Melbourne is heating up with longer days, more fun in the sun and delicious hot day treats all on the sun-kissed horizon. Keep cool in the city with these top indoor and outdoor activities to do on a scorching summer day.
1. URBNSURF
Catch a wave at Australia’s first urban surfing park. Paddle the park’s crystal clear surfing lagoon and test your skills on rolling whitewater waves that range from gentle for beginners to steep and barrelling for experienced surfers. With up to 600 ocean-like waves created every hour, there’s no shortage of fun at URBNSURF Melbourne.
2. Kayak Melbourne
Soak up iconic Melbourne sights from the water, and steer your very own kayak along the Yarra River on a cruising tour with Kayak Melbourne. See the city in the heat of the day from a refreshing spot on the river or bask in the setting sun and evening glow of city lights on a moonlight tour. Evening tours even include a spot of fish and chips on the water.
3. MONOPOLY DREAMS Melbourne
Opening 15th November, step out of the sun and into a life-sized board game at MONOPOLY DREAMS, an immersive experience featuring games, a laser maze and the chance to win MONOPOLY money. Make a grab for cash at the bank, purchase properties and more – just be sure to keep yourself out of jail.
4. The LUME
Forgot to slip, slop, slap? Don’t worry, enjoy a spot of shade inside The LUME and wander 3,000 square metres of four-storey high projections. Indulge your senses with the sights, sounds and smells of First Nations culture as over 650 artworks from 110 artists swirls around you. The LUME changes its exhibits every few months, so there’s always a new immersive experience to enjoy.
5. The Australian Sports Museum
Get a taste of Victoria through the lens of sporting greats at the Australian Sports Museum. Head to Gate Three of the hallowed Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and immerse yourself in the history of Australian sport with interactive exhibits and a huge collection of elite sporting memorabilia. Try your shot at professional sports in the Game On! section, where you can kick a football, play a round of cricket and much more.
6. Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia
The home of Australian art – The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia – houses more local art on permanent display than any other gallery in the world. Expect to see spectacular collections of Australian Indigenous and non-Indigenous art from the colonial period through to modern times, as well as roving special exhibits and events providing a fresh take on Australian art and culture.
7. Luna Park Melbourne
110 years of colourful carnival fun awaits at Luna Park in seaside urban hub, St Kilda. Ride the Great Scenic Railway for sparkling views of Port Phillip Bay, take a seat on the heritage carousel and marvel at the 6,000 lights adorning the park or test your skills on the dodgem cars.
Get your thrills at Luna Park, then cool off with a dip at nearby St Kilda beach or with a swim in the indoor saltwater swimming pool at St Kilda Sea Baths.
8. Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre
Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre tells the story of survival against the odds and celebrates vibrant First People culture through performances, storytelling, artwork and a range of creative mediums. The centre presents the Koorie experience with power, depth and respect in its permanent exhibition which was created with local Indigenous people, while further displays include the Milari Garden and Kalaya performance space.
9. Chadstone – The Fashion Capital
Jump on a free shuttle bus in the heart of the city and head east to the southern hemisphere’s biggest shopping hub, Chadstone – The Fashion Capital. Browse more than 500 stores which house more than 100 Australian brands and more than 40 luxury ones.
After a more intimate experience? Melbourne is home to a plethora of boutiques operated by local designers and artisans, scattered through laneways and inner-city shopping precincts throughout Melbourne.
10. Queen Victoria Market
Soak up the vibrant, multicultural atmosphere at Queen Victoria Market, which is home to a collection of wares from independent makers, creators, designers and artists, as well as an abundance of fresh produce, souvenirs, clothing and handmade/unique products.
While you’re there, join a two-hour foodie walking tour and sample delicious produce while learning about unique ingredients and insider cooking tips. In summer, enjoy the festival atmosphere at summer market events with live music and specialty pop ups.
For more details, log on to www.visitmelbourne.com.
