Melbourne’s most Instagrammable experiences

An arcade of artworks, a theatrical labyrinth and more. Grab your phone and snap our choice of Melbourne’s top Insta spots.

Go on an augmented reality laneway tour

Everyone knows Degraves Street is an iconic photo spot. Now you can explore this vibrant precinct in-depth on a self-guided art journey. Follow clues on the Flinders Quarter Augmented Art Walk to track down and photograph 12 artwork treasures. Then use the EyeJack app to bring each artwork to life and unlock their animation and sound.

Shoot street art in Australia’s first ‘artcade’

The backdrops at West Side Place Artcade are so Insta-worthy, you won’t know where to start clicking. Local legends like Reko Rennie and Adnate have transformed empty shops in an abandoned arcade and the result is eye boggling. Like the eerie nostalgia of Rone’s pink room lost in time, or George Rose’s skull-moth creations. This gallery of street art installations is opposite Southern Cross Station.

Uncover cutting-edge artworks in an innovative gallery

You never know what to expect at Tolarno Galleries. Catch Brendan Huntley’s paintings and sculptures of geometric butterflies until 15 May. May–June brings Andrew Browne’s ‘Shoegazer’ abstracts, created during last year’s lockdown. To be followed by unseen works by contemporary photographer Bill Henson in June–July.

Ice skate in a winter wonderland

Snap yourself in a sea of glorious pop-up igloos at the Winter Village. Pose by the bar with a chocolate loaded espresso martini, glide on the glittering ice rink and cosy up with neon-lit igloo dining. Tuesdays offer 2-for-1 entry to the rink, and you can book igloo brunches on weekends for early access.

Projections and Pac-Man at ACMI

You’re spoiled for choice of Insta pics at ACMI’s Story of the Moving Image. Countdown logos, magic lanterns, costumes and movie sets. Not to mention holograms, ghost light installations, multi-image projection walls and Pac-Man. Use ACMI’s special lens to create your own online collection of objects from the exhibition.

Relate to real-life stories at the Immigration Museum

A glowing neon bed. A psychedelic dining room. Who would’ve guessed that some of Melbourne’s ultimate photo spots are hidden away in a museum? You’ll find them at Becoming You: An Incomplete Guide. The exhibition’s eye-catching installations and displays reveal 70 coming-of-age stories. Together, they capture the pleasure and pain of growing up.

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. Test your skill in the vintage shooting gallery. Try to keep your camera steady while driving a dodgem car. With 67 games to choose from, Archie’s is an Insta feast.

Get clicking at a luxury shoe boutique

A photo at the Golden Goose Deluxe Brand flagship store is a must-do. Fluoro-white floors and shelves bounce light and reflections. The walls are lined with washing machines for distressing your newly purchased sneakers. The ceiling is an overhead marvel of dangling shoes. Plus you get to meet Golden Goose’s sneaker-makers and learn the secrets behind the luxury footwear. Hashtag must-have.

Find a music mural in a Carlton laneway

Pop in your ear buds and listen to your personal soundtrack while filming Bjenny Montero’s laneway street art. The music mayhem in this cheerful mural leads the way to vintage music gear store Found Sound. And it’s just a drum roll away from Japanese brunch wonderland Ima Project Cafe.