FREE things to do in Melbourne
Let’s be honest, Australia is an expensive place to live – and Melbourne is no exception. If you’re looking for new places to explore that won’t break the bank, then look no further! Here’s a list of 8 totally free spots within the city just waiting to be discovered.
ACMI
The Australian Centre for the Moving Image (or ACMI for short) is exactly as the name suggests: a fun and unique museum dedicated to everything film and television. Situated right next to Federation Square, its in the heart of Melbourne creative and arts district.
The exhibitions themselves are largely interactive and encourage you to get involved. Inside, you’ll find everything from a foley room, where visitors are invited to recreate the sounds used in famous film clips, imitating the job of a foley artist, to a selection of games consoles set up with various indie games for people to try out!
Similar to a traditional museum, this exhibit showcases screen-used props, miniatures, and even sections of movie sets, ensuring there’s something for everyone. It’s definitely worth a visit!
Hosier Lane
Located just off Flinders Street, Hosier Lane is a vibrant laneway renowned for its dynamic street art scene, making it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and tourists alike.
The street acts as a constantly changing canvas for both local and global artists, featuring a vibrant mix of graffiti, murals, and stencils. This ongoing evolution guarantees that every visit offers a fresh and unique visual experience.
If you’re a photography enthusiast, Hosier Lane presents an abundance of colourful and compelling scenes, making it an ideal location for both amateur and professional photography.
National Gallery of Victoria
If you’re looking for a rich and diverse cultural experience, or just something to do on a rainy day, look no further than the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV).
Boasting a collection of over 76,000 works, encompassing a vast array of disciplines and styles; you can easily spend hours here getting lost in everything from ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces!
All in all, the NGV is a fantastic place to explore art, culture, and creativity. With its impressive collection, exciting exhibitions, and vibrant programs, it’s a great experience whether you’re really into art or just curious to check it out!
St Kilda Pier
In need of a spot to soak up the sun? With panoramic views of the city, a designated area to go swimming, and even a small kiosk offering snacks and beverages; the pier is a must visit on a sunny day.
If you stick around until sunset, not only will you be rewarded with a spectacular view, but you also may also be lucky enough to see Melbourne’s famous little penguins, which are especially active around dusk at the pier!
State Library Victoria
Next on our list is the State Library Victoria, which offers a rich blend of history, architecture, and culture, making it a must-see destination in Melbourne.
Perhaps one of the most striking features of the library is it’s majestic Dome, found in The La Trobe Reading Room. This is particularly noteworthy and has become one of Melbourne’s most photographed spaces. The library also spans an entire city block, showcasing an impressive blend of heritage and modern design elements.
Furthermore, the State Library Victoria is a great place to study and/or work, offering a range of quiet, inspiring spaces. With free Wi-Fi, plenty of desks, and a central location, it’s perfect for focused solo work or group study sessions!
Melbourne offers a wide range of unforgettable, and most importantly, free experiences for those looking for a good, cheap day out. From the art filled halls of the National Gallery, to the scenic views of St Kilda pier, there’s something for everyone in this diverse and cultural city.
Enjoy your adventure!