Your Guide to Melbourne After Dark
Here's what to get up to in Melbourne once the sun sets.
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When the sun dips below the skyline, Melbourne switches from chic boutiques and specialty coffee to a city that doesn't sleep. Despite the unpredictable-at-best weather, Melburnians still turn out for after-dark activities. Whether it's seeing a gig or grabbing a late-night feed, there's no shortage of things to do in Melbourne once the sun sets.
This evening culture is one of the reasons why Melbourne has been crowned Australia's number one night-time hot spot. This is according to the Visa Australia Night-time Economy Index 2025, a new in-depth analysis measuring data such as spending, vibrancy, venues open and the amount of nightworkers boosting the economy after dark. Sydney's CBD came in second with a night-time Vibe Score of 74.3 to Melbourne's 82. Data from the Visa Vibe Economy report, commissioned by Visa and conducted by McCrindle, also found that the Victorian capital is dining out at restaurants more frequently than other cities after dark. Unsurprising.
Whether you want to get out of the house more now that the weather is warming up, or are looking to impress an interstate mate, here's what to do in Melbourne after dark.
AO Live
Catch a Gig or Game
Melbourne, like most of Australia, truly comes alive in the summertime, especially after dark. From The Forum's endless stream of live music to Howler and Northcote Social Club's smaller venues up north, you can see both local and international acts all season long. Over at Melbourne Park, there are sports games including soccer, basketball and in January, world-class tennis at the Australian Open. AO Live is heading to Melbourne again this summer, so you can combine sport and culture under one roof. If you prefer to play games yourself, Holey Moley has two mini golf courses in the city: one at Crown Casino and one on Little Bourke Street.
Stalactites
Late-Night Bites
According to the Visa Vibe Economy Report, dining out is Australia's most loved after-dark activity, with 76 percent of respondents venturing to their favourite restaurants for a post-work feed. Night markets were also high up on the list of preferred nighttime activities. In Melbourne, venues like Butchers Diner on Bourke Street and Pizza, Pizza, Pizza (also on Bourke Street) serve up greasy comfort food that still sticks to the city's high food standards. Pizza, Pizza, Pizza also offers a hidden bar behind the counter, where you can lose track of time and enjoy cocktails until late into the evening. Chinatown is a mecca for late-night eats. Wander up the street and take your pick of the most succulent dumplings and noodle dishes the city has to offer. Another 3am institution is Stalactites in the city, a respite for late-night workers and revellers. Keep your eyes peeled for Melbourne's buzzing night markets, including the Queen Victoria Market's summer edition, which runs from now until March 2026.
NGV
Culture After Dark
Melbourne is a city of culture, even into the night. Every Friday night from December to April, the National Gallery of Victoria hosts NGV Friday Nights. Punters can wander the summer exhibition (this season features Westwood | Kawakubo) after dark, soaking in the culture and art under the cover of night. Enjoy a glass of bubbles and a canapé in the Great Hall before jumping on a tram to see where the night takes you. If you prefer your science and culture child-free, the Melbourne Museum hosts monthly after-hours adult entry on Friday nights. Enjoy the exhibits (without screaming children), take in a themed talk and toast to the weekend ahead.
Looking for a date night option? Try the Moonlight Cinema at the Royal Botanic Gardens. It's the perfect blend of chill and culture. Simply bring a picnic blanket and snacks, and you can watch a classic as the sun sets over the city. Keep your eyes peeled for the 2026 season. Down the road, Southbank's theatre district is a buzzy blend of music and theatre lovers, plus if you book your tickets early, you can often find good deals and soak up some premier culture.
From 2am dumplings in Chinatown to catching the best in live music and culture, there's always an after-dark adventure to find in Melbourne.
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Lead image: NGV Friday Nights
