If you’re looking for things to do in Melbourne this weekend, then you’ve come to the right place, because is one of the best cities in Australia for interesting things to do. Between the Melbourne Zoo, interactive museums, wildlife parks, and a variety of exhilarating helicopter flights, this cultural capital has something for you this weekend (and especially your kids during these school holidays).
Some of the most fun things to do in Melbourne are:
- Take a Scenic Helicopter Ride Over Melbourne
- Visit Art Galleries
- Explore the Melbourne Museum
- Take a Helicopter Brewery Tour
- Check Out St Kilda Beach
- Take a Yarra Valley Winery Tour
- Visit the Ian Potter Centre
- Explore Melbourne’s CBD
- Discover the City’s Hidden Laneways and Arcades
- A Fine Dining Experience at the Jack Rabbit Restaurant
- Check Out the Werribee Open Range Zoo
- Visit the Model Tudor Village
- Relax at the Peninsula Hot Springs Via Helicopter
- Taste Everything That Food Trucks Have to Offer
- Have a Coffee at One of the City’s Cafes
- Visit the Historic Abbotsford Convent
- Get Back to Nature in the Royal Botanic Gardens
- Dance Until Dawn at the Toff in Town
- Go On a Wildlife Experience
- Climb Eureka Tower
1. Take a Scenic Helicopter Ride Over Melbourne
If you want to see all of Melbourne in less than 30 minutes, and love a bit of fun and excitement, then you should experience Melbourne by helicopter.
A scenic helicopter ride over Melbourne is the perfect way to experience all of the city's iconic landmarks, such as the Yarra River, Federation Square, and the Melbourne Cricket Ground, among many others.
It's a quick scenic flight, but it makes for a perfect way to spend some time with your loved ones, and it's a great way to celebrate a special occasion too.
Moreover, if you're looking to experience the city of Melbourne from a new perspective, from a bird's eye you that allows you to take some of the best photos of all, then a scenic helicopter ride over Melbourne is certainly the way to go.
These tours typically last between 20 and 30 minutes, making it a perfect afternoon adventure.
2. Visit Art Galleries
The city of Melbourne is also a fantastic place to be if you love art, with visiting a variety of art galleries certainly being something to do this weekend in Melbourne.
This city has a very diverse art scene, with many classic and contemporary collections.
For instance, the National Gallery of Victoria features an extensive collection of art, mainly European masterpieces, contemporary Australian art, and Asian artifacts.
However, if you're more interested in contemporary art, the Australian Centre for contemporary art is another great place to be.
There are plenty of other galleries as well, such as fortyfivedownstairs and Flinders Lane Gallery, Each offering a unique collection of historic and contemporary art pieces.
Many of these locations also feature special events and exhibitions, particularly on weekends.
3. Explore the Melbourne Museum
As far as one of the city's top attractions is concerned, the Melbourne Museum is always a place to be.
Found in the Carlton gardens, this award-winning museum is the number one the largest in all of the southern hemisphere, and it has many different exhibits that cover everything from science and indigenous cultures to Natural History and much more.
One of the biggest attractions of this museum is the Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre, which details the culture and history of the Aboriginal people of Victoria.
Between the living forest gallery, gigantic dinosaur skeletons, and a children's gallery, the Melbourne Museum is a great place to be to have a bit of fun and to learn something at the same time.
4. Take a Helicopter Brewery Tour
Going back to something a little more exciting, maybe something you'd like to do is drink a bit of beer and experience some of the best craft beers that the area has to offer.
If this sounds like you, then taking a private helicopter tour to the iconic St. Andrews Beach Brewery on the Mornington Peninsula is the way to go.
This particular helicopter brewery tour departs from Essendon airport, and features a 35 minute private flight each way to and from the brewery.
Once you arrive, you'll get to enjoy one of the most comprehensive beer tastings in the area, combined with a special lunch platter, for a total of two hours of ground time.
Taking a helicopter tour to this brewery is a great way to have a relaxing weekend while also working a bit of thrill and excitement into the mix.
Sometimes there's just nothing like riding at breakneck speeds and helicopter at over one thousand feet over the ground, while viewing some of the most diverse landscapes that Australia has to offer.
5. Check Out St Kilda Beach
As far as iconic seaside destinations in Melbourne are concerned, St Kilda beach is absolutely one of the best. It features sandy shores, relaxed atmosphere, and a vibrant nightlife.
If you visit St. Kilda beach, you'll get to go sunbathing, swimming, wind surfing, and play some beach volleyball too.
The Saint Kilda Pier is a historic landmark that provides you with fantastic views of the Melbourne city skyline and the surrounding area.
On the weekend, the Esplanade market comes to life with a variety of local artisans that sell unique crafts, souvenirs, and jewelry.
There are also plenty of waterfront cafes and restaurants, many of which are famous for their pastries and delicious cakes. Don't forget that there are also plenty of nightclubs in the area that come to life once the sun goes down.
6. Take a Yarra Valley Winery Tour
Absolutely one of the best things to do in Melbourne this weekend is to take a Yarra Valley winery tour. Of course, you could drive there from Melbourne, but that's going to take some time. A lot faster is if you travel to Yarra Valley wineries via helicopter.
With a Yarra Valley winery helicopter tour, you depart from the Essendon airport and take a scenic ride over some of the area’s most pristine landmarks as you take aerial photographs from a vantage point that you've never seen before.
Just some of the helicopter winery tours offered include Hubert Estate, decadent Levantine Hill, and the Italian-inspired Zonzo Estate. Your helicopter tour will be accompanied by a wine tasting and some of the most gourmet food of the area.
Not only will you get to enjoy some fine wine and food, but you'll also get to learn about the wine making process, meet local vintners, and take a look at some of the most beautiful vineyards that Australia has to offer.
7. Visit the Ian Potter Centre
Speaking of Federation Square, the Ian Potter Centre is technically a huge part of the National Gallery of Victoria, the section that is dedicated to Australian art.
Yes, we know that we already mentioned at the National Gallery of Victoria, but this Ian Potter Centre on its own is worth mentioning as it features one of the most diverse and comprehensive collections of works ranging from indigenous and colonial art to contemporary pieces by modern Australian artists.
If you're looking to experience Australian art at its finest, then this is absolutely the place to be.
8. Explore Melbourne’s CBD
If you’re somebody who likes to be in the middle of it all, then exploring Melbourne's CBD is another great thing to do in Melbourne.
The vibrant urban atmosphere offers a variety of experiences, from hidden laneways and cultural landmarks to fine dining at places like Easey's and Lune Croissanterie, and entertainment options such as the Melbourne Zoo.
Melbourne CBD is filled to the brim with hidden laneways, cultural landmarks, fine dining experiences, food carts, shopping options, and so much more.
While you’re in the Melbourne CBD, don’t forget to visit Federation Square, which is realistically social and cultural heart of the city.
From there, you can then walk down Flinders Street to the Flinders Street Station, one of the most iconic landmarks in the city.
Something that you shouldn’t forget is that the central business district is also home to the world famous Queen Victoria market, which at this time is the largest open air market in the southern hemisphere.
This is where you’ll find a variety of unique souvenirs, gourmet foods, fresh produce, and much more. The fact of the matter is that if you like the hustle and bustle of city life, then exploring Melbourne CBD is right for you.
9. Discover the City’s Hidden Laneways and Arcades
Melbourne is renowned for its vibrant street art scene, and one of the best ways to experience it is by exploring the city’s hidden laneways and arcades. The Royal Arcade is the place to be if you enjoy gaming.
Take a self-guided tour to discover the city’s best-kept secrets, from the iconic Hosier Lane to the lesser-known Degraves Street.
Be sure to snap a photo in front of the famous laneway art, and explore the unique shops and cafes that line these narrow passageways. For a more immersive experience, join a guided street art tour to learn about the artists and their works.
10. A Fine Dining Experience at the Jack Rabbit Restaurant
If you are someone who likes the finer things in life, then something you absolutely have to experience is the Jack Rabbit Restaurant on the Bellarine Peninsula. Sure, you could drive there, but nobody has the time for that.
The much better way to get there is via a private helicopter flight to Jack Rabbit from Melbourne. A private helicopter flight from Melbourne doesn't take very long, yet provides you with stunning photograph opportunities, as well as a great way to see the Yarra River and other surrounding landmarks.
The restaurant itself features a beautiful setting that overlooks the rolling vineyards and the waters of Port Phillip Bay.
It's a great backdrop for a delicious meal. The restaurant is also known for its atmosphere, which is both relaxed yet sophisticated.
The award-winning wines and fine dining available at this prestigious restaurant make for a perfect weekend getaway, and there's just nothing better than getting there via helicopter. Talk about exciting!
11. Check Out the Werribee Open Range Zoo
The Werribee Open Range Zoo is another great thing to do in Melbourne, as it provides you with one of the best wildlife safari experiences in the whole country, and it's just 30 minutes outside of Melbourne.
Unlike normal zoos, here you get an immersive wildlife experience where the animals can roam freely across the landscapes that resemble savannas.
On this safari wildlife tour, you will get to see rhinos, zebras, giraffes, and much more. There are also many unique experiences available at the zoo, such as close encounters with cheetahs, lions, and even gorillas too.
If you're looking to learn a thing or two about animals and Australia's wildlife, as well as exotic animals, but you also want to have a bit of fun, then this is the place to be.
Don't forget that there are also plenty of interacting areas, such as a petting zoo, making it ideal for young children.
12. Visit the Model Tudor Village
Found in the Fitzroy Gardens, the Model Tudor Village is a really charming attraction that provides you with a small glimpse into the quaint architecture that was old England.
This Tudor village was built in the 1940s, and it features numerous meticulously crafted miniature buildings, such as cottages, schools, churches, and other structures from the 15th century that look like a traditional English village.
Interesting to note is that this model Tudor village was actually a gift to Melbourne from London after World War II, symbolising the close friendship between the cities.
If you like learning something about history and stepping back in time, then this is the place to be.
It's really fun to let your imagination run wild here. Moreover, the Fitzroy gardens are also characterised by towering please, flower beds, and manicured lawns, so you can go have a nice picnic after exploring the village.
13. Relaxing at the Peninsula Hot Springs Via Helicopter
Located on the Mornington Peninsula, if you're looking for an award-winning natural hot spring and day spa, then this is it. The Peninsula Hot Springs provide you with the ultimate in rejuvenation and relaxation.
However, nobody wants to spend a whole lot of time driving before a day at the spa, in which case taking a helicopter flight from Melbourne is the way to go.
A helicopter flight from Melbourne to the Peninsula Hot Springs provides you with a fantastic view of the city and the surrounding area, such as the bay and the countryside, before you land directly at the Hot Springs.
Once there, you get to enjoy a variety of thermal bathing experiences, such as hilltop pools that feature panoramic views of the surrounding nature.
There are also plenty of facials, massages, hot spring and spa treatments, and much more. It's a great way to spend a day unwinding, rejuvenating, and escaping the stress that is the city.
Your private helicopter tour comes with three hours of bathing time at the Hot Springs combined with a complimentary lunch.
14. Taste Everything That Food Trucks Have to Offer
If you’re someone who would rather roam around the city and taste some of the best food that the area has to offer, then Melbourne’s vibrant food truck scene is for you. Collins Street is one of the popular spots where you can find a variety of food trucks.
Melbourne features a variety of food trucks, with one of the most popular spots being Welcome to Thornbury, the first permanent food truck park in all of Melbourne, where you’ll find gourmet Mexican tacos, Asian dumplings, burgers, decadent desserts, and much more.
What’s really cool about these food truck parks is that they often have events complete with family friendly activities, craft beer, live music, and more.
There are always new food trucks to experience, new cultures to taste, and new people to meet. It’s a fantastic way to experience the diverse culinary landscape that is Melbourne.
15. Have a Coffee at One of the City’s Cafes
Sticking with the same theme, Melbourne is also renowned for its vibrant coffee culture. The city has dozens, if not hundreds or even thousands of world class cafes, everything from classic coffee houses to trendy lane laneway cafes.
It's all about creativity, community, and quality. The city has many highly trained baristas who are known for their great coffee making skills.
Proud Mary, Industry Beans, and Brother Baba Budan are just some of the most popular coffee shops in the city. What's cool is that many of these cafes also feature live music, art galleries, and other cultural experiences that you get to enjoy along with your cup of coffee.
16. Visit the Historic Abbotsford Convent
Located just a short drive from Melbourne’s CBD, the Abbotsford Convent is a historic site that offers a glimpse into the city’s rich past.
Take a stroll through the beautiful gardens, explore the historic buildings, and visit the Convent Gallery to see works by local artists.
The convent also hosts a range of events and exhibitions throughout the year, from art festivals to farmers’ markets. Be sure to check out the Convent Bakery, which serves up delicious treats and coffee.
17. Get Back to Nature in the Royal Botanic Gardens
The Royal Botanic Gardens is a tranquil oasis in the heart of Melbourne, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens, which feature over 8,500 different species of plants.
Be sure to visit the Ian Potter Foundation Children’s Garden, which offers interactive exhibits and play areas for kids. The gardens also host a range of events and exhibitions throughout the year, from outdoor concerts to botanical art exhibitions.
18. Dance Until Dawn at the Toff in Town
The Toff in Town is one of Melbourne’s most iconic live music venues, hosting a range of local and international acts throughout the year. But it’s not just about the music – the Toff is also a popular spot for dancing the night away.
With its intimate setting and lively atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to let loose and have a good time. Be sure to check out the Toff’s famous rooftop bar, which offers stunning views of the city skyline. Whether you’re a music lover or just looking for a fun night out, the Toff in Town is a must-visit destination in Melbourne.
19. Go On a Wildlife Experience
If you're looking to do something with the whole family, and you happen to be a nature lover, then going on a helicopter wildlife experience to somewhere like the Healesville Sanctuary is something worth considering.
Leaving from Melbourne, you get to go on a short helicopter ride that soars over the various picturesque landscapes of Melbourne and its surrounding area before you land at the sanctuary. Once you land at the sanctuary, you can get up to Australia’s native wildlife up close, with koalas, platypuses, wombats, Kangaroos, and more.
Even better is that this sanctuary also offers variety of interactive experiences such as wildlife shows, the opportunity to meet and feed some of the animals, and professionally guided towards.
Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, if you're looking to learn about the conservation efforts in Australia and you want to connect with nature, then this wildlife helicopter experience via helicopter is right for you.
20. Climb Eureka Tower
If you're looking for the best view of Melbourne possible, then climbing the Eureka Tower is a must. It's located on the South Bank, and it's one of the biggest residential buildings in the whole southern hemisphere.
It provides you with panoramic views of the whole area, with the sky deck on the 88th floor being the highest public observation deck in the southern hemisphere.
It also contains something known as The Edge, a glass cube that extends outward from the building, allowing you to walk on a transparent floor and see down nearly 100 stories. If you're a photography enthusiast, then this is a fantastic place you need to visit.
The Best Way to Explore Melbourne – Via Helicopter!
As far as things to do in Melbourne are concerned, taking a helicopter ride is absolutely the way to go. As you can see from above, there are scenic helicopter rides over the city centre, ones that take you to the countryside for great winery and restaurant tours, wildlife experiences and much more. If you’re looking for the best way to explore Melbourne, then doing so from a birds-eye view is always best!
