Melbourne offers a diverse range of date options that cater to various interests and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon, an adventurous outing, or a cultural experience, the city has something to offer. From picturesque parks and scenic river cruises to unique dining experiences and engaging art galleries, there are plenty of ways to spend quality time together. This guide provides a selection of date ideas that reflect Melbourne’s vibrant atmosphere and dynamic culture. Each suggestion is designed to help you create memorable experiences, no matter what your interests might be.
- Date Night Ideas in Melbourne
- Day Date Ideas in Melbourne
- Date Activities
- Cheap Date Ideas
Date Night Ideas in Melbourne
When it comes to planning the perfect date night, Melbourne offers a number of options outside of the standard dinner/drinks. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening under the stars, a lively night of singing, or a sophisticated cultural experience, Melbourne has something to make your night memorable.
Moonlight Cinema – The Moonlight Cinema offers a magical outdoor movie experience under the stars, making it a charming and romantic date night choice. With comfortable bean bags, food/drink trucks and a mixed selection of movies, it provides a the perfect atmosphere to enjoy a film together in the stunning Botanic Gardens.
Theatre Show – Melbourne’s vibrant theatre scene offers a diverse range of performances, from captivating dramas to lively musicals, making it a great date night option. Enjoy performances in one of the city’s many historic or contemporary venues and maybe head for a drink after.
Cinema Nova – Cinema Nova is a great date idea for film lovers, offering a selection of independent and international films in a cosy, intimate setting. Its comfortable seating and gourmet snacks create a relaxed atmosphere perfect for enjoying a unique cinematic experience together. Watch an independent or international film, at this renowned cinema, on your next date night!
Rooftop or Underground Bars – Melbourne is home to a number of rooftop bars, underground bars and speakeasies. Enjoy a night of drinks and conversation whilst enjoying stunning views of the city or discovering the charm of hidden bars tucked away in unique, intimate settings.
Karaoke Bar – For the brave souls out there, a karaoke bar is a lively and fun way to connect, offering a chance to sing your hearts out and enjoy a carefree night together. I personally prefer to protect others from my tone-death wails, but there are a number of karaoke bars dotted around the city to choose from.
Craft Workshop – Craft workshops offer an engaging to spend time together, whilst taking the edge off or potential awkwardness of a date in the early days. Sip and Paint, pottery classes, terrarium making and other crafts allow you to explore you artistic sides and have fun. Plus, you can leave with a personalised keepsake! Look for workshops at Class Bento or WeTeachMe for some ideas and inspiration.
Crown Casino Complex – A date night at the Crown Casino Complex offers a blend of excitement and sophistication, with its luxurious setting and diverse entertainment options. Whether you’re trying your luck at the casino, enjoying a fine dining experience, or catching a show, the vibrant atmosphere ensures a memorable and dynamic evening!
Live Music at a Local Venue – Melbourne’s is known for its vibrant music scene in Australia; from local bands to established artists. Enjoy a night of live music for relaxed and enjoyable date night.
Comedy Show – Melbourne is home to a number of comedy clubs and this has the potential to be a great first date! I say potential as the last time I went to a comedy show, a poor couple on their third date were picked on all night! Nonetheless, a night of stand-up or improv together not only provides entertainment but also creates a fun and relaxed environment, perfect for getting to know someone.
Footy Game – Go watch a footy game and head out to celebrate/commiserate in Richmond after!
Date Activities in Melbourne
For couples who enjoy doing activities on dates, Melbourne has a range of things on offer. From rock climbing to escape rooms, these experiences provide a chance to do an activity on your date!
Indoor Rock Climbing – Indoor rock climbing, or bouldering walls, offers a hands-on date experience where you can tackle climbing walls and support each other in reaching new heights. It’s a practical way to stay active and challenge yourselves! There are lots of options dotted around the city, but i’ve always enjoyed BlocHaus Bouldering in Port Melbourne and Urban Climb Collingwood.
Luna Park – Have fun at this historic amusement park with classic rides and games. Luna Park is a great way to enjoy some lighthearted fun and relive the excitement of a traditional carnival atmosphere. There’s so much to do in St. Kilda in general! Consider visiting St Kilda Beach, the Botanic Gardens or the Sunday Esplanade Market during your trip to Luna Park.
Hijinx Hotel – Head to Chadstone for an immersive, interactive experience housed within a quirky New York styled hotel! You’ll have to work together as a team to get through the 10 quick-play rooms of this hotel themed experience.
Escape Room – Escape rooms provide a stimulating date option, challenging you to solve puzzles and work together to find your way out. It’s an engaging activity that tests your teamwork and problem-solving skills in a fun and interactive environment. SecretMelbourne have put together a great list of escape rooms in Melbourne to check out.
Kingpin – Head to Kingpin for a date of bowling, laser tag, darts, arcade games, karaoke, table tennis and more! There are a number of activities to choose from here and a large, fully-licensed bar to enjoy food and drinks whilst you play!
Bike Ride Around Melbourne – Renting bikes is a great way to explore the city’s parks, river trails and streets whilst getting to know someone. Some of my favourite routes include the Yarra River Trail, Williamstown‘s Foreshore Trail and the Bay Trail!
Dandenong Ranges – Explore nature trails, gardens, and enjoy the scenic drive from the city to the Dandenong Ranges. This is a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of the area while engaging in some outdoor activity together. There are also a number of cute towns to stop for food or drinks along the way. Other than the Dandenong Ranges, there are a number of other fantastic hiking routes around Melbourne, and wider Victoria, to enjoy for a day trip. My favourite hike here is the famous 1000 steps hike!
Kayak On The Yarra River – Take a guided or self-guided kayak tour down the Yarra River, passing by historic sites and beautiful scenery. Most companies offer double kayaks too if you wanted to have one together!
Horseback Riding – A more unique date idea is to head out the city to a nearby equestrian centre and go horse-riding.
Trampoline Park – Have fun and be active together in a trampoline park! Rush HQ and BounceInc are popular trampoline parks in Melbourne and will offer a playful and energetic date experience!
Day Date Ideas Melbourne
Melbourne offers a plethora of daytime activities perfect for a leisurely and relaxed date. Explore cultural gems and fun experiences to make for a fun day-time date. These ideas are slightly less active than the ones above.
Spa Day – Pamper yourselves with a relaxing day at a local spa and enjoy various treatments together. Whether you opt for a couples massage or just enjoy the typically amenities of a spa, this is a great way to relax and unwind together. A great one out the city to consider, is the Peninsula Hot Springs!
Melbourne Zoo – Spend a day seeing exotic animals and learning about wildlife at Melbourne Zoo. Or if you’re after marine life and interactive exhibits, spend some time at the Melbourne Aquarium.
Museums or Art Galleries: You’ll be spoilt for choice with the number of museums and galleries throughout Melbourne. Spend some time wandering through their diverse exhibits and collections. Some noteworthy museums to visit are Melbourne Museum, National Gallery of Victoria and Melbourne Planetarium. However, there are so many to choose from!
Food Tour – Embarking on a guided food tour is a delightful way to explore Melbourne’s vibrant culinary scene together, sampling a variety of local dishes and hidden gems. It’s an engaging and interactive date idea that combines delicious food with fascinating stories about the city’s diverse food culture.
Laneways and Street Art Tour – Discover Melbourne’s famous street art and hidden laneways. There are so many tours to choose from in Melbourne; from Haunted tours of the city, to street art tours, food and drink tours, photography tours and more!
Day Trip to the Yarra Valley – There are a number of excellent day trips to consider for date ideas, with a day in the Yarra Valley being a great all-round option. Go for a wine tasting at one of the many beautiful vineyard and enjoy a walk in the beautiful surroundings.
Visit a Brewery – Explore one of the many breweries Melbourne has to offer and sample unique craft beers while enjoying each other’s company. Opt for one with cosy taprooms and delicious food pairings to create the perfect setting for a memorable and enjoyable date.
Yarra River Cruise – Experience Melbourne from a different perspective on a scenic boat tour down the Yarra River. This is a great way to enjoy a few drinks, surrounding by scenic views in a relaxing setting. You can hire self-drive electric boats and BYO food and drinks!
Swan Hill Pioneer Settlement – For a more quirky date idea, Head to Swan hill Pioneer Settlement and step back in time to the late 1800’s to early 1900’s. You’ll be able to get a taste for life looked like back then and enjoy free rides around town in a vintage car. This living history museum is an interesting way to spend a day and do something a little different.
Hot Air Balloon Ride – Probably my worst nightmare, but for adventurous people looking for something a little more extravagant, consider a Hot Air Balloon ride. Get a bird’s-eye view of Melbourne with a romantic balloon ride, starting at points across the city/wider Victoria. Prices for this average at $450-550 pp, so this would suit those looking to mark a special occasion as opposed to first dates.
Cooking Class or Cookery Demonstrations – Take a cooking class together and learn to master new techniques and make a new dish. You’ll be able to enjoy your efforts after with a few tasty dishes! These are typically done in group settings which can help take the pressure off dates in the early stages. One of my favourites dates was at a group cooking class with unlimited wine…let’s just say the entire class went a bit rogue towards the end!
Eureka Skydeck – Take in panoramic views of Melbourne from the Southern Hemisphere’s highest observation deck at the Eureka Skydeck. Once you’re finished here, stroll along the Southbank Promenade or enjoy a waterfront drink nearby.
Cheap Date Ideas in Melbourne
Finding a memorable date experience in Melbourne doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some fun, budget-friendly activities that make for an unforgettable day out without spending a fortune.
Royal Botanic Gardens – Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne is the perfect place to enjoy a picnic, have a coffee or a serene walk through beautiful landscapes. Without doubt, the Botanic Gardens is my favourite place in Melbourne given it’s diverse and beautiful nature. Definitely a great place for a stroll on a date.
Southbank Promenade and South Wharf – The perfect place for a stroll along the river, with a number of waterfront restaurants and bars to visit along the way. It can get a little crowded here, but it’s a great place to enjoy a buzzing atmosphere. Perfect for sunny days or evenings when the city is lit up.
Markets – Enjoy one of the many markets of Melbourne! My personal favourite is South Melbourne Market, but there are so many to choose from. Browse fresh produce, unique gifts, and delicious street food at the Queen Victoria Market. Or, look for more unique, handmade items at a local Artisan Market. Also look out for specific events that are held throughout the year, like live bands at South Melbourne Market or the Winter Night Markets at Queen Vic.
Discounted Cinema Tickets – Going to the cinema doesn’t have to break the bank. Check out offers and discounted days at your favourite cinema – e.g. Village Cinemas Cheap Tuesdays have 50% off movies or $10 Mondays at Cinema Nova.
Chinatown – A date in Melbourne’s Chinatown offers a vibrant atmosphere and a chance to explore diverse Asian cuisine at affordable eateries. Wandering through the bustling streets and sampling street food can be a fun and budget-friendly way to enjoy each other’s company
St Kilda Beach – A date at St Kilda Beach provides a relaxed setting where you can enjoy a picturesque walk along the pier, rent bikes or have coffee/food at a beachfront cafe. The sunset views and coastal atmosphere make it a charming and affordable way to spend quality time together.
Council Events – Check out your local council’s site for free events throughout the year. e.g. The City of Stonnington put on a free Opera in the Park series every year, which has been great to watch with a picnic!
Bookstore Cafe – For the bookworms out there, consider going for a bookstore date! Relax with coffee and browse books at a cosy cafe.
Federation Square – Explore the cultural heart of Melbourne and its surrounding attractions at Federation Square. Enjoy a range of free or low-cost events throughout the year, such as outdoor festivals, art exhibitions, and live performances. Strolling through the square and these events to enjoy Melbourne’s cultural scene together.
There are so many different things you can do for dates in Melbourne, outside of the usual dinner and drinks. I hope this helps provide some inspiration for your next date.
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