9 reasons to extend your stay in Melbourne now that the AO is over

Don’t cry because it’s over, Melbourne has more to serve up than just tennis.

There is an electric energy that radiates through the city well before the first ball is served at Melbourne Park, and it doesn’t end when the last call of game set match is heard at Rod Laver Arena. Whether you’re weaving through the art-clad laneways in search of coffee or sipping limoncello spritzes by the Yarra River, Melbourne in summer is a city reborn. And it’s still ripe for the picking – starting right here, with this round-up of summer-leaning experiences that prove Melbourne has more to give.

1. Experience Yayoi Kusama at the NGV

the Infinity Mirror Room, Yayoi Kusama at the National Gallery of Victoria — The Infinity Mirrored Room experience is just one of several immersive rooms. (Image: Katie Carlin)

Aside from the AO, the hottest ticket of the season is the Yayoi Kusama exhibition at the NGV International . It’s time to swap courtside action for Kusama’s dancing pumpkins, immersive installations and iconic infinity rooms.

Spanning the entire ground floor of the NGV and comprising nearly 200 works, this is the largest exhibition of Kusama’s work presented in Australia and one of her most comprehensive retrospectives in the world.

There are several iconic works on display for free, including the towering form of the Dancing Pumpkin (now part of the gallery’s permanent collection) and the silver balls of Narcissus Garden. Kids can also enjoy the Obliteration Room before moving into the ticketed exhibit.

Expect a diversity of media, from painting to sculpture to installation to video work to performance and wearable materials, but the real drawcard is the format for which she is arguably most celebrated for today: immersive environments. There are 10 to explore in the exhibit including rooms of infinity mirrors, rotating chandeliers, inflatables with red and white polka dots and many more.

Exhibition ends April 21, 2025

2. Explore the outer neighbourhoods

Street art on a wall in Fitzroy — Fitzroy is one of the northern Melbourne suburbs to add to your must-visit list.(Image: Visit Victoria)

If you’re staying in the CBD, jump on a tram and explore the surrounding neighbourhoods. No matter which direction you head, you won’t be disappointed. From the south-east beachside suburbs of St Kilda and Elwood (yes, Melbourne does have some pretty great beaches) and the upscale shopping strips of Toorak Road and Chapel Street to Melbourne’s inner-east for the strip of tasty eateries along Victoria Street known as ‘Little Saigon’. Not to be overlooked, is Melbourne’s eclectic northern suburbs. Foodies in particular should make a beeline for the Italian restaurants of ‘Little Italy’ (aka Carlton), and the extensive mix of cuisines that line the streets of Fitzroy and Brunswick.

3. Find out what the StandardX is all about

the StandardX rooftop, Fitzroy — Soak up the city skyline from the StandardX rooftop. (Image: Katie Carlin)

It’s the first of its kind in the world and as the little sister to the world-renowned Standard Hotels, it’s fitting that the StandardX opened in Fitzroy, one of Melbourne’s coolest suburbs. But why the hype? Things are done a little differently here. From the eye-catching rusted exterior to the interior’s Hecker Guthrie-designed public spaces, and the empty minibars that can be filled from the Pantry – located in the lobby.

There’s no gym or pool (or iron in your room) but it does have a scene-stealing rooftop with sweeping views of the Melbourne skyline and a stylish Mexican casa fit-out. There’s also the adjoining BANG restaurant. But really, you just need to experience this place for yourself. Stay on the weekend to take advantage of the Rose St Artist’s Market next door.

4. Dine at the hatted Alta Trattoria

the exterior of Alta Trattoria — Alta Trattoria will instantly transport you to north-west Italy. (Image: Katie Carlin)

Tucked away in a quiet pocket just off Brunswick Street, Alta Trattoria is the kind of place that would fast become your local go-to if you called Fitzroy home.

Restaurateur Carlo Grossi (Ombra, Grossi Florentino) and sommelier James Tait (King and Godfree) remain faithful to the intimate trattorias of Piedmont in northern Italy that Alta is modelled after.

Serving up reliably good pasta, from the surprising Ravioli All’Uovo (who knew pasta with a simple runny egg yolk could be such a flavour bomb?) to heartier, more rustic options like Pappardelle, Salsiccia di Bra with braised fennel, spiced sausage and chicory. Just don’t skip the starters. Barbagiuan – fried ravioli, pumpkin, sage, cannellini, with grated pecorino – is unmissable. Of course, the menu is seasonal, so expect the unexpected.

Whether you’re dining at the bar for a casual date night or spreading out in the dining room with a group, this place is worth the trip to Fitzroy.

5. Limoncello spritz at AFLOAT (and swim in the infinity pool)

AFLOAT Tennis on Deck, Melbourne — The Tennis on Deck screen is gone for another year but the infinity pool remains. (Image: Katie Carlin)

Melbourne’s favourite floating bar and restaurant is open again for the summer – and this year’s theme is Italian beach club. Think island of Capri but on the banks of the Yarra River and you get the drift. The big screen set up for Tennis on Deck might be gone, but the infinity pool remains, so dive in. But the scene isn’t complete without the tipple of the season, their Afloat Limoncello Spritz – a bespoke spritz made in partnership with Zoncello’s homemade Limoncello and available on tap (don’t turn up your nose, I promise it’s the best thing you’ll drink all summer long).

Don’t miss Fotographis – the only floating photobooth in the world. Find the restored 1970s black and white photobooth on the Upper Terrazza (courtesy of Chris Sutherland and Jessie Norman, the duo behind the iconic Flinders Street Photobooth ).

6. Cruise the Yarra onboard a GoBoat

cruising down the Yarra River on a GoBoat — Sail past the bustling waterfront onboard GoBoat. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Hire your own electric picnic boat (no license required) from GoBoat Melbourne for you and up to seven of your friends and cruise the Yarra River towards Docklands or Herring Island. Pack your own picnic to enjoy onboard, choose a route along the river and make the most of those incredible city views.

Prices start from $129 for an hour to $289 for three hours.

7. Bed down in a lush room at the new Melbourne Place

the bedroom interior at the new Melbourne Place — Base yourself in the heart of the city at Melbourne Place. (Image: Anson Smart)

With 14 storeys and three incredible hospitality venues, Melbourne Place has raced to the top of the city’s must-stay lists since throwing open its doors at the end of 2024. Its Russell Street location, close to the shopping hub of Collins and walking distance to many of the city’s highlights, only adds to its appeal.

There are four room types within the 191-room hotel – Everyday, Urban, Suites and the Penthouse – designed by architecture and design practice Kennedy Nolan. Its lavish design makes even the entry-level room feel luxurious, with colour themes of terracotta, rose and moss dominating different rooms – it’s enough to make you want to return again and again to experience them all. I stayed in a moss colour-themed corner suite, the automatic blackout blinds open to reveal incredible views of the city from every angle – even a porthole in the bathroom allows for city views as you shower.

It’s also a drinking and dining destination you can stay at with the Med-inspired open-air terrace restaurant Mid Air on the 12th floor and both Portuguese diner Marmelo (more on this below) and late-night basement bar Mr Mills at ground floor. If you’re still snacky after all that incredible food, take advantage of your mini bar with everything in it except alcohol free of charge.

8. Join a Street Art Tour with Blender Studios

a colourful mural of a child on a wall in Fitzroy — Find world-famous laneways covered in street art. (Image: Katie Carlin)

Fitzroy is awash with street art. You can’t walk a block without a building-sized mural or painted stencil underfoot, but this underground art movement deserves more than a passing glance. Dedicate a couple of hours to exploring Melbourne’s hidden art scene with a Street Art Tour run by Blender Studios.

Tom (aka Akemi) has been a street artist since 2012, his work is primarily stencil-based and sculptural, and his passion for the artform is infectious. He is one of the studio’s many charismatic street artists who lead visitors around Melbourne’s laneways (the only tour in Australia to do so), pointing out art hidden in unsuspecting places – a sculptured packet of fries, a mural behind a bin. You’ll leave with an appreciation for not only the more eye-catching works, but also the font design at the heart of the art form.

9. Book a long lunch at Marmelo.

pasteis de nata at Marmelo, Melbourne — The must-try savoury pastel de nata at Marmelo. (Image: Katie Carlin)

Melbourne’s top restaurants list just got another addition with the opening of Marmelo in December 2024. Helmed by Ross and Sunny Lusted (Sydney’s Woodcut and Aman Resorts), the Portuguese diner (and adjoining late-night basement bar Mr Wills) is the perfect lunchtime retreat after a morning spent exploring Australia’s most walkable city.

Hot items on the menu include salted Murray cod and potato croquette with whipped potato and hot mustard on top, grilled octopus in a Goan curry with lime, cassia and green beans and their savoury take on the much-loved pastel de nata – I tried the custard version topped with crab meat and it is reason enough to dine here. Finish it off with the pint-sized Marmelo ginjinha, a chocolate cup with an Amarena cherry for dessert.

A world away from the hustle, bustle and chaos of the big smoke – yet with a distinct sense of familiarity – Victoria’s Wimmera Mallee region is an incomparable place.

Victoria’s Grampians are a visual feast, a seemingly endless vista of craggy cliffs, rolling valleys and untamed bushland. But they’re also much more than a scenic mountain landscape. Diverse and storied, each region within the range has its own rhythm. The Wimmera Mallee – a pocket in the state’s north-west, stretching from Horsham to near Mildura – is one of the most captivating.

Once known as Victoria’s agricultural heartland, the Wimmera Mallee has evolved in recent years into a dynamic, slightly offbeat hub. It buzzes with a creative hum and welcoming energy, and harbours an eclectic mix of long-time locals and tree-changers. Once you encounter its unmistakable charm, feel its warm country hospitality and taste its nationally celebrated vanilla slice, you may find yourself lingering longer than planned.

Eager to explore? These must-visit spots let you experience the inimitable spirit of this special part of the world.

Wimmera Mallee’s quirky attractions

The Dimboola Imaginarium, Wimmera Mallee victoria — Step into the whacky Dimboola Imaginarium. (Image: Denis Bin)

If you’re after something a little more unconventional, the Wimmera Mallee delivers in droves.

The Dimboola Imaginarium – located in a historic bank building in its namesake town – is a gift shop and boutique accommodation in one. Shop for unique and whimsical keepsakes, stay overnight in an elegant themed room, and lose yourself in one of the Imaginarium’s interactive experiences.

Also in Dimboola, just a short drive from the Imaginarium, is a menagerie of utter delight. Tiny Goats and Co. is home to a herd of miniature goats, with the farm offering group visits and special events like goat yoga and cuddle sessions.

Arcade aficionados should visit the Australian Pinball Museum in nearby Nhill. Here, you’ll find the biggest selection of playable pinball machines in the country, featuring modern models and classics dating all the way back to 1931.

Arts and culture in Wimmera Mallee

Step into the Wimmera Mallee’s storied history at the Stick Shed — Step into history at the Stick Shed. (Image: Visit Vic)

As a thoroughly creative community, it’s no wonder the Wimmera Mallee has a host of venues focused on its rich arts and culture scene.

Wander Trickbots Metal Art & Sculpture Garden in Nullawil, a winding trail filled with unique and quirky creations fashioned from metal odds, ends and scrap. A walk through the garden is inspiring enough, but consider buying a piece to take home and treasure.

The town of Nhill also has a significant Karen-Burmese refugee community, who make up 10 per cent of the local population. Discover the artistry of this vibrant culture at Paw Po , where you can purchase traditional hand-woven and textile products. Choose from a selection of beautifully crafted homewares, fashion and dolls.

Step into the Wimmera Mallee’s storied history at the Stick Shed , the only WWII emergency grain store still standing today. This National Heritage-listed structure takes you on a journey through the region’s agricultural past and is a dramatic sight with its towering and eerily striking timber poles.

Nature escapes around Wimmera Mallee

pink Lake Tyrrel, Wimmera Mallee, Victoria Australia — Take in the pink hues of Lake Tyrrell. (Image: Visit Vic)

Much like the majestic beauty of the wider Grampians, the Wimmera Mallee is a mélange of serene and spellbinding nature escapes.

Victoria’s pink lakes are famed nationwide, and two of them are found right here. See the flamingo-pink hues of Loch Iel, particularly vivid after a heavy downpour, or the vast and ancient Lake Tyrrell , which turns pink during wet and warm conditions.

The Snowdrift dunes in Wyperfeld National Park are ideal for adventurers. Set amid the area’s semi-arid landscape, the dunes are expansive mounds of sand deposited around 40,000 years ago. Hike or sandboard them and make sure to visit at sunset, when the sand glows golden.

And while some travellers chase the highest peaks, you can see the most modest in the Wimmera Mallee. Standing a mere 43 metres above the surrounding terrain, Mount Wycheproof is considered the smallest registered mountain in the world. Courtesy of its relatively gentle inclines, it’s a lovely spot for a walk and a picnic.

Culinary adventures in Wimmera Mallee

border inn in the Wimmera Mallee — Meet the locals at Border Inn.

As a region rich in agricultural bounty, it’s little surprise the Wimmera Mallee has such a robust and vibrant food scene. The community is fiercely proud of its local produce, showcasing the flavours and heritage of the area.

The Border Inn in the village of Apsley is a quaint country pub and meeting spot for the local community, featuring a classic country menu and warm hospitality.

The Horsham Golf Club is a popular spot for golf buffs with an adjoining bistro and bar. Try a modern twist on hearty favourites while taking in views of the green. For a taste of the area’s vintages, head to Norton Estate Wines – a boutique wine producer and cellar door open weekends.

A Wimmera Mallee jaunt wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the famed Sharp’s Bakery in Birchip. Here, you’ll find a velvety vanilla slice that’s been crowned as Australia’s best seven times.

Wimmera Mallee accommodation

Fulham Homestead in wimmera mallee — Escape to Fulham Homestead.

If you’re enjoying an extended trip, you’ll need somewhere to rest. After a day tackling Wyperfeld’s epic dunes, visit Pine Plains Lodge , also in the national park. Built from reclaimed timber planks and logs, and anchored by rugged stone fireplaces, the lodge is a rustic and cosy hideaway.

For a refined yet relaxing escape, head to Fulham Homestead – a gorgeously restored guesthouse on an idyllic working farm, complete with farm animals and scenic vistas. Built in the 1840s, it has all the elegance and charm of its heritage, plus contemporary comforts like a modern kitchen, wi-fi and air-conditioning.

The Hermitage Hotel is Victoria’s oldest inland pub and an equally delightful blend of old and new. The restored rooms are perfectly appointed and adorned with period furnishings and high-quality linens. The pub itself is a favoured food and wine spot among locals and travellers alike.

If camping is more your style, the Lake Lascelles Cabins and Camping (formerly Mallee Bush Retreat) is a sprawling oasis with powered and unpowered sites and snug cabins. The setting is stunning too, the pristine Lake Lascelles sitting right in its centre.

Annual events

Wimmera Mallee Nhill Aviation Museum — Time your visit to Nhill Aviation Museum for the annual air show.

You may not need an excuse to revisit the Wimmera Mallee, but these annual and bi-annual events will almost certainly have you returning again and again.

Each year, the Lake Chalegrark Country Music Marathon takes over the town for a spectacular line-up of musicians from around Australia. The event is easygoing, family-friendly, and set in scenic surrounds on the shores of Lake Charlegrark.

Every two years, the region holds colourful events like the Wimmera Steampunk Festival , a raucous celebration of 19th-century steampunk culture with a different theme each time; the Nhill Air Show , which features jaw-dropping aerial stunts, aircraft displays, music, activities and more; and the Nati Frinj , a festival of art, culture and performance showcasing the many talents of the Natimuk community.

From the quirky to the tasty, start planning at visitwimmeramallee.com.au

9 reasons to extend your stay in Melbourne after the Australian Open