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Keen to explore Melbourne’s iconic laneways and vibe with the arts and culture scene like a local? We’ve got the inside scoop on creative things to do in Melbourne that’ll have you feeling like a true Melburnian in no time. And if you are a born-and-bred local, you might just discover some new hidden gems in Melbourne. These aren’t your typical Melbourne activities; they’re a little out of the ordinary, sometimes quirky, and pretty cool.
Hidden gems in Collingwood
Historic, hip and eclectic, Collingwood has a reputation as one of Melbourne’s coolest suburbs and for good reason! Known for its unique street art and old industrial buildings from the 19th century that have been converted into cafes and art spaces, Collingwood encapsulates the vibrant, arty and cultural spirit of Melbourne. So we recommend exploring this special inner-city suburb and rubbing shoulders with the locals.
Start your day with a woodworking workshop for women and learn how to make your own planter box. Set in a big space reminiscent of warehouses, the industrial chic vibe fits right in with the aesthetic of Collingwood. This class focuses only on women and teaching them handy skills, so if you’re keen to see some more of Melbourne’s hidden gems, Work-Shop offer a huge variety of classes and experiences in Collingwood. From sustainable weaving and watercolour painting to leather journal making and even custom mirror etching—just to name a few!
Once you’re done with your class and riding on that confidence high, head over for a snack at Acoffee. In true Melbourne fashion, it’s a cafe set in a converted garage. It’s simple and clean with a focus on good coffee and pastries. The sparse decor and heavy-handed use of white ensure the quality of the coffee stands out.
Hidden gems in Docklands
A modern waterfront hub of culture and events, Docklands appeals to those who love shopping, dining and entertainment. With picturesque views of the city skyline and idyllic waterfront promenades, Docklands welcomes tourists and residents alike, offering a touch of glamour in central Melbourne. While it may not be an alternative suburb, dotted with modern high-rises and office buildings, it’s still worth a look, if only for the view and a breath of ocean air. So, are there any Melbourne hidden gems in Docklands? There sure are!
Start your evening with a chocolate painting class—it’s chocolate, it’s art, it’s entertaining; what’s not to love? In this class, the canvas is chocolate, the paint is chocolate, and once you’re done, you’ll be maybe 30 per cent chocolate. The best part about this class is that while it starts as an art class, it ends with you taking a block of hand-decorated chocolate home that you can eat at your leisure! Combining pleasure with art and entertainment, this workshop is quintessential Docklands.
“We loved this class! It was so different to anything else we had done, and we received good input from the teacher. We were very happy and surprised with the art we produced.” Kat T.
Not a fan of the sweet stuff? Check out these refreshing things to do in Melbourne next month.
Finish your evening at a rooftop bar at Strato Melbourne. Opulent, sleek and modern, this bar is all about luxury and views. A little chocolate wouldn’t feel out of place alongside your fancy cocktail.
Hidden gems in Brunswick
Brunswick is a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, art and music. It has a strong community spirit, home to many festivals, markets and community events as well as educational institutions and historic buildings in different architectural styles. A unique and welcoming space for those from all walks of life, Brunswick is one of Melbourne’s most well-known suburbs. So it’s not exactly a local secret, but it is a must-see in Melbourne, and there are plenty of hidden gems within the suburb itself.
One of our favourites is That Paper Joint, Melbourne’s first dedicated collage studio. Set in a beautifully quaint and colourful studio, it’s only fitting that the art of mixing and matching images onto your own personal canvas is found in Brunswick, Melbourne’s own mixed-and-matched suburb. Join a collage workshop to create a colourful paper mosaic that reflects your individuality. This is great if you’re looking for a creative afternoon with your closest people, doing something out of the norm!
Workshops are held from early afternoon to the evening, so you can start your day in Brunswick with a walk down Sydney Road or Lygon Street—both famous for dining spots offering international cuisine. Don’t miss A1 Lebanese Bakery for the best in Middle Eastern fare!
Hidden gems in West Footscray
Once voted the coolest neighbourhood in Melbourne by Timeout Magazine, this inner-city suburb in Melbourne’s West is super multicultural and boasts some of the best food in Melbourne. Plus, it’s lesser-known than some of the more famous Melbourne suburbs, which means you’re more likely to find good quality wares at affordable prices (and avoid the crowds while you’re at it!).
If you’re looking for creative things to do in West Footscray, you might want to check out the Bad Writers Club. They describe themselves as ‘unashamedly low-brow’ and offer a safe space for ‘bad writers’ to work on their craft and become ‘good writers’. But of course, there’s no such thing as bad writers, just those who haven’t practised! If this sounds like you, join BWC’s weekly writing class in West Footscray and hone your writing skills amongst a friendly bunch of like-minded people.
“Easy to book online and the location is great too. Plenty of restaurants where one can have dinner before or after the session. I enjoyed sharing the comfortable and welcoming space within the cosy bookshop with other writers, the sharing of knowledge and the playbacks. Aud's presence, prompts and encouragement made it a very special experience for me. The wine, cheese and crackers were lovely too. I'll be back for sure.” - Stephanie T.
The class will start with a warm-up exercise to get the creative juices flowing, and then you’ll have free time to get stuck into that writing project, or you can ask for writing prompts to help you out. Held in The Chestnut Tree Bookshop with wine and nibbles on offer, this writing class is one of the best hidden gems in Melbourne.
Classes are held in the evening, so you’ll want to continue exploring this happening suburb once the class is done. We recommend Hop Nation for relaxed brewery vibes or Back Alley Sally’s for a grungy laneway bar slinging cocktails amidst upcycled decor in a former t-shirt printing warehouse.
Hidden Gems in Melbourne CBD
There’s no denying that Melbourne CBD is one of Australia’s most artistic and curious cities to adventure in. Whether you’re staying in the city or travelling by train, we recommend starting at Flinders Station and walking your way around, finding the best that Melbourne’s laneways have to offer. Chances are you’ll happen upon some wicked thrift and vintage stores (hello, RetroStar!), a variety of delicious eats, and a shopping scene that’ll have you splurging without a second thought. Not to mention the chic Euro vibes of laneway cafes and views of art that adorn the brick buildings. So what Melbourne CBD hidden gems haven’t you heard of?
If you’re looking for unique things to do in the city, head over to TuTu Studio’s, down Elizabeth St, for a jewellery making class. Silversmithing may not be the usual go-to activity, but that’s what makes it so hidden. Take the free city tram and stop right out front of a hidden-away studio. Step inside a quaint space and settle in for a day of forging your own silver ring. You’ll end up making something sparkly, which you can gift or keep as a memento of your time exploring Melbourne’s CBD. TuTu Studio offers two other creative classes to explore, including tufting a rug and making your own crystal bracelet. The choice is yours!
“Wow! Well, that fed my soul. What a wonderful experience! I particularly enjoyed hammering the letters and creating texture to my ring. I loved the old Haymarket building too, filled with little studios.” Dana C.
You can attend a class in the morning, afternoon or evening, weaving it effortlessly into the rest of your plans. If you go with a morning class, lunch is just around the corner (literally, any corner). Head down the famous Flinders Lane and stop for lunch at Brunetti Oro, making sure to pick up some of their top-tier (and beloved) Italian cakes on your way out.
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