So you've made the trip to Melbourne, or maybe you're a local staring blankly over your cereal bowl thinking of how best to spend the day ahead. One problem: disposable income. Check out these ideas.
1. The
Shrine of Remembrance - Located on Birdwood Avenue and St Kilda Road.
A place where you can commemorate the men and women who have taken the call to arms for our country with pride and courage, and reflect on the sacrifice these remarkable individuals made. Don't forget to see the view from the top which overlooks the beautiful gardens and admire the memorials.
2.
Parliament House -Spring Street, East Melbourne
Dispel those negative views and take a glimpse of a truly decadent building. Free tours are offered daily to understand the history behind this 150 year-old building. The gold paint filigree will be enough to impress even the most sceptical museum-goer.
3.
Fitzroy Gardens - Wellington Parade
A beautiful example of a
botanical garden that offers sights both
expected and unexpected. In the centre of the gardens you can view a miniature Tudor Village modelled in cement by Mr Edgar Wilson or a creative carving of faeries on one of the oldest red gums.
Tudor Village at Fitzroy Gardens
4.
Victorian Police Museum - World Trade Centre, Siddeley Street
An
exhibition of the underbelly of Melbourne's history. Learn about the infamous Ned Kelly, the honourable Detective John Christie, as well as over 150 years of criminal stories, history, justice, technological advancements and the evolution of policing within Victoria.
5.
Australian Centre for the Moving Image - Federation Square
The
centre is an overview of Australia's film, television and digital culture. It offers interactive exhibitions, talks, creative workshops and resources. Whether you are a kid or child-at-heart you will enjoy what this place has to offer.
6.
Hellenic Museum - Royal Mint Building, William Street
Whether you are interested in seeing how money was created or have a general fervour for Greek history – this place has both! A historical background of Greece, artistic exhibitions including model ships and Greek art as well as traditional methods of minting can be explored here.
7.
St Kilda Beachside - St Kilda esplanade
The iconic name of St Kilda conjures up many images and so it should. The place is an
eclectic melting pot of all of the cultures that make Melbourne so vibrant. Head down to the
water's edge to watch the budding roller bladers, kite-surfers or jugglers, or perhaps a walk to
Luna Park is more your style. It is free to enter and while the statues might be a little on the bizarre side, you can watch the old-school roller coaster or take a photo of yourself in the body-bending mirrors. There is a short architecture tour you can take as well, 10 minutes walk away from the waterfront. You can download a
free guide and podcast to accompany you too.
Luna Park - melbourne.com.au
8.
Royal Arcade - Bourke Street
Here you can indulge all of your senses. Watch traditional sweet making at '
Suga' and perhaps talk your way into a free taste test. The
arcade itself is a delight. You can view the beautifully restored decor including the Gaunts clock and mythical creatures
Gog and Magog. A number of
specialty shops are also well worth a look.
9.
Laughing Clubs - Metropolitan Locations
Want to exercise that funny bone? This short and sweet display of comedic talents is a great way to lift your spirits and enjoy the fabulous Melburnian culture. Shows are usually held on the first Sunday of each month and a list of locations can be found at Laughter Club's website.
10.
Melbourne's Laneways - City Centre
Want to get lost in the urban beauty of Melbourne? A walk around the city centre will find you wandering the laneways of the most iconic scenes known to
visitors and
locals alike.
Graffiti, cafes,
street artists and boutiques are some of the delights that will capture your heart.
Melbourne Laneways
Once there,
East Coast Car Rentals Melbourne offers great rates on their cars to truly expand and enhance your exploration of the most popular place in Victoria.
