The Top Five Things to Do in Melbourne
Southbank and Crown Casino on the Yarra River
Though Sydney might get the majority of international attention, most Australians know that Melbourne has its own share of great attractions. While a stay in Melbourne warrants at least a week of your vacation time, we’ve boiled down the top five things you have to do when you visit. Here they are, listed in no particular order.
1. Federation Square (usually referred to as Fed Square) can take up to a full day to completely explore. It’s not so much an open space as a collection of buildings, including museums, cinemas, and restaurants. This is truly the place to be in Melbourne, and you’ll find activities to keep you busy both day and night. At the heart of Federation Square is the Ian Potter Centre, housing the Australian component of the National Gallery of Victoria. There’s also a huge screen in the middle of the Square that screens major sporting events in real time.
2. If you’re looking for some great deals, head to the Queen Victoria Market, which holds the distinction of being the largest open air market in the entire Southern Hemisphere. While the Market was traditionally visited mainly for food purchases, today offerings have expanded to clothing, jewelry, and much more. Keep in mind that the Queen Victoria is closed Mondays and Wednesdays.
3. If you’re feeling lucky after scoring a steal at the Market, check out the Crown Casino, nestled right against the south bank of the Yarra. Like the Queen Victoria, the Crown Casino holds the distinction of being the largest structure of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. The usual games are available, as well as a well-appointed poker room.
4. If the sun is shining and the air is warm enough, venture down to the Southbank of the Yarra River. From shops to restaurants to entertainment, the Southgates Art and Leisure Precinct has it all. Each Sunday, artists gather to peddle their wares to passersby. All in all, the Southbank makes for quite a pleasant little stroll.
5. About 4 kilometres north of the Melbourne CBD, the Melbourne Zoo is fun for young and old alike. This is the oldest zoo on the Continent, built in 1862. Over 350 distinct species make the Melbourne Zoo an educational (as well as entertaining) diversion for the day.
Melbourne is a fascinating metropolis that will keep you coming back for more. With activities for the entire family, there will never be a dull moment as you make your way through the city. From zoos to casinos to open air promenades, there’s something here for everyone. To find great Melbourne accommodation, Book it Now has the full range at great rates.
