Things to do on a rainy day in Melbourne

When the skies turn grey, there’s no need to stay inside. From hands-on workshops to underground bars, here’s where to make the most of a rainy day in Melbourne.

Sip gin in a historic cottage

Step into the past at this boutique gin distillery hidden in Melbourne’s laneways. Set in a restored 19th-century cottage, Little Lon Distilling Co. pays homage to the city’s wild early days with handcrafted small-batch gins and spirits. Enjoy a guided tasting while learning about the history of these streets, or mix up your own blend in a gin-making masterclass.

Have a luxe high tea

Visit a true Melbourne institution. The Tea Rooms 1892 is an essential stop for those seeking an escape from the rain. Nestled in the historic Block Arcade, this venue serves a decadent, classic high tea. Buttery scones, delicate pastries, and smoked salmon pinwheel sandwiches are all on the menu. The lavish interior, with gilded mirrors and chandeliers, makes it feel like stepping back in time.

Step inside a painting

If you love art, The Lume's Van Gogh delivers an immersive experience like no other. Here, world-famous artworks are projected onto towering walls. The exhibit is accompanied by surround sound and interactive elements. Wander through Van Gogh's moving landscapes of colour and light, join themed wellness sessions, or dine in the curated cafe.

Roam through art galleries

Melbourne’s artistic heart beats inside the NGV. It's home to an extensive collection of international and Australian art. Explore classic European masterpieces, contemporary installations, and bold exhibitions. At Federation Square, the Ian Potter Centre focuses solely on Australian works. You'll find collections celebrating Indigenous art, photography, and cutting-edge modern pieces there.

Geek out on science

Melbourne Museum is the ultimate rainy-day destination for a mix of history and science. Spend your day wandering through immersive exhibitions. There's living rainforests, Victorian history, and the incredible triceratops fossil exhibit. You can also embrace your inner nerd at the Science Gallery Melbourne, which blends art and science. Take part in experimental, thought-provoking displays that challenge and inspire you.

Learn about Melbourne's Aboriginal history

Deepen your understanding of Indigenous culture at the Koorie Heritage Trust. It's a space where art, artefacts, and storytelling bring First Nations history to life. The gallery hosts contemporary Aboriginal artists, cultural workshops and guided walking tours. Browse the shop for handcrafted jewellery, books, and artwork by local creators.

Challenge your mates to a shuffleboard tournament

Melbourne’s largest interactive games bar, Ballers Clubhouse, offers it all. Play everything from ping pong and shuffleboard to virtual reality gaming. The massive 2500-square-metre venue features six bars, a rooftop area, and private booths. With happy hour deals and live DJs, it’s the perfect place to embrace your competitive side while staying dry.

Roll a strike

This isn’t your average bowling alley. Kingpin at Crown takes entertainment to the next level with bowling lanes, laser tag, and escape rooms. Sip cocktails, indulge in gourmet burgers, or book the private Pins Royale suite. Whether you’re aiming for a strike or battling friends in VR, Kingpin guarantees an action-packed escape.

Hurl axes like a Viking

Channel your inner Viking and learn the ancient art of axe throwing at Maniax. After a quick safety briefing, expert coaches will teach you how to hurl axes like a pro. End the session with a craft beer or Viking-inspired cocktail. This is an unexpectedly fun and satisfying way to spend a rainy afternoon.

Create a masterpiece on the pottery wheel

If you’ve ever wanted to try pottery, Neo Ceramics offers hands-on workshops for beginners and experienced creators alike. Choose a taster class to shape a stoneware piece or dive into a wheel-throwing course. This independent studio also stocks handcrafted ceramics made by local artists. Spend your rainy day browsing unique homewares while your creation dries.

Wander through Chinatown

Melbourne’s Chinatown is a sensory escape, no matter the weather. Stroll beneath red lanterns, duck into hidden dumpling spots, and visit the cinema or Museum of Chinese Australian History. The vibrant laneways are packed with karaoke bars, cocktail lounges, and late-night eateries, making it a great place to get lost in for hours.

Browse boutiques in Melbourne's most beautiful arcade

Melbourne has some of the most beautiful shopping destinations, one of the best being The Block Arcade. This heritage-listed landmark was inspired by Milanese shopping culture. Wander past unique stores, chocolatiers, and tea rooms while admiring the architecture. Take a guided tour to uncover its fascinating history, or simply window shop while staying dry.

Catch an indie film

Cinema Nova in Carlton is a must-visit for lovers of independent and arthouse films. With 16 screens, it offers a wide selection of films for every genre. Grab a drink at the Nova Bar before your movie, and visit on Mondays for cheap tickets. If you're in the city, head to Kino. A charming boutique cinema, it screens a mix of indie gems, foreign films, and the latest Hollywood releases. The plush seating and stylish cafe make it a perfect place to escape the rain, catch a film, and unwind.