8 reasons to leave work on time

As we ease back into working in the office again, let’s not forget to factor in some city me-time. These great after-work ideas will have you logging off at 5pm on the dot.

Get after-hours access to blockbuster exhibitions

The biggest cultural institutions and iconic galleries are staying open later than ever to fill your Friday nights. ACMI's striking 'Light' collection stays open late once a month until November and NGV Friday Nights are kicking on weekly until October. Hidden gem The Science Gallery has also just introduced night-time social sessions, showcasing all that's weird and wonderful in the world of tech.

Squeeze in a quick classical music fix

You don't have to stay out late to catch a show after work. The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra's Monday night 'Quick Fix at Half Six' shows are speedy one-hour performances with no interval. Immerse yourself in a stirring Beethoven masterpiece and be in-and-out by 7.30pm.

Beat the crowds and find more unmissable weeknight events

Make the most of your office days, skip the peak PT rush and kick on in town at the best Melbourne events. On Wednesday to Friday nights you can see an all-star cast in a heart-warming production of Come From Away. Catch limited run shows for just $20 a pop at Arts House. Or spend your Wednesday evenings at the Europa Night Market, with silent disco, delicious street food and live entertainment.

Take the ultimate Melbourne spin class

Is your head spinning with spreadsheets and schedules when you leave the office? To clear your head, get your active wear on and get down to Bodhi & Ride. Marrying mindfulness and an endorphin-filled bike workout, this spin class will refresh body and soul. With the lights dimmed and RnB classics blasting, the 45 minutes of cycling fun will go by in a breeze.

Find the best happy hour deals

Knock-off drinks just got a whole lot classier with happy hour in the courtyard at Chancery Lane. Enjoy a $15 glass of Champagne or $6 Moon Dog lager. Snack on $3 Southern Rock oysters, $8 pomme frites, or a $40 charcuterie plate to share. Nab $14 at cute subterranean bar The Moat. Or sip margs by the water at The General Assembly's $12 margarita nights. Find more information with our round-up of Melbourne's best happy hour deals.

Learn an instrument at The Music Gym

Time for a new hobby? Book in for a 45-minute after-work class at The Music Gym. Try group lessons in guitar, piano or voice that end with a jam. Numbers are limited to six but you can book private lessons if you’re shy. Give it a go with a single one-off lesson or take the plunge and sign up for a 10-lesson package. No need to drag your axe into town, as all instruments are provided.

Score last-minute live show deals 

Halftix has daily discounted tickets for shows across the city. So you could be in for an evening of comedy or theatre, ballet or a musical. Get in before they close at 6pm and pick up cheap entry to events at the Princess Theatre, The Comic’s Lounge, Athenaeum Theatre and more. Offers change every day and there's always something new to discover.