Melbourne is a City full of fantastic things to see and do. Whether you are visiting during the week or on the weekends, you will never be short of activities to enjoy. When you stay at Crowne Plaza Melbourne, our central location places you within easy reach of all the awesome activities found on this list.
And as Melbourne's only absolute waterfront hotel, you can wake up in Melbourne CBD accommodation with spectacular views of the Yarra River or the City Skyline. The choice is yours. Public transport links are on the doorstep and lots of fun activities are within walking distance making it the ideal choice for solo travellers, couples, families and seniors alike looking to make the most of a weekend in Melbourne.
To help you make the most of your time in the city, here are our top 25 things to do in Melbourne this weekend (and during the week too).
1. Crown Casino
Located just a few minute's walk from Crowne Plaza Melbourne is Crown Casino. Crown Casino is the perfect place to spend a fun evening while enjoying live entertainment, a few drinks and world-class restaurants or, if you're lucky, a big win after trying your hand at poker or roulette. Open 24/7, come and see if Lady Luck is on your side no matter what time you visit.
Directions to Crown Casino from Crowne Plaza Melbourne (Open in Google Maps)
2. Laneways Tours
Hidden Secrets Tours gives you the chance to have a unique perspective of Melbourne's hidden laneways and arcades. Discover some of Melbourne's best-hidden treasures as you make your way around the city on foot. Check out quirky cafes, historical architecture, local designers, art and much more as you make your way around the city laneways with a three-hour guided tour. Tours are available Monday to Saturday and depart at 10 a.m. from Federation Square.
Directions to Laneways Tours from Crowne Plaza Melbourne (Open in Google Maps)
3. Marvel Stadium
Yet another sporting icon to make this list is Marvel Stadium. This weekend in Melbourne, why not head behind the scenes and get a sneak peek at the changing rooms, coaches' box, the player-coach briefing room, the media centre and much more on a 1-hour exclusive tour. Discover the inner workings of the stadium and get a first-hand view normally only seen by sporting and musical stars. Tours of Marvel Stadium run from Monday to Friday at 11 am, 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. adult tickets cost $15 and child tickets cost $6.
Directions to Marvel Stadium from Crowne Plaza Melbourne (Open in Google Maps)
4. DFO (Outlet Shopping)
If the markets haven't fulfilled your cravings for shopping, then DFO outlet shopping will. Stock up on bargains galore at one of Australia's most popular retail outlets, making it one of the best fun things to do in Melbourne this weekend. Get huge discounts on designer goods and homewares and escape from the heat of the day. After a busy afternoon shopping, pull up a seat and enjoy sipping on a delicious frothy coffee before heading back for that must have item you've been thinking about. When it comes to discounted shopping, there are few places better than DFO Melbourne.
Directions to DFO from Crowne Plaza Melbourne (Open in Google Maps)
5. Sea Life Melbourne
If you’re looking for things to do in Melbourne this weekend, Sea life Melbourne is a fantastic family-friendly activity perfect for all age groups. Located just a short walk from Crowne Plaza Melbourne, both kids and adults will love getting up close and personal with a huge variety of aquatic marine life. Take a shortcut through Batman Park and let the kids tear along the riverfront along the way.
Directions to Sea Life Melbourne from Crowne Plaza Melbourne (Open in Google Maps)
6. Polly Woodside
Located just 400 meters away from Crowne Plaza Melbourne you will find the Polly Woodside. This museum ship is located inside an 1885 cargo vessel. Guided tours, family fun and reenactments are available throughout the year and are great for all those little Pirates out there (and you bigger ones too.) The magnificent structure gives glimpses into Australian maritime history and makes for some great photo ops.
Directions to Polly Woodside from Crowne Plaza Melbourne (Open in Google Maps)
7. Eureka Skydeck
Just a short walk from Crowne Plaza Melbourne is Eureka Skydeck - another fun thing to do this weekend in Melbourne. Open every day from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. make your way up to the 88th floor for spectacular views of Melbourne City. For those with a more adventurous streak, Eureka vertigo and Eureka Edge take you out over the ground below at dizzying heights for an experience that will have your heart pounding. Head on up to the Skydeck at sunset for gorgeous views of Melbourne cast in a golden glow and watch as the city starts twinkling into life.
Directions to Eureka Skydeck from Crowne Plaza Melbourne (Open in Google Maps)
8. South Melbourne Market
Wondering what’s on in Melbourne this weekend? South Melbourne Market is the place to go if you fancy sampling street food, and local delicacies and stocking up on bargain goodies. Plenty of unique niche products can be found on their special market days. These can range from organic skin care products to works of art and sustainably grown food. Why not take part in one of the Neff Market Kitchen cooking lessons where you can try your hand at making exotic dishes from around the world? Whether you are looking for souvenirs to take back to loved ones or to pound the pavement and do a little bit of retail therapy, South Melbourne Market has it all.
Directions to South Melbourne Market from Crowne Plaza Melbourne (Open in Google Maps)
9. Federation Square
to say there's not plenty to do when visiting. Spend some time taking in public art. Join a free 30-minute meditation class on Thursday mornings. Experience the many events held at Federation Square throughout the year, including the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, and the Melbourne Festival. The surrounding area has plenty of bars and restaurants perfect for pulling up a seat and watching the world go by. Picture-perfect photo opportunities, beautiful walks and a truly vibrant cultural atmosphere make Federation Square a must when in Melbourne.
Directions to Federation Square from Crowne Plaza Melbourne (Open in Google Maps)
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Federation Square - 25 Things to do in Melbourne this Weekend[/caption]
10. National Gallery Of Victoria
Famous for being Australia's largest, oldest and most visited Museum, the National Gallery of Victoria is a must for your Melbourne itinerary. Inspiring exhibitions can be found throughout the year, with exhibits such as the Terracotta Warriors and Via Guo-Qiang and the NGV collection featuring. Daily tours are also available for those who would like to get a deeper understanding of the National Gallery of Victoria, its history and how it highlights the importance of culture and art in Australia.
Directions to NGV from Crowne Plaza Melbourne (Open in Google Maps)
11. Foodie Tours
What could be better than spending the day indulging in a gourmet food tour when looking for things to do in Melbourne this weekend? Whether you are into Street Eats or looking for something to add to your foodie bucket list, This is Melbourne Tours has something for every palate. One of the most popular tours is the Street Eats tour, which guides you through the Asian street food scene of Melbourne. Dig into Thai, Japanese, Vietnamese and Chinese cuisine with six mouth-watering tastings and learn more about the rich immigrant history of the city. If you love sampling exotic cuisine, Melbourne definitely doesn't disappoint.
Directions from Crowne Plaza Melbourne (Open in Google Maps)
12. Queen Victoria Market
No visit to Melbourne would be complete without at least spending a few hours at the ever-iconic Queen Victoria Market. This Inner City Market has been in operation for more than 140 years and it's spread out over 7 hectares of prime Melbourne land. With more than 600 different retailers and stall holders selling their wares, it is famous for being the southern hemisphere's largest open-air market. From food to fashion and homewares to crafts, QVM is Melbourne's official shopaholic's paradise - making it a must for your weekend in Melbourne.
Directions to QVM from Crowne Plaza Melbourne (Open in Google Maps)
13. Chinatown Melbourne
As the Western world's longest continuous Chinese settlement, Chinatown Melbourne is where East Meets West. A vibrant mix of arcades, alleys and laneways plays host to some of the finest Asian dining experiences in Melbourne. Slurp away on generous bowls of ramen noodles, sink your teeth into juicy dumplings and savour the authentic flavour of Asia. Stock up on gifts and trinkets from the many different gift stores and purchase fresh ingredients for creating your own dishes at home. Chinatown Melbourne is an eclectic mix of food, fashion and culture well worth a visit.
Directions to Chinatown Melbourne from Crowne Plaza Melbourne (Open in Google Maps)
14. Yarra River Tours
What better way to take in the sights and sounds of Melbourne City than from the deck of a tour boat? Melbourne without hoards of people and traffic getting in your way and see some of the most iconic landmarks from a whole new perspective. Gently make your way along the Yarra River and watch the world go by as you make your way past the Royal Botanical Gardens and Docklands. If you have an afternoon free, this is a fantastic way to spend a weekend in Melbourne.
Directions from Crowne Plaza Melbourne (Open in Google Maps)
15. The Old Treasury Building
Melbourne's old treasury building is as breathtaking on the outside as it is on the inside. Once home to the Victoria government's Treasury Department, this 19th-century building is now one of the city's finest museums. Book yourself onto one of the general tours of the building and go behind the scenes to some of the museum off-line areas. Spend some time admiring paintings of early Melbourne that showcases life from the 1840s to the 1870s. If art, history and culture are your things, then the old treasury building should definitely be on your to-do list.
Directions to the Old Treasury Building from Crowne Plaza Melbourne (Open in Google Maps)
16. Melbourne Star Observation Wheel
Located on the banks of the Yarra River and Melbourne's Docklands area, the Melbourne star observation wheel waits to take you to dizzying heights above the city. As the only giant observation wheel in the southern hemisphere, it is one of the most fun things to do in Melbourne this weekend. Climb into your very own gondola and get ready to be elevated above the city on a 30-minute experience. With tickets starting at $36 for an adult and $22 for children, it is a great way to watch the sunset and see the city lights start bursting into life.
Directions to Melbourne Star from Crowne Plaza Melbourne (Open in Google Maps)
17. Melbourne Cricket Ground
Another icon of Melbourne is the Melbourne Cricket Ground. If there are no sporting events taking place during your visit, why not book yourself onto one of the many available tours in Melbourne this weekend? As part of the Melbourne Cricket Ground tour, you will get unprecedented access to many areas that are typically off-limits to the general public. Get a look at the Players changing room, explore the famous Long Room and Library, and step out onto the hallowed turf of the Arena. Visiting MCG is an absolute must for sports lovers visiting Melbourne.
Directions to MCG from Crowne Plaza Melbourne (Open in Google Maps)
18. Old Melbourne Gaol
Another experience that everyone should enjoy when visiting Melbourne is the Old Melbourne Gaol. Step back in time and explore the very building that held some of Australia's most notorious criminals. Get a firsthand view of the prison cells and get to know some of the gaol's past resident inmates. Guided tours and fright nights are held throughout the year for a hair-raising experience that's as enlightening as it is frightening.
Directions to Old Melbourne Gaol from Crowne Plaza Melbourne (Open in Google Maps)
19. Carlton Gardens
These heritage-listed Gardens are the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a long and lazy picnic under open blue skies. Kick back and relax while watching a whole host of wildlife going about their business. Snap some beautiful shots of the tree-lined Avenues, miniature lakes, formal flower beds and stately fountain. Home to the Royal exhibition building, Melbourne Museum and IMAX Cinema, everything you need for a full day out can be found here.
Directions to Carlton Gardens from Crowne Plaza Melbourne (Open in Google Maps)
20. Melbourne Emporium
Emporium Melbourne is the final shopping destination to feature on this list and is a must for lovers of upscale fashion and boutique retailers. As Australia's largest designer precinct, it's a firm favourite for those who see every street as a catwalk. With more than 220 stores spread out over 45,000 Square metres on nine floors along with plenty of dining opportunities, it's easy to find yourself spending more than just a day here. Everything from designer labels to gaming and beauty can be found inside making it ideal for the whole family to do a spot of shopping in the heart of Melbourne.
Directions to Melbourne Emporium from Crowne Plaza Melbourne (Open in Google Maps)
21. Melbourne Museum
Located on the northern boundary of Carlton Park, Melbourne Museum offers a diverse range of exhibitions to view- ideal for things to do in Melbourne this weekend. Whether you are a science buff or a little bit of a history need, every taste is catered for here. As the southern hemisphere's largest museum, you are guaranteed plenty to see and do. Aside from the usual tours, educational experiences are everywhere you turn. Check out more than 600 animals from around the world, get up close and personal with dinosaur fossils, and step back in time to a land before colonisation. When it comes to museums in Melbourne, this is by far the biggest and best for all ages.
Directions to Melbourne Museum from Crowne Plaza Melbourne (Open in Google Maps)
22. Royal Botanic Gardens
Spread out across 36 hectares of land, the Melbourne Royal Botanical Gardens are a stunning place to spend an afternoon. Both self-guided and guided tours are available with the Aboriginal Heritage walk being the star of the show. Take a deep breath and let the crisp floral air fill your lungs as you make your way through a diverse range of flora and fauna. Take a trip on a punt and let the kids explore the Children's Garden. Whether you are young or old or travelling solo or with family, the Royal Botanic Gardens let you get back to nature and offers a green oasis in the heart of an urban jungle.
Directions to Royal Botanic Gardens from Crowne Plaza Melbourne (Open in Google Maps)
23. Melbourne Zoo
If you are travelling with kids, then a visit to Melbourne Zoo is certain to be a crowd-pleaser. Little ones will love getting up close and personal with some of the zoo's famous residents. Adventure playgrounds offer the perfect opportunity for them to burn off some energy before meeting reptiles, amphibians, mammals and many rare breeds. And for those of you visiting on weekends in Melbourne, kids under the age of 16 get free entry! With guided tours, shows and learning experiences, it's an activity that is as educational as it is fun.
Directions to Melbourne Zoo from Crowne Plaza Melbourne (Open in Google Maps)
24. St.Kilda Beach
Sometimes, the best days are those spent by the beach. St.Kilda offers up a truly authentic seaside atmosphere perfect for the whole family and is just a short tram ride from Melbourne CBD, making it one of the most fun things to do in Melbourne this weekend. Explore the Esplanade Market, wander down the pier, shop at Acland street and Fitzroy street, head to Luna Park with the kids and feast on fish and chips and ice cream as you take in the sunset. During the summer, the boardwalk and sandy beach are a hive of activity that epitomises everything a seaside town should be.
Directions to St.Kilda Beach from Crowne Plaza Melbourne (Open in Google Maps)
25. Escape Hunt Melbourne
Located right next to Emporium Melbourne is one of the most unique escape room experiences. A choice of 4 themed escape rooms including Odditorium and Zodiac Chest await those who dare to take on the timer. Immerse yourself in a 60-minute mystery and put your brain to the test as you try to break out before the timer runs out. Perfect for groups of 3 to 5 people; it's a great way to engage the grey matter and work together to find the solution. Different rooms have different age limits, with options available for both kids and adults.
Directions to Escape Hunt Melbourne from Crowne Plaza Melbourne (Open in Google Maps)
Weekend in Melbourne with the best accommodation
Situated in the heart of the city, close to the best local attractions, entertainment, and shopping precincts, Crowne Plaza Melbourne offers some of the best accommodation options in Melbourne. Offering stylish, comfortable and contemporary rooms and suites with modern facilities and amenities to ensure a comfortable stay.
Take advantage of state-of-the-art leisure facilities, enjoy a meal in our popular onsite bars and restaurants and enjoy each and every day of your stay day as you soak up the sun with a never-ending list of fun things to do in Melbourne on the weekend.