10 Nighttime Activities for Melbourne Students

Melbourne is a great place to explore during the day, but once the sun goes down, the city truly comes alive. From a dinner cruise on the river to enjoying a film under the stars, we’ve rounded up 10 best night-time activities that you won’t want to miss out while staying in Melbourne during your studies.

1. Belly laugh at a comedy show

Laughing is good for your health and a great way to unwind from your studies.

Comedy venues in Melbourne included Comedy at Spleen, for new and old talent, or Local Laughs, located in a European-inspired tavern in St Kilda East. If you like a more intimate setting, try Lido Comedy for a show every Tuesday night in the jazz room of an old cinema. Comedy at the Coopers Inn is also a great place to spend a Friday night.

Melbourne is host to the four-week annual International Comedy Festival that starts in late March.

2. Visit the National Gallery of Victoria for a night of art appreciation

The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) offers a range of events for art appreciation in the evening. From weekly art talks, film screenings and lectures, to special exhibitions, there is something for everyone. The NGV also has a range of interactive programs, such as the NGV Nights series, which offers a range of activities such as artist talks, live music, and panel discussions. The NGV also offers guided tours of the galleries and exhibitions, as well as workshops and classes.

No matter your level of art appreciation, the NGV has something for you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced art enthusiast, the NGV has something for everyone.

3. Enjoy a movie under the stars at one of Melbourne’s outdoor cinemas

There’s just something about watching a movie under the stars that even the most luxurious cinema can’t match. Here’s where you can indulge in the outdoor cinema experience in Melbourne:

• Moonlight Cinema
• Cameo Outdoor Cinema
• Federation Square
• The Lunar Drive-In for one of the few, year-round outdoor cinemas
• Classic Rooftop Cinema

Keep in mind that even in summer, Melbourne nights aren’t always warm. Make sure you check the local weather forecast and bring some extra layers to snuggle up in if it’s going to be a cool night.

4. Visit the historic Luna Park

Luna Park in St Kilda opened in 1912, making it the oldest continuously running theme park in the country.

The park is open until 11 pm at night and there’s plenty to do onsite – dodgem cars, carousels, carnival games, a ghost train, and most famously, the Scenic Railway that runs around the perimeter of the park.

Remember to snap a picture under the giant face that serves as the entrance to the park – it may or may not haunt your dreams later on that night…

5. Explore the Night Market at Queen Victoria Market

The Night Market at Queen Victoria Market is a great spot for a night out. The market is open until 10pm on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, and features a range of food, drinks and entertainment.

6. Catch a live music performance

Melbourne is famous for its live music. Every night, music venues and pubs showcase the best the city has to offer as well as up and coming talent. So, if you want to see some old favourites or discover new ones, here’s where to go:

• The Tote or The Curtin for rock and roll
• The Jazzlab or the Paris Cat Jazz Club for the best jazz in the city
• The Prince Bandroom at the Price of Wales Hotel for local and international acts
• The Retreat Hotel for blues on weeknights and headliners on the weekend

Bars all along Johnston and Brunswick streets for Latin, rock, jazz, and indie music on any night of the week.

7. Take a dinner cruise on the Yarra River

A dinner cruise on the Yarra River is a great way to experience the beauty of Melbourne’s iconic river. Cruises typically last for around two hours and offer a range of delicious menus, with a selection of wines, beers, and other beverages.

Enjoy stunning views of the city skyline, as you sail past some of Melbourne’s most iconic sights including the Royal Botanic Gardens, Federation Square and the Melbourne Cricket Ground. You’ll also get the chance to learn a bit about Melbourne’s rich history from the informative commentary of your skipper.

8. Unleash your inner rockstar at Karaoke

Melbourne is a great city for karaoke. There are many karaoke bars located throughout the city, all of which offer a great karaoke experience. Some options include:

• Heroes Bar
• KBOX Karaoke
• F.M. Karaoke
• Juke’s
• Yum Sing House

There are also plenty of karaoke venues located in the suburbs, so you can easily find one close to you. No matter your song of choice, you’ll find plenty of karaoke bars around Melbourne – some even serve up food as well.

9. Test your survival skills in an Escape Room

Best played with a group of clever friends, escape rooms combine the thrill of the unknown with the heart-pounding anxiety of physical confinement. It’s all in good fun, of course, you’re not actually in peril.. but when they’re done well, you’ll be fooled otherwise!

Some of the most popular escape rooms in Melbourne are:

• Trapt – classic escape rooms to while away an hour or two
• Rush Escape Game – be warned: some of the rooms here are truly, truly scary
• Ukiyo – Japanese-inspired escape rooms
• The Mystery Rooms – a variety of rooms to suit all ages

10. Explore the Melbourne Museum

The Melbourne Museum is a great spot to explore the history of the city and its culture, and it’s open until 9pm every night. Student entry is free, and the museum is a great spot for a night out.

Whether you’re looking for a night out with friends or a more low-key evening, Melbourne has plenty of great nighttime activities for students. Take advantage of the city’s vibrant nightlife and enjoy these top 10 nighttime activities in Melbourne!