Overview
Every city has its secrets. Peel back the layers of Melbourne to discover unique attractions and the most unusual things to do, in the CBD and beyond.
Captain an eco-friendly river boat and cruise down the Yarra, then drop into the Koorie Heritage Trust, to learn about the area's rich and complex Indigenous history. ArtVo is an immersive gallery where visitors are invited to interact with the paintings, adding a new dimension to the works.
Coop's Shot Tower in Melbourne Central is an important part of the city's industrial past. Built in 1889, it was used for production until 1960 and was once one of the tallest buildings in the city. Inside Melbourne's Royal Arcade, mythical giants Gog and Magog mark time, striking the chimes of the arcade's clock with their mechanical hands on the hour, every hour, for the last 130 years.
As the weather turns and trees that line the streets of Melbourne's CBD drop their leaves, the city's most historic buildings reveal their secrets. Keep an eye out for mosaics and murals, particularly the works of artist Napier Waller. Head to 247 Collins Street to see one of his best loved works, 'I'll Put A Girdle Round About The Earth', which was adorned to the facade of Newspaper House in the early 1930s.
Relax at day spa Sense of Self (SOS) Bathhouse in Collingwood. Facilities include a large mineral bath, sauna and cold plunge pool. Make sure you check out Keith Haring's mural, located in the neighbourhood's arts precinct Collingwood Yards on Johnston Street. Painted in 1984, it's thought to be one of only 31 public works by the artist left in the world. Head south of the city to see a replica of the Solar System, set along the St Kilda esplanade. The 5.9-kilometre trail is built to scale and stretches all the way to Port Melbourne.
Further afield, hang ten at URBNSURF, Australia's first surf park. Artificial waves create the perfect environment for beginners and experts alike. Have a high tea and take a tour of stately home Rippon Lea Estate in Elsternwick, explore the gorgeous gardens of Heide or jump on a free punt service for a trip to Herring Island. The largest island on the Yarra River is a wildlife corridor, home to a unique sculpture trail.
Pair wine with cheese at Melbourne's first urban cellar door at Handpicked Wines and order a 'Green Ant-tini' from Big Esso in Federation Square. Combine share plates, pizza and colourful cocktails with a round of electronic darts at Oche. Taste terrific Thai fare from Dodee Paidang, where orders are both taken and delivered by friendly robots, or dine high in the sky within converted commuter train carriages at Easey's in Collingwood.
