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A Last Minute City Guide to Melbourne

posted in: last-minute-city-guide  |  posted by: Jennifer Gregory on May 23, 2009  |  No Comments

The city of Melbourne is one of the most culturally sophisticated cities in all of Australia. Akin to its sister city, Sydney, the area is full of mystery, entertainment, and multicultural influences. No matter where you turn you’ll find yourself face to face with new people and experiences!
city-skyline-melbourne-australia

Image Credit:Combined Media

When to Visit Melbourne

The most beautiful time of year in Melbourne is during the fall months which, south of the equator, are between March and May. During this time you’ll experience warm temperatures, sunny days, and the gardens and parks will still be beautiful with plant life and foliage.

botanical-gardens-melbourne

Image Credit:rhondda.p

Sports fans flock to Melbourne during specific times of the year as well. Football lovers will want to visit during the month of September for the finals and grand prix fans will want to visit in March for the Formula 1 race. The Australian Tennis Open occurs towards the middle of January. It’s suggested that you book your trip early if you want to visit Melbourne during one of these events.

Hot Melbourne Attractions

melbourne-aquarium

Image Credit:NatalieTracy

No trip to Melbourne is complete without a trip to the Melbourne Aquarium. Inside you’ll find an incredible maze of tunnels guiding you through the incredible habitats of some of the most beautiful sea creatures on the planet. Those looking for an extra bite of adventure might enjoy a dive in the shark tank while those who prefer to keep their feet dry may prefer a ride in the electronic simulator.

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The Melbourne Zoological Gardens are world-renowned for their gardens and spectacular animal habitats. The zoo features a remarkable butterfly pavilion, a stunning simulation of an African rainforest, and a habitat housing two gorgeous Asiatic elephants named Bong Su and Mek Kapah. There are so many incredible attractions here you’ll need to reserve an entire day of your trip.

cricket-at-mcg

Image Credit:bram_souffreau

A trip to the Melbourne Cricked Ground (MCG) will only begin to scratch the surface when it comes to giving you an understanding of how the Australians feel about their favorite sports. Inside the complex you’ll find the Australian Gallery of Sport and Olympic Museum as well as a number of other attractions. Just a short walk from the center of the city and many Melbourne hotels, this is a site no sports lover should miss.

melbourne-museum

Image Credit:Melork

The Melbourne Museum is a must-see attraction for any devout historian. Inside you’ll find displays depicting the lives of several different Australian cultures as well as those residing on other Pacific Islands. You’ll learn about Aboriginal groups, Victoria’s unique heritage, and much more.

old-melbourne-gaol

Image Credit:superciliousness

Those interested in crime will appreciate a tour of the Old Melbourne Gaol. The establishment is known for having been the first jail established in Melbourne and rumor has it the building is now haunted. Ned Kelly, the famous bushranger, was held here until 1880 when he was finally hanged.

Exploring Melbourne’s Theaters

Believe it or not, most traveling shows to visit Australia end up in Melbourne before they go anywhere else. Because of this Melbourne has become an incredibly hot destination for theatre lovers from all over the world. Visitors to Melbourne may wish to simply take in a show while those who have a true love for the arts may want to check into the Historic Rambles tour, during which they can act on one of Melbourne’s incredible stages.

mtc-theatre

Image Credit:roryrory

The Melbourne Theatre Company was the first theater group ever established in the city of Melbourne. The theater hosts two seasons each year and performs an eclectic mix of Australian and international shows.

If you enjoy comedy you simply mustn’t miss a trip to the Comedy Theatre in the City Center. While here you’ll have the opportunity to take in a play or revue, most of which are run by the Marriner Theatre (the owner of this establishment).

her-majestys-theatre

Image Credit:Vanessa Pike

Her Majesty’s Theatre is another hot theater destination in City Center. The theater itself opened in 1886 and has hosted a wide variety of international musicals including Chicago and Fiddler on the Roof. They are known to occasionally host an opera as well.

The second largest theater company in Melbourne, you’ll find the Playbox at the CUB Malthouse Company puts on a number of incredible shows as well. The interesting thing about this theatrt is that it can be easily converted for a number of different styles – including dance, drama, and even the circus.

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Image Credit:Chrissy Downunder

There are a number of magnificent attractions throughout the city of Melbourne and these are only a few to get you started. Keep your eyes peeled during your stay and you’re bound to see a wide variety of attractions, sights, and people!

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