What Can You Do In Melbourne For Free?

Melbourne, consistently ranked among the world's most liveable cities, is also not a bad location to visit, thanks to its wide range of sights, from large-scale markets and informative museums to stunning botanic gardens and retro amusement parks.

The good news is that you can have a lot of fun without paying a dime. Here is our list of the top 10 free attractions in Melbourne.

Free Activities in Melbourne

See Some Live Comedy for Free

Best comedians from Melbourne and beyond perform at Spleen Bar, located at the upper end of Bourke Street, every Monday night.

It's a great chance for famous people to test out something new. The quality is extremely stable, and the vibe is typically thrilling.

Visit Fitzroy Gardens to see a replica of a Tudor village.

See the beautiful Fitzroy Gardens in the heart of Melbourne's metropolitan area.

Go for a stroll in the park and take in the scenery and the various historical sites scattered throughout the grounds.

In the Centre of the grounds is a replica of a Tudor village built by London retiree Edgar Wilson in the 1940s.

This tiny community was designed to resemble a traditional Kentish town from England's Tudor era. In 1948, it was unveiled by the lord mayor in Fitzroy Gardens.

Queen Victoria Market is a Great Place to Taste Everything

Among the best things to do while visiting Melbourne, did you know that one of them costs nothing?

At Queen Vic Market, you may wander the sheds and see all the wonderful produce, meat, dairy products, and small goods sold here.

There may be booths offering free samples if you're lucky.

Visit Acme's, Free Shows

There's more to ACMI than meets the eye. A Story of the Moving Picture is Australia's greatest collection of moving images and a fascinating and entertaining permanent exhibit.

There are theatres, classrooms, a media preservation lab, and a hospitality service provided by Karen Martini, among other things.

The fact that, in the gallery above, you can play computer games for free is perhaps the most interesting part, but you should still share with your friends.

Take a look at the State Library's stunning Dome Reading Room.

At the State Library of Victoria's most opulent reading room, the Dome Reading Room, minds learn about everything from exotic birds to Victorian architecture.

Don't forget to visit the stunning Ian Potter Queen's Court, which reopened in 2019 after being closed for over 15 years. Free daily tours will introduce you to the library's depths.

Visit the World's Best Bookstore

Readings prove there is still a place for wonderful independent bookstores (which don't frown on people reading a bit before they buy, mind you) because it is not uncommon to see crowds hanging around at a bookstore at 10 pm on a Saturday.

The popularity of this historic bookstore extends beyond the confines of Melbourne. In 2016, Readings Carlton received the "Bookstore of the Year" prize at the Paris Book Fair Global Excellence Awards, earning widespread worldwide recognition.

Participate in One of Fed Square's Free Workout Courses Today!

When Melburnians need a break from griping about the weather, they take it out on Federation Square, the city's designated "gathering place."

Whether you like it or not, there's always something to do, and many events are free.

Classes in tai chi, morning meditation, Qigong, and the odd free movie are all available. In addition, there might be some free events coming up, so check the website.

Go to the Dock's Library.

Over 200,000 volumes, daily newspaper and magazine delivery, 400 periodicals, a huge DVD and CD collection, and an electronic library are specific library services.

On the other hand, the Library just At Dock is used for much more than just books. There's a gallery, state-of-the-art professional editing suites, a recording studio, practice spaces for musicians, and a green, airy terrace perfect for screening movies, playing table tennis, doing yoga, or tai chi.

Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens and reconnect with nature.

It is fortunate for Melburnians that the Royal Botanic Gardens may be in the city's heart.

The gardens are conveniently located, making them wonderful for a stroll, picnic, or even a lunch break from the office.

The vast grounds imply you won't constantly be vying for a grassy space.

We recommend stopping by the always-beautiful Ornamental Lake and sitting to meditate or take pictures.

Explore the Architectural Wonders of Melbourne.

Let's be honest: Melbourne isn't exactly known for its skyline.

We lack distinctive skyscrapers that reach for the clouds, except the iconic Art Gallery spire and the massive Eureka Tower.

Instead, some of Melbourne's finest structures can be tucked away on quiet street corners or in sprawling parks and gardens.

Please see some of our favourites, such as the grand and venerable Royal Exhibition Buildings, the General Post Office, and even a gorgeous McDonald's (no, really)

More Activities to Enjoy in Melbourne

Backpackers on a tight budget can still enjoy exploring Melbourne's many attractions without breaking the bank. These are more of the city's attractions that won't break your budget.

Museums and Galleries of Art

Permanent paintings by major artists like Drysdale, Rodin, and Constable are on display at no cost at the National Gallery of Victoria and many more worldwide.

Its flagship location on St. Kilda Road is a masterpiece in and of itself, with a soaring stained-glass atrium that will make art connoisseurs jump for delight.

An Australian collection and a spectacular display of Aboriginal paintings on the main level can be seen at the Ian Potter Centre in Federation Square.

Visit ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image) in Federation Square for an interactive film and television history lesson, complete with a healthy dose of '90s Neighbors memorabilia.

An Australian Centre of Fine Arts on Southbank is the next stop; it is a stunning building that hosts a variety of temporary and permanent exhibitions. Not satisfied yet? Independent Flinders Lane galleries showcase regional and international artists in more intimate settings.

Place Of Memorial Shrine

At St. Kilda Rd. Stands the statuesque Shrine to Remembrance, dedicated in 1934 to the memory of Australian servicemen and women killed in World War I.

Many significant military and commemorative activities, including ANZAC day, are held here in Melbourne, and historical exhibits shine just on sacrifices made.

The shrine is visible from as far away as Lonsdale St., and as a result, planning restrictions continue to prohibit any construction that would hinder the view of the shrine from Swanston St.

If you try to climb to the shrine's upper levels, you'll be rewarded with magnificent panoramas of the city below.

The Alleys of Melbourne

Melbourne's laneways have transformed from backdoors to the city centre grid to displays of some of the best street art in the world during the past decade.

Although likely, you will not find any Banksy pieces here (many were painted over or destroyed, but at least one is alleged to have survived), you will find an overwhelming assortment of vibrant murals by renowned regional and international artists.

Get started in the labyrinth of laneways going north from Hosier Lane (which is just across from Federation Square).

Checking Out the Market

Locals in Melbourne will go far and wide for a strong market, and the city is packed to the gills wid them.

Throughout the week, you may find markets in almost any area, selling everything from fresh local vegetables to handmade crafts, secondhand treasures, and gourmet hawker foods. Of course, it doesn't cost anything to look around, and if you are hungry, there are generally lots of free samples to try.

There are several other markets to explore in Melbourne besides the central Queen Victoria Market, and they tend to be less crowded with tourists.

Camberwell Market has a flea market atmosphere reminiscent of Paris, Rose Road Artists' Market in Fitzroy is a great place to take in some Melbourne creativity, and the Street Market at Victoria Market features food stalls food and live music (but is only open in the summer). The Food Market at Abbotsford Friary and the Collingwood Children's Farm offers a taste of rural idyll in the city's heart.

St. Kilda Beachfront

If the hustle and bustle of the city become too much, a trip to St. Kilda's beach will provide a welcome reprieve.

Stroll along the boardwalk and down St. Kilda Pier to admire the water and sky, people-watch the fishermen, or gasp at the daring kite surfers riding the waves.

Acland Street has many cafes with outdoor seating, making it popular for people-watching, window shopping, and drooling over traditional European pastry stores.

Take your picture in front of Luna Park's famous grin, then head inside to ride some vintage rides like the carousel & scenic railway rollercoaster. Watching from the sidelines is cheaper than paying to get on the rides.

A weekly flea market sells handmade goods on the Esplanade every Sunday. In addition, the St. Kilda Adventure Playground is a must-visit for families with children of all ages, especially those with preteens and teens.

Culture Centre of the Koorie Heritage Trust

During your time in Melbourne, you may find yourself curious about the city's appearance two centuries ago, before it was colonised by the British.

Located in Federation Square, the Koorie Heritage Trust Culture Centre introduces the region from its traditional caretakers, the Wurundjeri people, and some information about modern Koorie history and culture.

Constantly rotating work displays by emerging and well-known Aboriginal artists supplement a stable social history exhibition.

The Melbourne Museum, free to students and members, also provides a wealth of resources relating to indigenous cultural and social legacy.

The Circular Tram of the City

Here's how to quickly and cheaply see the heart of Melbourne, Australia.

The Docklands waterfront district is at the end of the City Circle Tram's route, which winds through the city and out to the sea.

Trams from the historic 'W class' are used on the route; they have wooden seats and brass and velvet hand straps, just like the originals from 1923.

Central City Design

Melbourne's central business district has historically significant structures from various architectural periods and styles.

Invigorate your mental map as you stroll around the streets searching for well-known landmarks, offbeat museums, and outlandish architecture from the future.

The Flinders Street Train Station, Federation Plaza, Block Mall, Nichols Building, and the gothic ANZ headquarters are just a few of the city's highlights.

In addition, Melbourne hosts its annual Open House event in July, where the public is given free access to many of the city's often inaccessible architectural gems.

The King's Gardens, or the Royal Botanic Gardens

These Royal Botanic Gardens are an excellent way to acquaint yourself with Melbourne and its residents.

The original 38 hectares of this hilly green space on the outskirts of the CBD was set aside in 1857 and have been subdivided into various themes around a central lake.

The park's many walking trails and open spaces make it ideal for a leisurely afternoon picnic.

The Children's Garden was designed with a fountain and an artificial creek so families may cool off during the hot months.

The 3.84-kilometre perimeter of the garden is a popular route for local runners, and you can expect to share it with them at all hours of the day and night, though it is busiest in the morning. Visit the website to learn more about free guided tours if you're a dedicated botanist.

Churches in Melbourne

Even if you don't share their beliefs, you can still admire the craftsmanship that went into building some of Melbourne's major churches.

Across from Federation Square lies the Gothic St. Paul's Cathedral, which was constructed on the site of the first Christian worship in Victoria, which took place in 1835.

Located only a short distance away are two of the city's most architecturally significant and tranquil places of worship: St. Michael's Uniting Church and the Scots Church.

A La Trobe Reading Room of the National Library of Victoria in Melbourne, Australia, seen from above.

Students and professors sit at antique desks beneath a vaulted ceiling in this room.

Victoria's State Library

Established in 1854, the State Library in Victoria now houses almost two million books in its historical edifice.

Yet, the structure itself is why you've come. The La Trobe Reading Room is the building's focal point; its octagonal dome was the largest built-in 1913.

The elaborate plasterwork and the serious Melbourne residents who come to write essays here are illuminated by the abundant natural light.

If you want to explore the Central Library and the galleries independently, you can pick up a map at the front desk.

The library also hosts a variety of events for both adults and children, including free classes, workshops, presentations, and kids' programmes, as well as rotating literary and fine arts exhibits.

It's the Wheeler Center

In 2010, the same year Melbourne was named a UNESCO City of Books, the Wheeler Centre was established with funding from the Lonely Planet founders.

The Centre is where "books, writing, and ideas" may be found and is located in the State Library Building.

Workshops and presentations by authors, artists, architects, and publishers are regularly scheduled, and most are open to the public for free. Online reservations are available.

On November 17, 2006, in Melbourne, Australia, Evermore took the stage at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl for the Make Poverty History performance.

Performing Artists / Live Music

Melburnians' passion for live music is right up there with their appreciation for coffee, graffiti, and Australian rules football. So every day of the week, you may find a different free concert somewhere in the city.

Cherry is well-known as a rock club hosting free and paid shows in the city. Likewise, Toff has arrived in town.

Try listings inside the local street media like Beat, available in bars, pubs, and cafes, or the online gig guide of indie radio station RRR if you prefer folk, blues, blues, rock, and even Australian hip-hop.

Northcote, Brighton (Retreat Hotel), and St. Kilda are just a few of the districts outside of the City that boast an abundance of live-music venues.

Walking Tours

Melbourne's inner north neighbourhoods are becoming more trendy, yet they still hold much of the city's heritage.

The local council's website features virtual walking tours of Cambridge, Abbotsford, and Clifton Hill, where you can see notable landmarks such as the Abbotsford Convent and the Yarra River rapids known as Dights Falls (best viewed at dusk) as well as other industrial icons such as the Skipping Girl Citric acid sign.

Chinatown

Chinese miners came to Victoria in the 1850s and '60s to pursue the 'new gold mountain,' They settled along this section of Little Bourke St.

This area of central Melbourne, currently framed by five classic arches, has been the heart of the city's Chinese community for over 150 years.

Go out and about in this lively historic district loaded with great eateries, including several that serve Chinese and other cuisines.

The city's Chinese New Year's festivities are also held in Chinatown. The Chinese Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Chinese people in Australia.

Town Hall of Melbourne

The Melbourne Town Hall is wonderful for history and architecture buffs to visit.

The building is a striking sight on Swanston Street, the major drag through the city's heart, thanks to its combination of bluestone and Tasmanian freestone.

Throughout the year, the main auditorium and the smaller chambers are utilised for various events, including concerts, comedy shows, and public discussions.

The 1929 Grand Organ is also a major feature.

You can book a free tour of Town Hall to see the venue's inner workings and stand in the same spot.

Parliament Building

Even though you can't snack on popcorn while watching a session of a Victorian parliament, it is amusing to watch Australian politicians argue over the latest government policy.

To find out when you can attend a free session of the Legislature of Assembly, visit the government's Parliament website.

A free public tour may be more interesting than seeing politicians try and score cheap political points in this historic property's plush leather and wood interior.

Conclusion

Melbourne has a wide variety of attractions, making it one of the most liveable cities in the world. They range from large-scale markets and instructive museums to magnificent botanic gardens and vintage amusement parks. Live comedy shows, the reproduction of a Tudor village in Fitzroy Gardens, food sampling at Queen Victoria Market, and Acme's Free Shows are just a few of the many free things to do in Melbourne. In addition, the Ian Potter Queen's Court at the State Library of Victoria reopened in 2019 after being closed for over 15 years. Its spectacular Dome Reading Room is a terrific place to learn everything from exotic birds to Victorian architecture.

Melburnians should check out Readings Carlton, the World's Finest Bookstore, and sign up for a free fitness class in Fed Square. Enjoy nature in the Royal Botanic Gardens and marvel at Melbourne's architectural achievements. The Dock Library is more than just a place to read; it also houses an art gallery, professional editing suites, a recording studio, practice rooms for musicians, and a spacious green terrace ideal for screening movies, playing table tennis, practising yoga, or practising tai chi.

Travelling Melbourne's various attractions don't have to break the bank for budget-conscious backpackers. Art museums, galleries, the Alleys of Melbourne, and the Market are all examples. The Australian collection and the outstanding display of Aboriginal artworks at the National Gallery of Victoria make this building a masterpiece. The Australian Centre of Fine Arts on Southbank is a magnificent facility that exhibits a range of temporary and permanent exhibitions. The ACMI (Australian Centre of the Moving Image) is an interactive cinema and television history lesson. Some smaller, independent galleries can be found in the Flinders Lane area, showcasing local, national, and international artists. Within the past decade, Melbourne's alleys have gone from being backdoors to the city centre grid to displaying some of the best street art in the world, and locals in Melbourne will go far and wide for a good market.

You can find fresh local produce, homemade crafts, vintage finds, and gourmet hawker fare at any of Melbourne's markets, open seven days a week. You can also visit the Camberwell Market, the Rose Road Artists' Market, the Street Market at Victoria Market, and the Food Market at the Abbotsford Friary and the Collingwood Children's Farm. St. Kilda Beachfront is a great place to get away from the city, and Luna Park has some great old-school rides and a flea market every Sunday on the Esplanade. The Wurundjeri people have traditionally cared for this area. The Koorie Heritage Trust Culture Centre introduces the Wurundjeri people, their contributions to the region, and modern Koorie history and culture. Student and public admission to the Melbourne Museum are free.

The City Circle Tram loops around the centre of the city and ends in the waterfront district of Docklands. Numerous noteworthy historical buildings represent many different architectural eras and styles in the heart of Melbourne's central business area. Melbourne's most famous landmarks include Federation Square, Block Mall, Nichols Building, and the Gothic ANZ headquarters. Knowing Melbourne and its people at the King's Gardens, the Royal Botanic Gardens, is a great idea. A relaxing afternoon picnic is in order in the park, thanks to its various walking paths and open areas.

To help families beat the heat during the summer, the Children's Garden features a fountain and an artificial creek. This is a bird's-eye view of the La Trobe Reading Room in the National Library of Victoria in Melbourne, Australia. The La Trobe Reading Room in Melbourne, Australia, is the heart of the city's designation as a UNESCO City of Books. The Wheeler Centre is where "books, writing, and ideas" are freely accessible to the public, and the Central Library houses numerous exhibits. Cherry and Toff, two prominent venues in the city, regularly hold free and ticketed live music performances. Live music can also be experienced in the neighbourhoods of Northcote, Brighton, and St. Kilda. The Abbotsford Convent and the Yarra River rapids at Dights Falls are only two of the highlights of the Cambridge, Abbotsford, and Clifton Hill walking tours.

For almost 150 years, the Chinatown district in central Melbourne has served as Melbourne's focal point for the city's Chinese population. You can learn about the history of Chinese people in Australia at the Chinese Museum, and there are some fantastic restaurants to try there. Swanston Street's Melbourne Town Hall, built from bluestone and Tasmanian freestone, is impressive. Another highlight is the 1929 Grand Organ. Visitors can schedule a free tour of the building to observe the inner workings of Town Hall and stand in the same position.

Watching Australian politicians squabble in the Parliament Building over some policy issue is great entertainment. You can check the government's Parliament website to learn when the Legislature of Assembly will hold open sessions.

Content Summary

• Consistently recognised as one of the world's most liveable cities, Melbourne also offers various attractions, from large-scale markets and educational museums to magnificent botanic gardens and nostalgic amusement parks.
• It's excellent news that there are many ways to have a nice time without spending money.
• Our group has compiled a list of Melbourne's ten best free things to do.
• Famous people should take advantage of this opportunity to do something different.
• We're talking rock-solid consistency in sound and atmosphere, which is always exciting.
• See the stunning Fitzroy Gardens right in the middle of Melbourne.
• Take a stroll in the park and admire the flora, fauna, and historical landmarks that may be found there.
• This little town was built in the style of a Tudor-era Kentish village.
• Fitzroy Gardens' lord mayor did the honours in 1948.
• You can explore the sheds at Queen Vic Market to get a feel for fresh fruit, meat, dairy products, and other commodities.
• You can find booths that give out free samples if you're lucky.
• A Tale of the Moving Image, ACMI's permanent exhibition, is Australia's largest collection of moving images and a fascinating and enjoyable experience.
• Facilities include theatres, classrooms, a media preservation lab, and Karen Martini's hospitality service.
• Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of the gallery up top is the opportunity to play PC games at no cost, but don't forget to spread the word!
• Seeing a sizable crowd at a bookshop at 10 p.m. on a Saturday is proof that readings are still relevant, especially for beautiful independent bookstores (which don't frown on people reading a bit before they buy, mind you).
• This classic bookstore is well-known outside the borders of Melbourne.
• People from Melbourne take their weather complaints to the city's official "meeting place," Federation Square.
• There's always something going on, rain or shine, and many free activities.
• There are opportunities to learn tai chi, meditate first thing in the morning, practise Qigong, and even watch a free movie occasionally.
• In addition, the website may soon announce a series of free events.
• Specific library services include housing more than 200,000 books, daily newspaper and magazine delivery, housing 400 magazines, a massive DVD and CD collection, and an electronic library.
• The Library, however, is used for much more than books alone and is conveniently located at Dock.
• The green and airy patio is ideal for screening movies, table tennis, practising yoga, or tai chi. State-of-the-art professional editing suites. Recording studio. Practise rooms for musicians.
• Go back to nature with a trip to the Royal Botanic Gardens.
• The Royal Botanic Gardens are an asset to the city of Melbourne.
• The gardens are well situated for a quick stroll, picnic, or even a lunch break from the office.
• The expansive grounds ensure there will never be a shortage of open grassy areas to relax in.
• A visit to the aesthetically pleasing Ornamental Lake is highly recommended.
• Let's be honest; Melbourne is not exactly renowned for its skyline.
• Apart from the Art Gallery's spire and the huge Eureka Tower, our city lacks unique skyscrapers that strive for the clouds.
• Travelling Melbourne's various attractions don't have to break the bank for budget-conscious backpackers.
• More low-cost tourist spots in the city are listed below.
• The National Gallery of Victoria and many others worldwide offer free, permanent exhibitions of works by famous artists like Drysdale, Rodin, and Constable.
• St. Kilda Road's flagship store is a work of art in and of itself, with a soaring stained-glass atrium that will make art fans squeal with glee.
• The next stop is the spectacular Australian Centre of Fine Arts on Southbank, which features temporary and permanent exhibitions.
• Some smaller, independent galleries can be found in the Flinders Lane area, showcasing local, national, and international artists.
• The St. Kilda Road location of the statuesque Shrine to Remembrance, built in 1934 to honour Australian soldiers who lost their lives in World War I, is where memorials to the fallen are typically seen.
• Melbourne is home to many important military and memorial events and ceremonies, like ANZAC Day, and numerous historical displays focusing only on sacrifices.
• As the shrine can be seen from as far away as Lonsdale St., planning constraints continue to forbid any construction that might obstruct the view of the shrine from Swanston St.
• If you try to get to the shrine's highest floors, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the city below.
• Melbourne's backstreets and byways
• In the past decade, Melbourne's laneways have evolved from hidden entrances to the city grid to galleries for world-class street art.
• Although it is highly unlikely that you will find any Banksy works here (many were painted over or destroyed, but at least one is claimed to have survived), you will find a stunning collection of murals by renowned local and international artists.
• Start in the maze of streets leading north from Hosier Lane (just across from Federation Square).
• Melbourne residents would go great distances for a good market, so it should be no surprise that the city is teeming with shoppers.
• Markets are commonplace during the week, and they sell everything from fresh produce to arts and crafts to vintage finds to gourmet hawker fare.
• Of course, browsing doesn't set you back anything; if you're hungry, you can test out a wide variety of complimentary samples.
• Outside the bustling Queen Victoria Market in the city's centre, visitors to Melbourne may find several other markets to peruse, many of which are much less congested with tourists.
• Abbotsford Friary's Food Market and the Collingwood Children's Farm provide the city with a piece of the country.
• Strolling to St. Kilda's beach might be a relaxing escape from the city's hectic pace.
• Take a stroll down St. Kilda Pier and down the boardwalk to take in the sights of the water and sky, watch the fisherman at work, and gasp at the daring kite surfers out on the waves.
• Acland Street is known for its many outdoor cafes where visitors can people-watch, browse, and drool over authentic European pastries.
• Get a photo before the iconic grin at Luna Park before enjoying classic attractions like the carousel and scenic railway rollercoaster.
• It's more cost-effective to spectate instead of participating in the activities.
• The Esplanade hosts a flea market every Sunday where local artisans sell their wares.
• Furthermore, families with kids of all ages, notably those with preteens and teens, should visit the St. Kilda Adventure Playground.
• While visiting Melbourne, you may wonder what it looked like before the British colonised it two centuries ago.
• The Wurundjeri people, the region's traditional caretakers, are introduced to visitors at the Koorie Heritage Trust Culture Centre in Federation Square, along with some information about modern Koorie history and culture.
• The line is serviced by antique 'W class' trams, which include hardwood seats and brass and velvet hand straps reminiscent of the original 1923 trams.
• Urban Planning and Design
• Numerous noteworthy historical buildings represent many different architectural eras and styles in the heart of Melbourne's central business area.
• Explore the neighbourhoods in search of well-known landmarks, unusual museums, and futuristic architecture to refresh your mental map.
• In addition, every year in July, Melbourne celebrates its Open House event, during which many of the city's often inaccessible architectural marvels are opened to the public for free.
• This mountainous green space, located on the outskirts of the CBD, was designated in 1857, and its initial 38 hectares have since been partitioned into numerous themes surrounding a central lake.
• A relaxing afternoon picnic is in order in the park, thanks to its various walking paths and open areas.
• To help families beat the heat during the summer, the Children's Garden features a fountain and an artificial creek.
• The 3.84-kilometre garden perimeter is a favourite route for local runners, so be prepared to share it at any time of day or night, but mornings are typically the busiest.
• If you are a serious botanist interested in free guided excursions, check out the webpage.
• You may still appreciate the artistry that went into building some of Melbourne's most prominent churches, even if you don't share their beliefs.
• St. Michael's Uniting Church and the Scots Church are two of the city's most architecturally notable and peaceful houses of worship, and they're also located nearby.
• But you've come to see the building itself.
• Most noticeably, the 1913 La Trobe Reading Room features the largest octagonal dome ever constructed.
• Natural light shines on the ornate plasterwork and the serious Melbourne locals who come here to write essays.
• Pick up a map at the front desk if you'd want to find your way through the Central Library and the galleries independently.
• Classes, workshops, conferences, and kids' programmes are all free to the public, and the library also features literary and fine arts exhibits that change periodically.
• In 2010, the Wheeler Centre was founded with support from Lonely Planet's founders. That same year, Melbourne was designated a UNESCO City of Books.
• The State Library Building houses the Centre, a gathering place for "books, writing, and ideas."
• Authors, artists, architects, and publishers regularly arrange many free workshops and talks.
• Your guests can make reservations online.
• As with their love of coffee, graffiti, and Australian rules football, Melburnians have a deep and abiding love for live music.
• So, attending a new, free concert every night of the week is possible.
• Cherry is well-known in the city as a rock club that often features both free and paid concerts.
• Similar to us, Toff has finally come to town.
• If you're into folk, blues, blues, rock, and even Australian hip hop, you may check out the listings in the local street media like Beat, which can be found in bars, pubs, and cafés, or the online gig guide of indie radio station RRR.
• Inner north Melbourne neighbourhoods are becoming hip and still preserve much of the city's history.
• See the Abbotsford Convent, the Dights Falls on the Yarra River (best seen at night), and the Skipping Girl Citric acid sign on the virtual walking tours of Cambridge, Abbotsford, and Clifton Hill featured on the website of the local municipality.
• For almost 150 years, this area, now bounded by five iconic arches, has served as the centre of Melbourne's Chinese population.
• Enjoy a night out in this vibrant historic district, home to several excellent restaurants of many cuisines (including Chinese).
• If you're interested in the background of Chinese people in Australia, the Chinese Museum is the place to go.
• Visitors interested in history and architecture will enjoy Melbourne Town Hall.
• The building's blend of bluestone and Tasmanian freestone makes it stand out on Swanston Street, the main strip through the city's core.
• Concerts, stand-up comedy shows, and public debates are just some of the events in the main auditorium and the smaller chambers throughout the year.
• Another highlight is the 1929 Grand Organ.
• Town Hall offers free tours, so you may schedule one and visit the inside of the building as well as stand in the exact location where history was made.
• Australia's political debates about government policy are entertaining to watch, even if you can't munch on popcorn while watching a session of the Victorian parliament.
• You can check the government's Parliament website to learn when the Legislature of Assembly will hold open sessions.
• A free public tour might be more entertaining than watching politicians use this ancient mansion's sumptuous leather and wood furnishings to score cheap political points.