand architectural design and hosts a variety of performances, attracting theater enthusiasts from around the globe.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours for most performances.

Prices vary by show. Tickets generally range from AUD 30 to AUD 150.