Free things to do in Melbourne every day

Want to have a grand day out on a tiny budget? Discover Melbourne's best free experiences, attractions and exhibits.

Visit a state-of-the-art library 

narrm ngarrgu Library is Melbourne's swanky new library right next to the bustling Queen Victoria Market. It spans three levels and features beautiful Australian artwork on every floor. Explore over 30,000 books in various languages then nestle in on a comfy chair with a good read. There's even a special kid’s library, play area and terrace to keep the little ones entertained. And you can book an event space for your next workshop, meeting or gathering.

Explore an exhibition of iconic Australian music

If you’re musically inclined, the Australian Music Vault is a must. It’s a great overview of Melbourne’s backstage sounds and stories. Watch rare footage and see iconic objects like Kylie Minogue’s stage outfits and notebooks belonging to Nick Cave. The free exhibition is permanently on show at Arts Centre Melbourne.

Shoot hoops on a rooftop basketball court 

Test out your new gear from Rebel Sport's Emporium store on the free rooftop basketball court. Simply head up the stairs of the flagship store inside Emporium and be met with courts inspired by NBA legend Steph Curry. The space includes interactive digital games, a wall of street art and stunning city views. 

Visit the Koorie Heritage Trust

Learn about the history, strength, and resilience of Aboriginal people and their communities at Koorie Heritage Trust. Based at Federation Square, it’s home to an ever-expanding collection of art, cultural artefacts and oral histories.

Uncover Melbourne’s street art

Melbourne’s street art-covered laneways are among the city’s most iconic sights. Awesome spots to discover include AC/DC Lane, Croft Alley, Upper West Side Arts Precinct and Tattersalls Lane. Looking for more epic spots? Check out our go-to guide.

Unwind in a secret garden oasis 

Smell the roses and take a stroll through The Conservatory in Fitzroy Gardens. The impressive indoor floral displays change five times each year with the seasons. Wander through the weaving pathways. Then take a seat on a park bench to unwind in this beautiful oasis. This secret spot is perfect for Melbourne's ever-changing weather.

Go on a tour of Melbourne's rare treasures 

See a Foster's beer tower from the good old days. Spot retro Moomba Monarch crowns. And discover a bottle of spumante dating back to who knows when. For the first time ever, City of Melbourne's Art and Heritage Collection has free guided tours. This is your chance to access to some of Melbourne’s most weird and wonderful treasures and historical archives.

Explore the art galleries

Swing by NGV International and marvel at their expansive collection. The gallery has a slew of free exhibits to peruse. Next wander in to wonder at millions of dollars of Australian art at the Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia. Artistic creations by luminaries Tucker, Nolan and Arkley are all on show, and all for zero cents. Then find even more free exhibitions at Melbourne's top galleries and museums.

Take a crash course in cinema

Get behind the camera at ACMI’s free exhibition, The Story of the Moving Image. From the birth of film to today’s digital wonders, there’s more than a century of movie history to explore. And you can get hands-on at this fun cinema showcase, with animation and sound effects to play with. Or check out the Memoir of a Snail exhibition and explore behind-the-scenes of this quirky stop motion film.

Get lost amongst the greenery

Escape the concrete jungle and take a break in one of our beautiful green spaces. Hunt down the secret waterfall and lush Fern Gully in the Royal Botanic Gardens. Another favourite is leafy Fitzroy Gardens. The gardens boast oodles of old-world charm, heritage water features and an unexpected piece of 18th century England.

Geek out on architecture at MPavilion

Melbourne’s MPavilion is an architectural gem designed by famous Japanese architect Tadao Ando. The must-see landmark has found a home in Queen Victoria Gardens and is open every day of the week from 8am-6pm. Pop in and enjoy the tranquil setting of this modern structure. Or check out the program of events featuring talks, performances, workshops and more.

Catch a free show from Melbourne's best buskers

The city streets are a stage for Melbourne’s performers. Stroll along the Yarra River at Southbank and watch the buskers entertain the crowds. Take a break, park yourself on a bench and settle in for some serious people-watching. Over in Bourke Street Mall, you might just catch the next big thing. This is where local legends Tones and I, Pierce Brothers and Tash Sultana all got their start.