Top 6 Melbourne Winter Warmers

We often joke about the unpredictable Melbourne weather, but the good news is that come winter, you have a pretty good idea about what you’re going to get. The cold and wet doesn’t stop Melbourne from coming to life, with the city serving up weatherproof experiences for the enjoyment of locals and visitors alike.

1. Experience the Winter Night Market at QVM

Did you hear the rave reviews of the Summer Night Market at the Queen Vic Market? Well, the good news is the fun isn’t just only for the warmer months, with a Winter Night Market on Wednesdays from 5pm drawing in the food-loving crowds. Warm up with some mulled wine or a pint of delicious hot cider while gathering around a crackling fire with friends. More than 30 vendors will be serving up delicious international cuisines, while a revolving line-up of quirky performers and musical acts keep you entertained.

2. Hit the ice at O'Brien Group Arena

What says winter more than ice skating? A fantastic place for kids (and adults, too) to enjoy, head to O’Brien Group Arena for some indoor winter fun. If you’re not the strongest skater or a first timer, visit on a day that has a free lesson available and book in for an O’Brien Group Arena Ambassador to take you through a free 15-minute crash course before you take to the ice solo. Be sure to check the website if you plan to come during the school holidays and see what special programs are on offer.

3. Catch a gig at Northcote Social Club

Uncover the next big thing on the home-grown or international scene at Northcote Social Club, Melbourne's ultimate live-music destination. This northside venue brings the community together for good music, good food and good brews. Tuck into some share plates and a pint with your friends out in the Breathe Architecture-designed beer garden before the show for a night of total entertainment.

4. Enjoy some comfort food at Last Jar

When it comes to cold weather, there are few better experienced to deal with it than the Irish. It should come as no surprise then that one of the most enjoyable ways to spend a chilled winter's evening is in one of Melbourne's many Gaelic pubs. One of our favourites is The Last Jar. It offers a menu of hearty meals, perfect for warming your insides. If you really want to get into the Irish spirit, head here on a Wednesday evening and enjoy the lively traditional music with your meal.

5. Break free at Exitus Escape Room

Consider yourself a bit of a sleuth? Put your problem-solving skills to the test at the escape room at Exitus at Strike Bowling Bar. There are three levels to choose from, catering to beginners right through to up-and-coming Sherlocks! Your 50-minute experience begins when you’re blindfolded and led to your challenge. A room full of cryptic clues will then be revealed – solve them to open the door to the next room. If you’re not confident, never fear; there are lifelines to which you can turn. Be warned, however, they’ll attract a time penalty. Can’t crack the codes to make it to the end in time? Take on your team at bowling or sing your blues away in one of Strike’s karaoke rooms.

6. Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne's Shark Experience

The rain isn’t the only way to get wet in Melbourne this season. Head to SEA LIFE Melbourne for a jaw-dropping Shark Dive XTREME experience, if you dare! Come face to face with the sea's most-feared creatures, as well as sting rays and other wonders of the ocean. If you haven’t been scuba diving before, don’t worry, you’ll be provided training from SEA LIFE staff. If you prefer a tamer Melbourne outing, opt for the Penguin Passport experience, where you’ll be suited up in Antarctic weather gear to get up close to king and gentoo penguins.