Projections, installations, unbelievable cocktails and more. These aesthetic spots in Melbourne need to be snapped ASAP.

Explore a glowing subterranean labyrinth

Journey underground to see Marvel Stadium transformed into a dazzling labyrinth of sound and light. You'll see Greek legends come to life as you wander through a tangle of over 144,000 glowing lights. Be the first to explore this subterranean space when Labyrinth lights up Docklands for Firelight Festival this winter.

Two friends are looking at a glowing red scultpure
Firelight Labyrinth

Visit Melbourne's happiest art exhibition

Take a journey back to your childhood with Joy. At the Immigration Museum's new exhibition, seven artists interpret what happiness means to them. Step inside an old-school video store. Find interactive rainbow-bright artworks. And belly flop on a giant stuffed toy rabbit.

Journey through a glowing garden wonderland

See the Royal Botanic Gardens transform into a glowing winter wonderland at Lightscape. Wander through illuminated forests. Immerse yourself in giant light sculptures. And experience brand new light installations. Plus there'll be a pop-up food hall with all sorts of tasty treats on offer.

Three friends are looking at an installation in a garden with lasers and lights
Lightscape

Discover a mind-blowing underwater world

Experience the magic of the ocean at the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium. Journey through a huge underwater tunnel and see huge sharks, majestic stingrays, tropical fish and more swimming all around you. For the most photogenic sea species, head straight to the jellyfish exhibit. Here you'll see thousands of these mesmerising colourful little creatures. Don't skip a visit to the adorable penguins before you leave!

See stunning views from a brand new Ferris wheel

Jump on board Melbourne's newest Ferris wheel and take in the most beautiful views. Located right next to the river and soaring 35-metres into the sky, Skyline Melbourne is the city's newest attraction. There's plenty to do on solid ground too. Play a round of mini golf at the Australian-themed course. Or grab a bite to eat from the food trucks at the base of the wheel.

A view of a river at sunset with a Ferris wheel and a city skyline in the background
Skyline Melbourne

Drink cocktails from a gumball machine, milk jug or nitro bubble

Art, science or just perfect Insta-fodder? Melbourne's most Instagrammable cocktails are a bit of everything. Whether it's a novelty shark-shaped vessel or theatrical delivery, you're bound to rack up the reacts. Our top pick is a smoke-filled, bubble topped drop from the likes of CuriousYum Sing House and Nick & Norah’s.

Visit a neon-lit cake shop

Craving a sweet treat? Just look for this neon-lit cake shop on Swanston Street. Despite its futuristic vibes and sleek silver interiors, Miilk Cake Studio is charmingly old-school. The cakes are made from treasured family recipes, handed down over generations. Order pretty pandan sponges or try inventive flavours like mini taro and vanilla chiffon cakes.

Two women dining in a futuristic silver cafe.
Miilk

Pose in a retro gaming arcade

Arcade games old and new will have you clicking away at Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq. Go classic with Space Invaders, or take a seat in the life-sized Mario Kart. Be dazzled by neon while playing Let’s Bounce or NBA Hoops. Then order a fairy-floss topped cocktail for the ultimate Insta-feed.

Roam through a moving painting

See The Lume's breathtaking new exhibition, showcasing the art of Leonardo Da Vinci. Explore the 3,000 square metre projection art gallery, swirling with floor-to-ceiling digital displays. Step inside the Mona Lisa, get up close with Da Vinci's inventions and marvel at the Last Supper on a grand scale.

People looking at the Mona Lisa and Last Supper paintings projected on large screens.
Leonardo Da Vinci at The Lume

See a spectacular glowing weather forecast

Melbournians love any excuse to talk about the weather. And Victoria Harbour's Light House is a towering ode to our favourite conversation starter. Every night after dark, the building projects Melbourne’s weather in real-time, with stunning abstract light installations. Stick around to see the lights forecast tomorrow’s weather on the hour, every hour. Will it be rain, clouds, wind or sunshine?

Get clicking at a luxury shoe boutique

Golden Goose’s new Melbourne digs at 80 Collins are as eye-catching as the cult Italian sneakers on sale. A gold metal staircase leads to glowing white walls lined with backlit shelves. The flagship store’s industrial edge complements Lab GGDB’s range of handmade distressed sneakers. Speak to the sneaker creator to customise your new pair of star-detailed shoes.

a girl walking up golden sticker covered stairs looking up
Golden Goose Deluxe Brand

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