It’s that time again – you’re bored in the Victorian capital and you want a list of things to do in Melbourne for young adults. Gotcha.
Well, you’re in luck. We’ve spent enough time in Melbs to know what’s good, what’s worth doing, what’s worth doing again, and where you should spend your precious time and cash.
As we’re feeling generous, we’ve put them all into a neat, handy list to give you some ideas of things to do in Melbourne for young adults - although, oldies might enjoy them too (we won’t tell anyone).
And just so you know, no one pays us to be listed here. No affiliate links, only opinions. These are just our recommendations to you so you can find the best things to do in Melbourne.
Best Things to Do in Melbourne for Young Adults
Do an Unusual but Immersive Scavenger Hunt in the CBD
Where? Melbourne CBD, St Kilda
First visit to Melbourne? This should be the first thing you do. But even if you’re a born-and-raised Melburnian who thinks they know every street corner, you’ll be surprised at how much you’ve never noticed before.
Get your bearings, explore Melbourne, and seek out every nook and cranny worth seeing with your mates in one of these immersive scavenger hunts. They’re totally self-guided, so all you need is a phone with WhatsApp, comfy walking shoes, and a few sharp minds so you can spot clues, unravel riddles and solve puzzles!
Uncover hidden gems and quirky urban details, unearth secrets that span decades, and receive top bar and café recommendations along the way if you need a quick breather.
Practical information: Stop and start the game any time. Tickets start at AU$30 per person. Game durations vary, typically lasting 2-3 hours.
Do an Outdoor Escape Room Together to Uncover Melbourne’s Secrets
Where? Melbourne CBD, St Kilda
One of the best things to do in Melbourne for young adults is to immerse yourself in the many sights, sounds, smells and flavours of the city - and if you’re looking for a cool way to do just that, this is for you.
Take your puzzle-solving skills to the streets with an outdoor escape game in the CBD or St Kilda. Combining the thrill of an escape room with the adventure of a treasure hunt, trails like these will have you cracking codes and deciphering clues while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of one of Melbourne’s most famous suburbs.
Practical information: Stop and start the game whenever you want. Book online only. All you need is a phone, comfy walking shoes and some mates! Prices start from $30 per person, with various themes available.
Hit Up Some of Melbourne’s Best Bars
Where? Various
This is what you’re here for, right? Well, actually - there’s way more to Melbourne than its nightlife scene, so if drinking alcohol isn’t for you, feel free to skip ahead.
On the other hand, if you’re here for a party, listen up: I’m about to give you my personal recommendations.
Melbourne's bar scene is as diverse as it is vibrant. We’ve got rooftop bars, secret bars, themed bars…yeah, you name it, we’ve got it.
Places I keep coming back to include Goldilocks Bar (incredible rooftop bar), Cabinet Bar (a cosy bar), Eau-de-Vie (speakeasy vibes), Siglo Bar (amazing panoramic views), Red Triangle (a great place to play pool).
Practical information: Most bars open in the late afternoon and close late into the night. Give my recs a try or ask about where you’re staying - Melburnians love sharing their favourite local haunts!
Attend a Sports Event or Concert at The MCG
Where? The MCG,
Are you even in Melbourne if you don’t visit the MCG at least once?
I’m not a sporty person and even I think this place is amazing. The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is one of the world’s most iconic sports stadiums and a pilgrimage site for any sports enthusiast.
From AFL games and cricket matches to big-ticket concerts and events, the atmosphere here is electrifying.
Practical information: Event schedules and ticket prices vary, available on the MCG’s official website MCG. I recommended booking tickets in advance as many games and events sell out quickly.
Check Out Melbourne’s Cool and Quirky Museums
Where? Various
You’ve probably heard that Melbourne is Australia’s cultural capital, and if you haven’t, you have now.
Melbourne is home to an array of unique museums that cater to diverse interests. There are big ones, small ones, and ones in between, ranging from state museums to niche interests.
Honestly, you could probably spend days exploring Melbourne’s museums, so even if you feel like you’ve been to the big guns already (Melbourne Museum, the Immigration Museum, ACMI, and the Old Treasury Building), I recommend taking a look at what they’ve got on at the mo’ to see if there’s an exciting new exhibition you’re interested in.
Otherwise, go macro and get stuck into Melbourne’s smaller but no less interesting museums. Some of my favourites include: the Hellenic Museum, Grainger Museum, Australian Jazz Museum, Heide Museum of Modern Art.
Practical information: Opening hours and ticket prices vary across these institutions. For more information, visit their respective website.
Fun Things to Do in Melbourne for Young Adults
Grab Some Bargains at One of Melbourne’s Best Markets
Where? Various
What do I do when I don’t know what to do? Head to a market.
Honestly, we are so incredibly lucky here in Melbourne. The markets here rival any I’ve seen in the world, and it feels like every corner of the world is tucked inside one of these beauties.
You might be thinking you don’t need more junk to fill your unit with, and if that’s the case, I sympathise, but there’s way more on offer than just nicks and nacks. These places offer everything from vintage clothes to artisanal eats, rare ingredients, the best doughnuts money can buy and much, much more.
Each market has its own unique vibe - check out our post about our favourite Melbourne markets if you need more inspo.
Practical information: Markets typically operate on specific days, often weekends, from early morning till early afternoon. Entry is free, but cash is sometimes king for vendors who might not accept cards or who have dodgy data reception.
Have a Spa Day at Peninsula Hot Springs
Where? Fingal, an hour’s drive from the CBD
Call me bougie, but I love a spa day. So much, in fact, that I’ve made it my mission to try out as many as I can - and let me tell you, this is up there with the very best.
At just over an hour’s drive from Melbourne CBD, Peninsula Hot Springs is an absolute must. The name sums it up, pretty much: you get to soak your body and soul in a bunch of beautiful and clean hot spring baths, or try out heaps of bathing experiences from all over the world.
Some advice, though:
- Pay for access to the private section (over 16s only and a limit to how many people can enter.)
- Book ahead (same day bookings at a 10% surcharge).
- Don’t go during school holidays, weekends or public holidays (it gets crowded).
- If you go during the summer, you’ll spend more time in the cold plunge pools than the thermal pools (so go in winter, spring, or autumn instead).
Practical information: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Prices vary depending on the time of day and week, starting from around $75 for general Bath House bathing.
Head Out to The Dandenong Ranges and Explore
Where? Dandenong Ranges
I know, it’s another one that’s a little way outside of the CBD. But hey, if you want things to do in Melbourne for young adults that get you active, you’ll love this.
It goes without saying that The Dandenong Ranges are absolutely gorgeous, and at just an hour's drive from Melbourne, it’s a no-brainer, really.
If you’re into hiking or bush walking, there’s plenty for you to see and do around here - and even if you aren’t, bring a camera along and soak in the incredible views. Lastly, if you enjoy art and specifically sculptures, don't miss the William Ricketts Sanctuary. Some consider it to be controversial - the artist was a colonial who rejected colonial life and spent most of his time making sculptures of Aboriginal people.
Practical information: The area is accessible year-round, with no entry fee for most outdoor spaces. Some attractions may charge a fee. The sanctuary is open from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM daily.
Check Out Melbourne’s Top Nightclubs
Where? Various
Melbourne is famous for its nightlife, and the last thing you want are reasons why Melbourne’s nightclubs are legendary.
Instead of boring you with anecdotes, I’ll just tell you where I’ve been and had a good time:
Somewhere Bar, Circus Bar, Glamorama, New Guernica, Onesixone, Platform One, Pulp Club.
Practical information: Most clubs are open from Thursday to Saturday, with entry fees ranging from $10 to $25. Check individual websites for specific events and dress codes.
Hire Bikes and Go For a Cycle Ride
Where? Everywhere!
Looking for things to do in Melbourne for young adults that don’t break the bank? Give this a try.
Trust me when I say you’ll experience Melbourne on a totally new level when you see it on wheels.
If you’re cautious about traffic, good - you should be! The roads can be dangerous places and you’re better off as far away from cars as you possibly can be. But that’s ok, Melbourne has heaps of cycle routes where all you have to do is be responsible for fellow cyclists and pedestrians - and they’ll take you to places you never even knew existed.
If you don’t know where to start, check out Melbourne Cycle Loops, you’ll find routes and maps for all fitness levels. Fun, healthy and eco-friendly: what more could you want!?
Practical information: Bike rentals are available at various hubs around the city, with prices starting around $25 for a half-day. Some services include a helmet and lock. Early booking can snag you a discount.
Check Out Melbourne’s Board Games Cafes
I am a sucker for board games, but I accept that they aren’t everyone’s cup of tea.
That said, there’s way too many people out there who dismiss board games as a “boring” or “nerdy” hobby. And I should know, I’ve dragged mates out to games cafes all over Melbourne (and overseas), and now they’re the ones who ask me to join them.
The truth is, board games have come a long way since we were kids. You don’t have to fall out over Monopoly anymore if you don’t want to, and chess will always be beyond me. If you want some game tips, Bohnanza, Monikers, Cascadia and Just One are awesome games for groups (easy to follow, play and have a laugh with).
And where should you go to play them? Here’s where you’ll often find me: MBG Cafe, Fortress Melbourne, Boardies Bar.
Practical information: Most cafes charge a small fee for unlimited play, generally between $5 to $10 per person. Most places offer food and drinks as well.
Take a Ferry Ride From Southbank to Williamstown
Cruises aren’t just for oldies. In fact, I’d especially recommend this if you’re a Melburnian (or have lived in Melbourne a little while).
Why? Because it gives you a totally different appreciation of the city. Tourists will enjoy it too, don’t get me wrong, but this scenic route offers spectacular views of the city skyline and the bay.
Once you’re there, Williamstown itself is a charming maritime village with a rich history, quaint shops, and cosy cafes - and you can do a lot worse than grab a coffee and a bite to eat here.
Practical information: Ferries run daily with departures every hour. The journey takes about an hour each way. Prices are around $20 for a round trip. Tickets can be purchased on the spot or booked online in advance.
Re-Discover Melbourne Botanic Gardens
Where? RBG, CBD
What’s fun about the Botanic Gardens, you ask? Er, literally all of it.
Whether you’ve been told to touch grass recently or you’ve been cooped inside studying, working or just lazing about, it’s about time you got out there and appreciated the wonders of the Botanic Gardens.
Melbourne’s answer to the Garden of Eden is slap-bang in the middle of our CBD, and at over 38 hectares in size, it’s unlikely you’ve explored every nook and cranny.
Take a walk around the lush landscapes, scenic lakes and diverse plant collections, bring a camera and take photos, bring a ball and play some games, throw yourselves down in the grass with a book, watch a performance or a movie outside during the summer months…honestly, the options are endless. Just get along and see it for yourself.
Practical information: Open daily from 7:30 AM to sunset, with free entry. Guided tours are available for those interested in learning more about the flora and garden history.
Unusual Things to Do in Melbourne for Young Adults
See The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra Do a Live Show
Where? Various
Again, classical music might be the last thing on your radar but don’t kid yourself. All of your favourite movies have incredible classical music scores, and believe me when I say that hearing live classical music is much cooler than it sounds.
Renowned for its vibrant performances, the MSO plays everything from Beethoven to movie soundtracks in venues across the city. Check out what they’re up to online and how to get tickets.
Practical information: Performance schedules and ticket prices vary. Check the MSO website for upcoming concerts, locations, and booking information.
Check Out Abbotsford Convent
Where? Abbotsford
You want unusual things to do in Melbourne? Doesn’t get much more unusual than this.
The title of this idea might be giving you “parents on holiday vibes”, but seriously, this place is awesome.
For over a hundred years, Abbotsford Convent was a place where women and children experiencing poverty in Victoria came to live. It was less than ideal - they had to work hard and life was pretty tough for them. In the 1970s, the Convent closed down and the place was transformed into what it is today: a public culture centre and creative hub.
These days, Abbotsford Convent hosts studios, galleries, and cafes, alongside a packed calendar of workshops, films, and markets. Whether you're into the arts, history, or just fancy a stroll in lovely surroundings, this place has something to offer.
PSST: Wanna join a bread-making class? Do yoga to cello music? You can! Check out what’s on before you go.
Practical information: Open daily with free entry to the grounds, though some events and exhibitions may charge admission.
Go To The OG Home of The McCafe
Where? Swanston Street
It might seem a bit cheeky to recommend a Maccas in the land of espresso aficionados, but the original McCafé in Melbourne holds a special place in coffee history, since it was the world's first.
Opened in 1993, this cafe McCafe pioneered the concept of coffee at fast food joints globally - and it’s why you can get a pretty decent cup of coffee pretty much wherever you are in the world.
Oh, and obviously, there are heaps of places to get good coffee in Melbourne, if that’s what you actually want to do. This is more of a nostalgia trip and weird example of bragging rights.
Practical information: You know the drill, Maccas is pretty much always open.
Make The Most of Melbourne’s Open House Events
Where? Various
Finding unusual things to do in Melbourne for young adults that really are *unusual* doesn’t happen every day of the week. But the city has a whole weekend dedicated to it to help you out.
Every year, Melbourne’s Open House weekend invites you to explore the city’s hidden spaces and architectural marvels not usually open to the public. From modernist masterpieces to historic halls, this event offers a rare peek behind the doors of Melbourne's most fascinating buildings - and a massive 60,000 people joined in the effort last year (2023).
PSST: The Open House weekend is usually in July, so it’s a perfect excuse to escape Melbourne’s wintry gloom or rain. Just, wrap up warm - older buildings can be draughty!
Practical information: Held annually, details on specific buildings and tours are available on their website. While many tours are free, some require registration due to limited capacity.
Vent Your Frustrations by Smashing Some Stuff up at Break Room
Where? Budd Street, Collingwood
In a cranky mood? Got some pent up stress that has nowhere to go? Excellent. That’s when this is at its very best.
The Break Room is Melbourne’s only place where you can safely, legally, and comfortably build up a sweat and smash crockery, bash electronics and take out your feelings on inanimate objects.
You get to pick your own soundtrack - always a bonus - and believe me when I say this quickly becomes a workout unlike any other. Wear comfy clothes and if you have anything lying around at home that you no longer want or need, bring it along and smash it up (just make sure it belongs to you before you annihilate it!).
Practical information: Sessions can be booked online, with packages starting from around $70. Safety gear is provided to ensure you can smash safely. Check out The Break Room for booking details and available session times.
Find More Things to Do in Melbourne with CityDays
So there you have it! 20+ things to do in Melbourne for young adults that you can do today!
Remember that no matter what you decide to do on your morning, arvo or evening out, there’s nothing like teamwork to make the dream work.
That’s why we at CityDays create fun, interesting and challenging trails around
the world to help you immerse yourself in a city’s culture, history and curios.
Want to find out more?
Check out all our available activities in Melbourne here and embark on an adventure in the city you’ll never forget: CityDays awaits!