6 reasons why Melbourne is the smartest city

Melbourne is a city of big ideas and creative thinking. Everywhere you look there’s a new way to up your smarts – and have fun along the way.

We're a UNESCO City of Literature

In 2008, Melbourne was designated a UNESCO City of Literature. In 2010, the Wheeler Centre for Books, Writing and Ideas officially opened. Fittingly, in a wing of the State Library of Victoria. The centre programs a whole range of thought-provoking events. These include the annual Premier's Literary Awards and the Deakin Lectures. There are also book launches, expert writing workshops and discussions, readings and recitals. The centre is also a hub for the Melbourne Writers’ Festival.

Readings, an independent retailer of books, music and films, has a store within the State Library. This is the first commercial bookshop in the library’s 150-plus years of operation.

Our laneways have gone green

Laneways aren’t all just gritty little enclaves. The Green Your Laneway program transforms laneways into green and useable spaces. Think vertical gardens, planted trees and pocket parks. Like Guildford Lane, now transformed into a secluded green oasis. Dozens of plants flourish amidst the boutiques and cafés. Diverted rainwater keeps them thriving. The lane also features a Mike Makatron mural referencing the laneway’s industrial past.

Our libraries are next level

Libraries are not what they used to be. Library at The Dock is a super cool building with a state-of-the-art sustainable design. And it doesn’t just offer books. It also has a recording studio and creative editing suites. There are community meeting spaces, study areas, a performance venue, and gallery space. Visit for free Tai Chi, monthly film screenings and more.

You can play bottomless board games at a cutting edge esports bar

Hardcore table top gamers and super strategists, this one's for you. Fortress is known for being a high tech esports destination, but it also boasts a library of more than 90 board games. Put your brain to the test with a selection of tough strategy games, then unwind with classics like Uno and Monopoly. Add the bottomless package for unlimited board game play, loaded fries and pizza.

Laneway learning is a thing

Want to learn interesting stuff without signing up for a whole term of lessons? Laneway Learning is a not-for-profit organisation that offers relaxed, affordable one-off evening classes. Onsite sessions are led by passionate experts, with many running from the iconic Nicholas Building. Skill up in everything from pottery and origami to DIY upcycling, jewellery making and more.

An off-the-grid urban farm is a tourism attraction

Hidden in plain sight behind Fed Square is Futurefoodsystem, the city's first 100 per cent sustainable urban farm. Created by florist-turned-eco warrior Joost Bakker, the farmhouse is currently home to chefs Matt Stone and Jo Barrett. And it's complete with aquaponics, solar power, micro-farms, a charcoal tank and rooftop garden. Enjoy a lavish dinner using what the duo grow on site, or take a guided tour for $25 per person.