Instead of staying home out of the winter chill, why not venture out to explore eight winter activities around Melbourne. From a relaxing dip in the hot springs to a warm hot chocolate in a local cafe, don’t let the cold winter weather stop you from having fun.
- AFL GAME
Aussie Rules Football is one sport in winter that Melbournians go crazy for. Each winter, supporters will head down to the home of the game, MCG, to barrack for their favourite team. The tradition for many who attend is to have a hot meat pie, a cold beer while wearing colourful and warm clothes, in preparation for any weather conditions that fans may face. For those novices attending their first game, be warned you could fall in love with the game, so much so, that you will be choosing your favourite team to follow in no time at all. Just remember, once you pick a team and tell a Melbournian, they won’t let you change your mind!
- ICE SKATING
Glide through Melbourne’s winter by ice skating at O’Brien Icehouse, in Docklands. Whether you are a twinkle toes or someone who will keep falling over and over again, it is all about having fun with your friends and family. The ice rink is open 364 days a year, so there is no excuse not to experience a skate on the best rink in the city.
- HOT SPRINGS
The best way to relax during Melbourne’s Winter season is to head down to the hot springs on the Mornington Peninsula. Keep warm by soaking yourself in the mineral pools of the hot springs, while getting rid of the toxins from your body. There are over 50 different kinds of hot spring areas, from the thermal mineral pools, aqua therapy pools, to Turkish hammams, so whichever you choose to take a dip in, make sure you put a day aside, as you won’t want to leave.
- HITTING THE SLOPES
Many believe that Australia is just sun, sand and surf, but Melbournians can also hit the slopes during the winter season. In just a few hours drive outside of Melbourne, the top ski fields such as Mt Buller and Falls Creek can give beginners and expert skiers a wide choice of runs that they need to truly enjoy their time on the snow.
- THE WINTER NIGHT MARKET
The Queen Victoria Night Market is finally back in Melbourne starting on the 1st of June. A winter wonderland awaits with hot drinks, delicious foods, amazing shopping experiences, but please make sure you rug up for the night. Entry is free and it is a winter event that you don’t want to miss out on.
- HOT DRINKS TO KEEP WARM
Melbourne is well known for its cafes such as Brunettis and Koko Black, which have a wide range of drinks and sweets to choose from, which is the best way to keep warm during the cold winter weather. Don’t be depressed by the wintery weather, it’s time to catch up with your mates in front of a warm fire and drink to your hearts content.
- MUSICALS
After enjoying a nice meal in one of Melbourne’s many restaurants, why not go to one of the magnificent musicals that are currently or soon to be playing in one of our beautiful theatres. From Hamilton to Cinderella, you will keep warm by firing up your vocal cords for a few hours of musical fun. Melbourne is one of a few cities in the world that you can enjoy many famous musicals, so don’t miss out on all these opportunities for a sing along.
- NGV FRIDAY NIGHTS
Wintery Friday nights are now heated up by the NGV. Their annual event, NGV Friday Nights, sees the display of over 70 works by Picasso alongside over 100 works by his contemporaries in the 2022 Melbourne Winter Masterpieces® exhibition, The Picasso Century. While enjoying these amazing art exhibitions why not grab a drink and a bite to eat, during this after hours experience.
So please don’t be afraid of the cold this winter. Head out to have some fun with friends and family instead.
