Melbourne is a buzzing cosmopolitan city that still exudes the charm of a close-knit community. As a city that is know to experience “four seasons in one day”, it is always a wise idea to have a selection of indoor and outdoor activities on your list of things to do in Melbourne at night.
Victoria’s state capital is full of fun and interesting activities and attractions. You’ll certainly be spoiled for choice when making plans for a night out.
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1 – Focus your sights on the city from the Melbourne Skydeck
See the city from above, and experience the sparkling city lights on a visit to the Melbourne Skydeck at night. With a height of almost 300 meters, the Skydeck is the southern hemisphere’s highest observation deck and is open daily until 9:30 PM in the summer months and 8:30 PM during the winter.
This attraction is a popular spot for romantic proposals and offers dining experiences, virtual reality and 6-D theatre activities and an observation deck bar.
Read more: Best Tourist Attractions in Melbourne
2 – Surround yourself with culture at National Gallery of Victoria’s NGV Friday Nights
This National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) encompasses two buildings and is the oldest and most visited gallery in Australia. A recent addition to the NGV is the The Fox, the new home for NGV’s contemporary art and design works. NGV Friday Nights are a gallery highlight.
These sell-out evening events combine music, dining and the works of featured artists. With over 76,000 works on display, the gallery is a veritable cultural treasure chest.
3 – Appreciate the glow of a candlelight concert
Candlelight concerts take place in more than 100 cities worldwide. In Melbourne, you can enjoy modern and classical favourites at diverse venues including Sea Life Aquarium, the Athenaeum Theater, Fitzroy Town Hall, and Collingwood Town Hall.
If you choose an evening of Tchaikovsky, you will also be treated to a ballet performance – it is definitely one of the best things to do in Melbourne.
4 – Attend a sports event at the magnificent Marvel Stadium
Having hosted over 42 million fans since its opening in 2000, Marvel Stadium has seen some of the world’s biggest entertainment stars and sporting events staged there.
This technologically advanced stadium has variable seating configuration, a retractable roof to accommodate most weather conditions and a special stadium sensory room to be as inclusive as possible to those with sensory sensitivities.
5 – Sample the produce at The Night Market at Queen Victoria Market
The Queen Victoria Market has been serving Melbourne residents with fresh produce and other wares for over 140 years. The market stretches over a city block and can be enjoyed five days a week. Queen Victoria Market tours are led by local Market guides and ensure you discover the best produce while learning about the market’s history.
The Night Market is hosted on Wednesdays from mid-April to mid-May adding, for a short while, another fun thing to do at night in Melbourne.
6 – Show yourself a good time at Palais Theatre
The classically restored Palais Theatre is the home of Melbourne’s Live Theatre. Since its inception in 1914, the venue has operated as a dance hall, cinema, ballet stage and live entertainment venue.
Today, the theatre hosts top local and international artists and offers a premium lounge and Winter Garden experience for patrons looking to add an extra layer of pizazz to their night out.
7 – Take a chance at Crown Melbourne Casino
If you enjoy a game of chance, or consider yourself lucky, you can head to the Crown Melbourne where the hotel and spa, restaurants, and casino offer a world-class entertainment and dining experience.
The venue offers an array of gaming and entertainment activities and the casino operates 24 hours a day with the exception of Christmas Day, Good Friday and ANZAC Day when they close from 4 AM to 12 PM.
8 – Admire the grace and precision of The Australian Ballet
The Australian Ballet is the country’s national ballet company and has exisited since 1962. Each year, the talented dancers entertain audiences throughout the country with their bold, athletic and graceful style.
The company are based in Melbourne where their premises also accommodate the Australian Ballet School. In the city, you can attend one of the season’s performances at venues such as Arts Centre Melbourne and the State Theatre.
In 2024, performances will take place at the Regent Theater while the State Theater undergoes renovations.
9 – All aboard for an indulgent dinner cruise
Set sail on a dinner cruise along Melbourne’s picturesque Yarra River. Indulging in delicious cuisine while enjoying stunning views of the city skyline and iconic landmarks, creating a romantic and unforgettable dining experience under the stars.
On a 3-hour cruise, you will see the city light up as you cruise past attractions like the Royal Botanic Gardens and Federation Square.
10 – Engage your sense with the sublimne strains of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra
Whether you are new to the joy of classical music, or a seasoned aficionado, be enchanted by the melodic performances of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO). The MSO is Australia’s preeminent orchestra and one of Victoria’s cultural cornerstones.
With performances at the prestigious Hamer Hall, the symphony’s rich sound reverberates through the elegant auditorium, captivating audiences with each note.
11 – Attend an historic theater performance
Immerse yourself in history and culture with a visit to Melbourne’s historic theaters like Her Majesty’s Theatre which dates back to the 1880’s.
The lavish Regent Theatre, the iconic Princess Theatre, and The Forum, where the ornate interiors and grand stages transport you to another era of theatrical splendor are all among the earliest sites of stage entertainment that still endure today.
12 – Visit the vibrant Docklands
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Docklands at night, where the glittering lights of the city reflect off the tranquil waters, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for dining and leisurely strolls along the promenade.
This inner-city entertainment district offers over 30 dining options, 15 unique experiences and a variety of international brand shopping. The district is pet friendly, has undercover walkways for all weather conditions, and hosts an artisanal Sunday Makers Market.
13 – Reach great heights with a gourmet dinner in the sky
Elevate your dining experience with dinner in the sky, where you’ll enjoy gourmet cuisine suspended high above the city, offering breath-taking views of Melbourne’s skyline and landmarks as you dine in the clouds.
You and your party of diners will be spoiled with an unforgettable dining experience up to 50 meters in the air.
14 – Game night vibes at Melbourne Cricket Ground
Experience the thrill of Melbourne Cricket Ground with guided tours that take you behind the scenes of Australia’s most iconic sporting venue, showcasing its rich history and legendary moments, including access to exclusive areas and interactive exhibits.
While on tour you’ll experience panoramic views of Melbourne’s skyline from the fourth level of the Ponsford Stand.
15 – Evoke a sense of nostalgia at The Astor and The Lido Historic cinemas
Step back in time at historic cinemas like The Astor Theatre and The Lido, where the vintage décor and evokes a sense of nostalgia and cinematic charm, transporting you to the golden age of cinema.
There is nothing dates about the cinematic experience, however, with state-of-the-art projection and sound systems providing patrons with an excellent viewing experience.
16 – Re-energize and relax at Melbourne’s best rooftop bars
Take in panoramic views of Melbourne’s skyline from the city’s best rooftop bars. Rooftop Bar at Curtin House is especially popular on warm and sunny days and Lui Bar at Rialto Towers combine innovation and luxury with sweeping Phillip Bay and city views.
The Eureka Skydeck 88 is located on the Melbourne Skydeck, while Her Rooftop serves cocktail-centric drinks and tasty Thai cuisine. Sip on cocktails under the stars in venues with an unforgettable ambiance perched high above the bustling streets below.
17 – Immerse yourself in the distinctive ambience of Chinatown
Chinatown, Melbourne is the western world’s longest continuous Chinese settlement, dating back to the 1850s.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and flavors of Chinatown, where bustling streets such as Little Bourke Street, Lonsdale Street and the alleys between the two come alive with the sights, sounds, and aromas of traditional Asian cuisine and vibrant market stalls.
18 – Be enchanted by Degraves Street
Wander through Degraves Street, a bustling laneway filled with charming cafes, restaurants, and boutiques.
The street epitomises the essence of Melbourne with its eclectic dining and shopping scene, with colorful street art adorning the walls, and busking violinists and saxophonists adding to the ambience.
19 – Paddle off into the sunset: Yarra River kayaking with dinner
Experience the beauty of Melbourne’s skyline at sunset with a kayaking adventure along the Yarra River.
Once you are done paddling along the waterway, you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner served on the water’s edge as the city lights begin to twinkle against the dusky sky.
20 – Shop in style at The Block Arcade
Step into the elegant surroundings of The Block Arcade, a historic shopping arcade featuring ornate architecture and boutique shops. Stores sell everything from fashion to gourmet treats, where every corner exudes old-world charm and sophistication.
The arcade is home to well-known The Tea Rooms 1892 and you can join a guided walking tour that takes you back to the early days of colonial Australia and the city’s rich history.
21 – Awaken your wild side and overnight at the Melbourne Zoo
Spend a night surrounded by wildlife when you overnight at the Melbourne Zoo. Here you can enjoy exclusive after-hours access to exhibits, guided tours, and overnight accommodations in safari-style tents.
Before or after your night among the animals, you can visit the exhibits or one of the specific animal experiences with some of Australia and the rest of the world’s diverse creatures.
22 – Fun times await at Melbourne’s arcade bars
Immerse yourself in the nostalgic atmosphere of arcade bars like Archie Brothers, a cirque electriq that combines arcade fun with a kaleidoscope of cocktails. Bartronica has a more bar-like vibe with pinball machines, consoles and arcade games livening up the venue.
B. Lucky & Sons Melbourne Central in the heart of the CBD is the newest of Melbourne’s arcade bars, and The Funderdome offers retro and new school arcades, karaoke rooms, table games and diner food.
23 – Let off steam at The Smash Room
Release your stress and pent-up energy at The Smash Room, a venue with an 80’s retro-neon feel, where you can safely smash objects to your heart’s content in a controlled environment.
This cathartic and exhilarating way to blow off steam in a room of your choice can be followed up with a game of UV table tennis and is great fun for couples and groups.
24 – Get “rich” quick at Monopoly Dreams Melbourne
Embark on a journey through the world of Monopoly at Monopoly Dreams Melbourne, an interactive attraction where you can experience the iconic board game come to life, with life-sized game boards and immersive challenges around every corner.
This multi-sensory, 4D experience drops you into the fast paced world of Mr Monopoly. Visit his mansion, enter the iconic Monopoly jail and shop for merchandise you won’t find anywhere else.
25 – Play it cool at O’Brien Icehouse
Glide across the ice at O’Brien Icehouse, Melbourne’s premier ice skating rink. The venue offers public skating sessions, figure skating lessons, and ice hockey games on their two rinks, providing a cool and exhilarating escape from the summer heat.
Even if you have never skated before the friendly staff are ready to get you skating safely.
26 – Let your imagination run wild with a movie experience under the stars at Melbourne outdoor cinemas
Experience the magic of outdoor cinemas at locations like Moonlight Cinema Melbourne where, in the summer months, you can watch a movie on the big screen on the lawns of Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne.
A premium experience will get you a comfortable bean bed and decadent ice-cream. Lido on the Roof shows the latest releases on their roof screens and movies are also occasionally screened in the square at Federation Square, where you can enjoy blockbuster films under the stars, surrounded by the buzz of the city.
27 – Sharpen your aim with darts in the city
Sharpen your aim and compete with friends at darts bars like Ballers Clubhouse and Oche, where you can enjoy a lively atmosphere and friendly competition, with state-of-the-art dartboards and delicious drinks to keep you fuelled.
The experience at Oche can be described as gastro-gaming while Ballers Clubhouse is an experiential venue that offers multiple adult-focused games like darts, table tennis, shuffle board and a fun adult ball pit.
28 – Delight your tastebuds with a fine dining restaurant reservation
Treat yourself to an unforgettable dining experience at Melbourne’s fine dining restaurants. Vue de monde, presents an impeccable experiential dining experience from the 55th floor of the Rialto Building.
Attica draws its inspiration from Australia itself with Grossi Florentino highlighting Italian gastronomy. Maha Restaurant, is a Middle Eastern taste sensation and bistro classics are cooked by master chef Phillipe Mouchel at Philippe.
29 – Give yourself goosebumps on a ghost tour
Explore Melbourne’s haunted history with ghost tours that take you to spooky sites and share chilling tales of paranormal activity throughout the city.
These walking tours visit some of the city’s most notorious spots and you guide will regale you with spine-tingling tales into the supernatural and unknown.
30 – Shop ’til you drop at Myer Melbourne
Myer Melbourne is a premier department store whose first store launched in Bendigo in 1900. The merchandiser has a range of offerings including fashion, beauty, and homeware brands.
You can wander through this large department store located in the heart of the city and indulge in a luxurious shopping experience complete with personal stylists and exclusive designer collections.
31 – Dive into an alternate reality at Fortress Melbourne
Immerse yourself in the world of gaming at Fortress Melbourne, a state-of-the-art esports and gaming entertainment venue.
This gaming paradise features cutting-edge technology and immersive experiences, where gamers of all levels can come together to play, compete, and connect. Multiple bars and a fantasy-themed tavern and eatery add to the fun at Fortress.
32 – Discover the Old Melbourne Gaol on a spooky tour
Step into the past with a visit to Old Melbourne Gaol, where you can take ghost tours and explore the site of infamous historical events, including the execution of Australia’s most notorious criminals, offering a chilling glimpse into Melbourne’s dark and intriguing past.
Old Melbourne Gaol ghosts tours are one of the more unusual fun things to do in Melbourne at night.
33 – Cool off at IceBar Melbourne
Chill out at IceBar Melbourne, literally the city’s coolest spot. Everything from the walls to the glasses are made of ice, creating a unique and frosty drinking experience that transports you to a winter wonderland in the heart of the city.
This unique activity is a great experience for people of all ages!
34 – Putt it there at Holey Moley Mini Golf
Putt your way through themed courses at Holey Moley Mini Golf, where you can enjoy a round of golf with a twist in a funky and fun environment, complete with quirky obstacles and Instagram-worthy backdrops.
Located in the Melbourne CBD’s famous laneways, this mini golf course and bar also entertains with a funky karaoke room in the downstairs area.
35 – Let your star shine at a Melbourne karaoke bar
Belt out your favorite tunes in an open mic venue or a private room at one of the several karaoke venues in Melbourne.
At karaoke bars like Kbox Karaoke offer private karaoke rooms perfect for a few duets or a private party as does Ocean 12 Entertainment with its upgraded entertainment system and luxurious private rooms.
At Heroes Bar you can choose between slipping into a private karaoke room or hopping onstage and entertaining the audience.
36 – Witness Impossible Occurrences, Melbourne’s Exclusive Magic Show
Be amazed by Impossible Occurrences, Melbourne’s exclusive magic show featuring mind-bending illusions and sleight of hand tricks that will leave you spellbound.
The show is an intimate and immersive live experience with Luke Hocking, one of Australia’s most talented magicians.
The show is set in lavish surrounds at the Marriot Hotel, and you can also book a dinner and show package.
37 – Have a laugh at side-splitting comedy clubs
One of the most fun things to do in Melbourne at night has to be a visit to a comedy club. Whether you are watching enthusiastic amateurs, hilarious local or international acts at venues The Comic’s Lounge or Comedy Theatre laughter is all but guaranteed.
During the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, you can enjoy stand-up performances by top comedians from around the world, promising you a night of side-splitting laughter and good vibes.
38 – Embrace your inner child at Luna Park Melbourne
Rediscover your inner child at Luna Park Melbourne, an iconic amusement park offering thrilling rides, carnival games, and family-friendly entertainment along St Kilda’s foreshore.
At this historic and enduring theme park and entertainment zone, nostalgic charm and a vibrant atmosphere create memories that last a lifetime.
You can opt for a park entry ticket and pay for rides individually, or go for a ticket that permits entry and unlimited rides.
39 – Reveal your inner tough-guy with axe throwing
Unleash your inner lumberjack or viking at axe throwing venues like MANIAX Axe Throwing and Lumber Punks Axe Throwing Melbourne, where you can learn to throw axes like a pro in a safe and controlled environment.
Maniax is considered one of Australia’s best axe throwing venues and Lumber Punks is a fun locale for individual, small and large group experiences. Expert instructors and adrenaline-pumping challenges will keep you captivated.
40 – Take a stroll along Southbank Promenade
Stroll along Southbank Promenade, a bustling waterfront precinct dotted with restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues.
The promenade boasts stunning views of the Yarra River and city skyline, where the lively atmosphere and scenic vistas combine to create the perfect setting for a night out on the town.
41 – Exit the High Street to Melbourne Laneways bars
Explore Melbourne’s vibrant laneway bars, such as the below-ground Beneath Driver Lane for a speakeasy vibe with live Blues music, the 1920’s styled Eau de Vie for craft cocktails, Lily Blacks for the cocktail afficionado, and Her Bar for the warm European-inspired atmosphere.
Dive into these hidden Melbourne gems and experience the city’s unique bar scene.
42 – Drop a few pins bowling in Melbourne
Strike up some fun at Melbourne’s premier bowling alleys like Strike Bowling, Kingpin Crown, or The Keys.
Not all bowling alleys are just bowling alleys and you might find other activities like lazer tag, karaoke and escape rooms at some of the larger arcade locations.
Whether you’re a casual bowler or a competitive player, these venues offer a lively atmosphere perfect for a night out with friends.
43 – Zoom to the finish line at indoor karting
Get your adrenaline pumping with indoor karting at Auscarts Racing or Karting Madness. At Auscarts you can race the exhilarating 450 meter track with 12 bends.
At Karting Madness you’ll find Australia’s largest indoor karting center with a 600 meter standard track, state of the art racing simulators, a gaming arcade, golf simulator and other amusements.
Race against friends or challenge yourself to beat the track record for an exhilarating night of speed.
44 – Spend a night at the muesum with Nocturnal | Museum After Dark at Melbourne Museum
Experience Melbourne Museum like never before with Nocturnal, a series of after-dark events featuring live music, DJs, and exclusive access to exhibitions.
These adults-only experiences are themed and hosted by imminent experts, providing the chance to immerse yourself in culture and entertainment at this unique night-time experience.
45 – Boogie the night away at Melbourne’s best nightclubs
Dance the night away at Melbourne’s best nightclubs, including The Carlton Club, a lively and inclusive nightclub, the posh Curtin House and other popular hotspots.
Explore the city’s dynamic nightlife scene and discover new beats and vibes at every turn. The Night Cat is a Fitzroy institution with a diverse line-up and boudoir vibe.
The Sub-Club basement nightclub caters to the techno and left-field electro crown and New Guernica with its well-known disco ball entertains with weekly raves and special events.
46 – Surround yourself with the Masters at THE LUME Melbourne
Immerse yourself in art and technology at THE LUME Melbourne, an immersive digital art gallery showcasing stunning light projections and interactive exhibits.
This expansive 3000 square meter space surrounds visitors in a way that must be seen to be truly appreciated.
These profound and multi-sensory encounters are both playful and enlightening and literally position art in a new light. Lose yourself in a world of creativity and innovation at this one-of-a-kind attraction.
47 – Make a break for it at a Melbourne escape room
Test your wits and teamwork skills with an challenging adventure at one of the escape rooms in Melbourne, Adventure Rooms Melbourne, have standard escape room experiences as well as Duel Adventures where teams compete against one another.
Escape Room Melbourne is the original escape room location and has rooms designed by two expert puzzle-makers.
At Escape Hunt Melbourne you can solve puzzles, unravel mysteries, and escape before time runs at the venue or with an online challenge in the comfort of your home. Escape rooms provide participants with an unforgettable night of fun.
48 – Defy gravity at indoor skydiving
Feel the thrill of indoor skydiving at iFLY Melbourne, where you can experience the sensation of freefalling in a safe and controlled environment.
Take flight and defy gravity for an exhilarating night of airborne excitement. With a full safety briefing and expert instructors, this fun thing to do in Melbourne at night or during the day is perfect for adventurers of all ages.
49 – Indulge in some retail therapy at Chadstone Shopping Centre
Shop ’til you drop at Chadstone Shopping Centre, Australia’s largest shopping mall. The center offers a wide range of luxury brands, boutique stores, and dining options.
You can spend an evening indulging in retail therapy and exploring the latest fashion trends or spend time enjoying a meal and some entertainment in The Social Quarter.
50 – VR in Melbourne
Step into a virtual world at Virtual Room Melbourne, where you can embark on immersive multiplayer adventures with friends.
Experience the latest in virtual reality technology as an escape room concept merges with a virtually immersive experience for an unforgettable night of gaming and excitement.
VR experiences in Melbourne utilise high quality equipment and state of the art technology to prevent motion sickness and deliver a mind-lowing adventure suitable for families, friends, groups and couples.
51 – Reach dizzying heights at indoor rock climbing
Set your fear of heights aside and step up and onto the climbing walls at indoor rock climbing experiences at Hardrock Climbing, Northside Boulders, or Bayside Rock.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, these indoor gyms offer challenging routes and a thrilling workout.
52 – Craft a beer tasting session to remember
Sample the best of Melbourne’s craft beer scene at one or more of the city’s local breweries.
Discover unique brews and flavors while soaking in the city’s laid-back brewery atmosphere with beer tastings in Melbourne. Moon Dog World crafts beers and seltzers and has been growing since 2010.
Stomping Ground Brewing Co. celebrates the city with their lagers, ales, shandy’s and zero alcohol drinks. Welcome To Thornbury is located in the northern parts of the city and is a reimagined space, originally a car manufacturing factory, now a beer garden, bar and event space.
53 – Get rocking at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl
Enjoy a night of live music under the stars at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl. This beloved outdoor venue hosts concerts and events year-round.
Pack a picnic, gather your friends, and unwind to the sounds of local and international artists.
54 – Explore the city night scene on a characterful pub crawls
If you can’t decide between wine, beer or cocktails, embark on a pub crawl adventure through Melbourne’s eclectic neighborhoods.
From the bustling CBD to the trendy suburbs there are hidden gems, small joints off the beaten path, popping clubs and trendy drinking dens. Sample tasty local or premier drinks and soak up the city’s vibrant nightlife culture.
55 – Attend a cabaret or burlesque performance at The Butterfly Club
Delight in cabaret and burlesque performances at The Butterfly Club, a cozy venue showcasing talented artists and captivating shows.
With over 1200 performances annually, the club is the perfect launchpad for new and exciting shows and performers. Experience the glamour and allure of Melbourne’s thriving performing arts scene at this intimate theater.
For a fun night in Melbourne, consider supporting local talent with a show and drinks in the heart of the city.
Final thoughts
As the sun sets over Melbourne, the city truly comes alive with exciting activities and experiences waiting to be discovered.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or simply a memorable night out with friends, Melbourne offers something for everyone after dark.
From dining cruises on the Yarra River to thrilling arcade bars and immersive theater performances, the options of things to do in Melbourne at night are endless.