EXPLORE melbourne AND SURROUNDS
Active Explorers
Get in touch with your adventurous side and venture out to one of Victoria's vast and beautiful natural attractions. If you are after a beautiful and relaxing day-long road trip, MacKenzie Falls, the largest waterfall in Victoria, is located in the Grampians National Park. Flowing year round, the falls sees water cascade over huge cliffs into a deep pool, sending fine sprays of rainbow mist high into the air above a stunning gorge. For an all-day adventure along the Great Ocean Road, head to Erskine Falls in the Great Otway National Park. With a series of gentle steps leading to the base of the falls, it's a fantastic spot to bring a picnic.
Delight in a close encounter with Australia’s native wildlife as you learn about their unique habits and habitats with interactive shows and feedings at one of Zoos Victoria's four operational zoos. Or why not dive deeper to learn about the curiosities and mysteries of the deep blue at SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium?
Experience some of Melbourne's rich history by taking a road trip out to the ever-beautiful and picturesque surrounds of the Dandenong Ranges to take a ride on the Puffing Billy Heritage railway! With plenty of additional activities and things to see within the precinct, you'll spend the day in utter wonder at the beauty and vibrant history.
Immerse yourself in the hustling and bustling culture of Melbourne and enjoy the talent of local artists! Take a walk down the famous bluestone laneway of Hosier Lane and admire the street art that has made the Melbourne urban art scene known across the globe. Or visit the National Gallery of Victoria and marvel at the ever-changing exhibitions. For those who enjoy a photo or two, head to Artvo in The District Docklands for some priceless fun and photo opportunities with mind-boggling optical illusions.
live in the moment
Walk through the iconic big smile entry of Luna Park in St Kilda for thrill-seeking experiences to suit any adrenaline lover, big or small! Featuring family-friendly rides for the littlies, or for the adventurous types some heart-pumping thrill rides, you'll be sure to leave with a huge grin.
Live life on the edge, by experiencing one of the iconic Eureka Skydeck attractions. For those who are daring, the Edge Experience suspends guests in a transparent glass cube that projects out from the Skydeck, leaving them suspended nearly 300 metres above the streets of Melbourne. For tech-enthusiasts, why not try the VR Plank or Voyager Theatre to immerse yourself in a virtual thrill with your feet still firmly on the ground. After your experience, why not sit and bask in the glory of the Melbourne skyline by enjoying a meal and drink in Bar 88.
Soar over Melbourne's staple city skyline or expansive countryside on a thrilling hot air balloon flight. You can choose to marvel over the architectural wonders of Melbourne City or look over the Yarra Valley region’s vineyards, forests, and fields as the sun casts its first light over the landscape. What will you choose?
AVID SHOPPERS
If you have a souvenir-demander back home (or even one you have brought along with you) then you need to make Legoland Discovery Centre a must on your to-do list. Get lost in the incredible creations or make your own if you are a budding builder and take home a new project from the Lego Store.
It wouldn't be a trip to Melbourne without visiting The Fashion Capital: Chadstone Shopping Centre. Shop until your feet can't shop anymore, and then take a load off and enjoy the expansive dining experiences within the centre. If you still have some fuel left in the tank, explore Chadstone's entertainment precinct and try your luck beating the Hijinx Hotel challenge rooms!
For market lovers, Melbourne has endless to offer! Visit the iconic national heritage Queen Victoria Market where there are over 600 small businesses for everything from Australian fruit and vegetables, local and imported gourmet foods, clothing and souvenirs. Or try the world-renowned dim sims at South Melbourne Market and enjoy some of the other local food offerings in the vicinity.
If you want a shop-till-you-drop kind of experience, DFO South Wharf is where you want to be. With over 180 Australian and international brands offering up to 70 per cent off regular retail prices, you'll have the chance to buy high-end fashion brands at discount prices.
fOOD lOVERS
Melbourne is a sea of opportunity for all kinds of food lovers. For a day trip retreat, take a stunning drive out to the Yarra Valley region's wineries. You will be amazed by the extensive and delicious local food and wine available at the endless wineries in the area. After a beautiful lunch, head to the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice-Creamery for a delicious ice-cream or chocolate treat!
Lovers of fine dining will be blown away by the culinary talent at Melbourne's restaurants. For all the best restaurant suggestions, ensure you check the 2023 Melbourne Chef Hat Awards page and scroll through the many award-winning culinary delights to suit your fancy!
For an all-you-can-eat treat, head to Grazeland outdoor dining experience just 5km from Melbourne. Discover the best of Melbourne's food scene all conveniently at your fingertips in one location. You will be completely spoilt for choice in this food-lover's playground!
We respectfully acknowledge the Wurundjeri People, and their Elders past and present, who are the Traditional Owners of the land on which The Sound Exchange 2024 is taking place.
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