Hidden spaces in Melbourne

Wander through the Atrium at Fed Square and you'll find an electronic music-lover's paradise at the Melbourne Electronic Sound Studio. There's an impressive library of hard-to-find synths, drum machines and recording devices that you can book. Or check out the sound studio filled with equipment to experiment and play around with. Looking to upskill or meet fellow enthusiasts? Take a look at the events calendar for workshops, tours, talks and more.

This 1920s art nouveau building was one of Melbourne’s first so-called ‘vertical laneways'. Make your way up the iconic staircase at Curtin House to unearth the secret boutiques, restaurants and bars hidden inside. Enjoy stunning city views at Rooftop Bar. Shop for streetwear designed in Melbourne at Perks and Mini. And browse specialist books on art, graphic design, music, film and architecture at Metropolis.

Blink and you might miss this cute photobooth on the Paris end of Bourke Street. Located next to popular burger joint Butchers Diner is a mysterious red curtain. Pull it back to reveal a retro-style photo booth. Then get ready to snap lasting memories with your bestie. No coins are needed here so simply tap your card, pick your pose and take your pics.

Melbourne's iconic Campbell Arcade has had a bit of a glow up to restore its former glory. This pedestrian underpass was built in the 1950s and is famous for its blush pink tiles and retro charm. Here you'll find adorable gift shop shuh., the coolest vintage finds at Kentez Studio and a store dedicated to zine culture at Sticky Institute. Enter at Flinders Street or Degraves Street to explore this underground gem.

Wind your way around the corridors of the Nicholas Building's second floor until you get to Le Tuffeau. This tiny wine shop in one of Melbourne's most iconic landmarks is owned by two cousins with a passion for a fine drop. Browse the well-stocked shelves for rare Italian reds. Take home whites from Burgundy. Or pick up a special Spanish wine that has aged for over 60 years.

Shop for a good cause at The Rotary Charity Bookshop in a Docklands shopping arcade. Featuring stacks upon stacks of titles, you’ll find every genre imaginable here. From 1960s cookbooks about cheese to DIY guides on how to build your own furniture, you’re bound to find a take-home treasure or special gift. Seek out this booklover's haven on the ground floor at District Docklands.

Insiders know MidCity Arcade is like a detour to Japan. Drop into Katsu Retsu for a deluxe crumbed pork cutlet with all the trimmings. Ride the escalator to Sushi Hotaru where all sushi and sides off the train are under $5. Try Hakata-style house-made noodles at Mr Ramen San. Or grab a table at Tokyo Motto and try curry, omurice and more hearty dishes.

Find three Malaysian restaurants in this one building tucked away on Rainbow Alley. Start on the ground floor for a cheep and cheerful lunch at Da Bao where three dishes with rice come in at a cool $15. Move up to Level two and you'll discover Hi Liao – a huge food hall perfect for group catch-ups. For something a little fancier, head to Ho Jiak: Junda’s Playground. Here you'll find an impressive menu of elevated Malaysian dishes with a modern twist.

Now here’s a hidden cafe only those in-the-know will be across. Follow your nose down Howey Place from Little Collins Street and make a left at Presgrave Place. Admire the street art then take a few more steps until you spot Trbl. Order your morning brew to go or go for a specialty coffee like the vanilla bean latte. Don’t skip on baked goods, especially the Korean salt bread and the chunky cookies. 

Most Melburnians are well acquainted with the State Library Victoria. But have you seen what's buried below? In this guided tour, you'll get exclusive access to unseen spaces. Explore the catacombs and rummage through the library’s old card catalogue system. Then experience a rare moment of quiet in the grand dome before it opens to the public.

There are no shortages of hidden rooftop bars in Melbourne. Wander down an unassuming laneway just off Lygon Street and you'll discover the entrance to Johnny’s Green Room. Upstairs you’ll find sweeping city views, an Italian-inspired menu and refreshing cocktails. Good Heavens is another upper-level watering hole that can’t be missed. It’s perfect for big groups or after-work bevs. Or wander up to one of the rooftops at Hotel Nacional for gluten-free Mexican food and a round of spicy margs. 

If you’re seeking gourmet goodness, follow Spring Street Grocer’s neon cheese sign down a spiral staircase. Behold! An underground temple of cheese sourced from around the world and stored in fromage friendly conditions. From brie to blue, your heart’s desire awaits at Spring Street Cheese Cellar.

To get your pirate on, heave ho to the Mission to Seafarers. Test your pipes at a free sea shanty sing-along session. These ever popular sessions are the ultimate way to blow off some steam, pirate-style. The Spanish-style courtyard and beautiful mission building chapel are a must-see, too.

The Old Treasury Building tour is more than a trip down memory lane. It’s home to the original vaults where gold bullion was stored during the Gold Rush era. Explore the vaults with free entry Sunday through to Friday.

This extraordinary retail space, just next to St Paul’s Cathedral, has to be seen to be believed. Walk up two flights of stairs to an elegant and lofty hall with high ceilings, expansive glass windows and a grand piano. In addition to showcasing Alpha60’s cuts and styles, it’s also a place for artistic collaboration.