Let Melbourne Entertain You!

When it comes to fun, Melbourne has it all. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re going solo, romancing someone or hanging out with friends.

For the Movie Buff

IMAX Melbourne

Boasting the largest cinema screen in the world, IMAX Melbourne offers much more than the latest Hollywood blockbusters. Located beside Melbourne Museum, it screens a number of breathtaking natural history and wildlife documentaries throughout the year. Keep an eye on the program for special screenings, like the adorable Pandas in 3D, which you won’t see anywhere else.

Astor Theatre

Across town the grand old Astor Theatre is one for your cinematic bucket list. Fans of movies, history and architecture treasure it for the glorious 1930s charm and original features, coupled with contemporary audio-visual technology. There’s a rotating program of cult classics, independent films, award winners and new releases. Follow the Astor on Facebook for news on special events like live scores, singalongs and, in March, French Film Festival screenings.

For the Drama Queen — or King!

National Theatre Melbourne

Tucked away in St Kilda, the National Theatre Melbourne has been home to emerging and established talent since 1920. The Beaux Arts-style building is a unique venue to rock out to a band, applaud a play or sing along to a musical.

Melbourne Theatre Company

The Melbourne Theatre Company is the oldest professional theatre company in Australia, and has delivered a packed program of plays to full houses since 1953. Today, most of its productions are held in the state-of-the-art Southbank Theatre. With its sharp angles and neon lighting, the architect-designed building is a quirky backdrop for a quick selfie before the show.

For the Tiny Tackers

Arts Centre Melbourne

Remember rocking out to your favourite tunes in front of the mirror and singing into your hairbrush? It’s time to pass down this time-honoured tradition to your kids, but in a much more tech-savvy way at Arts Centre Melbourne. Instant Rockstar is a chance to collaborate with the kids to create their very own music video. They get to keep a copy of their creation, too. The workshops run weekly until June and take about two-and-a-half hours. They’re popular, so be sure to book in advance!

Pauline Gandel Children's Gallery

If you’ve got really tiny tots, the Pauline Gandel Children's Gallery at Melbourne Museum, designed for kids younger than five, is the perfect playground. The gallery houses a permanent exhibition that is a hands-on wonderland with sights, sounds and activities for young explorers. Let the kids get stuck into play-based learning with some unique museum objects.

For the Thrifty

Summer Night Market

A great way to spend an evening, but not too much cash, is at the Summer Night Market at Queen Victoria Market. The Night Market packs in free entertainment, like roving performers and world music, as well as cheap eats and an unbeatable festive vibe. There are often free kids’ activities, too. The Queen Victoria Market is within the bounds of the city’s Free Tram Zone, giving you even more bang for your buck on a night out.

For Families

ACMI

ACMI (or Australian Centre for the Moving Image) has introduced monthly Family Sundays, a free day of fun on the first Sunday of every month. Expect things like games, activities, competitions, screenings and more.

GlowGolf Docklands

The humble pursuit of mini-golf gets a luminescent makeover at GlowGolf Docklands. The darkened space is brought to life with UV lights, creating an otherworldly feel, almost as if you’re inside a video game. Kids of all ages will get a kick out of this unique putting playground. When you’re done golfing, check out Simulator World, also at The District Docklands. The high-octane action lets you slide behind the wheel of a simulated Formula 1 vehicle.

For the Music Lover

Funk'd Up Fridays

Groove your way into a Melbourne weekend with Funk’d Up Fridays at Campari House. The resident DJs bring back the funk, old school style, spinning hits from the likes of James Brown and Marvin Gaye from 6pm every Friday. The vibe here is relaxed and welcoming, but the regulars love to boogie, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself enticed onto the dancefloor to shake your thang. The cocktails begin flowing at 5pm, so get in early, or secure your spot by booking a booth.