Melbourne is a culture-packed city with art, music, and great food…but it doesn’t have to be expensive!
Exploring the city doesn’t have to come with a huge price tag. There are so many free activities all over Melbourne. The trick? It’s all about knowing where to find them!
There’s always something going on in Melbourne. It’s a 24-hour city that just keeps churning out festivals and events. From comedy festivals to food festivals, theatre, wine, music and art – there’s something for everyone. With over 100 art galleries in Melbourne, you won’t be stuck for places to go for art and culture.
Here’s what you can do in Melbourne, for completely free!
NGV
The NGV is renowned for its cool exhibitions by famous artists. Often, with interactive artwork displays by international artists. It gets super busy, and it’s a hub for tourists and locals alike. For example, the Yayoi Kusama exhibition was so popular that it sold over half a million tickets!
There’s also a large section that can be done for free. The Ian Potter Centre is completely free to walk around, and you can admire the showcase of different artworks from many different eras. Walk around the lower part of the museum to view ancient artworks from different periods.
Explore the artwork of Melbourne’s laneways
Check out Hosier Lane for some impressive street art work, with pieces from graffiti artists from all over. Wander around the laneways and look into every corner! The artists have impressively used the space to put their artwork all over the walls and the surroundings.
Botanical Gardens
Take a walk around the botanical gardens for completely free! Walk the whole loop of the gardens in just an hour, and experience the diverse plant life. The Royal Botanic Gardens are home to an array of rare and endangered Australian flora.
Take a journey down the winding pathways that meander through the ferns and admire the exciting plant life that thrives in the middle of the city.
If you’re here in winter, then catch the Lightscape Events that take place in the gardens!
State Library of Victoria
The unique and regal architecture of the State Library makes it a popular attraction and a well-used library. Its extensive selection of books makes it a well-used library for borrowing, while the La Trobe Reading Room makes it a popular study spot, dotted with it’s famous emerald green lamps. Marvel at the octagon-shaped building, filled with sophisticated architecture.
Catch a sunset at the Shrine of Remembrance
A large war memorial off St Kilda Road, head up the steps of the Shrine of Remembrance and look out over the city for a great view. If you manage to get there on a sunny day, make sure you check out the sunset! You can get some incredible sweeping views over the whole city skyline.
ACMI
Right in the middle of Fed Square, you’ll find ACMI, which showcases the best of video and moving image. ACMI are always running a few different free events, so check out a free event that is on during the time you visit the city. From interactive exhibits to walk around displays, make sure you pop to Federation Square to see what’s on!