Official Visitor Guide to Melbourne/Narrm and Victoria – Spring 2025

NARRM AND VICTORIA

Stay, indulge and experience the Grampians for two. Valued at more than $3,370*

• A two-night stay in a master suite at Mount William Station Homestead, including a cooked farmhouse breakfast

• Three-course communal dining experience at Mount William Station

• Guided half-day walking tour with Grampians Peaks Walking Co. in the Northern Grampians, including a packed lunch

• Seasonal sharing menu at the Parker Street Project

• Wine tasting and cellar tour at Royal Mail Hotel

• Double access pass to Wama Foundation art gallery and gardens

INSIDE

MESSAGE FROM THE MINISTER

Welcome to Victoria. Spring has arrived and there’s so much to do across Melbourne and the regions.

Melbourne’s blockbuster sporting calendar sees the NBA coming to Australia for the first time, with the New Orleans Pelicans playing Melbourne United and South East Melbourne Phoenix at Rod Laver Arena. The fashion and fun of the

Spring Racing Carnival returns, the Australian Diamonds take on New Zealand in the Constellation Cup, and the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships comes to the iconic Great Ocean Road.

Spring is festival season, and there is plenty to put in your diary. Melbourne Fashion Week returns, with runways, exhibitions and talks featuring emerging, independent and established designers and brands. It’s also time for Melbourne Fringe – see comedy, theatre, music and more at venues across the city.

As always, there’s plenty more to see and do, whether you’re here for a special event or have arrived on holiday. This guide will take you through what’s happening across the state. Find inspiration in these pages and enjoy every moment you spend in Victoria.

Steve Dimopoulos MP Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events. Member for Oakleigh

WOMINJEKA

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

We acknowledge the First Peoples throughout Melbourne and Victoria and recognise their continuing connection to the land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to Elders, past and present. We ask that, during your travels, you respect the cultures, peoples and land.

Wurundjeri Elder

VICTORIA IN FULL BLOOM

BY BRENDAN McCLEMENTS, CEO VISIT VICTORIA

IT’S A TIME OF RENEWAL AND NEW BEGINNINGS. SPRING IS THE PERFECT TIME TO EXPLORE THE CITY AND BEYOND.

It’s a great time of year to get outdoors and enjoy the sunshine. Head to one of our parks or gardens for a relaxing picnic, join a walk along the river with an Indigenous guide from the Koorie Heritage Trust, or take a beach stroll at one of the bayside suburbs.

Wominjeka! That’s how we say welcome in the local Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung language here in Narrm (Melbourne).

Spring is here, and there’s so much to see, do and experience in Victoria. Melbourne’s calendar is packed with sport, and the big ticket this season is the AFL Grand Final. Get caught up in the excitement of the Grand Final Parade on 26 September – then, even if you don’t have a ticket to the big game, join the rest of the country in finding a great spot to watch the action on 27 September. The Constellation Cup is also coming to town, with the Australian Diamonds taking on the New Zealand Silver Ferns at John Cain Arena in one of sport’s great rivalries.

The Melbourne International Jazz Festival will bring some of the greatest performers to stages across the city, while the visionary 65,000 Years:

A Short History of Australian Art features ancient and contemporary works by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders at the newly reopened Potter Museum of Art.

It’s a great time of year to get outdoors and enjoy the sunshine. Head to one of our parks or gardens for a relaxing picnic, join a walk along the river with an Indigenous guide from the Koorie Heritage Trust, or take a beach stroll at one of the bayside suburbs.

Regional Victoria also blossoms during spring. The Ballarat International Foto Biennale returns to this historical gold-rush town, with images taking over galleries, public spaces and city streets. Fans of rock legend Lenny Kravitz can head to Mildura, where the superstar is playing a special show supported by Aussie band Jet.

Wherever you travel in Victoria this spring, you’re sure to discover the season in bloom.

BRENDAN McCLEMENTS CEO Visit Victoria

PRINTS CHARMING

FOR THE COVER OF THIS EDITION

ILLUSTRATOR JAMES TYRRELL OF HARPER & CHARLIE CREATES A UNIQUE IMAGE OF ONE OF THE CITY’S BESTLOVED ARCADES.

LOCAL VISION

He was born in Melbourne and has spent his entire life here, so it is hardly surprising illustrator James Tyrrell looks to the city for his inspiration. The launch of Harper & Charlie in 2013 marked a new direction for the artist. After years working artistically

for clients from airlines to architects, he shifted focus to a more personal practice. Drawing on childhood memories and archival research, he began capturing Melbourne’s historic buildings as they once were – free of modern-day clutter and rich with nostalgic detail. The more detailed

pieces can take up to 150 hours to complete, carefully rendered to honour the history and memories of these iconic buildings. For this edition, James turns his attention to the Royal Arcade, opened in 1870 and now the longest-standing arcade in Australia.

CAPTURING PLACE

“Generally, I need to have a personal memory or an emotional connection to the building,” James says of choosing his subjects. “Otherwise,

they are buildings I genuinely know are well-loved or places that have been lost, so it is really important to get the details right.” He takes photographs at different times of day and from many angles for those buildings that are still standing and delves into archives and reference materials, often at State Library Victoria, to get the details just right. “If I’m lucky to find an historical colour photo, I can work from that in terms of colour composition,” he continues.

HIDDEN GEMS

No single place inspires his work, and James has a long list of recommendations for visitors. For anyone with limited time in Melbourne this spring, he suggests walking from the State Library Victoria, weaving your way through some of Melbourne’s famous arcades and laneways back towards Flinders Street Station to discover some hidden gems, old and new. Take the time to look up at the beautiful architecture and signage as there is always something new and interesting to find along the way. + harperandcharlie.com + instagram.com/harperandcharlie + royalarcade.com.au

Until 5 Oct

MELBOURNE WINTER MASTERPIECES® 2025: FRENCH IMPRESSIONISM

NGV International + ngv.melbourne

Until 19 Oct

BALLARAT INTERNATIONAL FOTO BIENNALE

Ballarat + ballaratfoto.org

Until 1 Nov THE VEIL

Buxton Contemporary + buxtoncontemporary.com

Until 9 Nov

ARCHIBALD PRIZE TOURING EXHIBITION

Geelong Gallery + geelonggallery.org.au

Until 29 Nov

AFLW SEASON

Various locations + afl.com.au/aflw

NOCTURNAL: MUSEUM AFTER DARK SERIES

Melbourne Museum + museumsvictoria.com.au

LEGO® STAR WARS™: THE EXHIBITION

Melbourne Museum + legostarwarstheexhibition.com

SEPTEMBER

4–13 Sep

BANGARRA DANCE

THEATRE: ILLUME

Playhouse + artscentremelbourne.com.au

13–14 Sep

WINE AND VINE FESTIVAL

Abbotsford Convent + wineandvinefestival.com.au

13 Sep – 12 Oct

TESSELAAR TULIP FESTIVAL

Silvan + tulipfestival.com.au

17 Sep – 15 Oct

FRINGE FLAVOURS

NIGHT MARKET

Queen Vic Market (Wednesdays) + thenightmarket.com.au

17–21 Sep

BELLS BEACH

LONGBOARD CLASSIC

Bells Beach

+ worldsurfleague.com

From 18 Sep

GAME WORLDS

ACMI

+ acmi.net.au

24–27 Sep

AFL FOOTY FESTIVAL

Yarra Park + afl.com.au

From 25 Sep

MECCA X NGV WOMEN IN DESIGN COMMISSION

NGV International

+ ngv.melbourne

25 Sep – 4 Oct

THE AUSTRALIAN BALLET: PRISM

Regent Theatre + australianballet.com.au

25 Sep – 5 Oct

MELBOURNE ROYAL SHOW

Melbourne Showgrounds + royalshow.com.au

27 Sep

AFL GRAND FINAL

Melbourne Cricket Ground + afl.com.au

30 Sep – 19 Oct

MELBOURNE

FRINGE FESTIVAL

Various locations + melbournefringe.com.au

OCTOBER

1–31 Oct

VICTORIAN SENIORS FESTIVAL

Various locations

+ seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/festival

2–5 Oct

LE AERIAL

Fairfax Studio + leaerial.com

2–5 Oct

NBA X NBL

MELBOURNE SERIES

Rod Laver Arena + nba.nbl.com.au

4 Oct

AUSTRALIAN DIAMONDS V SOUTH AFRICAN PROTEAS

Red Energy Arena, Bendigo + netball.com.au/diamonds

4–12 Oct

MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL GAMES WEEK

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre + gamesweek.melbourne

10–22 Oct

THE AUSTRALIAN BALLET: MANON

Regent Theatre + australianballet.com.au

11 Oct

DIWALI FESTIVAL

Marvel Stadium + melbournediwali.com.au

16–18 Oct

MSO PRESENTS MARVEL STUDIOS’ INFINITY SAGA CONCERT EXPERIENCE

Hamer Hall + mso.com.au

16–19 Oct

UCI GRAN FONDO WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS

Great Ocean Road + granfondogreatoceanroad2025. com.au

WHAT’S ON CONTINUED

17 Oct

CONSTELLATION CUP

John Cain Arena + netball.com.au/diamonds

17–19 Oct

AUSTRALIAN MOTORCYCLE GRAND PRIX

Phillip Island + motogp.com.au

17–26 Oct

MELBOURNE

INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL

Various locations + melbournejazz.com

20–26 Oct

MELBOURNE FASHION WEEK

Various locations + mfw.melbourne.vic.gov.au

25 Oct – 23 Nov

HAIR THE MUSICAL

Athenaeum Theatre + athenaeumtheatre.com.au

28 Oct – 23 Nov

THE TALENTED MR. RIPLEY Playhouse

+ artscentremelbourne.com.au

31 Oct

T20 INTERNATIONAL MEN

AUSTRALIA V INDIA

Melbourne Cricket Ground + cricket.com.au

31 Oct – 5 Nov

OPERA AUSTRALIA: THE BARBER OF SEVILLE

Regent Theatre + opera.org.au

NOVEMBER

1, 4, 6 & 8 Nov

MELBOURNE CUP CARNIVAL

Flemington Racecourse + vrc.com.au

11 Nov

REMEMBRANCE DAY

Shrine of Remembrance + shrine.org.au

14 Nov – 19 Dec

MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING

Southbank Theatre + mtc.com.au

21–30 Nov

LIVE AT THE GARDENS

Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne + liveatthegardens.com.au

28 Nov

LENNY KRAVITZ: BLUE ELECTRIC LIGHT TOUR

Mildura Sporting Precinct + ticketek.com.au

28–30 Nov

QUEENSCLIFF MUSIC FESTIVAL

Queenscliff + qmf.net.au

COMING

SOON

4–7 Dec

AUSTRALIAN OPEN GOLF

Royal Melbourne Golf Club + golf.org.au/ausopen

VICTORIA TURNS UP THE VOLUME WITH BIG-NAME TOURS, MAJOR FESTIVALS AND STANDOUT GIGS ACROSS MELBOURNE TO THE COAST. FROM OPEN-AIR SETS TO PACKED STADIUMS, HERE’S WHAT’S ON.

MAIN STAGE MOMENTS

RAISING THE BAR

At venues across the city, you can catch local and international acts. Head downstairs at Max Watt’s to catch Big Country (11 October) and Noize MC (20 November). ♦ Another option is 170 Russell. Every night is a different vibe. There could be loco bingo, a tribute band or heavy metal. Check out Aussie big band Melbourne Ska Orchestra (3 October) or funk outfit Lettuce (24 October) when they hit the stage.

♦ Forum Melbourne is a gorgeous theatre – check out the painted ceiling – and the perfect place to see Rob Thomas (29–31 October) or US singersongwriter Banks (18 November).

+ maxwatts.com.au

+ 170russell.com

+ forummelbourne.com.au

THE BIG NAMES

Some of the biggest rock acts in the world – Oasis (31 October – 4 November), Metallica (8 November), AC/DC (12 and 16 November) and Lenny Kravitz (25 November) – are making their way to Melbourne this season. Lenny Kravitz is even taking his Blue Electric Light Tour to Mildura (28 November). If your preferred style is R&B, Fridayz Live (25 October), featuring Mariah Carey, Pitbull, Wiz Khalifa and more, is hitting Marvel Stadium. Find more top acts at Rod Laver Arena. This season it hosts global chart-toppers including Teddy Swims (22–24 October), James Blunt (26 October), Ricky Martin (1–2 November) and Rüfüs Du Sol (13–15 November).

+ acdc.com

+ fridayz.live

+ rodlaverarena.com.au

FESTIVAL FUN

If you want to enjoy your music in beautiful surroundings, check out Live at the Gardens. This spring it is bringing Rockwiz Live (21 November) and Franz Ferdinand (28 November) to the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne. Get beach vibes when you head to the coast for Queenscliff Music Festival (28–30 November) on the Bellarine Peninsula. Over the course of three family-friendly days, catch acts including Pierce Brothers, the Cat Empire, Thelma Plum, King Stingray and heaps more.

+ liveatthegardens.com.au

+ qmf.net.au

FROM HANDS-ON EXHIBITIONS TO BOLD PERFORMANCE AND IMMERSIVE PLAY, THESE EXPERIENCES ARE CRAFTED FOR CONNECTION.

DIFFERENT BY DESIGN

CHILD’S PLAY

Got the family to entertain? Head to Melbourne Museum for LEGO® Star Wars™: The Exhibition, a world first that brings together two of the world’s best-loved brands. Not only can you check out life-sized models of battles, characters and spaceships, you’ll also find interactive displays, themed zones and creative building stations that invite kids (and adults) to help expand the LEGO Star Wars universe in real time.

+ legostarwarstheexhibition.com

ARTS FOR ALL

See the outliers of talent at Melbourne Fringe (30 September – 19 October), where diversity, discovery and experimentation in the arts are not only encouraged but expected. Whether you love music, comedy, circus or theatre, you’ll find performances to inspire and make you think. This year’s program features more than 450 events across Melbourne.

+ melbournefringe.com.au

READY, PLAYER ONE

Find out what’s next in gaming at Melbourne International Games Week (4–12 October). This is the largest digital games celebration in the Asia Pacific region, bringing together gamers, influencers, educators and business. Whether you’re into tabletop, digital or role-playing games, there are heaps of public events and parties. Expect hands-on demos, industry panels and immersive experiences that showcase the future of play – right here in Melbourne.

+ gamesweek.melbourne

SPORTING CHANCE

+ netball.com.au THIS SEASON, THE CALENDAR IS PACKED WITH EXCITING EVENTS. MAKE THE MOST OF THESE SPRINGTIME SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS.

AND THEY’RE RACING

Melbourne’s Spring Racing Carnival culminates in the Melbourne Cup Carnival (1–8 November). Across the event you’ll enjoy quality racing, fine food and excellent fashion. The big day features the Melbourne Cup, when about 90,000 people converge on the course to watch the race.

+ vrc.com.au

THE BIG KICK

The 2025 AFL season reaches its thrilling climax in the AFL Grand Final (27 September). Head to Fed Square, the MCG live site or one of Melbourne’s many footy-loving pubs to watch the game with the crowd. Check out the Footy Festival at Yarra Park in the days before the big game, then cheer on the teams in the AFL Grand Final Parade. Later in the season, watch the AFLW Grand Final on 29 November.

+ afl.com.au

+ afl.com.au/aflw

SHOOT TO WIN

The Constellation Cup is the biggest netball competition of the year, between the Australian Diamonds and New Zealand’s Silver Ferns. The series begins at John Cain Arena (17 October). Be there to cheer on our team and help them back to their winning ways.

SLAM DUNK

For the first time in Australia, the New Orleans Pelicans are competing in the NBA x NBL Melbourne Series (2–5 October) at Rod Laver Arena. Attend an open training session and a fan night, as well as two games. First, the Pelicans take on Melbourne United, then South East Melbourne Phoenix. + nba.nbl.com.au

BIG HITS

It’s the fastest game in cricket and you can see the best of the best take a swing when the Australia Men’s team takes on India during the T20 International Series (31 October) at the MCG. India currently holds the T20 World Cup, so the home team will be hoping for a big win.

+ cricket.com.au

ROAD RACING

Cyclists from around the world will converge on the Great Ocean Road for the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships (16–19 October). The event includes a road race and individual time trial, as well a team relay. It’s not just for elite cyclists, there are family rides and Amy’s Gran Fondo, a 122km event on fully closed roads.

+ granfondogreatoceanroad2025. com.au

CELEBRATE CULTURE, COMMUNITY AND COLOUR AT THESE SPRING FESTIVALS AND FAMILY-FRIENDLY EVENTS.

LIGHT IT UP

Join one of the most colourful and joyous annual celebrations at Melbourne Diwali Festival (11 October) at Marvel Stadium. There’ll be music and dancing, as well as fantastic food, as the Indian community and its supporters come together to acknowledge the victory of light over darkness, good over evil. Expect dazzling performances, vibrant traditional attire and a spectacular fireworks finale that lights up the night sky.

+ melbournediwali.com.au

FESTIVE FEASTS AND FUN

UNMISSABLE MELBOURNE

Head to the annual Melbourne Royal Show (25 September – 5 October), a showcase of animals and agriculture. Enjoy delicious food, cool arts and crafts, live entertainment and thrilling rides. This beloved springtime tradition also features daily parades, interactive farm experiences and a jam-packed schedule of family-friendly fun. Don’t miss out on stocking up on an armful of colourful showbags too.

+ royalshow.com.au

CELEBRATING SENIORS

Take your grandparents to the Victorian Seniors Festival (1–30 October), a statewide celebration, including Town Hall Dances and the ACMI Seniors Film Festival, for and involving the older members of our community. With hundreds of free and low-cost events across Victoria, it’s a chance to connect, celebrate and enjoy the wisdom and warmth of our senior citizens.

+ seniorsonline.vic.gov.au

ARTS CENTRE MELBOURNE

2nd - 5th October 2025

Tickets at www.leaerial.com

IF YOU KNEW MELBOURNE…

LIKE WE KNOW MELBOURNE, YOU’D REALISE WHY IT’S SUCH AN EASY CITY TO LOVE. HERE ARE JUST A FEW FUN FACTS TO GET YOU STARTED.

CAPITAL IDEA

From 1901 to 1927, Melbourne was the capital of Australia and Federal Parliament met in the grand Spring Street building where the Parliament of Victoria still meets to this day.

ANCIENT FOOTSTEPS

Members of the Kulin Nation, specifically Boon Wurrung and Woiwurrung people and their ancestors, have lived on the land now known as Melbourne for more than 40,000 years.

LITTLE ITALY

Melbourne is home to the highest population of Italians outside of Italy. You can immerse yourself in their culture on Carlton’s Lygon Street, also known as Little Italy.

A WIN FOR WORK

If you’re from a country where people spend eight hours a day at work, you have Melburnians to thank. Stonemasons and building workers here successfully campaigned for the 40-hour week in 1856.

Before this, it was common for workers in countries like the UK, the US and Australia to endure workdays of 10 to 12 hours, often six days a week.

GLORIOUS GLASS

The world’s largest stainedglass ceiling can be seen in the Great Hall at NGV International. It is made of 16,000 pieces of glass, each hand-blown by Leonard French.

GAME ON

Melbourne is the only city in the world with five internationalstandard sporting venues: the MCG, Marvel Stadium, AAMI Park, Melbourne Park and the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre.

LANTERN LEGACY

Melbourne’s Chinatown is the oldest continuous Chinese settlement in the Western world.

SEVEN NATION SPARK

Jack White wrote the riff for ‘Seven Nation Army’ at the Corner Hotel, a popular Melbourne music venue, during a soundcheck for a White Stripes show.

ROYAL FLUSH

When Hamer Hall was opened in 1982, it had a bathroomspecial created for Prince Charles and Princess Diana, who were visiting at the time.

STAY YOUR WAY

THINK YOU COULD USE A STAYCATION? CONSIDER THESE SIX CITY HOTELS, EACH ONE WITH ITS OWN PERSONALITY.

STAY SUSTAINABLY

The new 1 Hotel Melbourne has been designed with sustainability in mind, fusing eco-technology with heritage materials. Set on the Yarra River, its rooms have been created as sanctuaries from the world outside. There are two restaurants and a bar on site, plus a spa, so you can treat yourself. + 1hotels.com/melbourne

SHOPPING CENTRAL

If you’ve got a spring wardrobe refresh on your mind, base yourself at Pullman Melbourne City Centre. Stroll to QV, Emporium or Melbourne Central for the best designer options, then finish the day with a cocktail at the hotel’s Blossom Rooftop Bar. + all.accor.com

SKY HIGH

The ultra-luxe Ritz-Carlton Melbourne has some of the best views in the city. Enjoy them from your room, of course, but also from the enclosed pool, fitness centre and its smart bar Cameo. Book at Atria, where your eyes will be drawn from the vista to the innovative cuisine on your plate. + ritzcarlton.com

IT’S SHOWTIME

If you’re keen to catch a show, book a room at Rydges Melbourne. Situated in the city’s theatre district, it puts guests in the heart of culture. Drop into the hotel’s Bossley Bar & Restaurant for the pre-theatre menu created using the best local ingredients. + rydges.com

TASTY DIGS

The colourful surrounds of Quincy Hotel lift the spirits, as does its standout restaurant, Salted Egg. This tasty gem serves up dishes inspired by the hawker markets of Southeast Asia. Be sure to head down for the innovative Asian-flavoured breakfast dishes.

+ quincymelbourne.com

JUST SAY OUI

Can’t get to Paris for the weekend?

The understated luxury of Next Hotel makes a fine stand-in. Go designer shopping on Collins Street, enjoy cocktails at Latin American bar Barra then head back to the hotel to dine at La Madonna, where Michelin-trained chef Jacopo Degli Esposti serves up a French-Italian fusion menu.

+ nexthotelmelbourne.com

ONE-DAY WANDERS

ESCAPE THE CITY FOR A DAY OF DISCOVERY IN VICTORIA’S CHARMING TOWNS AND COUNTRYSIDE, AND BE BACK BY NIGHTFALL.

BENDIGO BY TRAIN

From Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station, it takes less than two hours on a V/Line train to arrive in Bendigo, one of Victoria’s grandest gold-rush towns. It is one of UNESCO’s Cities of Gastronomy, so you can expect to eat well, but there are also excellent farmers’ markets, including one every Sunday at the showgrounds. For lunch,

try Alium’s refined seasonal menu or enjoy the waterfront views of Whitby at Lake Weeroona. While you’re in the area, you could also visit the Golden Dragon Museum to find out about the Chinese history of the city, or wander through the Bendigo Botanic Gardens. + bendigoregion.com.au

TORQUAY BY CAR

It takes about 90 minutes to drive to Torquay at the start of the Great Ocean Road. This laidback coastal town is well set up for inclusive travel, with accessible attractions and scenic paths. The foreshore trail from The Sands Resort to the Torquay Surf Lifesaving Club is flat and ideal for walking or wheeling, and Torquay Front Beach offers calm waters for swimming or snorkelling. Don’t miss the Torquay Skate Park – a favourite among pros like chair-skater and surfer Harvey McCorkell – where smooth surfaces and open design make it a welcoming spot for all.

+ visitgreatoceanroad.org.au

THE BELLARINE BY BOAT

For an indulgent midweek break, take advantage of the day package with Lon Spa on the Bellarine Peninsula and Port Phillip Ferries. Travel from Melbourne on the ferry, soak in Lon’s mineral pool, have a massage or facial, enjoy a delicious grazing plate, then head back. Spa treatments not your style? You can also book packages through the ferry company to play a round of golf at Portarlington Golf Club or visit the wineries in the region, such as Terindah Estate, Scotchmans Hill or Jack Rabbit, in collaboration with Hop It, a hop-on, hop-off bus shuttle service.

+ visitgeelongbellarine.com.au

A GRAND DAY OUT

Visit Portarlington: The Mussel Capital of Australia!

www.portphillipferries.com.au

Begin your adventure with a scenic cruise across Port Phillip Bay aboard a fast ferry to the historic Portarlington Grand Hotel, where heritage meets modern luxury. Available every day except Tuesdays, the Grand Day Out Package includes a return ferry journey, a delicious lunch, and your choice of drink. After lunch, explore Portarlington’s charming boutiques or enjoy a scenic stroll along the pristine Bellarine coastline.

DOCKLANDS DAY OUT

CONVENIENTLY CLOSE TO THE CITY CENTRE, THIS WATERSIDE NEIGHBOURHOOD OFFERS PLENTY TO EXPLORE. HERE’S WHERE TO START.

FUN FOR EVERYONE

Head to The District Docklands where there’s far more for the whole family than just shopping and dining. Indoor theme park Dreamskape has evolved. Check out its new attractions like obstacle courses for all ages, Dreamrace – an adventure course inspired by videogames – and a 4D virtual-reality ‘ride’. New to the District is Prison Island, a unique fusion of escape room, obstacle course and tactical gameplay with 34 themed rooms. + dreamskape.com.au + prisonislandexperience.com/ melbourne

SAIL AWAY

Feel like a bayside adventure? Step down to the dock below Marvel Stadium to hop on a ferry. Port Phillip Ferries offers a variety of shorter cruises depending on the day. On Tuesday, climb aboard the Nature Lovers Bay Cruise to sail to Portarlington and back, with the chance to enjoy stunning scenery. You might even see dolphins while out on the water. Plus, kids sail for free. + portphillipferries.com.au

EVENT DAY

Whether you’re heading to Marvel Stadium for Nitro Circus (18 October), Oasis (31 October–4 November) or another big event, book a pre-show table at Friends of Fire at Stadium Square Gate 2/3 to have a meal beforehand. Its modern Asian flavours are prepared over coals. There are plenty of other, more casual spots to eat within the stadium, including 8Bit, 400 Gradi Pronto and Gami Korean Fried Chicken.

+ marvelstadium.com.au

DIAMONDS DAYS (AND NIGHTS)

MELBOURNE IS THE CAPITAL OF AUSSIE NETBALL, SO IT STANDS TO REASON THIS IS THE HOME OF OUR NATIONAL TEAM, THE DIAMONDS. HERE’S WHAT’S KEEPING THEM BUSY.

WINNING FORMULA

The big item on the Origin Australian Diamonds agenda is the Constellation Cup. Head to John Cain Arena (17 October) to witness the first of four matches, between the Diamonds and New Zealand Silver Ferns. “There’s nothing quite like playing in front of our home fans in Australia,” says Diamonds head coach Stacey Marinkovich. “The energy and support we receive is unmatched, and it’s always a privilege to represent our country on home soil.” The Diamonds are going to come out strong after the Ferns took the cup home last year.

THE PERFECT SHOT

Coffee fuels Melbourne and it’s the same for the Diamonds. Good Measure in Carlton sets the standard, with crowds gathering from early in the morning for the perfect cup. Find a spot among the plants on the comfy vintage furniture for babka and a brew or pick up the viral Mont Blanc, a filter brew topped with whipped cream and sprinkled with freshly grated nutmeg and orange zest, when you’re on the go – to training, perhaps.

WING ATTACK

It’s a little bit rock and roll, a little bit 1970s log cabin. More than anything,

though, Leonards House of Love is a great spot for a team get-together, whether your gang comes together because of sport, work or socialising. Gather around a table at this South Yarra favourite for chicken wings, cheeseburgers, loaded fries and cold beers. Get the party started or head here to recover from the night before.

TEAM HUDDLE

Late nights don’t get any better than heading behind the velvet curtain, with a cocktail in hand, listening to tunes on vinyl. Tucked away on the first floor of four-storey HER Melbourne is the Music Room, a place to escape the

chaos and chill for a while with your people. The night might almost be over but there’s still time to sit down and debrief with friends on what happened during the game.

+ netball.com.au

+ visitmelbourne.com/netball

LANDMARKS AND LANEWAYS

MAKE THE MOST OF THE GLORIOUS WEATHER BY EXPLORING THE CITY’S FINEST GARDENS. TAKE A STROLL, LAY OUT A PICNIC OR DISCOVER WHAT ELSE THEY HAVE TO OFFER.

LINGER LONGER

Founded almost 180 years ago, Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne is a blissful urban landscape, with its desert and tropical plants, sensory and rare species gardens, and three lakes. Right now, the rose garden offers the sweetest of spring fragrances. The Observatory is where Melbourne’s natural beauty meets refined hospitality. Overlooking the lush expanse of the gardens, it’s a place for lingering breakfasts, long lunches and intimate dinners. With a menu that shifts with the seasons and a grand yet inviting ambience, it offers moments to savour.

+ rbg.vic.gov.au

SPRING SUNSHINE

On the northern edge of the city, this expanse of green is a popular spot with city workers needing a sunny break. Along with the Royal Exhibition Building, Carlton Gardens was developed for the 1880 Melbourne International Exhibition – both gardens and building were listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites in 2004. Walk around the ornamental lakes and elaborate fountains before picking the perfect perch to watch the world go by.

+ melbourne.vic.gov.au/carltongardens

SEASON’S BEST

If you’ve got kids with you, Fitzroy Gardens will keep them amused. Head to the Fairies’ Tree, where Ola Cohn carved all sorts of characters – koalas, gnomes and, yes, fairies –into the stump of a red gum in the 1930s. There’s also Cooks’ Cottage, which was brought from Yorkshire, in England’s north, and reassembled here brick by brick. It was once the home of the parents of Captain James Cook, and you can visit it and its cottage garden. There’s also a cafe if you want to stop for cake.

+ melbourne.vic.gov.au/fitzroygardens

HIDDEN HOTSPOTS

Head to the laneways to find cafes and restaurants tucked away from the city hustle. From breakfast classics to faraway flavours, discover them all.

+ visitvictoria.com/laneways

1. Krimper An old warehouse has been transformed to create a characterful cafe serving crowd-pleasing fare.

2. Maha Make the most of the modern Middle Eastern flavours here by choosing the soufra option of meze and shared mains.

3. MoVida This funky bar and restaurant has been serving up tapas and Spanish wines and cocktails since 2003.

4. Bowery to Williamsburg Find New York deli-style creations, including filled bagels and pastrami on rye, at this tiny basement diner.

5. HuTong Dumpling Bar Tables across three levels fill with diners eager to order the xiao long bao and other dim sum classics.

6. Tonka Authentic Indian techniques are married with the finest local ingredients at this slick, contemporary eatery.

7. San Telmo The old-world bodega vibes paired with a charcoal grill create an atmosphere straight out of Argentina. Take a tour of the laneways and other city spots with an expert guide to discover local favourites and hidden delights. + visitvictoria.com/melbourne-tours

SPRING IN YOUR STEP

HEAD TO MELBOURNE’S SMALL BUT PERFECTLY FORMED LANEWAYS TO DISCOVER THE BEST OF THE CITY, FROM SHOPPING TO COCKTAILS.

ART ATTACK

When the weather is fine, hit some of the laneways displaying great street art for a photo session. Hosier Lane is always popular, but don’t forget to check out AC/DC Lane, Blender Lane and Meyers Place, with its huge Mike Makatron mural – it was also one of the first spots to be transformed by the Green Your Laneway program. Here’s a tip: get up early, before the city workers arrive for the day, to get the best pics.

MORNING BREW

Then you’ll need to find yourself a coffee. Degraves Street is a tiny, pedestrian-only thoroughfare lined with cafes. Hole-in-the-wall Fieldwork serves espresso and filter coffee, as well as a selection of savoury and sweet pastries. Hardware Lane is another hot spot for cafes. Try Alien & Coco for coffee and Koreaninfluenced sandwiches.

+ fieldworkcoffee.com.au

+ instagram.com/alienandcoco

SHAKE IT UP

If you’re looking for a late-night cocktail venue, head up the stairs to Aster, where there are signature drinks, including a spicy coco marg, and tasty snacks in a historical loft. Mix cocktails with comedy at Theory Bar. As the day ends, grab a table in the laneway then head upstairs later, where there’s improv, stand-up, films and more.

+ aster.melbourne

+ theorybar.com.au

LOCAL FLAVOUR

Get your fix of Australian designers on Flinders Lane. Local brother-andsister duo Alex and Georgie Cleary create a uniquely Melbourne look at Alpha60. The monochromatic vibes of Et Al have been favourites for more than 30 years. Stock up on Aesop at one of the original stores, with interiors crafted from cardboard.

+ alpha60.com.au

+ etal-australia.com

+ aesop.com

ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS MELBOURNE

Entry is free to Australia’s number one tourist attraction and one of the world’s most beautiful gardens. Home to breathtaking landscapes and fascinating tours, Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne is an inner-city oasis and the perfect place to reconnect with nature.

Venture through the gates to explore unusual plants from across the globe, as well as rare native species. Wander between succulents erupting from the earth at Guilfoyle’s Volcano, take a moment of peace by the creek in Fern Gully, or simply enjoy a catered picnic box on a rug by Ornamental Lake before taking a peaceful boat ride.

Tram: Route 3, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67 or 72 to stop 19

Open: Daily, 7.30am to 5.30pm (1 April to 4 October)

Daily, 7.30am to 7.30pm (5 October to 31 March)

Birdwood Avenue, Melbourne

t: 03 9252 2300

w: rbg.vic.gov.au

Find us on:

THE JOHNSTON COLLECTION

Explore a collection of beautiful fine and decorative arts from the 1700s and 1800s in the period rooms of historic East Melbourne townhouse, Fairhall.

Displayed in a domestic setting without ropes or labels, The Johnston Collection is regarded as one of the best collections of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.

Pre-bookings Essential.

Tram: Route 48 or 75 to Stop 11

Train: Hurstbridge or Mernda Line to Jolimont Station

Open: Wed – Sun 10am, 12pm, 2pm (closed public holidays)

192 Wellington Parade, East Melbourne

t: 03 9416 2515

w: johnstoncollection.org

Find us on:

STORIES OF SERVICE

IT’S BOTH A MELBOURNE LANDMARK AND A PLACE OF PRESERVATION, REMEMBRANCE AND CONNECTION. VISIT THE SHRINE OF REMEMBRANCE.

LANDMARK STATUS

For more than 90 years, the Shrine of Remembrance has stood proudly in King’s Domain. It is a place of reflection and commemoration, providing a space for all to honour the sacrifice of past and present service people. Welcoming more than half a million visitors annually, the Shrine recently won the Gold Award in Cultural Tourism at the Australian Tourism Awards, recognising its incredible contribution to this country’s cultural heritage and community.

TIME TO REFLECT

Discover the rich heritage and profound legacy of the Shrine. Explore immersive exhibitions,

take in breathtaking city views, and join one of the guided tours to delve into the stories behind this monumental site. With its grand architecture, moving ceremonies and peaceful gardens, it’s a place to reflect, remember and connect with Australia’s history in a meaningful way.

DAY TO REMEMBER

This season, the Shrine commemorates Remembrance Day on 11 November, with a minute’s silence held at 11am. At that time the Ray of Light illuminates the word LOVE on the Stone of Remembrance in the Sanctuary. Visitors can see this re-created daily. Afterwards, check out the Galleries

of Remembrance and visit one of the special exhibitions like Taste of Combat, which examines the evolution of military food.

Tram: Route 3, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67 or 72 to stop 19

Open: Daily, 10am to 5pm (last entry 4.30pm)

Birdwood Avenue, Melbourne t: 03 9661 8100

w: shrine.org.au

Find us on:

TIMELESS TREASURES

ARCHED ELEGANCE

MOSAIC MAGIC

WHETHER YOU’RE DOING SERIOUS SHOPPING OR SEEKING OUT HISTORY, EXPLORE SOME OF THE CITY’S OLDEST ARCADES.

From its glass and wrought-iron ceiling to the statues of Gog and Magog, Royal Arcade is a real eye-catcher. Built in 1869, it is Melbourne’s oldest covered shopping precinct, and is now lined with amazing stores and excellent cafes. Seek out a signature fragrance at Santa Maria Novella, shop for vintage clothing at Hunter Gatherer, or make a sweet stop at Koko Black.

+ royalarcade.com.au

Imagine you’re in Italy when you enter the Block Arcade. Built in 1892, its soaring glass canopy and mosaic floors were inspired by Milan’s Galleria Vittorio Emanuele. Part of the Golden Mile heritage walk, it is home to renowned retailers, from Coal River Farm, with its home-grown, handmade products, to Keshett, purveyor of vintage and art deco jewellery. When not shopping, feast on delectable cakes at the Tea Rooms 1892. + theblock.com.au

HEAVEN ON EARTH

Stop for a break at Cathedral Coffee before exploring the art deco Cathedral Arcade. Take in the gorgeous arched leadlight ceiling, then head upstairs into the Nicholas Building. You’ll find independent stores, art galleries and the studios of designers and makers. Some favourite places to stop include RetroStar Vintage, Kimono House and Blindside, an artist-run gallery. + nicholasbuilding.org.au

THE TEA ROOMS 1892

The Tea Rooms are a must-visit for anyone who comes to Melbourne. The first tenant of the Block Arcade when it opened on 14 October 1892, the famous tea rooms have been serving cakes, sandwiches, tea and scones, all made daily on site, for more than 133 years. Although changing names three times in their storied history, these are the oldest tea rooms in Australia. Be sure to book for the delicious high tea. @thetearooms1892

Open: Mon – Fri 8am to 5pm, Sat –Sun 9am to 5pm Shops 1 & 2, The Block Arcade, 280 Collins St, Melbourne w: thetearooms1892.com.au Find us on:

THE LUWOW TIKI BAR

The LuWOW is a hidden oasis of fun in the heart of Melbourne. Specialising in crafted tropical cocktails, served in an outrageous island jungle setting, playing fun vintage and tropi-cool grooves.

Tuck into our quesadillas, tacos and delicious barbacoa beef while sipping rum nectars from a giant skull, volcano bowl or glass pineapple. Vegetarian and vegan options available.

Book now for your cocktail adventure at this wild tropical hideaway!

Open: Mon – Sat from 4pm

212 Little Collins Street, Melbourne

t: 03 7038 0937

w: theluwow.com

Find us on:

MARVEL STADIUM

Set in the heart of Melbourne, Marvel Stadium is redefining the stadium experience through world-class sporting events, global music stars, precinct activations, renowned restaurants and exclusive private functions.

The world’s busiest multi-purpose stadium is alive with extraordinary experiences for everyone. This precinct, just a four-minute walk from Southern Cross Station, is a vibrant entertainment hub where the community can meet and enjoy events 365 days a year. Don’t miss the 2025 Toyota AFL Premiership Season, Oasis, Lady Gaga, Nitro Circus and more.

Download the NEW Marvel Stadium app!

Train: Southern Cross Station

Tram: Route 11, 48, 86 & 96 towards Southern Cross Station Route 30, 35 & 86 for La Trobe Street entrance.

740 Bourke Street, Docklands

w: marvelstadium.com.au

Find us on:

EAT AND DRINK

ON ANY DAY IN MELBOURNE, YOU CAN TASTE GLOBAL FLAVOURS, EXPLORE THE COFFEE CULTURE, AND SPEND THE EVENING IMBIBING ECLECTIC COCKTAILS. HERE’S WHERE TO START.

HOT AND COLD

Combine coffee, one of Melbourne’s favourite beverages, with some people watching at Brunetti Oro on Swanston Street. And while Brunetti honours Italian traditions, get French flair at Publique Bakery, at Queen Vic Market. Order buttery croissants, egg benedict danishes and sweet cruffins to go with your coffee. When the weather heats up, hit Carlton’s Glo Gelato. There’s an incredible range of flavours from which to choose.

+ brunettioro.com.au

+ publiquebakery.com

+ glogelato.co

FEAST OF FLAVOUR

Fans of Malaysian food should head to the Tivoli Arcade where chef Junda Khoo has opened venues across three floors, including beer hall Ho Liao, eatery Ho Jiak (it’s famous for laksa bombs, dumplings filled with chicken, prawn, egg, noodles and laksa broth), and takeaway counter

Da Bao. If your group loves Japanese cuisine, but some love sushi and the others want barbecue, head to Emporium’s Tetsujin, where you can get a combination of both.

+ hojiak.com.au

+ tetsujin.com.au

BARS AND BEATS

Get into the soundtrack of 70s jazz and funk while you sip signature and classic cocktails at Baby Driver, the new venue for the Beneath Driver Lane crew. Grab a spot at one of the olive leather banquettes and order from the menu – the kitchen hosts a rotating calendar of culinary takeovers bringing good times on a plate. The newest home of electronic music is Solace, with its fun drinks and roster of local and international DJs spinning techno, house, breaks, jungle and electro.

+ driverlanebar.com

+ findsolace.com.au

RAISE A GLASS

DISCOVER THE FINEST DROPS AVAILABLE THROUGHOUT THE CITY BY EXPLORING WINE BARS, CELLAR DOORS AND URBAN WINERIES.

PERFECT MATCH

Head to Melbourne Winery to taste wines made by Scotchmans Hills on the Bellarine Peninsula. It has a cellar door where guests can order a tasting flight or make a booking at the restaurant. Here, each dish is designed to ensure it matches the flavour profile of one of the wines. Another option for those who want to explore wine and food pairing is The Barre Lunch Series at Arts Centre Melbourne. It brings together exceptional food, expertly curated wine tastings, and special guest speakers from the hospitality and performing arts sectors. + melbournewinery.com.au

+ artscentremelbourne.com.au

SUBTERRANEAN SIPS

There are plenty of excellent wine bars in the city, but Juliet Melbourne, tucked into a charming basement space, celebrates women in the industry. On the wine list are the wares of some great female winemakers like Ros Ritchie in the Strathbogie Ranges and Alysha Moscatt and Lucy Kendall from Allevare in Heathcote. Pair your choice with great snacks, from jamon croquettes to baked-to-order Portuguese custard tarts. + julietmelbourne.com.au

FROM THE SOURCE

In a warm, wood-panelled space, Vinesmith has a cellar door, wine bar and bistro. Take part in a tasting of its wines made at two Victorian estates or settle in for dinner. Enjoy the French-inspired dishes matched to house wines and those from other makers. Across town, at Melbourne Cellar Door there are more than 500 wines, with a focus on small producers, available by the bottle. Visitors peruse the selection on the shelves and in fridges and choose what they want (like a sit-down bottle shop). If you all want something different, there are about 30 wines by the glass too. To eat, there are charcuterie and cheese boards, shareable snacks, pizzas and upmarket pub-style food.

+ vinesmith.com.au

+ melbournecellardoor.com.au

RIGHT ON THE YARRA RIVER, THIS PICTURESQUE RIVERSIDE SPOT IS THE PLACE TO BE.

FUN TIMES ON SOUTH WHARF

ALL-DAY DESTINATION

Whether you’ve got the kids with you and are checking out Polly Woodside, the city’s heritage sailing ship, or are on your way to do some shopping at DFO, feel the holiday vibes at The Boatbuilders Yard. This huge, outdoor beer garden, overlooking the water, is a family-friendly spot during the day and a great place to catch up with friends in the evening. Have coffee and brunch with views of the city skyline or pair lunch or dinner with an ice-cold beer or expertly shaken cocktail. The venue also hosts Sunday Sessions, Melbourne’s best weekend happy hour.

+ theboatbuildersyard.com.au

PUB CLASSIC

If you’ve attended an event at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre or are heading to a game or gig at Marvel Stadium, make sure The General Assembly is part of your plans. This is the best pub on the Yarra River, with more than 40 beers on tap, delicious seasonal dishes, sport on the big screens right across the venue and live music every weekend. Check out the daily specials – there are all the favourites like parma, steak and steak sandwich day – as well as a sunset happy hour from 4pm till 7pm every weekday. With $10 wines and spritzes and $8 schooners, you can’t go wrong.

+ thegeneralassembly.com.au

DINING DISTRICT

DISCOVER A WORLD OF FLAVOUR FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY. IT’S TIME TO EAT YOUR FILL AT THE DISTRICT DOCKLANDS.

EUROPEAN ENVOY

The District Docklands has more than 30 food and dining options. Make a day or night of it, with 20-plus entertainment experiences plus big brand outlet laneway shopping. When it’s time to eat, head to Yassas, where there are casual taverna vibes and authentic Greek street food, including souvlaki, gyros and share plates. If the mood calls for Italian, try District Pizzeria. Enjoy handmade pizzas (made with dough risen in-house for 48 hours) crafted with love.

ASIAN FLAVOURS

If yum cha is a family favourite, head to Bright Palace, where you can choose the finest dumplings and other dim sum delights. Otherwise, choose from the modern Chinese dishes,

including Peking duck, or the banquet options. Get cooking at Seoul Garden Korean BBQ, where you use the smoky tabletop grills to cook up whatever meat and vegetables you choose. This is a fun and interactive way to dine out.

SWEET THINGS

Whether you’re looking for dessert or a snack, San Churro serves Spanish donuts, hot chocolate, ice cream and other sweet treats. Over at The Pancake Parlour, the sweet options are hard to resist, but there are also savoury options and all-day breakfast. Bring on the nostalgia and those delicious pancake stacks. Enjoy 90 minutes of free parking or jump on the free City Circle Tram to visit The District.

+ thedistrictdocklands.com.au

ABORIGINAL VICTORIA

DISCOVER MELBOURNE THROUGH THE STORIES AND LIVING CULTURE OF ITS FIRST PEOPLES, WHO HAVE CARED FOR THIS COUNTRY FOR GENERATIONS.

TAKE A WALK

Walk alongside a First Peoples guide on the Aboriginal Heritage Walk at Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne, a significant site for the local Kulin Nation. Learn about Aboriginal plant uses, customs and ongoing connection to Country. Or head to the Koorie Heritage Trust, opposite Flinders Street Station, and join the daily Birrarung Wilam (River Camp) Walk to explore the history and significance of Birrarung Marr (which means ‘beside the river of mists’).

+ rbg.vic.gov.au

+ kht.org.au

SHARING STORIES

At Melbourne Museum, Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre has galleries celebrating the stories of Victoria’s First Peoples. Visit Stronger Families, Stronger Communities at the museum’s Birrarung Gallery. This moving exhibition of work by nine First Peoples men explores healing, identity and cultural pride through art. Before you leave, follow the Milarri Garden trail, where you can learn about native flora and fauna. Join one of the guides at 1.45pm each day to feed the short-finned eels in the pond.

+ museumsvictoria.com.au

MELBOURNE MAPPED

Keen to find more sites that have meaning for local First Peoples? Mapping Aboriginal Melbourne is an interactive website that shows users not just where these areas are, but also reveals details of their meaning, a deep connection to Country, and the events and experiences of colonisation. When you need to refuel, head to Ngarrgu Djerring, a cafe that showcases native flavours and First Peoples farming practices and provides employment and training opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people.

+ aboriginal-map.melbourne.vic. gov.au

+ killarafoundation.org/ngarrgudjerring-cafe

EXPLORE EXHIBITIONS AND PERFORMANCES BY ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER CREATORS AND GAIN DEEPER INSIGHT INTO THE CULTURE AND STORIES OF VICTORIA’S FIRST PEOPLES.

CONNECTED AND CONTINUOUS

65,000 Years: A Short History of Australian Art , Potter Museum of Art

ARTISTIC BRILLIANCE

The Potter Museum of Art has reopened with a landmark exhibition, 65,000 Years: A Short History of Australian Art (until 22 November). It celebrates the brilliance and diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art while also confronting the darkness of the country’s colonial history. ♦

At ACCA, see Tennant Creek Brio: Juparnta Ngattu Minjinypa Iconocrisis, a major survey of an artist collective living and working on Warumungu Country. The work fuses First Peoples cultural traditions, the industrial materials of the mining industry, and regional and global art influences.

+ potter-museum.unimelb.edu.au

+ acca.melbourne

STAGE PRESENCE

Bangarra Dance Theatre brings its contemporary narrative to Arts Centre Melbourne’s Playhouse for Illume (4–13 September). This iridescent new theatrical experience draws together music, visual arts and dance to explore the ways light has captivated and sustained Indigenous cultural existence for millennia. It also charts the impacts of light pollution in a climate emergency. ♦

See the Victorian premiere of Palawa playwright Dylan Van Den Berg’s Whitefella Yella Tree (13–15 November) at the University of Melbourne’s Union Theatre. The play follows the friendship of two boys (who meet under a lemon tree) that turns into a heady romance. It explores love, Country and Blak queerness.

+ bangarra.com.au

+ umac.melbourne

BLAK BEAT

Nominated for Best New Talent at the 2025 National Indigenous Music Awards, Miss Kaninna (Yorta Yorta, Dja Dja Wurrung, Kalkadoon and Yirendali) is one to watch. Based in Narrm, she brings fierce energy to the stage with her explosive blend of rap, punk and Blak storytelling. This spring, catch her electrifying sets at Wonder Mountain Festival in Beechworth (7 September) and headlining at Howler in Brunswick (23 November), a vibrant arts venue at the heart of Melbourne’s live music scene.

+ wondermountain.com.au

+ howlerbrunswick.com

ARTS AND CULTURE

THERE’S NEVER A DULL MOMENT IN MELBOURNE. TAKE IN EXHIBITIONS, THEATRE PRODUCTIONS AND NEW IDEAS WHEN YOU VISIT THIS SPRING.

Flight for Freedom by Gillie and Marc at The District Docklands

THE ART OF THE ARCHIVE

Find out more about the city’s development from the early 1900s until today at Making Modern Melbourne, the free exhibition on show at the Old Treasury Building. Then continue your journey through history at State Library Victoria where World of the Book has showcased some of its most valuable and rare tomes for 20 years. Its latest iteration features Hyakumantō Darani, the world’s earliest example of mass-printed text, a paper scroll printed in Japan more than 1250 years ago. It’s on display for the first time, along with 300 other remarkable items.

+ oldtreasurybuilding.org.au

+ slv.vic.gov.au

DRAMA AND DESIGN

See the world premiere of one-woman show The Lark (2–20 September), written for beloved Australian star of stage and screen Noni Hazlehurst. It’s about a woman in her 70s saying goodbye to the small Melbourne pub that has been her whole life. See it at Art Centre Melbourne’s Fairfax Studio.

Also in the arts precinct, head to Queen Victoria Gardens to visit Tadao Ando’s MPavilion 10, originally built in 2023 for the annual design festival. This sculptural space invites visitors to pause, reflect and engage with its serene design.

+ artscentremelbourne.com.au

+ mpavilion.org

ARTISTIC INFLUENCE

Discover innovative contemporary art at the historic Nicholas Building, where there are several independent galleries, including Produce and Blindside. Just a short stroll away, see the work of the best local creatives at Craft Victoria. On show this season is Trove: Contemporary Jewellery (27 September – 8 November), showcasing some of the most forward-thinking artisans working in the field. If the sun’s out, head to The District Docklands to see Flight for Freedom, a sculpture by renowned duo Gillie and Marc. Then follow the self-guided Harbourside Art Trail via the Docklands Walking Tours app.

+ nicholasbuilding.org.au

+ craft.org.au

+ thedistrictdocklands.com.au

CULTURE CALLS

STREET SCENES

Creativity flourishes around every corner in Melbourne’s streets. Vibrant laneways showcase ever-evolving street art, from the botanic-themed Jungle Funk mural on Meyers Place, to evocative social commentary in the murals, stencils, paste-ups and installations in the laneways off Flinders Lane between Russell Street and Swanston Street. Melbourne Street Tours offers guided walks

through this urban canvas. Beyond these artistic alleyways, more than 160 public sculptures dot the cityscape. For independent explorers, the Self-Guided Melbourne Walks booklets provide the perfect tools to discover the city’s art and cultural treasures at your own pace.

+ melbournestreettours.com

+ whatson.melbourne.vic.gov.au/ walks

FLAVOUR FINDS

Immigrant influences and passionate artisans have shaped Melbourne’s distinctive food and beverage identity. Join one of the walking experiences that showcase Melbourne’s culinary diversity – tour guides like to blend taste with storytelling. Try Flavourhood Tours’ Carlton Aperitivo Tour which weaves Italian heritage tales between spritzes and salumi. If coffee’s more to your taste, the much-loved Market Lane offers hands-on coffee classes that dive deep into the city’s renowned caffeine culture. If you're keen to find tucked-away drinking spots, Depot Adventures has the ultimate insider’s flex. Discover the city's best-kept secrets hidden in plain sight, from basement speakeasies to rooftop bars up winding staircases.

+ flavourhoodtours.com.au

+ marketlane.com.au

+ depotadventures.com

STADIUM STORIES

Melbourne’s cultural heartbeat resonates through its legendary sports venues. Sporting Capital Tours provide behind-the-scenes access to venues like the MCG and Rod Laver Arena, where visitors can explore players’ change rooms and walk on hallowed turf. Show Me Melbourne offers the Melbourne Sports Lovers Bus Day Tour. In addition to visiting the MCG, journey through famous sporting sites further afield. Visit Flemington Racecourse and cruise around the F1 Grand Prix Circuit at Albert Park. It’s a deep dive into the city’s sporting soul.

+ sportingcapitaltours.com.au

+ showmemelbourne.com.au

MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING

by WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE

DanceX: Festival of Dance,

FROM FOOTLIGHTS TO FILM SCORES, THE CITY’S CULTURAL CALENDAR HITS THE HIGH NOTE THIS SEASON.

DANCE DAYS

The Australian Ballet returns with DanceX: Festival of Dance (8–11 and 15–19 October) at Arts Centre Melbourne. This boundary-breaking program showcases eight leading dance companies from across Australia and New Zealand. A short piece called Dream Swamp is perfect for audiences aged four to 10. ♦ Combine art with music at NGV Friday Nights. Listen to psychedelic jazz or neo-soul sounds and check out French Impressionism. + australianballet.com.au

+ ngv.melbourne

PULSE AND POISE

ALL THAT JAZZ

It’s Australia’s biggest festival of its kind and, in its 27th year, the Melbourne International Jazz Festival (17–26 October) continues to attract some of the world’s biggest stars for performances right across the city. Grammy-winning guitarist Bill Frisell and Japanese pianist Hiromi are among the first acts to be announced. Also performing are Gregory Porter, Samara Joy, Danilo Pérez, Gary Bartz and funk legends Lettuce. + melbournejazz.com

SPRING SOUNDTRACK

Film fans can relive cinematic magic as the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra performs Marvel Studios’ Infinity Saga Concert Experience (16–18 October), featuring scenes from Avengers films projected live above the orchestra. Or experience the sweeping themes of Art of the Score: The Music of Joe Hisaishi (6–8 November) at Hamer Hall. ♦ At the Regent Theatre, Carmen (15–25 November) returns in a bold new Opera Australia production. + mso.com.au + opera.org.au

COMPELLING EXHIBITIONS

TRACING THROUGH TIME

At the Potter Museum of Art, 65,000 Years: A Short History of Australian Art celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art while confronting the deep impacts of Australia’s colonial history and proclaims the importance of Indigenous knowledge and agency. Curated by Professor Marcia Langton, Senior Curator Judith Ryan and Associate Curator Shanysa McConville – in consultation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists and custodians of art traditions – the exhibition features more than 400 works, including rarely seen art and cultural objects, and explores the belated recognition of Indigenous art and its rise to global prominence.

+ potter-museum.unimelb.edu.au

TRACE 65,000 YEARS OF FIRST PEOPLE’S ART AND UNCOVER HIDDEN WORLDS ACROSS TWO NEW EXHIBITIONS.

LIFTING THE VEIL

Offering a deep exploration into identity, memory and cultural resilience, the veil at Buxton Contemporary journeys into the realm of the spiritual, exposing otherworldly experiences that are central to our existence, though often concealed. Presenting a diverse range of works across photography, film, weaving, fibre art, experimental printmaking and kinetic sculpture by artists Hayley Millar Baker, Hannah Gartside, Aneta Grzeszykowska, Glenda Nicholls, Lisa Waup and Lena Yarinkura the veil explores the artist’s deeply respectful engagement with their materials and stories, offering viewers moments of escape, introspection and energetic grounding.

+ buxtoncontemporary.com

MEET MELBOURNE’S MAKERS

EVERY WEEKEND, DISCOVER THE CITY’S FINEST HANDCRAFTED GOODS AND DESIGNS AT THE ROSE ST ARTISTS’ MARKET.

TREASURE HUNTERS UNITE

If you like to connect with the people behind what you buy, be sure to visit Fitzroy’s Rose St Artists’ Market. Every Saturday and Sunday it becomes the best place in Melbourne to peruse, collect and commission handcrafted goods and art. And because you’re buying directly from the more than 200 local makers, you’re supporting the city’s grassroots artists and designers.

FANTASTIC FINDS

Whether you’re looking to add a new piece to your wardrobe, find some original art for your walls or pick up a gift for someone special – a handmade ceramic mug or a unique piece of jewellery – you’ll find it all at this charming open-air market full of colour, creativity and inspiration. Plus, there are plenty of locally made gourmet items, including baked goods and small-batch preserves, to pick up while you’re here.

MEET THE MAKER

Jeannie Stephens creates elegant accessories from natural fibres for her label SoSublime. Inspired by the Australian landscape, her pieces feature earthy tones, organic textures and flowing silhouettes that echo the rhythm of the seasons. Each of these timeless designs is created using ecoconscious designs, hand-printing and traditional techniques. Meet Jeannie on her stall every weekend. + rosestmarket.com.au

PUT ON YOUR COMFORTABLE SHOES

BECAUSE WE’VE GOT SOME GROUND TO COVER TO SCORE MELBOURNE’S BEST OF THE SEASON.

HOME SPUN

If you want to go home with something a little different, look in places where Melbourne designers are promoted. One of the newer options is the Creative Society Market at Fed Square, held on the third Saturday of each month (except September). Discover a beautiful selection of handmade local products, from jewellery to art, from Melbourne’s most talented makers. ♦ Queen Vic Market is another great place to scope mementos and souvenirs, from pieces crafted from Australian wood to kangaroo plushies, among its stalls and specialty stores.

+ instagram.com/creative_society_ markets

+ qvm.com.au

A FRESH FACE

Beauty lovers, rejoice – MECCA’s new multi-level flagship on Bourke Street is a must-visit, offering cult favourites, exclusive brands and expert services in a striking immersive space that complements Melbourne's premier shopping precinct. ♦ Can’t wait to shop? From the airport, hop on the Skybus to Southern Cross Station, stow your bags, then jump on tram Route 86 or 96 at Stop 1. Head straight up Bourke Street to Emporium and Melbourne Central for a retail fix before checking in. + mecca.com

+ skybus.com.au

TURNING HEADS

Spring is all about colour and, despite the belief Melburnians only wear black, many local designers embrace vibrant hues and eclectic patterns. Check out Gorman for cute dresses, shirts and accessories in a full range of brights, including fabrics created in collaboration with Australian artists.

♦ Kylie Zerbst’s indie brand Obüs, inspired by her travels, has been dressing cool Melbourne gals in funky prints and styles for 25 years. Jump on the Route 86 tram in the city to reach the Northcote store.

+ gormanshop.com.au

+ obus.com.au

FRESH FASHION

WHETHER IT’S FLEMINGTON, A GARDEN PARTY OR A NIGHT OUT, FIND SHOW-STOPPING FASHION – FROM STATEMENT PIECES TO FINISHING TOUCHES – IN MELBOURNE'S SHOPPING PRECINCTS.

TOP IT OFF

A hat – or some form of headpiece – is a sparkling spring accessory and a must if you’re heading to the Melbourne Cup Carnival. Lauren J Ritchie Millinery creates all types of headwear for both racing and weddings. ♦ The Wendy Scully Millinery boutique shows off the designer’s artistry and individuality, with each piece sure to make a lasting

impression. ♦ Find the perfect bag to hold all your essentials at Simétrie. Most are cross-body styles in the latest fashion colours that allow you to keep your hands free and your belongings secure.

+ laurenjritchie.com

+ wendyscully.com

+ simetrie.com.au

BEST FOOT FORWARD

She’s one of Australia’s leading fashion stylists, so you can be assured the eyecatching shoes and sandals designed by Lana Wilkinson will take you right through the season, regardless of what you’re celebrating. ♦ Add a sustainable element to your style, with Nelson Made, the Melbourne footwear label that employs artisans across the world to create quality sandals,

flats, heels and boots. ♦ Expect men’s brogues, loafers and polished extras at Double Monk – a top pick for sartorial minimalists. You can also have a pair of shoes made if you have a specific idea or a difficult foot to fit.

+ lanawilkinson.com

+ nelsonmade.com.au

+ doublemonk.com

A CUT ABOVE

Celebrate in one of the brightly hued dresses from Rebecca Vallance, a designer frequently chosen by royal Zara Tindall for trackside events. Sometimes subtle and other times sexy, they’ll take you to all your spring events. ♦ It’s a quick train trip from Flinders Street to Armadale Station where you’ll find Lisa Barron, another Melbourne design boutique perfect for parties and celebrations. ♦ Christian Kimber is ideal for men seeking clean lines and modern tailoring. Find a range of ready-towear pieces, from trans-seasonal knits to chinos, as well as a made-tomeasure service, when you want to elevate your look.

+ rebeccavallance.com

+ lisabarron.com.au

+ christiankimber.com

SPENCER OUTLET CENTRE

Shop Melbourne CBD’s only outlet centre, conveniently located next to Southern Cross Station, above the SkyBus terminal and in the city’s Free Tram Zone.

Discover more than 100 of your favourite fashion, food and homeware brands, including TK Maxx, Harris Scarfe, Cotton On, Chemist Warehouse, Coles Supermarket and Liquorland. You’ll find great bargains, every day.

There’s also access to free Wi-Fi and Baggage Storage by Smarte Carte. Visit our website for exclusive tourist offers.

Tram: Route 86 to stop 120 or 96 to stop 122

Train: To Southern Cross

Open: Sat – Wed 10am to 6pm, Thu – Fri 10am to 7pm.

Food court open from 8am daily. Coles open from 6am–11pm daily.

201 Spencer Street, Docklands t: 03 8689 7577

w: spenceroutletcentre.com.au

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ST KILDA ESPLANADE MARKET

In its idyllic beachside location, the St Kilda Esplanade Market is a favourite stop in St Kilda. A world-renowned art and craft makers’ haven, the market has been the destination of choice for those seeking high-quality and authentic Australian products since 1970. This familyfriendly market features original artworks and handmade crafts, exquisite jewellery and delicious food.

Meet the makers and designers every Sunday. If you’re after handmade, unique, local… That’s your Esplanade Market.

Tram: Route 16 or 96 to stop 138

Open: Every Sunday, 10am to 4pm Upper Esplanade, St Kilda t: 03 9209 6777

w: stkildaesplanademarket.com.au

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CENTRAL AFTER DARK

IT’S A HAVEN FOR SHOPPING, BUT AFTER DARK, MELBOURNE CENTRAL IS A HUB FOR GOOD FOOD, GOOD DRINKS AND GOOD TIMES.

FULL OF FLAVOUR

Whether you’re looking to make a night of it or are seeking out a quick bite, you’ll find it at Melbourne Central Yappari Steak originated in Okinawa and has nurtured a cult following thanks to its sizzling cuts of rare beef served on hot lava-stone plates. For a taste of old-world Chinese flavours, head to New Shanghai for signature xiao long bao, spring onion pancakes and stir-fried noodles. For something

different, try the cumin lamb or Sichuan pepper skewers. If you’ve got somewhere to be, head to ELLA on the ground floor where you’ll find CDMX –hailed as serving the best birria tacos in Melbourne – and Son in Law, which is popular for its fairy-floss creations and character baos.

BEST BAR NONE

If you’ve got a group together, head to Asian Beer Cafe. Thanks to its

proximity to RMIT, it’s popular with students, and has one of the city’s best happy hours. From 6pm to 9pm daily, enjoy cut-price cocktails and jugs of beer, plus food specials, from its famous $6 pizzas to vegetarian spring rolls. Downstairs in ELLA, seek out Byrdi, which has steadily climbed the ranks of global acclaim, earning a place on the World’s 50 Best Bars list, which celebrates the best in bar culture worldwide. Designed to

capture a uniquely Australian vibe, Byrdi’s seasonal drinks spotlight native ingredients.

NIGHT MOVES

Ready for fun? Kick off your night with a blockbuster at HOYTS – with 12 screens including two Xtremescreens and state-of-the-art technology, it offers the biggest and loudest cinema experience around. Then gather your crew for ten-pin bowling, laser

tag, escape rooms and karaoke at Strike, a high-energy venue perfect for group outings. For a different vibe, step into B. Lucky & Sons – a hidden, neon-drenched arcade bar behind a pawn shop facade where you can sip cocktails, play classic and modern games and win quirky prizes.

+ melbournecentral.com.au

MARKET FRESH

THIS SPRING, THE QUEEN VIC MARKET HAS IT ALL, FROM THE FINEST SEASONAL PRODUCE TO A VIBRANT NIGHT MARKET.

FIT FOR A QUEEN

It’s Melbourne’s home of fresh. Fill your basket at Queen Vic Market with the best of spring in the Dairy Produce Hall, Meat & Fish Hall and fruit and vegetable sheds. Hungry right now? Queen’s Food Hall is an experiential destination and vibrant hub, where visitors can enjoy foods from Saltwater Sushi & Oyster Bar, Canton Malay, El Rincon Tapas Bar and other eateries. If you’re looking for something more casual, try the Pain de Ruban and other pastries from Publique Bakery on Victoria Street, or explore the food trucks in sheds C and D, just off Peel Street.

SPRING FLING

If you’re wondering what to do on a Wednesday evening, head to the Fringe Flavours Night Market (17 September – 15 October). Browse the stalls for gifts and crafts, grab some street food and a tasty tipple from the stallholders then relax and enjoy the entertainment. There’s music and

performance to suit the whole family. Get there early – the fun starts at 5pm.

TASTY TOUR

The Ultimate Foodie Tour is a culinary journey through Queen Vic Market. Indulge in an abundance of local seasonal delights – the freshest seafood, char-grilled kangaroo, artisan cheese and chocolate, meltin-the-mouth pastries, gelato and more – as an expert tour guide leads

your small group on an exploration of the stalls. Tours are held every Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 10am. Bookings are essential. + qvm.com.au + thenightmarket.com.au

FAMILY FUN

THE CITY IS FULL OF WAYS TO KEEP EVERYONE IN YOUR GROUP ENTERTAINED. HERE’S WHERE TO TAKE KIDS, YOUNG AND OLDER, FOR FOOD AND FUN.

TASTY DAYS

Up early? Take the family to The Terrace in Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne. There’s an all-day brunch menu that includes hotcakes, avo toast and eggs done a variety of ways. ♦ Stop by Fitzroy Gardens Visitor Centre and take a seat at KereKere Green (when the sun’s out, ask for a blanket and sit on the lawn outside with deckchairs). It’s an inviting and inclusive space with a kidfriendly menu. There are toasties, jellies, freshly baked pastries and cold drinks. ♦ If they’re into Japanese characters, they’ll love Hello Kitty and Friends Cafe at Melbourne Central, with four different spaces and Kitty-inspired snacks. + theterrace.melbourne

+ kerekere.org

+ melbournecentral.com.au

FUN AND GAMES

There are more than 40 playgrounds across Melbourne. On a sunny day, the Birrarung Marr Playground by the river is a great place for children to take on the rope climbs, slides and swings. ♦ If they love music, try Point Park Playground in the Docklands, where there are musical elements modelled on flowers, as well as a water play element, swings, slide and a carousel. ♦ Teenagers will love Game Worlds (from 18 September), a world premiere exhibition at ACMI. They’ll go inside some of the most popular video games and play them like never before.

+ melbourne.vic.gov.au/playgrounds

+ acmi.net.au

EXPLORE AND DISCOVER

It’s the most-visited library in Australia and that’s because there’s something for everyone. Toddlers and their siblings can have fun at State Library Victoria’s Pauline Gandel Children’s Quarter, with 4000 books, reading nooks, play areas and craft items. ♦ Our Wondrous Planet at Melbourne Museum (from 20 September) is a new permanent gallery that reveals the wonder and complexity of life on Earth. Immersive environments, rare collections and First Peoples knowledge bring global biodiversity to life. Visitors can journey through rainforest canopies, coral reefs and more.

+ slv.vic.gov.au

+ museumsvictoria.com.au

BIG DAY OUT

BROUGHT THE WHOLE FAMILY TO MELBOURNE?

GREAT STARTS

You’ll need plenty of energy to get through the day, so start at Brick Lane. This laneway cafe behind the façade of an old printing warehouse has an amazing breakfast menu that includes yoghurt panna cotta with granola and fruit, mushroom medleys and wholemeal waffles. Afterwards, explore the city on two wheels. Blue Tongue Bikes has rental models for all ages – there are even cargo bikes with two kids’ seats. Hit the Capital City Trail, which will take you along the Yarra River.

+ thebricklane.com.au

+ bluetonguebikes.com.au

SKY-HIGH SENSATION

For 18 years, Melbourne Skydeck has been giving visitors a bird’s-eye view of the city from the 88th floor. As well as being an observation deck, there’s the chance to stand above the streets at the Edge and soar above the skyline and see 16 of Melbourne’s best-known landmarks in a VR experience known as the Voyager Theatre. If you’re here on the

weekend, why not take the kids for lunch at Altitude on the next level up?

For the adults, it offers an excellent set-course meal of dishes like scallop crudo and caramelised apple parfait. There are some great options for younger members of the family too, like chicken and chips and sundaes. + melbourneskydeck.com.au

WATERSIDE WONDERS

Make the most of the city’s riverside location. On the first and third Sunday of the month, you can jump aboard Polly Woodside, an 1885 threemasted cargo vessel that sailed 2.5 million kilometres before being retired here. Otherwise, hop on a waterbike with Waterbikes Australia and cruise the Yarra. It’s family friendly (but recommended for children older than 12) and no experience is needed. When you return your bike, stroll across the Evan Walker Bridge for dinner at DOC Southbank. Its excellent, traditional pizzas are a total crowd-pleaser. + nationaltrust.org.au

+ waterbikesaustralia.com.au + docgroup.net

LEGOLAND® DISCOVERY CENTRE MELBOURNE

LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre is the ultimate indoor LEGO® playground! Located in Chadstone, this unique family attraction features multiple build and play zones, a LEGO replica of Melbourne, two rides, a 4D Cinema and LEGO retail store.

Featuring more than two million LEGO bricks, the centre gives children a bricktastic hands-on experience, building whatever their imagination desires.

Designed for families with children aged three to 12. Adults must be accompanied by a child (except when visiting the store or attending Adult Night).

Open: Mon–Fri 10am to 5pm (last entry 3.30pm), Sat–Sun 9am to 6pm (last entry 4.30pm). See website for latest holiday hours.

Level 2, Chadstone

1341 Dandenong Road, Chadstone

w: legolanddiscoverycentre.com/melbourne

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MELBOURNE ZOO

Bring your curiosity to life this spring at Melbourne Zoo.

Explore a range of exotic landscapes, from an underwater world where seals swim around you to immersive Lemur Island where lemurs share your path. Enjoy free keeper talks, lush outdoor spaces, and playgrounds for the kids.

Kids visit free on weekends, Victorian public holidays and school holidays.

Tram: Route 58 to stop 26

Train: Upfield Line, Royal Park Station

Open: Daily, 9am to 5pm

Elliott Avenue, Parkville

t: 1300 966 784

w: zoo.org.au/melbourne

Find us on:

Tram: Route 48 or 75 to stop 11 or 70 to stop 7C

Train: To Richmond or Jolimont Station

MCG Tours: Daily, every 30 minutes between 10am and 3pm

Australian Sports Museum: Daily, 10am to 5pm

Alternative trading hours apply on event days. Please visit our website for information.

Gate 3, MCG, Yarra Park, Jolimont

t: 03 9657 8879

w: mcg.org.au

w: australiansportsmuseum.org.au

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MCG AND AUSTRALIAN SPORTS MUSEUM

THE HALLOWED TURF OF THE MCG HAS BEEN THE FOUNDATION OF SO MANY MOMENTS THAT HAVE DEFINED GENERATIONS OF SPORT.

FOLLOW IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF GREATNESS ON AN MCG TOUR

This is a place where fans of all ages can embrace the history of the largest stadium in the southern hemisphere, affectionately known as the people’s ground.

Discover some of the most significant pieces of sporting history and go behind the scenes on an unforgettable MCG Tour. Led by an MCG tour guide, you’ll have the opportunity to soak up the atmosphere of the player change rooms, the Ron Casey Media Centre

and members-only areas of the Melbourne Cricket Club, such as the Long Room. You’ll then be guided to the sidelines of the hallowed turf.

DISCOVER MORE AT THE AUSTRALIAN SPORTS MUSEUM

The Australian Sports Museum is no ordinary museum. It’s an exciting, interactive experience where the latest technology has been used to create immersive exhibits and galleries. Take in historical and quirky facts and tales about sports, including cricket, Australian rules football and the Olympic Games. Visitors are invited

to immerse themselves in important sporting moments with the largest collection of grassroots to elite sporting memorabilia in Australia.

GET YOUR GAME ON!

Test your own skills in the Game On! interactive space and become part of the action. Collect your sweatband, unleash your competitive side and you’re ready to go!

BEYOND MELBOURNE

GET OUT OF THE CITY CENTRE TO FIND ANOTHER SIDE OF MELBOURNE. HERE ARE JUST A FEW OF THE PLACES TO EXPLORE.

NORTH

People love Heart of Carlton for lots of reasons: its tasty, inexpensive food made fresh every day by co-owner Nadeen Kelly, the live music sessions, and its great sense of community. ♦ If you’re looking for ways to entertain the kids, head to AFL Max, an indoor playground with inflatables, bouldering, interactive screens, skills tests and challenges.

+ instagram.com/theheartofcarlton + aflmax.com.au

SOUTH

Bayside bliss awaits at Beach House Brighton, a bright and sunny cafe overlooking Dendy Beach. It’s a great place to order a poke bowl after a walk along the shoreline. A train or tram from the city, and even the Skybus Peninsula Express from the airport, will get you there. ♦ Explore what’s new at St Kilda Esplanade Market, which lines the street by the beach every Sunday. Check out the handmade wares by some of Melbourne’s best makers.

+ beachhousebrighton.com.au

+ skybus.com.au

+ stkildaesplanademarket.com.au

EAST

Changing exhibitions, an extensive collection and a sculpture park are all on offer at the Museum of Australian Photography in Wheelers Hill. ♦ The New York Times named the Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne one of the best gardens in the world to visit. Explore the natural bushland and the Australian Garden on the 10 kilometres of walking trails or free open-air bus.

+ maph.org.au

+ rbg.vic.gov.au

WEST

If you’ve spent the day at Flemington Racecourse, you’ll likely need to refuel. One of the best restaurants in the area is Laksa King, which has been serving up the spicy Malaysian soup and other specialty dishes, like chilli pipis, since 1998. ♦ Check out The Playground Project Melbourne (until 12 October) at Incinerator Gallery near Moonee Ponds, where kids can climb and crawl all over the colourful exhibition.

+ laksaking.com.au

+ incineratorgallery.com.au

For more information within Victoria, visit the local Visitor Information Centres. + visitvictoria.com/vic

Upfield Line

Pascoe Vale

Fawkner

Mernda Line

Hurstbridge Line

BEYOND MELBOURNE

Bundoora

Reservoir

Preston

Coburg

Thornbury

Ponds

Parkville

Melbourne

Brunswick

Clifton Hill Ivanhoe

Fairfield

Northcote

Greensborough

Yallambie

Viewbank

Heidelberg

Yarra River

Carlton

Fitzroy

Melbourne

Richmond

Melbourne

South Melbourne

South Yarra

Albert Park

Williamstown

St Kilda

Toorak

Prahran

Kew

Bulleen

MARKETS, GARDENS AND PICNICS

Eltham

CARLTON

1

Warrandyte

Templestowe

Doncaster

Stroll through Carlton Gardens then head to Lygon Street, the epicentre of Melbourne’s Italian community. If you’ve worked up a thirst, find a spot in the garden at Snack Monster for a glass of wine. Hungry? Cordelia is a smart neighbourhood restaurant with a focus on seafood. At lunch, the fish sandwich is a winner.

+ snackmonster.com.au

+ cordelia.place

SOUTH MELBOURNE

2

Balwyn

Canterbury

Box Hill

Belgrave and Lilydale Lines

Vermont

Camberwell

Malvern

Burwood

Alamein Line

Caulfield

Elwood Hawthorn

Elsternwick

Carnegie

Brighton

Chadstone

Oakleigh

Jump on a tram for South Melbourne Market. This is a great spot to shop for souvenirs and gifts among the many eclectic stalls, and to eat your fill. Be sure to try the South Melbourne Dim Sims, pastries from Agathé and any of the global cuisines on offer.

+ southmelbournemarket.com.au

Hampton

Sandringham Line

Sandringham

Black Rock

Beaumaris

Moorabbin

Heatherton

Cheltenham

Frankston Line

Clayton

FITZROY

Glen Waverley

Notting Hill

3

Glen Waverley Line

Spend a couple of hours checking out work by local artists and designers at Rose Street Artists’ Market before grabbing a coffee at roastery Industry Beans. Drop by Nico’s Sandwich Deli, grab a takeaway lunch – the chicken schnitzel is a favourite – then catch a tram to Edinburgh Gardens for a picnic in the sunshine.

+ rosestmarket.com.au

Springvale

+ industrybeans.com

+ nicos.melbourne

Noble Park

Cranbourne and Pakenham Lines

Scoresby

SPRING ESCAPE IN HUME CITY

JUST 25 KILOMETRES FROM THE CBD AND ON MELBOURNE AIRPORT’S DOORSTEP, HUME CITY IS THE PERFECT PLACE FOR A WEEKEND ESCAPE.

FOOD AND WINE

Hume City is home to the closest vineyards to Melbourne’s CBD, so why not add a winery visit to your weekend getaway? Explore Marnong Estate in Mickleham, and experience wine, gourmet cuisine and stunning views of the Macedon Ranges. Enjoy wine tasting at the cellar door, Italian cuisine at La Vètta, Cucina 3064 and Caffé Vista, then stay in one of the charming cabins.

Surrounded by Keilor Valley farmland is family-owned Arundel Farm Estate, complete with friendly farm animals. The shiraz and Novello Roso (a blend of shiraz and viognier) are perfect drops to taste at the cellar door or match to a pizza from the wood-fired oven.

FAMILY FUN

In Diggers Rest, Animal Land Children’s Farm offers a hands-on farming experience for families. Hold, pat and feed animals, ride ponies and experience farm life up close.

Tullamarine’s AFL Max is about more than football. With trampolines, bouldering, skills zones and inflatables, it is Melbourne’s newest way to play, party and learn. Head to URBNSURF Tullamarine for a surf experience like no other. Enjoy different wave settings and experiences for all abilities, including lessons for beginners. After your surf, enjoy fresh locally sourced dishes at Three Blue Ducks. Dine indoors or alfresco, with impressive views of the surfing lagoon.

HISTORY AND NATURE

Living Legends in Greenvale offers a unique chance to meet retired champion racehorses like Twilight Payment (Twiggy), who won the 2020 Melbourne Cup. Enjoy a guided tour, take photos and feed and pat the horses. Afterwards, indulge in a Devonshire tea at the historical Woodlands Homestead Cafe. Finish off with a tour of Woodlands Historic Park. Enjoy walking trails and spot

wildlife, including kangaroos, or take in the breathtaking views of the city from Gellibrand Hill. Nearby in Sunbury, discover the natural beauty of the Emu Bottom Wetlands. Enjoy a serene escape rich in wildlife, walking trails and history.

EXTEND YOUR STAY

Settle into one of the spacious, architecturally designed cabins at Marnong Estate. Alternatively, experience the contemporary accommodation at Melbourne Airport’s Novotel or ibis Styles, with three eateries, health club, indoor pool and spa facilities. Watch planes take off from your window at PARKROYAL Melbourne Airport or holiday with your fur baby at the pet-friendly Quest Melbourne Airport.

For more inspiration on things to do, places to see and where to eat in Hume City, follow + instagram.com/discoverhume

FUN FOR ALL

WHATEVER YOUR KIDS’ INTERESTS, YOU CAN FIND FAMILY-FRIENDLY ATTRACTIONS AND ACTIVITIES, FROM FARMS TO THEME PARKS, RIGHT ACROSS MELBOURNE.

ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS

Spring is when the babies arrive at Collingwood Children’s Farm. Pat and maybe even help feed some of the animals, including sheep, rabbits, pigs, cows, chickens and lots more. The onsite Farm Cafe offers a modern all-day breakfast menu, kids’ dishes and fresh scones. ♦ At Animal Land in Diggers Rest, get to see how a working farm runs. Learn to milk a cow, take a pony ride, collect chickens’ eggs or feed the goats. ♦ There are also plenty of fun activities at Bundoora Park Farm, including patting the guinea pigs or feeding the cows in the dairy. + farm.org.au

+ animalland.com.au

+ darebin.vic.gov.au/ bundooraparkfarm

PLAY TIME

Kids of all ages will get their kicks on the rides and attractions at Luna Park. Grab an unlimited ride pass and work out the level of thrill they can cope with. There’s a heritage-listed carousel, a ghost train and the Great Scenic Railway, the world’s oldest continually operating roller coaster. ♦ Make learning fun at Scienceworks, where they can make cubbies and invent new contraptions at Tinkertown or test their sporting skills against the professionals at Sportsworks. ♦ They can keep creating at LEGOLAND Discovery Centre or experience the 4D Cinema and design a Minifigure.

+ lunapark.com.au

+ museumsvictoria.com.au

+ legolanddiscoverycentre.com

OUT AND ABOUT

Take a step back in history on the Puffing Billy Railway, a historical steam train that weaves through the rainforest and over trestle bridges in the Dandenong Ranges. ♦ Keep the fun coming at the nearby Treetops Adventure. There are ropes courses and ziplines for all ages and levels of braveness. ♦ At Wyndham Harbour, take on 18 scenic holes at Elements Mini Golf. It’s suitable for all ages, and when you’ve finished you can grab a bite at Elements Cafe for a picnic on the lawn.

+ puffingbillyrailway.org.au

+ treetopsadventure.com.au

+ wyndhamharbour.com.au

LEGOLAND Discovery Centre

WERRIBEE OPEN RANGE ZOO

Bring your curiosity to life this spring at Werribee Open Range Zoo.

Meet the growing lion pride and explore the African River Trail to spot gorillas and hippos. Hop on the safari bus and adventure across the savannah to see giraffes, rhinos and more. Don’t forget to visit the elephants in their 21-hectare habitat. Kids visit free on weekends, Victorian public holidays and school holidays.

Train & Bus: Werribee Line to Werribee Station then bus route 439 to Werribee South Open: Daily 9am to 5pm K Road, Werribee t: 1300 966 784 w: zoo.org.au/werribee

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SEASIDE SERENITY

WHERE THE CITY MEETS THE SEA, MELBOURNE’S SOUTHSIDE BEACHES SERVE UP SALT AIR, COOL CAFES AND COASTAL CHARM –IDEAL FOR NURTURING BOTH BODY AND SOUL.

STROLL THE PROMENADE

Overlooking Port Phillip Bay is a string of scenic beaches within easy reach of the city by tram. Start at popular St Kilda Beach, where the promenade along the shoreline is lined with historical buildings. Follow the Bay Trail along the coast passing the heritagelisted Kerferd Road Pier to reach leafy Edwards Park in Port Melbourne – a great spot to pause with the kids. There are playgrounds along the waterfront and easy access to walking and cycling paths.

SOOTHE YOUR SOUL

Feel invigorated when you plunge into the cool waters of Port Phillip Bay at any of the safe, sandy beaches on Melbourne’s Southside. Not up for a swim? Try a rooftop yoga session at St Kilda Sea Baths, or breathwork and meditation on the sand near Elwood Bathers. Maintain your sense of calm with a walk through heritage-listed St Vincent Gardens in Albert Park, with its palm-lined paths. There are plenty of other options, from bouldering gyms to day spas, to focus on wellbeing.

STREET EATS AND TREATS

Each of Melbourne’s Southside pockets has a main street lined with boutiques, small galleries and places to refuel. For a Lebanese brunch, make your way to Salam Bakery just off Bay Street in Port Melbourne. On Armstrong Street in Middle Park, newly opened bistro Middle Park European brings a taste of French and Italian wine-bar dining. Stop for coffee at Glass Merchants Cafe just off Carlisle Street in Balaclava or visit South Melbourne Market, a lively community hub with music, fresh produce stalls, an oyster bar, artisanal baked goods and more. + whatsonstkilda.com

NATURE UNCOVERED

YOU DON’T NEED TO HEAD OUT OF THE CITY TO IMMERSE YOURSELF IN NATURE. FOR BUSHLAND AND BEAUTY, HEAD TO HOBSONS BAY, WEST OF MELBOURNE.

COASTAL DELIGHTS

Along the Hobsons Bay Coastal Trail, there are wetlands, open grasslands, saltmarsh and a mangrove conservation area to explore at Jawbone Flora and Fauna Reserve in Williamstown. Pack a snorkel to check out the marine sanctuary or stay dry and enjoy the views from the boardwalk.

ROCK STEADY

Visit Newport Lakes, a bushland oasis created in an old bluestone quarry. Enjoy a leisurely walk through its 33-hectare park revegetated using native plants. There are more than 200 species of plants and 85 different birds recorded here. This is a great spot if you’ve got little kids in your family. There’s a nearby playground, natural stepping stones across the water and

plenty of places to put down a blanket and have a picnic. Grab a brochure about the two-kilometre nature trail at the on-site nursery.

FLYING HIGH

If you’re into birdwatching, pay a visit to Truganina Coastal Parklands in Altona. Part of the reserve is a 175-hectare wetland, providing vital habitat for migratory birds. There’s

also bushland where you can spot multiple species of parrots, including swift, orange-bellied and bluewinged, and grassland that supports populations of the endangered Altona skipper butterfly. Climb the 100 Steps to Federation, which offers some of the best views of the city, Port Phillip Bay and the adjoining Cheetham Wetlands. Before you get started on your adventure, stop at one of the

many deli’s or bakeries in the neighbourhood – Second Ave Grocer in Altona North, Matteo’s Delicatessen in Altona or Candied Bakery in Spotswood – to pick up the fixings for a picnic.

For more information on Hobsons Bay’s natural options, drop into the Visitor Information Centre in Williamstown. + experiencehobsonsbay.com.au

DO GOOD, FEEL BETTER

RIGHT ACROSS

MELBOURNE,

YOU’LL FIND PROFIT-FOR-PURPOSE BUSINESSES THAT GIVE BACK TO THEIR COMMUNITIES. HERE’S HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED.

CAFE COMMUNITY

Balaclava isn’t short of coffee shops, but All Things Equal is a bit different. It provides training and work to people of all abilities, both in the kitchen and front of house. In Collingwood, head to STREAT, a cafe that puts young people who’ve experienced disadvantage into employment programs that offer confidence and a pathway to work.

+ allthingsequal.com.au

+ streat.com.au

MONEY SPENT WISELY

At The Social Studio you’ll find designs created by people from migrant and refugee backgrounds. Melbourne streetwear label HoMie supports young people affected by hardship. It has an employment program that has helped more than 3500 people, plus its VIP days give homeless kids a chance to get new clothes, a haircut and lunch.

+ thesocialstudio.org

+ homie.com.au

HELPING HANDS

Set next to Merri Creek is CERES, an environmental education centre, community garden and urban farm. There’s a farm gate and organic cafe on site, as well as regular workshops and events. Scarf helps disadvantaged young people and those from migrant and refugee backgrounds by partnering with restaurants to offer hospitality training. Check the website for upcoming Scarf Dinners, where you can have a delicious meal while helping the organisation continue its work.

+ ceres.org.au

+ scarfcommunity.org

SKY HIGH

BEGINNERS ONLY

During your Trial Introductory Flight, under the guidance of an experienced instructor, you’ll take the controls of a light aircraft and feel the exhilaration of soaring through Melbourne’s skies. First HAVE YOU EVER DREAMED OF PILOTING A PLANE? THIS IS YOUR CHANCE. STEP INTO THE COCKPIT AND GET READY TO FLY!

Experience the thrill of flying as you take the controls and discover what it’s like to guide an aircraft through the skies. The Trial Introductory Flight at Learn to Fly Melbourne offers the ultimate opportunity to fulfil the dream of jumping behind the controls and experiencing the thrill of flying firsthand. No experience necessary! Learn essential flying manoeuvres like straight and level flight, turns, climbs

and descents. Then take the controls and put your new skills into practice under expert guidance. Yes, you’ll actually fly the plane!

YOUR FIRST FLIGHT

choose an aircraft – your options are the Sling 2, Cessna 172 and Diamond DA40 – then take flight for either a 30- or 60-minute session. In the half-hour session, for example, you’ll go through a briefing then get to practice the basics you’ve learned – straight and level flying, turning, climbing and descending – for about 20 minutes in the air under the instructor’s supervision.

IN THE AIR

As well as getting to fly, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Melbourne’s cityscape and stunning natural surroundings. It’s a perspective of the city few ever get to see. Make the experience even more memorable with a GoPro video add-on that lets you capture every moment of your adventure, relive the excitement and share it with family and friends. Whether you’re a local or a visitor

to Melbourne, this is a unique and thrilling way to explore the city. The Trial Introductory Flight is the perfect adventure for anyone seeking to feel the excitement of being a pilot. Book through the website or by phone. + learntofly.edu.au

VICTORIA’S REGIONS

IT’S THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO SEE VICTORIA’S SPECTACULAR NATURAL SURROUNDINGS, WITH FLOWERS TURNING LANDSCAPES INTO COLOURFUL CANVASES.

ALL THAT’S WILD

If you’re in Bendigo, head to Wildflower Drive. From mid-September, the wattles beneath the box and ironbark gums blossom in vivid yellow. It’s also a great time to see Bendigo’s annual display of more than 40,000 colourful tulips. ♦ Lovers of native orchids should try Great Otway National Park on the Great Ocean Road. About a quarter of Victoria’s plant species, including many orchids, can be found here at Anglesea Heath ♦ On the outskirts of Beechworth, take to the walking trails at Gorge Scenic Drive, where the bush is transformed with spring colour from September. + parks.vic.gov.au + bendigoregion.com.au

CherryHill Orchards

GREAT GARDENS

The magnificent Forest Glade Gardens at Mount Macedon are a riot of flowering rhododendrons, azaleas and peonies. There are different zones at this private garden, so bring a picnic and enjoy them all.

♦ September brings a flower that many people travel around the world to see when cherry blossom season arrives in the Yarra Valley. CherryHill Orchards has a festival to celebrate them, while the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Gardens in Olinda has a gorgeous cherry tree avenue. ♦ Check out the finest private gardens in the Hepburn Shire when they open exclusively during Creswick Garden Lovers Weekend (8–9 November).

+ forestgladegardens.com.au

+ visityarravalley.com.au

+ creswickgardenclub.com

NATIVE FLAVOUR

It’s not just the landscape that benefits from spring’s new growth. In its Forrest Gin, Otways Distillery includes native botanicals, including lemon gum and river mint.

♦ In Geelong, Anther collaborates with Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria to create Florescence Gin, using alpine pepper, violet kunzea and alpine baeckea along with more traditional ingredients. ♦ When in Ballarat, stop by Itinerant Spirits’ excellent tasting room and bar, where you can taste Gallivanter Gin. It has fresh citrus notes courtesy of lemon drop wax flowers foraged from the Grampians region.

+ otwaysdistillery.com.au

+ anther.com.au

+ itinerantspirits.com

VICTORIA

For more information within Victoria, visit the local Visitor Information Centre.

+ visitvictoria.com/vic

Plan ahead of travel by checking Victoria’s weather and safety warnings.

+ bom.gov.au/vic

RIDES, WALKS AND WATERFALLS

GIPPSLAND 1

At this time of year, Wilsons Promontory is a picturesque retreat into nature. Stop at Fish Creek on the way to check out shops and galleries then have lunch at the Fish Creek Hotel. Bring your tent or rent a cabin at Tidal River. There are excellent walks right across the national park, as well as gorgeous beaches.

+ visitgippsland.com.au

+ fishcreekhotel.com.au

GREAT OCEAN ROAD 2

Once you’ve checked out the quaint towns and epic landscape of the coast, visit the Otway Ranges. Walk to Triplet Falls, check out the Melba Gully glow worms, or join a kayaking excursion with Otway Eco Tours to spot platypus. Stay the night at Timboon Tiny Homes to experience the region’s true beauty.

+ visitgreatoceanroad.org.au

+ platypustours.net.au

+ timboontinyhomes.com.au

YARRA RANGES 3

Travel about 80 kilometres east of Melbourne to reach the lush, cool-climate rainforests surrounding Warburton. Once a goldmining town, it’s the perfect overnight destination for walkers and bike riders. Explore the mountain ash forests or hike to La La Falls, then unwind at the Alpine Hotel, where you can stay the night and enjoy dinner at the riverside bistro with garden views.

+ visityarravalley.com.au

+ alpineretreat.com.au

COMBINE ONE OF VICTORIA’S SPRING FESTIVALS OR EVENTS WITH A FEW DAYS (OR LONGER) OUT OF THE CITY TO MAKE THE MOST OF THE SEASON.

ARTS PARTIES

Check out artworks related to the natural world at the new National Centre for Environmental Art located in the Grampians at Halls Gap. As well as the gallery space, the centre includes 16 hectares of bushland and gardens. ♦ Celebrate live performance at Mildura Fringe Festival (30 October – 16 November), with its program of comedy, circus, theatre, music and more. There’ll be family-friendly events

and some strictly 18+, but all are sure to excite and intrigue. Later in the month, catch Lenny Kravitz on his Blue Electric Light Tour live in Mildura (28 November). ♦ Yarra Valley’s Comedy in the Vines (24–26 October) brings together wine, food and laughs over a long weekend at CherryHill Orchards. + wamafoundation.com.au

+ mildurafringefestival.com

+ comedyinthevines.com

GOURMET GATHERINGS

Go behind the scenes at some of the Macedon Range’s finest family-owned wineries during Budburst (15–16 November). Winemakers open their cellar doors for tastings, curated menus championing local produce, art shows, sculpture walks and live music. ♦ Head to Hepburn for the Swiss Italian Festa (24–26 October) for concerts, a street parade, cultural displays and food and wine events over the course of a weekend. ♦ Ballarat’s biggest market happens during Springfest (30 November), with more than 450 stalls, music and plenty of tasty food.

+ macedonrangeswineandfoodfest. com.au

+ swissitalianfesta.com

+ ballaratspringfest.com.au

BLOOMING BRILLIANT

Set against the gorgeous Grampians, Pomonal Native Flower Show (4–5 October) showcases hundreds of named native species, picked from local gardens and beautifully displayed, to promote growing Australian plants. ♦ Family-friendly activities and entertainment complement the glorious Gippsland gardens at International Rose Garden Festival Morwell (7–8 November).

♦ The Tesselaar Tulip Festival (13 September – 12 October) features more than a million flowering bulbs in beautiful displays in the Yarra Valley. Each weekend of the festival celebrates a different culture, plus there are mini music festivals.

+ visitgrampians.com.au

+ irgfm.com.au

+ tulipfestival.com.au

SENSE OF SELF

CHECK INTO ACCOMMODATION SURROUNDED BY NATURE, WALK THROUGH A FOREST, SOAK IN HOT SPRINGS OR DO IT ALL. SPRING IS THE PERFECT TIME TO FOCUS ON WELLBEING.

FIND YOUR ZEN

Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa is celebrating its 130th anniversary by unveiling its newly refurbished private bathing rooms and a restoration of the adults-only bathing sanctuary. There’s also a new treatment menu to complete the relaxation experience. ♦ Enjoy views of the Mornington Peninsula from your stylish villa at The Sanctuary at Alba Thermal Springs Entry to the hot springs is included in

the package. ♦ There’s more soaking – and staying – to be done at Metung Hot Springs, set on the Gippsland Lakes. Stay the night at one of the glamping tents and you can enjoy the views of either the lagoon or the natural bushland from your deck and their private bathing barrels.

+ hepburnbathhouse.com

+ albathermalsprings.com.au

+ metunghotsprings.com

NATURE’S BACKDROP

The idyllic Acre of Roses in Trentham is the first Australian property to receive the WITT Certified seal, recognising excellence in wellness hospitality. And when you visit, you’ll

know exactly why. Set within a rose farm and regenerative gardens and offering two accommodation experiences, it allows guests to slow down and reconnect through seasonal rituals, nourishing local food, nature-based therapies, and sensory experiences. While you’re there, explore the Domino Rail Trail, which goes through Wombat State Forest, offering peaceful, scenic views. + acreofroses.com.au + daylesfordmacedonlife.com.au

JUST LOOK UP

Head to Phillip Island if you want to see the Milky Way. The season lasts until November, but for the

best chance of observing it clearly, get away from excess lights. Try Sheltered Glamping, which is within walking distance of the beach for daytime fun. ♦ Not far from Bendigo, Stargazer by Tiny Away is an off-grid mini home on a 50-hectare property surrounded by bushland and farm animals. ♦ A different way to stargaze is from the deck of PS Emmylou, a historical paddle-steamer offering three- and four-night itineraries on the majestic Murray River. + shelteredglamping.com.au + tinyaway.com

+ murrayriverpaddlesteamers.com.au

HEPBURN BATHHOUSE & SPA

Spring arrives gently at Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa, with soft light through the trees, warm mineral waters and the quiet hum of nature returning. Here, time slows. Step into newly designed private baths, feel tension dissolve in the steam room, and sink into treatments that feel both grounding and uplifting.

Our seasonal menu includes brightening Elemis facials and gentle body rituals designed to leave you lighter. This is spring at Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa is calm, clear and deeply restorative.

Open: Sun – Thu 9am to 7pm, Fri – Sat 9am to 9pm Mineral Springs Reserve Road, Hepburn Springs t: 03 8727 8901

w: hepburnbathhouse.com

Find us on:

BALLARAT IN FOCUS

IT’S NOTHING LIKE YOU’D IMAGINE. FROM ENTHRALLING EXHIBITIONS TO CRAFTY COCKTAILS, THERE’S EVERY TYPE OF EXPERIENCE IN THIS CITY FULL OF SURPRISES.

ZOOM IN

The brilliant Ballarat International Foto Biennale (until 19 October) returns to transform the city. Expect the unexpected, as Ballarat becomes a city-wide exhibition celebrating renowned local and international photographers. A major solo show leads the program – the work of British-Ghanaian artist Campbell Addy (who’s captured Kendall Jenner,

FKA Twigs, Naomi Campbell, Tyler the Creator and more). In addition, the art of one of the world’s most famous photographers, Robert Mapplethorpe, will be featured in an Australianexclusive exhibition curated by Edward Enninful OBE, former editor in chief of British Vogue. There’ll also be work by French photojournalist Catherine Leroy, famous for her photos of the Vietnam

War. But you don’t even need to go into a gallery space to be inspired. Cafes, shopfronts, laneways and walls will be filled with images from across the world. The festival includes a dynamic mix of special events, practical workshops, thoughtprovoking talks, dancing, and more, inviting everyone to engage with photography in unexpected and inspiring ways.

THE SUNNYSIDE

New art experience Sunnyside (6–23 November) brings a world of joy, optimism and imagination to the heart of Ballarat. This fantastical installation celebrates colour, creativity and community in surprising ways. The project brings internationally acclaimed UK artist Morag Myerscough to Ballarat for her first major Australian collaborative installation. Myerscough’s signature use of colour, shape and pattern transforms the grand industrial space of the Ballarat Mining Exchange.

Creative cues encourage curiosity, with subtle prompts that inspire exploration, spark wonder and challenge us to embrace the thrill of not knowing what’s next. Sunnyside reimagines how we experience heritage spaces, inviting all ages to open their minds, playfully rethink their surroundings, and discover the power of possibility in the everyday.

GIN JOURNEYS

Head to lavish distillery and cocktail bar Grainery Lane to indulge in its new G&Tea experience. Imagine

this… a perfect selection of delicate bites, both sweet and savoury, but instead of being served with a cup of Earl Grey, it comes with a gin cocktail teapot. Other gin experiences in the region include a paint-and-sip botanical watercolour workshop at female-led microdistillery Mrs Baker’s Still House, cocktail-making classes at Roy Hammond, and a masterclass in distilling your own gin at Kilderkin Distillery. + visitballarat.com.au

FLAVOUR IN FULL BLOOM

MAKE THE MOST OF THE BEAUTIFUL WEATHER BY DISCOVERING WINERIES, PRODUCERS AND FARMERS’ MARKETS RIGHT ACROSS VICTORIA.

TASTY TRAILS

Feast your senses on the Wahgunyah Ride, a nine-kilometre cycling route linking Rutherglen and Wahgunyah in the High Country. Along the way, you’ll pass wineries and olive groves, cafes and restaurants. ♦ Over on the Mornington Peninsula, Vine Tours offers rides through vineyard-dotted countryside, with optional stops for a picnic, lunch or tastings along the way. ♦ Follow the Bellarine Taste Trail to discover some of the state’s finest producers of food and wine. Jump onboard a refurbished trawler for Portarlington Mussel Tours, raise a glass at Scotchmans Hill, and, from October, pick strawberries at Tuckerberry Hill Berry Farm. + explorerutherglen.com.au + vinetours.com.au

+ visitgeelongbellarine.com.au

FARM-FRESH FINDS

One of the best ways to discover the finest produce in the region is to visit a farmers’ market – and Victoria has plenty. Grab a breakfast roll and coffee at Ballarat Farmers Market (second and fourth Saturday every month) or Creswick Market (third Saturday of the month) then fill your shopping bags with bread, eggs, cheese, fruit and veggies, and just about anything else your heart desires. ♦ Fresh and artisan produce from the High Country goes on sale at the colourful Mansfield Farmers’ Market (second and fourth Saturday). + ballaratmarkets.com.au + mansfieldfarmersmarket.com.au

FOLLOW THE FIZZ

Rosé all day is never more appropriate than during spring. Wineries in the Yarra Valley, including Giant Steps, Yering Station and Dominique Portet, make some fine specimens, as well as world-class chardonnay and pinot noir. ♦ Another great variety for spring is prosecco. The King Valley is home to the Prosecco Road, where 10 different producers, including the family-run Pizzini Wines, create the finest examples of this drop. As well as welcoming cellar doors, some of them also have excellent onsite restaurants. + visityarravalley.com.au + winesofthekingvalley.com.au

KYABRAM FAUNA PARK

Bring your curiosity to life this spring at Kyabram Fauna Park.

Adventure through the park’s expansive wetlands and bushlands and discover a stunning array of birdlife and unique Australian animals. Make your visit even more special by booking one of the park’s unforgettable animal experiences.

Kids visit free on weekends, Victorian public holidays and school holidays.

Open: Daily, 10am to 5pm (excluding Christmas Day)

75 Lake Road, Kyabram

t: 1300 966 784

w: zoo.org.au/kyabram

Find us on:

HEALESVILLE SANCTUARY

Bring your curiosity to life this spring at Healesville Sanctuary.

Wander along tranquil trails and spot kangaroos, koalas, emus, Tasmanian devils and more in the beautiful hills of the Yarra Valley.

Don’t miss Spirits of the Sky, a free, daily presentation of Australia’s majestic birds. Explore the Wurundjeri Walk, which celebrates the life of Elder William Barak.

Kids visit free on weekends, Victorian public holidays and school holidays.

Open: Daily 9am to 5pm Glen Eadie Avenue, Healesville

t: 1300 966 784

w: zoo.org.au/healesville

Find us on:

GRAMPIANS GOLD

THE PERFECT COMBINATION OF NATURE, GASTRONOMY, CULTURE AND LUXURY COMES TOGETHER DURING A GETAWAY TO THE GRAMPIANS.

STEP BACK IN TIME

Founded in 1842, Mount William Station is an important part of Victoria’s pastoral history. In more recent years, the charming property has been transformed to welcome all types of travellers. Think contemporary luxury in the bluestone homestead and rustic charm in the restored Shearers' Quarters. Guests gather each evening for a communal dining experience, with a three-course set menu using seasonal produce from neighbouring farms matched to the finest wines from Western Victoria, including its excellent shiraz. + mountwilliamstation.com

TAKE A HIKE

The region is a favourite with outdoor types, who head here for abseiling, rock climbing, kayaking and hiking. There are world-class walking trails throughout Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park, varying in length and difficulty. Some even lead to Aboriginal rock art sites. Trails within the national park are well marked, but you can also join a guided walk, complete with packed lunch, with adventure companies like

Grampians Peaks Walking Co. Also worth checking out is the new Wama Foundation, Australia’s first centre for environmental art. See Jacobus Capone’s climate-focused work, End & Being (until 4 November), before exploring the 16 hectares of gardens, encompassing natural environments including wetlands and grasslands. + parks.vic.gov.au

+ grampianspeaks.com.au

+ wamafoundation.com.au

GOURMET GATHERING

The Royal Mail Hotel in Dunkeld is renowned for its approach to hospitality, offering a selection of restaurants and menus, with produce grown in the kitchen garden. Settle in for lunch at Parker St Project, the property’s more relaxed dining room, where the menu offers garden-inspired, classic bistro dishes, including dryaged and wagyu beef from the grill. Afterwards, make a booking for the wine cellar, where sommeliers lead comparative tastings. There are more than 30,000 bottles stored here, both from Australian and international vineyards, so you’ll be in for a treat. + royalmail.com.au

Feeling inspired by these Grampians spots? Enter the competition for your chance to win a trip to the featured locations.

SEE THE SUNNYSIDE

COLOUR THE WORLD

VIBRANT LONDON ARTIST BRINGS A KALEIDOSCOPE OF COLOUR TO BALLARAT IN A FRESH NEW INSTALLATION.

Acclaimed London-based artist, Morag Myerscough, is best known for her bold use of colour and pattern to transform public spaces around the world. “I’ve always been fascinated by how colour, pattern and words can change urban environments,” she says. “They shift people’s perceptions of spaces into places.” This November, her signature explosion of colour makes a splash in Ballarat at Sunnyside (6–23 November). This

immersive art experience inside the historic Mining Exchange is a vivid expression of connection and place, showcasing Morag’s work through a mix of colour, sound and storytelling.

LOCAL AND LUMINOUS

The installation has been co-created not just for the community, but with them, deeply informed by local conversations, stories and experiences. “Voice prompts are woven into an audio piece that flows

throughout the installation,” says Morag, “creating a living dialogue with Ballarat’s layered history and evolving identity.” Workshops helped shape everything from the soundscape to the visual design, resulting in a true reflection of the city’s spirit. The experience doesn’t stop within these walls, it flows back into the laneways and side streets, with playful prompts inviting even more exploration and unexpected connection.

INTERWOVEN INSPIRATION

“I’ve had the pleasure of taking part in fabulous collaborations with local creatives,” says the artist, who also spent time with Wadawurrung Traditional Owners. “The experience reminded me that everything is interwoven, cyclical and connected.” That time on Country grounded the work in nature and spirit, shaping a thoughtful, vibrant expression of care and creativity. The resulting

installation embraces a sense of connection – to people, place, time and spirit. Visitors can bring their own sense of wonder to the space. “There is no right or wrong – just be led by curiosity,” says Morag. “The work is meant to be felt as much as seen. I hope visitors will connect with the work, have conversations and let their imaginations run away with them.”

+ sunnysideart.com.au

+ moragmyerscough.com

LEARN MORE AND BOOK TICKETS

VISIT THE ICONIC GMHBA STADIUM AT KARDINIA PARK AND EXPLORE GEELONG SPORTS MUSEUM

THIS SPRING BRINGS A NEW CROP OF ARTS AND CULTURE EVENTS TO GEELONG.

PORTRAIT PERFECTION

It’s one of the biggest events on the art calendar each year and, in 2025, Geelong Gallery is the exclusive Victorian venue for the Archibald Prize (until 9 November). It’s fitting, since JF Archibald was born in Geelong. On show are all 57 of the finalists in the country’s most prestigious portrait prize, featuring Australians from all walks of life, from famous faces to local heroes. Check out winner Julie Fragar’s depiction of fellow artist Justene Williams in a piece entitled Flagship Mother Multiverse (Justene), as well as the Packing Prize winner, Abdul Abdullah’s No mountain high enough of artist Jason Phu. + geelonggallery.org.au

ART AND ABOUT

VIBRANT VISIONS

There are shows for all ages at Geelong Arts Centre. Families are set to experience wonder, joy and have their curiosity piqued at the Wonder Children’s Festival (12–26 September), with performances and immersive experiences to surprise, delight and inspire all ages. Connect with culture through Bangarra Dance Theatre’s The Light Inside (10–11 October), which sees the company working with Māori choreographer and Arts Laureate Moss Te Ururangi Patterson. Bell Shakespeare brings much-loved romantic tragedy Romeo & Juliet (8–9 November) to the stage. + geelongartscentre.org.au

WILD VICTORIA

DISCOVER THE BEST PLACES TO SPOT SOME OF AUSTRALIA’S MOST-FAMOUS NATIVE ANIMALS IN THEIR NATURAL ENVIRONMENTS.

Melbourne

SPECIES SURVIVAL

Despite facing growing challenges from habitat loss, urbanisation and climate change, many of Victoria’s native animal and bird populations continue to thrive, thanks to conservation work, their protected status, and natural conditions creating safe havens. National parks, wildlife reserves and coastal areas provide refuges where visitors can reliably witness different Australian species in their natural environments.

KOALA COUNTRY

The Great Ocean Road offers some of Australia’s most reliable koala-spotting opportunities. At Kennett River, visitors can observe these sleepy marsupials dozing in the forks of eucalyptus trees, particularly during early morning or evening hours. Further east, in the heart of Gippsland, Raymond Island has become renowned for its thriving koala population. A free five-minute ferry ride and short stroll takes visitors to the island’s eucalyptus forest where koala sightings are virtually guaranteed.

+ visitgreatoceanroad.org.au

+ visitgippsland.com.au

JUMP TO IT

The grassy plains of the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park are home to abundant eastern grey kangaroo populations. Dawn and dusk offer nearguaranteed sightings as mobs graze in open areas around Halls Gap, such as those at Halls Gap Lakeside Tourist Park. In Gippsland, at Wilsons Promontory, open fields near the old airfield regularly host dozens of kangaroos, often comfortable enough with human presence to allow relatively close observation. Along the Great Ocean Road, spot Australia’s most famous marsupial at Anglesea Golf Club ▼

WILD

Wombat, Wilsons Promontory

and Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve. The golf club also offers guided tours for guaranteed kangaroo sightings.

+ parks.vic.gov.au

+ angleseagolfclub.com.au

ON WOMBAT WATCH

Wilsons Promontory National Park is Victoria’s premier destination for spotting wombats. The Tidal River campground offers reliable sightings, especially around sunset. In the colder highlands of the state, Mount Buffalo National Park harbours healthy wombat populations, often visible along roadsides at dawn or dusk. Their distinctive cube-shaped droppings are often the first clue they’re nearby.

+ parks.vic.gov.au

BIRDLIFE BONANZA

Spectacular viewing opportunities for native birds can be found in the Dandenong Ranges, particularly at Grants Picnic Ground, where cockatoos, crimson rosellas and king parrots can be spotted. Hikers can also explore nearby Sherbrooke Forest to hear, and occasionally spot, the superb lyrebird, known for its ability to mimic other sounds. The penguins on Phillip Island are endlessly popular. The Penguin Parade provides visitors a unique opportunity to watch little penguins cross the beach at sunset.

+ visityarravalley.com.au

+ penguins.org.au

PROTECTING WILDLIFE

Remember that patience and respect are essential for responsible wildlife viewing. Maintain appropriate distances, never feed wild animals, and consider joining guided experiences for the most rewarding encounters. ■

PHILLIP ISLAND NATURE PARKS

Witness one of nature’s true spectacles as you watch little penguins waddle home every night at Phillip Island’s Penguin Parade. Spot koalas, wallabies and birdlife in their bushland habitats at the Koala Conservation Reserve, and experience the heritage working farm, historical grounds and beautiful gardens at Churchill Island.

Make the most of your day out on Phillip Island and help us protect nature for wildlife by purchasing our best value ticket, the 3 Parks Pass.

Just 90 minutes from Melbourne, Phillip Island Nature Parks is a self-funded organisation. Revenue raised through our attractions is invested in vital research, environment and education programs. See website for more on attractions, locations and contact information.

Open: (Penguin Parade) Daily, from 4pm. Penguins arrive at sunset.

1019 Ventnor Road, Summerlands, Phillip Island t: 03 5951 2830

w: penguins.org.au

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BALLARAT WILDLIFE PARK

Welcome to Ballarat’s award-winning wildlife park.

With more than a hundred free-roaming kangaroos to hand-feed, the largest colony of koalas in Victoria, wombats, emus and Crunch, the super-croc, the family-owned Ballarat Wildlife Park is a must-visit destination for animal lovers of all ages. Attend daily presentations where you’ll learn more about meerkats, little penguins, Tasmanian devils, dingoes and reptiles. You can even see the Sumatran-Siberian tigers in their state-of-the-art sanctuary.

Be sure to book your up close and personal animal encounters upon arrival!

A park for conservation and recreation.

Open: Daily, 9am to 5pm

250 Fussell Street, Ballarat East t: 03 5333 5933

w: wildlifepark.com.au

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SCAN THE QR CODE TO ACCESS THE MELBOURNE OFFICIAL VISITOR MAP ONLINE.

TRAVELLER TIPS

HERE ARE SOME HANDY TIPS TO HELP YOUR VISIT RUN SMOOTHLY.

DISCOVER

WHAT’S ON

For the latest events and what’s happening right now across Melbourne and Victoria.

+ visitvictoria.com/whats-on

BOOK AHEAD

Victoria’s most popular experiences can book out fast, especially on weekends and holidays. Secure your spot early and explore by region or interest to make the most of your visit.

TOURS

Whether it’s arming yourself with a map and making your own way around or joining a professional tour, you’ll uncover Melbourne and Victoria’s hidden treasures. So, get onto the footpath, jump in a luxury coach, climb aboard a raft or join a group and discover Victoria.

+ visitvictoria.com/tours

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES

For travel recommendations, itinerary planning or to find out about experiences and local attractions visit a Visitor Information Centre, found throughout Victoria.

+ visitvictoria.com/visitorinformation-centres

ACCESSIBLE VICTORIA

Find out about accessible activities, attractions and accommodation and the best ways to get around. Travellers Aid is available seven days a week at Southern Cross and Flinders Street Stations. Some services attract a small fee, charged by staff and volunteers.

+ visitvictoria.com/practicalinformation/accessible-victoria + travellersaid.org.au

PLAN BEFORE YOU TRAVEL

Plan ahead of travel by checking Victoria’s weather and safety warnings. + emergency.vic.gov.au/prepare

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

Melbourne and Victoria observe several public holidays that may affect business hours and transport services. Plan ahead, especially around major events, to avoid disruptions during your visit.

+ visitvictoria.com/practicalinformation/public-holidays

GETTING AROUND

PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Melbourne’s public transport network is well-connected and easy to navigate, with trains, trams and buses linking suburbs across the city. The

City Circle Tram offers a free loop service around key attractions in the city centre. For travel beyond the city, V/Line trains and buses connect Melbourne to regional destinations across Victoria. All services operate under the Myki ticketing system, providing seamless access across the entire network.

+ ptv.vic.gov.au

SELF-DRIVE

Victoria welcomes safe drivers. We want you to have a fantastic holiday and this means staying safe on our roads. Be sure to acquaint yourself with the local know-how.

+ visitmelbourne.com/practicalinformation/getting-here-andaround/self-drive

RIDE SHARE

A wide range of ride share options are available across Victoria, with many offering accessible services by request.

+ visitvictoria.com/practicalinformation/getting-here-andaround/taxis

AIRPORT ACCESS

Skybus offers convenient travel, connecting passengers from Melbourne and Avalon Airports to Melbourne city. Services operate seven days a week, including public holidays, and can be booked on arrival or in advance.

+ skybus.com.au

KEEP SAFE

IN AN EMERGENCY

Victoria is a safe and welcoming destination, but it’s important to take the same precautions with personal safety and belongings as you would anywhere else. VicEmergency is a helpful source of state emergency information for Victoria from Emergency Management Victoria. Stay informed of conditions before you visit anywhere unfamiliar.

+ emergency.vic.gov.au

PHARMACIES (CHEMISTS)

Available across Melbourne and Victoria for general advice and medical supplies.

+ findapharmacy.com.au

SCAN FOR MORE ON GETTING AROUND

BEACH AND SUN SAFETY

Beaches can be dangerous, with rips and undercurrents, so make sure you always swim between the yellow and red flags on lifeguard-patrolled beaches. Australia has some of the highest UV levels in the world, with 15 minutes in the sun enough for your skin to burn. It’s important to regularly apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing when spending time outdoors, at any time of year.

+ beachsafe.org.au

+ sunsmart.com.au

WI-FI AND CONNECTIVITY

Wi-Fi is freely available at many spots across the inner city. In addition, Wi-Fi, as well as standard national and mobile calls, are free of charge from all public Telstra payphone locations around Australia.

+ telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/ payphones

+ vic.gov.au/find-vicfreewifihotspots-victoria

EMERGENCY CONTACTS

Emergency Services 000 Police, Fire, Ambulance

Poisons Information 13 11 26

Melbourne East Police Station 03 9637 1100

202 Bourke Street, Melbourne

Melbourne West Police Station 03 9624 3999

313 Spencer Street, Docklands

Nurse-On-Call 1300 60 60 24

Free professional health advice

Royal Melbourne Hospital 03 9342 7000

300 Grattan Street, Parkville

St Vincent’s Hospital 03 9231 2211

41 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy

Alfred Health 03 9076 2000

55 Commercial Road, Melbourne

The Royal Children’s Hospital 50 Flemington Road, Parkville 03 9345 5522

Wildlife Victoria 03 8400 7300

To seek help for injured wildlife

TRANSPORT MAPS STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE

MELBOURNE TRAM NETWORK

MELBOURNE TRAIN NETWORK

REGIONAL TRAIN AND COACH NETWORK

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LET THE COFFEE FLOW

Coffee Capital is a new destination in Terminal 3 that is set to spotlight the incredible diversity and talent within Victoria’s specialty coffee scene. Each quarter, a new roaster will take over the space, offering their unique brews – but only for a limited time.

A CELEBRATION OF VICTORIA’S COFFEE CULTURE

It could easily be argued that Melbourne is the global coffee capital. And considering the airport is a destination where travellers around the globe convene, what better place to celebrate the best in local coffee?

That, says Martin Nguyen, National Coffee Operations Manager at SSP, is how the idea for Coffee Capital was born.

“As far as we’re aware, this is a first-of-its-kind concept for Australian airports.”

BRINGING SMALL-BATCH ROASTERS TO A GLOBAL AUDIENCE

In mid-July, the first Victorian-based specialty roaster began its residency. This new offering – and each one after – is fully integrated into the store’s design, limited-edition menu, eye-catching branding and staff training, making each rotation a fresh experience for even the most frequent travellers.

What makes a roaster eligible? “Boutique, Victorianbased roasters with a strong sense of identity and a commitment to quality and sustainability,” says Martin. “We consider diversity in roasting styles, origins and flavour profiles to ensure each partner brings a fresh perspective.”

IT ALL BEGINS WITH THE BEAN CARTEL

The year of incredible coffee discoveries kicks off with The Bean Cartel. Their General Manager of Sales & Operations, Melissa Glentis, has described it as “a huge honour.”

With experience in pop-ups, collaborations and major events like the Melbourne International Coffee Expo (MICE), this style of rotating airport residency is a first for the brand. But it’s already been met with great excitement.

THE BEAN CARTEL WAS AN EASY FIRST CHOICE

The Bean Cartel is a multi-award-winning speciality coffee roaster – and it’s easy to see why. Each blend showcases the distinct character of its origin, brought to life by bold, expressive packaging and one-of-a-kind designs that tell a story.

But The Bean Cartel’s greatest point of difference goes beyond award winning coffee. It’s their deep commitment to traceability, transparency and uncompromising quality at every stage.

“By developing direct trade relationships with farmers and producers, we can create value at both ends of the supply chain and ensure quality and consistency from farm to cup.” says Melissa.

“As far as we’re aware, this is a first-of-its-kind concept for Australian airports .”

Martin Nguyen National Coffee Operations Manager,

SSP

The Bean Cartel has built an operation where exceptional coffee and sustainability go hand-in-hand. To reduce their carbon footprint, the team prioritises sourcing from countries geographically closer to Australia, like Papua New Guinea and Indonesia. Their roastery and dispatch sites are powered by solar energy, and they’re in the process of transitioning to fully recyclable packaging.

It's speciality coffee with real impact, inside and out.

CHAMPIONING LOCAL TALENT AND ELEVATING THE AIRPORT EXPERIENCE

Martin Nguyen believes this new offering will transform the coffee experience for the millions of travellers that pass through the airport every week.

“It’s our way of saying, ‘Yes, you can get an exceptional cup of coffee at the airport – and even discover your next favourite roaster before you board.”

Just as Melbourne Airport continues to raise the bar, its food and beverage experiences are evolving too. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this first-of-its-kind coffee concept — visit Coffee Capital in Terminal 3.

LANEWAY’S TOP PICKS

Enjoy shopping up to 24 hours before you board and have your gifts ready and waiting for you at the airport on departure or arrival.

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