17 Outdoor Activities in Melbourne To Do Today

Looking for outdoor activities in Melbourne that require little to no planning whatsoever? This is for you. 

Scavenger hunts like these are perfect for anyone who wants to fill a few hours of their day with some exploring, puzzle-solving and plenty of fresh air.

How does it work? Easy. Once you’ve picked a route and got your tickets, you start the game whenever you want by sending a text on WhatsApp. From there, you get sent riddles and clues that you and your team have to crack open, and they’ll lead you to quirky side streets, hidden gems and iconic landmarks.

PSST: You can make these competitive if you want to! Just split into teams and race against the clock. Remember to pause the game if you stop off at any of the pubs or cafes that are recommended along the way, though…

Think escape rooms are just for dark, indoor spaces? Think again! 

Outdoor escape room games like these bring puzzles, mystery, and brain teasers to life in some of Melbourne’s coolest suburbs. 

Perfect for groups looking to test their wits and enjoy the sun (or whatever weather Melbourne’s weather systems throw at you) at the same time. All you need is a phone, comfy shoes for walking in and an eagle eye for detail. See you at the top of the leaderboard!

As any Melburnian will tell you, we’ve got a monopoly on most Aussie sports. Cricket, Aussie Rules, Tennis–it all happens right here, and we’re very proud of it. 

For that reason, if you’re looking for outdoor activities in Melbourne that indulge your sporty side, you’re in for a treat.

Personally, I’m a huge fan of paddle boarding. There’s something really peaceful about it compared to other competitive sports, but if you’re someone who has a need for speed, give kayaking a go. 

Either way, you’ll get a whole new perspective of the city—no traffic jams, just the gentle splash of water and stunning skyline views.

Need a green escape? I know just where to send you.

If you’re a Melburnian, you’ve probably been to The Royal Botanic Gardens more times than you’ve had hot dinners. But when’s the last time you really appreciated it?

Arthur Conan Doyle (author of the Sherlock Holmes series) reckoned it was the most beautiful place on earth, and I’ve got to say, I agree. There’s tons of stuff to do around there: take a walk, check out Guilfoyle’s Volcano and the Pioneer Women’s Memorial Garden, have a picnic… the options are endless.

Oh and there’s plenty of places to take cover if the sky suddenly changes (which, as we all know, happens quite a lot).

Two things to know about Melbourne: cycling is a popular way to get around but there are better and worse places to enjoy a ride.

For me, cycling in the CBD is nightmare fuel (I blame all the dashcam videos I’ve seen) but the good news is, there’s plenty of other places to explore in Melbourne on two wheels.

The Capital City Trail is a bit of a mammoth (for me, at least) but you don’t have to do the whole thing on your first ride. It takes you past some nice parks, the river, plenty of cityscapes and places to stop for coffee, so it’s perfect for weekend warriors and easy breezy cruisers alike.

If you’re looking for outdoor activities in Melbourne that come with a dose of adorable, head to Healesville Sanctuary.

This is where you go if you want to get up close and personal with Australia’s most adorable native wildlife (at a safe distance, obv). All the usual candidates are there: kangaroos, koalas, wallabies, and don’t miss the Wurundjeri Walk that celebrates the life of Indigenous Elder William Barak.

If you really want to get a sweat on, escape the city’s hustle and bustle by heading to the Dandenong Ranges. 

With plenty of hiking trails and stunning views, the Dandenong Ranges feel a world away from the CBD even though they’re just an hour away. Perfect if you just need some respite from the busy city vibes or you’re in the mood for a nice long walk.

PSST: If and when it reopens, the William Ricketts Sanctuary is unlike anywhere else I’ve been when it comes to art installations. Check it out if you get the chance!

Speaking of the Dandenong Ranges, if you’re looking for some outdoor activities in Melbourne that push you to your limits, give the Kokoda Memorial Trail a whirl.

Also known as the 1000 steps, the Kokoda Trail is a favourite for Melburnians and visitors alike. I’d say it’s a moderate walk - clue is in its nickname - and it can be fairly steep in places, and definitely go carefully after rain. 

If you manage to visit it on a beautiful day, however, this is the absolute pinnacle of Aussie scenery: gorgeous views of the Ferntree Gully, plenty of history (there’s some signs and info about Australian soldiers who fought in Papua New Guinea during World War II) and that familiar scent of gum trees.

Again, Melburnians, I know you already know about this one. If you’ve never had a picnic here before, this is your sign.

As one of Melbourne’s oldest parks, Fitzroy Gardens has cemented its place in Melbourne since the 19th century (although, it was named after the Governor of New South Wales). But don’t let that put you off (kidding!).

Even on a bad day, Fitzroy Gardens is one of my favourite hangouts in the city. Grab a coffee nearby, pack some snacks, and enjoy the beautifully manicured landscapes. 

If you fancy it, check out the historic Cooks’ Cottage while you’re there! (Cook never actually lived there, it’s his parents house that was taken down brick by brick and transported from northern England to Australia).

Melbourne became intrinsically linked with iconic street art in the early 1980s, and if you haven’t checked it out before, what’re you waiting for?

Hosier Lane is an ever-changing canvas of graffiti and murals that will have you snapping pics like your life depends on it.

I don’t know who needs to hear this, but Brighton Beach isn’t just about its famous beach huts. 

It’s also a hotspot for water sports enthusiasts, so whether you plan on catching waves or paddleboarding through the calm water, it's the perfect place to ride waves, chill out or enjoy the stunning views of the city skyline.

Looking for outdoor activities to do in Melbourne that give you some time and space for quiet contemplation? Well, probably not–but that doesn’t mean you don’t need it.

If you haven’t been, I really recommend that you make visiting the Shrine of Remembrance a priority. Why? Because it’s absolutely gorgeous and it’s one of the most poignant landmarks in the CBD. 

Tucked away in The Royal Botanic Gardens, you’ll find the Shrine surrounded by peaceful gardens. Once you’ve soaked in the serenity, head up to the balcony for some of the best views of Melbourne’s skyline–you won’t regret it.

What’s better than a road trip with epic coastal views? Not much. Especially this particular drive.

The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most famous drives, and for very good reason. From the Twelve Apostles to secret beaches, it’s an adventure you’ll want to take slow so you can soak in every stunning vista along the way. 

The “outdoors” bit comes from the numerous stop offs you’ll do (I recommend Thunder Cave, Hopetoun Falls, London Bridge and Gibson Steps).

Another park? Yes, it’s another park. But this one is surrounded by a load of stuff you can do inside, just in case the weather changes (which, again, is likely given Melbourne’s climate).

Think of Carlton Gardens as a lush retreat in the city, home to the Royal Exhibition Building and Melbourne Museum. Whether you’re out for a stroll, doing some sightseeing, or looking for a shady spot to relax, this park has plenty of charm and history.

Reckon shopping is a purely indoor affair? Not in Melbourne it isn’t.

One of my favourite things about Melbourne are the markets (you really can get pretty much anything here), and many of them take place under the big blue sky. 

You’ll find everything from fresh produce, to artisanal goods, and quirky finds (not forgetting some iconic doughnuts, IYKYK). Whether you're after food, fashion, or knick-knacks, the markets are where it’s at.

It always surprises me how few people know about this one, so there’s a chance you’ve no idea it exists. 

In case you don’t know, Burnley Bouldering Wall is a free outdoor rock climbing spot along the scenic Yarra River. With climbs for all skill levels, it’s perfect for both seasoned climbers and curious beginners. 

The community vibe is welcoming, and you’ll get a solid workout without feeling like you’re at the gym. Bonus: it’s completely free—just bring your chalk, shoes, and a sense of adventure!

Movies under the stars? Yes, please! 

Melbourne’s outdoor cinemas, like the Moonlight Cinema, are a great way to catch the latest films in a unique setting. 

Perfect if you’re looking for outdoor activities in Melbourne that aren’t, let’s say, physically active, movie night never looked more inviting than when you’ve packed a picnic, brought a blanket, and enjoyed your favourite flicks alfresco style.