Where to Find Melbourne's Coolest Hidden Gems

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 will have you feeling like a true Melburnian in no time. And if you are a born and bred local, you might just learn something new. These are not your typical Melbourne activities, they’re a little out of the ordinary, super interesting and pretty cool. 

Things to do 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 does focus only on women and teaching them handy skills but if you’re keen to get stuck into a cool activity, Work-Shop offer a bunch of different classes and experiences in Collingwood so you won’t miss out!

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 heavyhanded use of white ensure the quality of the coffee stands out.

Things to do 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, what are some fun things to do in Docklands?

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.

Finish your evening on 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.

Things to do 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 with a variety of 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.

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! 

Things to do 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 practiced! If this sounds like you, join BWC’s monthly writing class in West Footscray and hone your writing skills amongst a friendly bunch of like-minded people. 

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.