The 2 Best Museums in Melbourne

Melbourne is not only known for its stunning streets, delicious coffee, and bustling laneways, but also for its remarkable art and cultural institutions. From the oldest and most renowned galleries to the newest and trendiest exhibitions, Melbourne has something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff or a contemporary art enthusiast, you will never run out of fascinating museums to visit in Melbourne. In this blog post, we will guide you through the best museum visits in Melbourne, allowing you to explore and appreciate the city’s diverse cultural heritage. Get ready for an inspiring journey through some of Melbourne’s most captivating museums!

The 2 Best Museums in Melbourne

  1. Melbourne Sports Experience and Australian Sports Museum
  2. Mcg Tour and Australian Sports Museum Entry

The 2 Best Museums in Melbourne

1. Melbourne Sports Experience and Australian Sports Museum

Discover Melbourne’s love for sports on this guided walking tour of the city’s sporting precinct. Walk along the Yarra River with your guide and visit major stadiums and facilities such as Rod Laver Arena, Olympic Park, and the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Learn about the history of these venues and immerse yourself in the city’s sporting culture. The tour concludes with a visit to the Australian Sports Museum, where you can gain further insight into Melbourne’s passion for sports. With admission to the museum included and a small group to ensure a more personalized experience, this tour is perfect for sports enthusiasts and those looking to learn more about Melbourne’s sporting history. The tour includes coffee and/or tea, bottled water, and snacks. The meeting point is outside the ticket booths near the corner of Fed Square and Princes Bridge, and the tour ends at the Australian Sports Museum in Yarra Park.

2. Mcg Tour and Australian Sports Museum Entry

Explore the inner sanctum of Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and gain exclusive access to parts of the Australian Sports Museum that are typically off-limits during this guided tour. As you stroll through the MCG, your guide will share insider knowledge and interesting trivia about the stadium and its history. You’ll walk on the pitch and visit changing rooms where cricket legends have prepared for their matches. The experience also includes admission to the Australian Sports Museum where you can expand your knowledge of Australia’s sporting culture. You can choose a time that suits your schedule and enjoy personalized attention in a small group limited to only 10 people. Meet your guide at the Melbourne Cricket Ground entrance, which is located at Brunton Ave, Yarra Park, Jolimont, Melbourne, Victoria 8002, Australia. Confirmation of your tour will be received at time of booking.

The Ultimate Tourist Guide to Melbourne: Answering the Top FAQs

Melbourne is undoubtedly one of the most exciting and vibrant cities in Australia. With a rich cultural heritage, a dynamic food scene, and plenty of attractions, it’s no surprise that millions of tourists flock to Melbourne every year. However, for first-time visitors, traveling to a new city can be daunting. There are numerous questions that tourists may have about Melbourne. In this blog post, we’ll answer the most frequently asked questions about Melbourne to give you a better understanding of this amazing city.

1. What is the best time to visit Melbourne?

Melbourne is a city that can be visited at any time of the year. However, spring (September–November) and autumn (March–May) are the best times to visit. During these months, the weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds, making it the perfect time to explore the city’s outdoor attractions. If you plan on visiting during the summer months (December–February), be prepared for high temperatures and crowds.

2. How to get around Melbourne?

Melbourne has an extensive transportation system, making it easy to get around the city. The most popular mode of transport is the tram, which is affordable, efficient, and covers almost all major tourist destinations. Additionally, buses, trains, and taxis are also available. We recommend purchasing a myki card, which can be used on all modes of public transport, and can be purchased at train stations or 7-Eleven stores.

3. What are some must-see tourist attractions in Melbourne?

Melbourne has numerous tourist attractions that cater to different interests. Some of the must-see attractions include:

  • Federation Square: A cultural hub that hosts art exhibitions, music concerts, and other events
  • Queen Victoria Market: A 19th-century open-air market that offers fresh produce, clothing, souvenirs, and more
  • Melbourne Cricket Ground: A sports stadium that hosts cricket and football matches
  • National Gallery of Victoria: A world-renowned art museum that features an extensive collection of international and Australian art
  • Royal Botanic Gardens: A sprawling botanical garden that features indigenous and exotic plants

4. What are some offbeat attractions in Melbourne?

For those who want to explore Melbourne beyond the typical tourist attractions, there are plenty of offbeat attractions to discover. Some of these include:

  • The Coop’s Shot Tower: A historic tower that was used to make lead shot in the 19th century
  • The Astor Theatre: A historic cinema that showcases classic and cult films
  • The Shrine of Remembrance: A war memorial that features stunning architecture and exhibits
  • The Melbourne General Cemetery: A large cemetery that features graves of famous Australians, including explorers and politicians
  • The Old Melbourne Gaol: A former prison that’s now a museum that showcases Melbourne’s criminal past

5. What is the food scene like in Melbourne?

Melbourne is known for its vibrant and diverse food scene. With a mix of different cultures, cuisines from all over the world can be found in the city. Some of the must-try dishes include:

  • Australian meat pies
  • Fish and chips
  • Dim sum
  • Pasta
  • Pizza
For foodies, Melbourne also hosts several food festivals throughout the year, such as the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival and the Night Noodle Markets.

6. What is the shopping scene like in Melbourne?

Melbourne is also known for its excellent shopping scene. Some of the best places to shop for souvenirs, clothes, and accessories include:

  • Chapel Street: A trendy shopping district that offers a mix of high-end boutiques and vintage stores
  • The Block Arcade: A historic shopping arcade that features luxury stores and gourmet food shops
  • Bourke Street Mall: A pedestrian-only shopping area that features several department stores and retail chains
  • Emporium Melbourne: A shopping mall that features luxury brands and designer boutiques
  • Victoria Market: A market that offers fresh produce, clothing, and souvenirs

7. What are some free things to do in Melbourne?

Melbourne also has plenty of free things to do, making it an affordable city for budget travelers. Some of the free activities include:

  • Take a stroll along the Yarra River
  • Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens
  • Explore the street art in Hosier Lane
  • Visit the State Library of Victoria
  • Attend a free event at Federation Square

8. What is the nightlife like in Melbourne?

Melbourne has a bustling nightlife scene, with several bars, clubs, and music venues to choose from. Some of the best neighborhoods for nightlife include:

  • Southbank: A district that features several bars and restaurants with stunning views of the city
  • Fitzroy: A bohemian neighborhood that features several trendy bars and live music venues
  • Chinatown: A neighborhood that features several night markets and karaoke bars
  • St. Kilda: A beachside suburb that features several bars and live music venues

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Melbourne

Melbourne, the capital city of Victoria, is a popular destination for tourists. Known for its cultural diversity, sports events, laneway art, and excellent food, Melbourne is a city that you can fall in love with very easily. If you are visiting Melbourne as a tourist, there are a few experiences that you should not miss. Here is a detailed guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Melbourne.

1. Visit the Federation Square

Federation Square is the heart of Melbourne, and it is a piazza that features major attractions such as the Australian Centre for the Moving Image, Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, and the Melbourne Visitor Centre. You can spend your afternoon at the cafes located at the piazza, take a stroll around the Yarra River, or watch movies at the open-air cinema during the summer season.

2. Discover the Street Art

Melbourne is famous for its street art, and the laneways are the best places to experience it. Hosier Lane, AC/DC Lane, and Union Lane are some of the most popular laneways with stunning artworks created by local and international artists. Taking a walking tour of the street art in the city is a great way to discover its hidden gems.

3. Visit the Melbourne Zoo

The Melbourne Zoo is home to more than 320 animal species, and it is a great place for a family outing. You can witness the daily routines of the animals during the keeper talks or observe them from up close during the animal encounters. The zoo also offers a unique experience called “Roar and Snore,” where you can spend a night camping in the zoo and wake up to the sound of the animals.

4. Take a Stroll at the Royal Botanic Gardens

The Royal Botanic Gardens is a tranquil escape from the busy city, and it features more than 8,500 plant species from around the world. You can take a leisurely stroll through the ornamental lakes and themed gardens, relax at the picnicking areas, or attend one of the many events held at the gardens. The gardens also offer guided tours and workshops on indigenous culture and plant life.

5. Shop at the Queen Victoria Market

The Queen Victoria Market is an iconic landmark in Melbourne, and it is the largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere. The market offers a wide range of fresh produce, meat, seafood, delicacies, and souvenirs. You can also try different food stalls, cafes and restaurants offering a range of cuisines from around the globe. The market is open every day except Monday and Wednesday.

6. Watch a Match at the MCG

The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is a sports lover’s paradise, and it is home to some of the biggest sporting events in the country. Watching a match at the MCG is an unforgettable experience, whether it’s cricket, football, or rugby. You can also take a tour of the stadium and visit the National Sports Museum to learn about the history of Australian sports.

7. Explore the Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is a breathtaking coastal drive that stretches over 243 kilometers and features stunning natural wonders such as the Twelve Apostles, the Loch Ard Gorge, and the Otway National Park. You can take a day trip or stay overnight in one of the charming towns along the way. The drive also offers opportunities for beach activities, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

8. Enjoy the Nightlife

Melbourne has a lively nightlife scene, and there are many bars, clubs, and venues that offer live music, comedy, and performances. Fitzroy, Brunswick, and St. Kilda are some of the most popular areas for nightlife in the city. You can also enjoy a drink at one of the many rooftop bars, cocktails bars or hidden speakeasies that Melbourne has to offer.

Conclusion

Melbourne is a vibrant city with endless options for tourists. Whether you want to explore the cultural landmarks or discover the hidden gems of the city, Melbourne has something to offer to everyone. With this guide, you can make the most of your time in Melbourne and experience the best the city has to offer.

The 2 Best Museums in Melbourne