How to Spend an Evening Out in Melbourne

Melbourne, the capital and most populous city of the Australian state of Victoria, is renowned for its diverse range of activities. With an estimated population of approximately 5 million people, Melbourne is the second-most populous city in Australia and one of the most livable cities in the world.

Melbourne is known for its colourful laneways, diverse range of cuisines and vibrant, creative culture. As the home of Australia’s largest beer festivals, Melbourne is a must-visit for any beer-lover. On an evening out in Melbourne, there are plenty of options to choose from. In this article, we’ll be looking at some of the best activities in the city for an unforgettable evening out.

Visit Local Bars and Restaurants

Melbourne is home to a wide variety of pubs, bars, clubs and restaurants. Whether you want to sample some of Australia’s finest craft beers or are looking for a more upscale dining experience, Melbourne has something to offer. Some of the top restaurants in Melbourne include Attica, Supernormal and Flower Drum.

For more casual dining, there are plenty of options too. Choose from a range of bars and restaurants in iconic laneways such as Degraves Street. From traditional pubs to hip bars and late-night clubs—such as Brown Alley or The Luwow—the city offers something for everyone.

Whether you’re looking for a chilled evening out or want some live music and a dancefloor, Melbourne has it all.

Catch a Show

Melbourne is well known for its vibrant nightlife, but it is also home to some of the most prestigious performance venues in the country. As the theatre capital of Australia, there are plenty of shows on offer to suit all tastes. From comedy to theatre and live music, Melbourne’s venues will not disappoint.

The Arts Centre Melbourne is Australia’s largest performing arts venue and it is home to the state theatre company—the MTC (Melbourne Theatre Company). The State Theatre also hosts the popular Midsumma Festival which offers a range of queer performances and events each year.

Theatres such as the Comedy Theatre, Her Majesty’s Theatre and Princess Theatre offer a range of international shows—from Shrek The Musical to Wicked and The Book of Mormon. Alternatively, the Melbourne Recital Centre offers classical performances from some of the world’s most celebrated artists.

Take an Evening Tour

Sometimes the best way to see a new city is by taking a guided tour in the evening. If you don’t have much time or want an overview of Melbourne’s attractions and cultural hotspots, then taking a guided tour is a great way to experience the city.

Evening walking tours will show you the vibrant laneways, guide you through some of Melbourne’s most iconic landmarks and cultural hotspots and provide you with an exclusive insight into the city’s rich history and culture. Options such as Responsible Travel offer walking tours that explore the city’s diverse art scene every Friday evening.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for something a little different, why not take an evening craft beer tour? On this tour, you’ll get to sample some of Victoria’s best craft beers from local breweries and learn about the history and production methods from your knowledgeable guide. It’s a great way to explore the city at night and learn more about one of the state’s leading industries—beer!

Explore Open-air Cinemas & Theatres

Finally, why not take in a movie or show al fresco? From rooftop cinemas to outdoor theatres in parks, Melbourne offers plenty of options for those who want an evening under the stars.

On warm evenings, outdoor cinemas—such as Moonlight Cinema and Seagulls Outdoor Cinema—offer film fans a great opportunity to watch cult classics such as Pulp Fiction or more recent releases while surrounded by nature. Meanwhile each summer, Melbourne gears up for Shakespeare Under the Stars—an annual production that takes place at Royal Botanical Gardens and pays tribute to classic Shakespeare works. It’s a unique way to spend an evening out in Melbourne.

Conclusion

With so much to offer in terms of activities, bars, clubs and venues—as well as diverse range of open-air theatres—Melbourne is home to some amazing evening activities. From bar hopping in Degraves Street to beer tours and rooftop cinema; there’s something to suit everyone who visits on an evening out in Australia’s cultural capital. Why not check out the Melbourne Evening Craft Beer Tour for an unforgettable night out?