Whether you're in the city for business or pleasure, there are a number of places you can visit that will make your trip to Melbourne a memorable experience. Whether you want to see the beaches or enjoy a night on the town, there are many options to choose from.
St Kilda Pier
Located on the Port Phillip Bay, St Kilda Pier is one of the most popular destinations in Melbourne. This pier offers a panoramic view of the city's skyline and is a perfect place to see the sunset. There are also many events held at the pier, including outdoor cinemas, performances and dances.
While at the pier, make sure to stop by the Pier Kiosk. This kiosk is the oldest in St Kilda and has been open since 1904. Here, you can enjoy fish and chips, milkshakes and ice cream. There is also a playground nearby.
If you are interested in seeing penguins, there is a viewing area near the pier. These animals are found on the breakwater, so you can expect to see them if you visit at the right time. This is particularly common during the summer months.
If you would like to learn more about the penguins and other native species, there are Keepers' Talks. These are held by people who are passionate about caring for these creatures.
You can also find a variety of seafood brunch restaurants in St Kilda. Claypots Café is one of the busiest places to eat here. They offer a wide range of dishes, from Vietnamese cuisine to flat noodles. They also have a cocktail bar.
Royal Botanic Gardens
Located near the Yarra River, the Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne offer a variety of attractions. These include a stunning garden, an ornamental lake, pathways, and outdoor pavilions. The garden is also home to a number of walking tours. Each tour focuses on a different theme. These walks incorporate themes of land, spirit, connection, and natural wonders.
The Aboriginal Heritage Walk is a unique cultural experience. It takes visitors to the ancestral lands of the Koolin tribe. The walk is led by a member of the indigenous community. They explain the history and culture of the area and how plants are used as food and medicine. The tour also includes a smoking ceremony.
The Melbourne Museum is a great place to learn about the city's cultural history. The museum features a range of exhibits, including Phar Lap, a life-size dinosaur exhibit. There is also a cafe and an IMAX theatre. The museum is a short tram ride from the CBD.
The Cranbourne division of the Royal Botanic Gardens focuses on native Australian flora. It also features a hop-on, hop-off open-air bus tour.
The Royal Domain Cafe offers an extensive menu, including fresh salads, sandwiches, and smoothies. The cafe has outdoor seating as well as indoor seats.
Old Melbourne Gaol
Originally built in the mid-1800s, the Old Melbourne Gaol has been converted into a museum. It's a must-see tourist attraction. It's filled with memorabilia from the era, and teaches visitors about the gruesome criminal justice system of the past.
The three story museum features a bizarre collection of death masks, prisoner letters, and personal effects. It also tells the stories of some of the most famous bushrangers of Australia.
Visitors can get a glimpse of Ned Kelly's death mask. Ned Kelly was a notorious Australian bushranger who was hanged in Old Melbourne Gaol in November 1880.
The gallows used for hangings were constructed in multiple parts, and scientists would examine each death mask to determine who was guilty. A mock trial allows you to witness a reenactment of the time when Kelly was sentenced to death.
The Old Melbourne Gaol's Crime & Justice Experience is a must-see attraction. You'll learn about the exploits of some of the most infamous criminals of the 19th century, as well as the conditions prisoners endured.
The former City Watch House is another must-see at the Old Melbourne Gaol. The watchhouse is now closed, but it was once home to vicious gangster Squizzy Taylor.
Queen Victoria Markets
Whether you are a foodie or a history buff, Queen Victoria Markets are a must-visit destination in Melbourne. As the largest open air market in the southern hemisphere, this is the place to find fresh produce, specialty delicacies, handicrafts, and live entertainment.
The main market is located on a two-block area that bounds Victoria Street and Queen Street. The original buildings have remained largely intact.
The market is known for its many food halls. You can find all of the staples, such as bread and pizza, as well as more exotic fare, such as paella and kebabs. You can also find specialty shops selling kangaroo biltong, fresh pasta, and cheese.
There are hundreds of stalls. You can find anything from local cheeses to ornate carvings. It is also known for its architecture. The best part is, you can visit during the day to take in the sights.
The market also offers a variety of artisan wares, such as handmade jewelry, clothing, and homewares. There is also an organic produce section.
If you are looking to learn about the market's history, you may want to take a guided tour. For only $40, you can have a guide explain the market's history and how local foods are used.
National Gallery of Victoria
Founded in 1861, the National Gallery of Victoria is Australia's oldest art gallery and one of the country's most visited museums. Its collection includes works by some of the greatest artists in the world. The collection features over 70,000 works of art. Its exhibitions feature contemporary pieces, photographs, paintings, and sculptures. It has two locations, one in the city centre and the other in Federation Square.
In addition to its impressive permanent collection, the NGV has a diverse program of talks and tours. These include "Keepers' Talks," where visitors can learn about native species. It also hosts blockbuster exhibitions. Its extensive collection of artwork spans thousands of years, from a treasure from ancient Egypt to a painting by Rembrandt. The collection is also very diverse, from European and British paintings to decorative arts from Asia and Africa.
The NGV also has a good selection of Asian, Aboriginal, and western art. It has an open, airy atmosphere. There are even some sections devoted to contemporary and Central/South American art.
The NGV also offers a wide range of dining options. There are light meals in the cafe, but there are also dining options for more upscale food. The NGV has wheelchair access and on-site parking.
Adelaide Hotel Pool
Whether you're looking to stay in a hotel that offers a pool or you're looking for something fun and unique, you'll find that Adelaide has plenty to offer. You can visit some of Australia's most famous wine regions, try some local brews, or get a taste of the country's culture.
The good news is that the city is very affordable. You can choose from a range of accommodation options, from high-end luxury hotels to budget capsules.
The Adelaide Marriott Hotel is one of the city's best places to stay. This luxurious hotel features 1920s European style, and includes opulent marble bathrooms. It also has a sixth-floor restaurant and a gym. The rooms feature modern amenities like 55-inch smart televisions, and a mini-bar.
The Soho Hotel in Adelaide has a rooftop heated pool, and the Soho Spa has an array of treatments using only 100% Australian-made organic products. The hotel's Luma Restaurant has a gourmet dinner menu and Art Nouveau surroundings.
You can also visit the nearby West Beach, which is home to a lagoon swimming pool, cabins and barbecue facilities. You can enjoy a bit of kitesurfing, or take a stroll along the quiet shoreline.
You can even find all-inclusive hotels in Adelaide. Most of these hotels include swimming pools and other onsite activities. These are perfect for romantic trips, family vacations, or business trips. The best ones are located near popular attractions, and many of them offer onsite bars.
Dandenong Ranges
Located about an hour from Melbourne, the Dandenong Ranges are a scenic, rainforest getaway. The ranges rise to a height of 633 meters above sea level. They are surrounded by ash forests and rolling waterfalls. The area is also home to a variety of native animals and birds.
The Dandenongs offer a wide variety of accommodation options. From bed and breakfasts to actual homes, the region has a lot to offer.
The area has numerous walks and hiking trails. A popular hiking trail is the La La Falls trail, which winds through dense forests near Warburton. The trail is a moderate 3.2-kilometer round-trip hike. The trail is popular with nature lovers and families.
If you are looking for a more active experience, try the 1000 Steps walk, which is part of the Kokoda Track Memorial Walk. The hike is a three-kilometre walk that winds through lush fern gullies and the forest. This is a popular trail for fitness junkies.
Other attractions include the Puffing Billy train. This steam train is the best preserved in the world. It runs every day, except Christmas. The train makes intermediate stops at Emerald and Menzies Creek. The upper platform offers panoramic views of the natural landscapes.
