Melbourne: 3 Venues in a Day and More!

melbourne three venues one day

Melbourne, Australia's vibrant cultural capital, offers a plethora of attractions that captivate both locals and visitors alike. In the year ending September 2024, Victoria welcomed approximately 86.9 million visitors, contributing a substantial $39.7 billion to the state's economy. The city boasts a rich tapestry of experiences, from its renowned street art and historic architecture to its diverse culinary scene and bustling markets. Iconic landmarks such as the Royal Botanic Gardens, the Melbourne Cricket Ground, and the National Gallery of Victoria highlight the city's commitment to arts, sports, and nature.



A Perfect Day In Melbourne: Three Must-Visit Venues For An Unforgettable Experience

If you're exploring the hidden lane-ways adorned with murals, indulging in world-class dining, or attending major events like the Australian Open, Melbourne promises a unique and memorable experience for every traveller. Melbourne is a city that thrives on diversity, creativity, and entertainment, making it a fantastic destination for a one-day adventure. If you’re a local looking to rediscover your city or a visitor aiming to capture its essence, this itinerary offers an ideal balance of fun, culture, and nightlife. We’ve curated a seamless plan featuring three top venues, each showcasing a different side of Melbourne’s dynamic character.

You’ll start your morning with an energetic and interactive experience at General Public, a one-of-a-kind "eatertainery" that blends food with fun. The afternoon shifts gears towards cultural enrichment at the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), home to some of the world’s most remarkable art collections. Finally, as the sun sets, you’ll unwind with live music, drinks, and great food at The Esplanade Hotel (The Espy), one of Melbourne’s most legendary nightlife spots. This carefully planned itinerary ensures you experience the best of Melbourne in a single day—now, let’s dive into the details of each venue.


Morning Excitement At General Public: Eat, Play, And Enjoy

Your day begins at General Public, a multi-faceted venue that brings together dining and entertainment under one roof. Located in Dingley Village, about 40 minutes from Melbourne's CBD, it’s a fantastic place to start your morning with high-energy activities and delicious food.


Why General Public?

Unlike your typical breakfast café, General Public offers a fusion of interactive entertainment and quality dining. When you’re in the mood for arcade games, bowling, or virtual sports, this venue ensures you kickstart your day with excitement and laughter.


Things to Do at General Public:

  • Tenpin bowling: Test your skills on state-of-the-art bowling lanes designed for casual and competitive players alike.
  • Arcade & virtual games: Try your luck at a mix of classic arcade machines and modern interactive games.
  • Virtual golf & shuffleboard: If you’re up for something unique, General Public’s golf simulators let you play some of the world’s best courses without leaving Melbourne.


Breakfast and Brunch Options

Before diving into the activities, fuel up with a hearty breakfast or brunch. Their menu features a selection of artisan coffees, fresh smoothies, and delicious breakfast platters. Some customer favorites include:

  • Avocado smash: A Melbourne staple!
  • General public breakfast platter: mushrooms, hash browns, and toast.
  • Pancakes with maple syrup: Perfect if you have a sweet tooth.


Insider Tip

If you’re visiting on a weekend, book a bowling lane in advance to avoid long wait times. Also, check if they have any ongoing promotions, as they frequently offer discounts for group bookings.

melbourne 1 day what to do


Afternoon At The National Gallery Of Victoria: Melbourne’s Cultural Gem

After an action-packed morning, it’s time to slow things down with a visit to the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), located in the heart of Melbourne’s Southbank arts precinct. The NGV is Australia’s most visited art museum, drawing over 3 million visitors annually.


Why Visit the NGV?

  • Rich artistic heritage: Established in 1861, NGV houses more than 75,000 artworks spanning centuries and continents.
  • Stunning architecture: The Great Hall’s stained-glass ceiling is a masterpiece in itself.
  • Free entry to the permanent collection: Enjoy world-class art without spending a dime.

Must-See Exhibits

The NGV regularly hosts rotating exhibitions, so check their website to see what’s currently on display. Some must-visit sections include:

Café and Relaxation

After exploring the exhibits, take a moment to relax at NGV’s Garden Restaurant, which serves light lunches, pastries, and specialty teas. Alternatively, grab a coffee from Koko Black just outside the gallery.


Insider Tip

NGV hosts live talks, film screenings, and special events, so check their calendar ahead of time. If you love art, consider purchasing a ticketed exhibition pass for exclusive access to temporary exhibits.

melbourne one day things to do


Evening Entertainment At The Esplanade Hotel (The Espy): Music, Drinks & Ocean Views

As the sun sets, make your way to St Kilda’s Esplanade Hotel (The Espy), one of Melbourne’s oldest and most iconic live music venues. Established in 1878, The Espy has long been a favourite for music lovers, boasting a history of hosting local and international artists.


Why The Espy?

  • A legendary music venue: The Espy has hosted countless live performances and continues to be a hub for Melbourne’s music scene.
  • Breathtaking views: Enjoy a drink on the balcony overlooking Port Phillip Bay.
  • Delicious food & drinks: From gourmet pub meals to curated cocktails, The Espy offers a top-tier dining experience.


Dinner & Drinks

The Espy Kitchen serves a diverse menu with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Some must-try dishes include:

  • Woodfired Pizza with locally sourced toppings.
  • Espresso Martini & Classic Cocktails from the main bar.


Live Music & Events

  • The Gershwin Room: The heart of The Espy’s music scene, featuring regular gigs from indie, rock, and jazz artists.
  • Main bar DJ sets: Perfect for those who love a laid-back, social atmosphere.
  • Comedy & open mic nights: Check their schedule for stand-up comedy shows and special performances.


Insider Tip

Arrive before sunset to grab a balcony spot with ocean views. If you plan to attend a live gig, purchase your tickets online in advance, as popular events tend to sell out quickly.


Wrapping Up

Melbourne’s dynamic charm extends beyond its famous landmarks, offering hidden gems and immersive experiences that leave a lasting impression. If it’s a lively street performance in Federation Square, an impromptu tram ride along the scenic coastline, or a late-night bite at one of the city’s 24-hour eateries, there’s always something more to explore.


No matter how you choose to spend your day, Melbourne’s energy, creativity, and hospitality ensure that every visit feels like a fresh adventure. (Second and third photos by Fabian Mardi on Unsplash and by Simona Sergi also on Unsplash)

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ABOUTME

We overland. We eat plants and fungi. We live outside as much as possible. We are all connected. A female travel blogger overlanding and writing about ecotourism, ethical and sustainable travel, socially conscious travel and housesitting. An online travel magazine since 2015.

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