The road to Melbourne is spectacular no matter the direction from which the city is approached. There is a route through the rugged Australian Alps; as well as a Princes Highway seaside route from Sydney that passes beautiful sandy beaches. The Hume Highway is lined with vineyards and fine wineries; and the drive from Adelaide along the Great Ocean Road provides a showcase for some of Australia's most dramatic scenery.

Melbourne (pronounced Mel bun) is located on the banks of the Yarra River is the capital of the state of Victoria in southeastern Australia.  The city overlooks the huge expanse of Port Phillip Bay, a sailing and boating paradise. Its beautiful beaches provide recreation for local residents and visitors throughout the year. The many parks along the banks of the Yarra and the Maribyrnong Rivers are popular spots for picnics, parties and barbecues by the water.

Magnificent landscaped gardens and parklands make Melbourne one of the greenest cities in the world. The streets of the city center are alive with thousands of residents bustling in and out of buildings that are a blend of grand Victorian and modern architecture and house everything from outstanding galleries to opulent theatres. Hundreds of designer fashion boutiques, many shops and countless rows of sophisticated little cafés line the main thoroughfares. Over 3000 restaurants present fine cuisine accompanied by superb local wines. This friendly multicultural city is home to people from over 140 nations, a fact that is reflected in the excellence and diversity of the food choices that are available. There is something to please everyone.

Green and gold trams circle the city providing efficient transportation in the gracious style of days gone by. Children will love the riverboat cruises, water taxis, and gondola rides that provide the best in aquatic travel on the Yarra River. They will also enjoy a visit to a shark at Melbourne Aquarium and an afternoon at the Melbourne zoo. It's only a short ferry boat ride across Port Phillip Bay to Williamstown and St Kilda, the beach suburbs that function as the playgrounds of Melbourne.

This cosmopolitan and sophisticated city hosts major cultural festivals, world famous horse races, smash hit musicals and international sporting events throughout the year. In fact, Melbourne is known as the sporting capital of Australia. Melbourne Festival, Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show, Qantas Australian Grand Prix, Australian Football League finals series, Spring Racing Carnival, Australian Open, Melbourne Comedy Festival and Melbourne Food and Wine Festival are just a few of the key events.

Melbourne is the gateway to the State of Victoria. Victoria's walking and riding trails provide the perfect getaway for anyone who enjoys the beauty of the out of doors. They cover diverse landscapes ranging from National Park wilderness to immaculate gardens, from serene lakes to endless beaches, from rolling mountain ranges to deserts. Many hiking trails can be found close to Melbourne within easy driving distance of the city. Many other  major attractions are outside the city limits. Nature lovers visit the penguin parade at Phillip Island, the open-range Werribee Zoo and the popular Healesville Sanctuary. Food lovers gravitate to Yarra Valley wineries to sip on pinot noir and dine at the region's many restaurants. Hundreds of picturesque mountains, lakes and valleys lie within an hour's drive of the city.

Scientists believe that Australia is a piece of continental crust that broke away from Antarctica about 50 million years ago. The result is that many reminders of Australia's Antarctic heritage remain, and have over the centuries provided challenges to those who immigrated and sought to remake Australia in the image of their native lands. In the 1800's attempts were made to make the country look more like Europe. Salmon, sparrows, and trout were among the species introduced. All of them competed with native animals and forced their counterparts into extinction.

Since the 1980's there has been a massive team effort by environmentalists and farmers to reverse the extensive damage and to restore the land to its original beauty. Their efforts have paid off. Instead of trying to mould Australia to fit modern European farming methods, agriculturists have learned to work in harmony with the naturally occurring dust storms and floods. The earliest settlers, the Aboriginal people known as the Kooris, adapted to the ebb and flow of Australia's seasons over 60,000 years ago, and continue to do so today.

Sweeping efforts at modernization in Melbourne have occurred in the past 20 years. Highlights include Southgate, a world class casino; the new  Museum of Victoria, and the Tennis Center. Major national events such as the Australian Grand Prix have been attracted to Melbourne, and renovation and restoration of the city's buildings is continuing. High rise buildings have replaced the formerly low rise skyline, though the central area remains intact with its distinctive 19th century architecture including Gothic-style churches, neoclassical public buildings, and terraced houses decorated with cast iron. A result of this rejuvenation of Melbourne has been that residents have wanted to be in the midst of it.  Many have left the suburbs and moved into the city itself.  The waterfront has been transformed as has the older inner city into new and attractive residential areas.  Through it all, Melbourne remains affordable, welcoming, and the place to relax and be yourself while exploring one of  the great cities of the world.

Note: See Melbourne and Beyond The SmartVisit Card

For an all-inclusive price, card-holders get cashless entry to almost 60 leading attractions, including Melbourne Museum, Melbourne Aquarium, Victoria's Open Range Zoo, Penguin Parade and Puffing Billy Steam Railway.

Crown Entertainment Complex

8 Whiteman Street

Southbank

tel: 03 9292 8888

A relatively new addition to Melbourne’s nightlife, Crown has become synonymous with entertainment and glamour. There are more than 40 restaurants, bars and cafés to choose from. In addition, there are the casino, cinemas, game arcades, international designer stores, nightclubs and live performance venues. Crown hosts film premieres, international conferences and awards ceremonies. Located downstream from Southgate on the banks of the Yarra River,

Melbourne Museum

11 Nicholson Street

Carlton Gardens

tel: 131 102

Open daily from 10am to 5pm

Walk through a living forest gallery, discover the tumultuous history of Melbourne and experience Aboriginal cultural performances in this ultra-modern, hands-on museum. Performances, activities and interactive displays make a visit to the Melbourne Museum a truly memorable experience.

National Gallery of Victoria

180 St Kilda Road

Melbourne

Open daily from 10am to 5pm

tel: 03 8620 2222

The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) has an impressive range of international and Australian art housed within its recently renovated walls. Most of the Australian art is now located at the NGV’s Ian Potter Centre located at Federation Square. This new building and the renovation of the original gallery on St Kilda Road provides exhibition space for literally thousands of previously unseen treasures.

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra

ABC Southbank Centre

120-130 Southbank Boulevard

Southbank 3006 VIC

Tel: 03 9626 1111

Fax: 03 9626 1101

With a reputation for excellence, versatility and innovation developed over almost 100 years the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra is renowned for its performances of the great symphonic masterworks with leading international soloists and for its appearances with The Three Tenors, Frank Sinatra, Kiri Te Kanawa, Elton John, John Farnham, supergroup KISS, Dionne Warwick, Meat Loaf, tenor Andrea Bocelli, Harry Connick Jr and kd lang.

Victorian Arts Centre

100 St Kilda Road

Melbourne

Tours depart Monday to Saturday at midday and 2.30pm.

tel: 03 9281 8000

Crowned by a magnificent spire, one of Melbourne’s most distinctive landmarks, the Arts Centre is the city’s hub of visual and performing arts. Explore the centre’s many theatres and discover the history of the site on a guided tour. Tickets are available from the concierge located near the entrance.

Surfing Museum

Beach Road, Torquay

(03) 5261 4606

10am to 4pm

This is a museum that most families will enjoy, where parents don't have to worry about their children breaking something. The museum features a large number of interactive activities for children and adults alike. There are displays that will interest those that are not surfers, as well as surf fanatics. For surfing enthusiasts, the museum offers tips on some of the best surf locations in Victoria.

Australian Toy Museum

174-180 Smith Street

Collingwood

Tram 86

Daily 10-5 Children under 18 months free.

Historic building houses toys from the 1880's to the present. A special feature is a permanent display of dolls and doll houses. There is also a garden with a miniature steam train and the Magic Pudding Café which caters to the tastes of children.

Fun Factory

257 Toorak Road

South Yarra

03-9826-8276

Daily 10-1

No admission charge.

One of the largest indoor amusement centers in Melbourne, Fun Factory is equipped with Daytona racing machines, pinball, shooting and skill test games, pool tables, a rollerblade rink and "dodge-em" cars.

Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre

Aughtie Drive, Albert Park

03-9926-1555

Tram # 96

This combination sporting facility and playground has a wave and toddlers' pool, a water slide, pool garden, and a diving complex. Childcare is available Mon.-Fri. 9-Noon. A school holiday program and one on Saturday mornings for children ages 5-12 are low in cost, and high in educational and entertainment value.

Puffing Billy

Admission charged.

Old Monbulk Road, Belgrave 3160

(03) 9754-6800

This historic steam train still runs regularly in the mountain district it was built to serve at the turn of the century. Puffing Billy, Victoria's best known steam train.  travels through the beautiful bush land of the Dandenong ranges. The Railway is the sole survivor of four experimental lines used to develop rural areas in the early 1900's. Puffing Billy is now a major tourist attraction, its operation depending on hundreds of dedicated volunteers.

All Puffing Billy trips depart and return from Belgrave,  40 km east of Melbourne,

Catch Puffing Billy to Emerald, have a picnic lunch, then travel back to Belgrave. Puffing Billy runs every day of the year, except Christmas day, and is a  24.5 km operating museum. Enjoy the mountain scenery and panoramic views which pass by your carriage window. Lakeside, the intermediate terminus of the railway, is inside beautiful Emerald Lake Park. You may stop over for a few pleasant hours bushwalking, swimming or just relaxing in the peaceful country setting.  The terminus of the line at Gembrook is a delightful country town with much to offer the visitor.

Melbourne Cricket Ground

(03) 9657 8879

Open 7 days a week (excluding event days)

Go behind the scenes...see prints and paintings, ornate silverware and porcelain trophies, in portrait-lined hallways.

Scienceworks

Booker Street Spotswood

Williamstown and Werribee Lines from Flinders Street station to Spotswood Station

Daily 10-4:30

Admission charged.

A series of interactive exhibits teach participants about science and technology. The subjects range from sports, to insects, to the human mind and body. There is also a digital planetarium.

Kryal Castle

8 kilometres East of Ballarat on the Western Highway

(03) 5334 7388

Weekdays/Weekends

Admission charged.

10am - 5pm 7 days a week

Visit a medieval castle just a short trip from Melbourne. Hidden on the hills of Warrenheip, just out of Ballarat Kryal Castle lurks, waiting to amuse the whole family with medieval re-enactments, games and shows. A truly magnificent day for the whole family

Collingwood Children's Farm

St. Heliers Street

Abbottsford

03-9205-5469

Epping Line from Flinders St. station to Victoria Park station.

Daily 9-5

Small admission charge.

Children can pet and feed a variety of farm animals (call for exact feeding times). They are also shown how to do simple farm chores and can milk a cow, etc. Farm tours instruct at a child's level about plants and animals along the way. The first day of each month is Family Day. Horse rides and a home made farm lunch are part of the fun on these special days.

Ashcomb Maze

Admission charged.

10 - 5 everyday except Christmas Day, Good Friday & during August.

Red Hill - Shoreham Road, Shoreham 3916

(03) 9989-8387

This traditional hedge maze offers a great afternoon of fun for the whole family, with the main maze and other activities. My Recommendations: A fun afternoon, It could be on the way to

Healesville Sanctuary

Admission charged.

9am to 5pm Daily (including Christmas day and public holidays)

Badger Creek Road, Healesville. (follow signs)

(03) 1902 240 592

For overseas visitors and Australian visitors alike Healesville sanctuary offers a complete relaxing day out. Explore the Sanctuary, set in the lush bush land of Healesville on the Badger creek, home to one of Australia's most loved, and most secretive animals, the platypus. See a wide variety of Australian Fauna and flora. See emus, kangaroos, echidna's, koala's, possums and many other Australian natives, in natural and peaceful settings.

Royal Melbourne Zoo

Elliot Avenue Parkville

03-9285-9300

Tram 55,56,or 68. Admission charged.

Melbourne Zoo is open every day of the year (including Christmas Day and all public holidays) 9.00am - 5.00pm

You can not visit Melbourne without visiting the Royal Melbourne Zoo! The Royal Melbourne Zoo offers a large range of exotic animals, beautiful gardens and an educational experience to all its visitors young and old. Popular Meet the Keeper sessions (wombats, seals, pelicans, penguins) teach children about the animals in a most engaging manner. There are also twilight tours for better views of nocturnal animals. A whole day is needed to explore and enjoy the Zoo to its full extent.

Victoria's Open Range Zoo At Werribee

K Road, Werribee 3030

Werribee Line from Flinders Station to Werribee station.

(03) 9742-7933

Admission charged.

Daily: 10- 5

You travel around the zoo which has only African animals in a bus, in order to have a better idea of how animals interact with each other in the wild. In addition there is a 30 minute Volcanic Plains walking Trail.

Sovereign Hill

Sovereign Hill, Ballarat

(03) 5331-1944

Admission charged.Daily 10am - 5pm (except Christmas day)

A whole day is needed for Sovereign Hill, it is  an educational theme park and is suitable for people of all ages and all interests.

The gold rush themed park  offers many old styled shops selling everything from hot bread and scones to metal goods . Children have great fun panning for gold in the creek, many usually finding some real gold dust! Visitors can go through a tour of a gold mine, and see exhibits and souvenirs of real gold.

Geelong Naval & Maritime Museum

Located near the stables at the rear of Osborn House

Swinburne Street, North Geelong

(03) 5277-2260

Admission charged.

Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday 10am - 4pm

The museum is set in the first Australian Naval College (from 1913-1919). The museum has a wealth of information and a large and interesting range of exhibits. The museum includes model ships and submarines, and the museum is said to be haunted by a ghost! an interesting day for all those interested in history and ships. you will need about 1 - 2 hours to visit the museum.

Seal Rocks Sea Life Centre

Seal Rocks, The Nobbys, Phillip Island. (follow signs)

1300 367 325

Admission charged.  Children: Free

10 am - dusk (see Sea Life Centre web site for approximate dusk time during your visit)

One of the most popular attractions at Phillip Island, along with the Penguin Parade and Koala Conservation Center is Seal Rocks, the sea life center offers educational and enjoyable insights into the life of the Australian Fur Seal. The Center displays views of Seal Rocks and the Nobbies, which is home to Australia's largest fur seal colony. There is also a sea gull rockery and a few penguins.

Luna Park

18 Lower Esplanade, St Kilda

03 9625 5033

Admission to Luna Park is free.

(Weather permitting):Friday:7p.m.-11p.m; Saturday: 1-11pm.;

Sunday:1pm until dusk. Closed Christmas Day.

School holidays and public holidays 11 - 5

A day of family fun is Luna Park, offering a large selection of rides including a roller coaster, ferris wheel and ghost train.. Luna Park is Melbourne's own "mini theme park".

Serendip Sanctuary

100 Windermere Road, Lara

(03) 13 19 63

10am - 4pm daily

Take a walk with Australian wildlife and have a close encounter with Brolga, Kangaroos, Emus, and waterfowl. Delightful picnic areas are available with barbeques in this wetland setting. Discover the serenity of Serendip Sanctuary. A delightful visit for the whole family, particularly animal lovers. spring time (September - November) is the best time to visit, as there are a lot of cute baby birds.

AFL Football - The Great Australian Game

(03) 9643 1999

Check for locations and game times.

AFL, Aussie Rules,  football is the favorite sport, followed by millions. For sheer atmosphere and excitement it's an experience not to be missed.

Melbourne Aquarium

Daily 9am - 6pm

Corner of Queenswharf Road & King Street, Melbourne

(03) 9620-0994

Situated at Southbank, opposite the Crown Casino on the tranquil Yarra river, it has a large collection of fish and sharks enjoying life in its aquariums and oceanarium. The aquarium towers 2 stories high and goes one story underground, and is even under the Yarra itself! Some of the aquarium attractions include a coral atoll, oceanarium, and billabong display.

Royal Botanic Gardens

Birdwood Avenue, South Yarra, 3141

(03) 9650~9424

7:30am - Sunset

Admission: Free

The Royal Botanic Gardens are situated on the edge of Melbourne next to the Yarra River . Surrounding them is a beautiful lake with ducks, eels and swans. The gardens contain a variety of plants from all over the world. There are many beautiful spots for a picnic lunch by the lake on the lush green lawns. This is a country garden right in the heart of Melbourne! Remember to take a little extra bread as the children enjoy feeding the swans, ducks and eels. Visitors usually bring their own food but there is a snack kiosk on premises.

Area Attractions

Anakie Fairy Park

2388 Ballan Road Anakie 3221

(03) 5284-1262

Daily - 10am to 4pm

This is a fascinating place for a family day trip, set in the mountains of the Brisbane ranges, southwest of Melbourne. The Fairy park offers playgrounds, walks and attractions for the whole family. An entire day could easily be spent exploring. The park has a medieval castle theme and is truly magical. There is quite a bit of walking involved, and the park is on a hill.

Penguin Parade

Summerland Beach, Phillip Island

Hours change depending on the time of year. the world’s smallest penguins come in just after sunset.

Visitors to Phillip Island look forward to the Penguin Parade. The penguins put on an impromptu show just by performing their ordinary daily routines. You do need to wear something very warm in the evening as the cool sea breeze is part of the fun. Large cafeteria style restaurant, snack bars, and extensive gift shop and theater are located in the Visitor Center.

Shopping

Melbourne Markets

Some of the best of Melbourne culture may be experienced by a visit to some of the many markets that the city has to offer.

Queen Victoria Market

Tele(03) 9320 5822

Market Days: Tue & Thurs 6am-2pm, Fri 6am-6pm,Sat 6am-3pm, Sun 9am-4pm.

From Elizabeth Street take any tram. Corner of Victoria and Elizabeth Streets Everything from fruit and vegetables, fresh produce and delicatessen goods to clothing, plants and pets are sold at this market which covers seven hectares (around 1000 traders) and is renowned as a gourmet paradise. Its origins date back to 1857 and many of its buildings have been classified by the National Trust. The Magical History Tour of the market explores 125 years of history and allows participants to meet vendors.

St Kilda Esplanade Art & Craft Market

Upper Esplanade, St Kilda

Open every Sunday 10am-5pm.

From Swanston Street take #15 or #16, from Bourke Street #96.

Unique handcrafted gifts are made and sold by stall holders along this beachfront esplanade. There are over 200 stalls.

The Sunday Market Victorian Arts Centre

100 St Kilda Road

Open every Sunday 10am-4pm.

Walk from Flinders Street Station across Princes Bridge.

Located in the heart of Melbourne's arts and culture precinct, this market features local artists and craftsmen who sell their own work.

Prahran Market

163-185 Commercial Road, South Yarra

Open Tuesday and Thursday 10am-5pm,

Friday 6am-6pm, Saturday 6am-1pm.

Take tram #8 or #72 to Chapel Street, or a train to South Yarra Station.With its fresh produce and wide range of delicatessen goods, this lively market is frequented by locals and visitors alike and is just a short walk from fashionable Chapel Street.

Events

January

Andersen Match Play Golf Championships

World Golf Championships are a series of events launched in 1999 that feature the game’s top players competing against each other in a variety of competition formats.

Metropolitan Golf Club, Golf Road, South Oakleigh

(03) 9579 3122

Mid-January

Australian Open (Tennis)

The Australian Open features many of the biggest names in tennis and an off-court carnival.

Melbourne Park, Batman Avenue, Melbourne

(03) 9286 1175

Late January

Pride March Victoria

Victoria's Gay and Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender and allied communities hold their annual pride march in St Kilda. Up to 40,000 people, including 120 organisations, march to express their pride and solidarity. Family and friends are encouraged to attend. The principal sponsor is the City of Port Phillip.

Fitzroy Street, St Kilda, to St Kilda Beach

(03) 9513 3054

February

Ericsson Masters Golf Championships

One of Australia's leading golf tournaments, featuring the best Australian players and international stars.

Huntingdale Golf Club, Windsor Avenue, South Oakleigh

(03) 9639 2333

Throughout February

Woolmark Melbourne Fashion Festival

An annual celebration of fashion and style, offering a wide range of parades, performances, business events, exhibitions, international guests and gala events.

Melbourne

(03) 9826 9688

Mid-February

Australian International Airshow

The Australian International Airshow is the largest and most comprehensive aviation event in Australia, featuring a very impressive list of world class aviation, defence and aerospace companies. This show is staged every two years by Airshows Downunder.

Avalon Airport, Beach Road, Avalon

(03) 5282 4400

Mid-February

C F Orr Stakes

Experience the best in thoroughbred racing at the home of some of the most exciting horse racing in the State.

Caulfield Racecourse, Station Street, Caulfield

(03) 9257 7200

Mid-February

Maroondah Festival

The Maroondah Festival is one of the largest free community festivals in Melbourne and presents an exciting program of entertaining activities. The activities include stages full of entertainment including a performance from a renowned band, craft markets, youth and children's area, amusement rides, informative business displays, street theatre and plenty more for the entire family.

Croydon Park and surrounding areas, Croydon

(03) 9871 0373

Late February

AAMI Classic/Oakleigh Plate

See the champion horses of today and tomorrow racing at one of Australia's premier racecourses.

Caulfield Racecourse, Station Street, Caulfield

(03) 9257 7200

Late February

Jazz at Canterbury Gardens

Free jazz concert in the picturesque Canterbury Gardens with children's entertainment provided. Bring along a picnic and a rug and enjoy some of the gourmet food and refreshments available for sale.

Canterbury Gardens, Canterbury Road, Canterbury

(03) 9278 4777

Early March

Qantas Australian Grand Prix

Set on Albert Park's street circuit, this race is one of the longest on the Formula One World Championship calendar with a track length of 5.26kms. The race is the first of the racing calendar and is set around a four day carnival of motor sports and public entertainment.

Albert Park Lake, Albert Park, Melbourne

(03) 9258 7100

Early March

Mercedes Benz Blue Diamond Stakes

Experience the best in thoroughbred racing at the home of some of the most exciting horse racing in the State and witness Victoria's richest race for two year olds.

Caulfield Racecourse, Station Street, Caulfield

(03) 9257 7200

Early April

The Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show

The success of the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show is now a matter of record and continues to grow in horticultural and floricultural excellence with displays continuing to enthrall visitors. Held within the historic Royal Exhibition Building and the surrounding Carlton Gardens the event features over 300 exhibitors ranging from floral designers, flower growers, landscape architects and designers, leading nurseries and florists.

(03) 9639 2333

April

Easter Cup

A family day at the races. Highlights include an Easter Bonnet competition, the Clip Clop Club for children and the running of the Red Tulip Easter Cup. A classic event for three-year-old horses.

Caulfield Racecourse, Station Street, Caulfield

Rozalee Ercea

(03) 9257 7200

April

Melbourne Autumn Music Festival

Commencing in 1971 this is Australia’s main festival of early music with a wide range of performances by local and international soloists, ensembles, orchestras and choirs in some of Melbourne’s most beautiful buildings. The week long program of over 20 events includes concerts, seminars, master classes and an historic tour.

Various Melbourne metropolitan venues (mainly churches)

(03) 9347 0447

Late April

Anzac Day Parade

Memorial march to the Shrine for those who fought and died for their country.

Swanston St Walk and St Kilda Road to the Shrine of Remembrance, Melbourne

Anzac House

(03) 9655 5555

Late April

Anzac Day Service and March

Members of the local community are invited to remember the fallen and since departed comrades who have represented their country during war.

'Pillars of Freedom' Cenotaph (north end of Palm Plaza), Clow Street, Dandenong

Denis Rogerson

(03) 9792 1535

Mid-June

A R Dobson Australian Steeple and the Australian Hurdle

The A R Dobson Australian Steeple and the Australian Hurdle are the feature races at this meeting and have long been regarded as two of the most prestigious jumps races on the Australian racing calendar.

Sandown Racecourse, Racecourse Drive, Springvale

(03) 9257 7200

Mid-July – early August

Melbourne International Film Festival

Established in 1952, the Melbourne International Film Festival is a showcase for the latest developments in Australian and international filmmaking, offering audiences a wide range of features and shorts, encompassing fiction, documentaries, animation and experimental films with a program of more than 290 films from 40 countries.

Venues within the Central Business District

Melbourne International Film Festival Office

(03) 9417 2011

Throughout August

MUDfest

Melbourne University's Student Arts festival comprising drama, dance, visual arts and music. Held every two years.

Venues on University of Melbourne Campus and throughout Carlton

(03) 9344 8869

Early September

Melbourne Symphony Season opens

(03) 9626 1111

Melbourne Concert Hall, Victorian Arts Centre, 100 St Kilda Road, Melbourne

Early September

Coca-Cola AFL Grand Final

Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne

Australian Football League

(03) 9643 1999

The AFL Grand Final is the superbowl of Aussie Rules. Attracting more than 95,000 fans to the MCG, it brings the nation to a standstill as the two best teams fight for the coveted Premiership.

Early September

Father's Day at the Zoo

There are themed activities including an activity trail, prizes, artifacts table and face painting. Bring dad along to the zoo for special Father’s Day Safari Tours and a free card making activity.

Victoria's Open Range Zoo at Werribee, K Road, Werribee

Victoria's Open Range Zoo

(03) 9731 9600

Memsie Stakes Day

Early September

Bring the family along to enjoy a day's horse racing with one of the most important feature races on the horse-racing calendar at one of the best racecourses in the Metropolitan area.

Caulfield Racecourse, Station Street, Caulfield

(03) 9257 7200

Melbourne Theatre Company

(03) 9684 4500

Season Opens

Early September

Hygain Equestrian Championships

(03) 9207 5840

National Equestrian Centre, Werribee Park, K Road, Werribee

The Hygain weekend is one of the largest championship showjumping events on the Australian calendar, with the best horses and riders from around the country competing for titles.

Mid-September

Family Concert

Introduce your family to the magic of the Melbourne Symphony in a concert for the family.

The Melbourne Town Hall, Swanston Street, Melbourne

Melbourne Symphony

(03) 9626 1111

Late September

The Age Master Series

One of the series of ten concerts that explore the great orchestral tradition. Some of the finest conductors and soloists from around the world will perform with the Orchestra to bring you the excitement, passion, drama and enchantment of the great masterworks of the classical repertoire.

Melbourne Concert Hall, Victorian Arts Centre, 100 St Kilda Road, Melbourne

Melbourne Symphony

(03) 9626 1111

Late September-early October

Annual Royal Melbourne Show

The Biggest Event in the Event State brings the magic of the country to the city for 11 days of animals and events, produce, art and crafts, machinery and equipment, food, fun and sideshows, rides and much, much more. All this can be found just 15 minutes from the city centre.

Royal Melbourne Showgrounds, Epsom Road, Ascot Vale

(03) 9281 7420

Late September

Junior Open Amateur Golf Tournament

Medway Golf Club, Omar Street, Maidstone

Medway Golf Club

(03) 9317 9031

Late September

Tea and Symphony

Refreshing music and morning tea are the successful ingredients of these hour-long morning concerts.

The Melbourne Town Hall, Swanston Street, Melbourne

Melbourne Symphony

(03) 9626 1111

Throughout 3 weeks of October

Melbourne Fringe Festival

The Melbourne Fringe Festival is Melbourne's annual open access three week program of innovative and experimental art across all art forms. A showcase of new work and new ways of presenting, in hundreds of individual events, across the city.

Venues across Melbourne

(03) 9481 5111

1^st Sunday in October

Queen Elizabeth Trophy

One of the major events on the Victorian golfing program.

Royal Melbourne Golf Club, Cheltenham Road, Black Rock

(03) 9598 6755

Early October

Annual Melbourne Art Fair

One of the most important and successful national and international visual art events in Australia. Held every two years in Melbourne

Three weeks in October

Zootober

October is Zoo Month so come along and join in the special activities run every weekend throughout the month. Visitors are invited to participate in the many activities that will explore the many floras, as well as endangered species of grasslands, around the world.

Victoria's Open Range Zoo at Werribee, K Road, Werribee

(03) 9731 9600

2^nd Sunday in October

Melbourne Marathon Festival

Australia’s oldest marathon incorporates the Melbourne Marathon (42km), the Melbourne Half Marathon (21km), the Melbourne Marathon Relay (42km), the Melbourne Marathon Bike Ride, a 6km Fun Run/Walk and an in line skate event.

Aughtie Drive, Albert Park

(03) 9486 6133

Mid-October

Melbourne Champions

The Melbourne Champions is one round of the 21 tournament world circuit for former champions aged 35 and over. The tour features players of the calibre of Jimmy Connors, John McEnroe, Bjorn Borg, Guillermo Vilas, Yannick Noah, Johan Kriek, Henri Leconte and John Fitzgerald.

Melbourne Park, Swan Street, Melbourne

Mid October-early November

Melbourne Festival

The Melbourne Festival is among the world's premier arts festivals, renowned for presenting the cream of Australian and international events encompassing all art forms. This festival is a 17-day cultural feast featuring hundreds of music, opera, dance, theatre and artistic performances in a host of venues, both indoors and on the streets of Melbourne.

(03) 9662 4242

Mid-Late October

Melbourne Oktoberfest

A time of feasting and fun for the whole family. Visitors are treated to German, Austrian and Swiss style food and beverages, music and continuous entertainment in new large festival halls and the main stage area.

Royal Agricultural Society Showgrounds, Epsom Road, Ascot Vale

Heinz Wendt

(03) 9529 5211

Mid-Late October

Spring Fling

The North and West Melbourne Multicultural Arts Festival features music, performance and food reflecting the cultural diversity of the area. Errol Street explodes in colour, music, dance and fun. Over 100 stalls, 30 acts, exhibitions and thousands of people; this festival celebrates the rich cultural life of North Melbourne.

Errol Street, North Melbourne

Jane Karslake

(03) 9328 1126

Late October

Harvest Festival Music Festival

Melbourne community radio station 3CR is proud to present an alternative country music festival for lovers of roots based music. This is a festival that reflects the alternative country genre that has grown out of Melbourne’s inner city hotels. The festival will feature three nights and one afternoon of live music and a special evening of cinematic musical beauty. On the last night of the festival the stars will be out for a Gene Clark tribute night at the Continental Cafe. Various venues around Melbourne

(03) 9773 0722

Late October

Reclaim The Night

Reclaim the Night is organized by a collective of women working together to show that violence against women and children will not be tolerated. The celebration and march acts as a symbol of women's right to go about their community in safety. The celebration is on the same night throughout Australia and the world.

(03) 9791 9299

Mid-November

Melbourne Cup International Polo Tournament

An annual event featuring top players from Australia, South America and Europe competing in the fast and furious action of International Polo. Wine tastings and picnic hampers in historic Werribee Park.

Werribee Park, K Road, Werribee

(03) 9521 9700

Mid-November

Victorian Arabian Jockey Club Futurity Show

Presenting the inaugural Arabian Horse Futurity Show. See Australia’s best 2 year old Arabians competing for the Futurity Championship. All horses will be eligible to race in the Futurity Race for 3 year olds.

Werribee Park National Equestrian Centre, K Road, Werribee

(03) 5429 6985

Late November

Rose Festival of the Yarra Ranges

Indulge in the beauty and fragrance of roses. See them blooming on a rose farm, in beautiful gardens, in hot houses and in trial beds. Lectures will be running daily at Tesselaars and Roses Galore.

(03) 5964 8475

Throughout December

Rural Christmas Market

Over 50 rural producers from all over Victoria selling their handmade crafts and produce in the three weeks leading up to Christmas. Handcrafted gifts include ceramics and pottery, sheepskin and emu products, gourmet foods, Aboriginal artwork, children’s toys and clothing, glassware and timber gifts.

Information Victoria, 356 Collins Street, Melbourne

(03) 9603 9949

Early December

Messiah - Handel

Arguably the greatest oratorio ever written, Handel's masterpiece, Messiah, is filled with a seemingly inexhaustible supply of glorious melodies. Join us in this annual joyous celebration of music that will literally bring you to your feet. The Saturday performance of this work is included as part of the Choral Series.

Melbourne Concert Hall, Victorian Arts Centre, 100 St Kilda Road, Melbourne

Melbourne Symphony

(03) 9626 1111

Early December

Melbourne Cup on Wheels

This classic track cycling race was first run in 1947. See Australia's Olympic and world champion cyclists in action.

Northcote Velodrome, John Cain Memorial Park, Darebin Road, Northcote

(03) 9328 4391

December

Carols at Central Park

Celebrate the joy of Christmas with the whole family at a night of traditional Carols by Candlelight in lovely Central Park. Candles and programs are available by donation to a local organization. BYO picnic or buy light snacks and beverages. Central Park, corner Burke Road and Wattletree Road, Malvern

(03) 9522 3391

December 24

RVIB Carols by Candlelight

Millions of families each year enjoy the original Carols by Candlelight at Melbourne's Sidney Myer Music Bowl. The cream of Australian talent perform at the event, a major fundraiser for the RVIB, which assist children and adults who are blind or vision impaired.

Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Melbourne

(03) 9522 5295

Christmas Day on Safari

Experience a unique wildlife Christmas through the grasslands of Africa, Asia and Australia.

Victoria's Open Range Zoo at Werribee, K Road, Werribee

(03) 9731 9600

Melbourne Boxing Day Test Match

The Melbourne Boxing Day Test Match is one of the great traditions of sport in Victoria and Australia. More than 160,000 passionate cricket fans attend the historic Melbourne Cricket Ground to support Australia in the biggest Test Match in the world.

Melbourne Cricket Ground, Brunton Avenue, Jolimont

(03) 9653 1100

Late December

Hmong New Year Festival

The Hmong New Year Festival is a special event for young adults to strengthen their friendships, maintain Hmong culture (by playing a traditional ball game) and other cultural activities

Deep Rock Oval, Yarra Bend Park, Fairfield

(03) 9417 2553

Anakie Fairy Park
2388 Ballan Road Anakie 3221
(03) 5284-1262
Adults: $7;Children: $3.50
Daily - 10am to 4pm
This is a fascinating place for a family day trip, set in the mountains of the Brisbane ranges, southwest of Melbourne. The Fairy park offers playgrounds, walks and attractions to please the whole family. A whole day could easily be spent exploring. The park has a medieval castle theme and is truly magical. There is quite a bit of walking involved as the park is on a hill.