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28 Best Date Ideas and Activities in Melbourne

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By Lucy Stones and Steve Kavakos - Guide

Published: 9 July 2024, Last Updated: 24 July 2024

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If you’re trying to come up with a date idea in Melbourne that doesn’t suck, we’ve got you covered. The activities we’ve chosen below go beyond dinner and a movie with everything from mini golf to fun date ideas like escape rooms and even a Hangman’s Night Tour in the Old Melbourne Gaol. This city is filled with unique date ideas, and some of them, like the Queen Victoria Night Market, have welcomed lovers for generations. You’re probably stressed enough trying to figure out that perfect pick-up line, so let’s get to the list.

Best Date Ideas in Melbourne at a Glance

Highlights from our list include the following options:

• Best overall: Challenge Rooms at Hijinx Hotel, Chadstone
• For a fun date: MANIAX Axe Throwing, Melbourne CBD
• For a romantic date: Sip and Paint with Champainting, South Melbourne
• For a first date: Pizza in the Park with Small Print Pizza
• For a unique date idea activity: Virtual Reality Game at Zero Latency VR

Now you’ve read our favourites, let’s check out the complete list.

RELATED: These are the best steak restaurants in Melbourne if you’re feeling fancy.

1. Challenge Rooms at Hijinx Hotel, Chadstone

Price: from AU$20pp

• Why we like this idea: The concept is a bar fronting as a fictional hotel demanding guests check in and complete challenges rather than get stuck in a room for two hours. It’s highly ‘Instagramable’ and is a fun way to get to know your date while showing them your fun side.

You don’t have to look much further than the fictional, Hijinx Hotel in Chadstone Shopping Centre for a perfect night on the town. This is a great spot for a first date as you break the ice over an escape room (and drinks). Located in the new section of the famous Chadstone Shopping Centre, the location couldn’t be better for a date night that covers all bases and hopefully has you moving to some of your own. While the hotel poses as an escape room, it’s more of a drinking spot channelling nostalgia and theme park vibes. You can head to Piccolina Gelateria after you finish from the Willy Wonka-esque fictional hotel, shop till you drop, grab a bite to eat or catch a movie. Chadstone is a safe bet for a great date, there’s plenty to do and the Hijinx Hotel is teaming with possibilities.

Address: 1342 Dandenong Rd, Chadstone VIC 3148
Hours: Mon-Thur & Sun 9:30am-10pm, Fri-Sat 9:30am-12am
Phone: (03) 7043 9119

2. Sip and Paint with Champainting, South Melbourne

Price: from AU$60pp

• Why we like this idea: You can bring your own wine and feel like you’re in an art gallery, channelling your inner artist. It’s the perfect activity to plant seeds for a second date while making a first date fun, easy and not severe.

You can’t go past a sip-and-paint session for a unique date night in Melbourne. You’re guaranteed a date that doesn’t skimp on wine, gets the creative juices flowing and makes a romantic night a fun night at the same time. All you have to do is bring a date and your own wine and nibbles. No previous painting skills are required. This fun date is all about having a laugh.

Address: 206 Clarendon Street, South Melbourne, VIC 3205
Hours: Mon-Thu & Sun 10am-9pm, Fri-Sat 10am-10pm
Phone: 0499 007 234

3. Virtual Reality Game at Zero Latency VR

Price: from AU$59pp for 30 minutes

• Why we like this idea: You’ve probably never considered VR for a first date, but this is a fun activity for all ages, people, and walks of life. You don’t have to be a gamer, and your date doesn’t have to be either. It’s fun, and you can couple it with pre or post-event drinks and dinner if the date is going well.

Try a virtual reality date at Zero Latency, where the adrenaline flows and a memorable date is on the books. You’ll experience one of the best free-roam virtual reality experiences where you can play alongside your date in games such as Zombie Survival, Undead Arena, Sol Raiders and more. It’s far more immersive than you think and each mission varies in game time and theme. This is also a great outing idea for couples doing a joint date night, so you can put your teamwork to the test!

Address: 22-32 Steel Street, North Melbourne, VIC 3051
Hours: Tues-Thurs 5-11 pm, Fri 2:30 pm-12 am, Sat 9 am-12 am, Sun 9 am-11 pm
Phone: 03 9021 8812

4. Ten Pin Bowling at Strike Bowling, Melbourne Central

Price: from AU$24pp

• Why we like this idea: Your next date night is all about not striking out, but if you do, it’s a sure way to show your date you can bowl and have fun at the same time.

Ten Pin Bowling at Strike Melbourne Central is a perfect classic date night idea in the heart of Melbourne. Plus, it has the added benefit of having a fully equipped kitchen when you get the munchies and a complete cocktail bar to knock back a few. Bowling is an ideal date idea as it allows you and your partner to get to know each other in a fun and relaxed atmosphere, taking the pressure off a traditional date.

Located in: Melbourne Central
Address: Shop 305, Level 3/211 La Trobe St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Hours: Mon-Thu 11am-11pm, Fri-Sat 10am-1am, Sun 10am-10pm
Phone: (03) 7003 9612

5. MANIAX Axe Throwing in Melbourne CBD

Price: from AU$49pp for 60 minutes

• Why we like this idea: Axe throwing in Melbourne is like playing pool; it’s competitive, involves focus and can be very competitive, so don’t take it too seriously. 

This will be a date they’ll never forget. Bring your date to MANIAX Date Night Axe Throwing session and learn how to throw and compete in a tournament for the ages. Axe throwing is a surprisingly romantic couple thing to do in Melbourne. With locations in the CBD and Abbotsford, unleash all your energy on this active date. Where else can you throw an axe without fear of onlookers calling the cops?

Address: 19-21 Russell Street, Abbotsford, VIC 3067
Hours: Mon-Thur 10am-10pm, Fri 10am-11pm, Sat 9am-11pm, Sun 10am-9pm
Phone: 1300 217 583

6. Visit the Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq Melbourne

Price: from AU$15pp for a game card

• Why we like this idea: Nothing is more date-worthy than a night playing arcade games, winning tickets and being disappointed by the gift you win for them. Romantic things are based on arcade date stories, so why not write your own?

For that 90’s arcade nostalgia, check out the Archie Brothers’ Cirque Electriq. They’ve got bowling, 67 arcade and ticket games, an XD Theatre, Dodgems and more. If you’re feeling particularly brave and want to put your singing skills to the test, there is also a karaoke bar. A full-service cocktail bar and gourmet kitchen will complete your date.

Located in: The District Docklands
Address: Shop CW-G19 The District Docklands, 440 Docklands Dr, Docklands VIC 3008
Hours: Mon-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-12am, Sun 10am-9pm
Phone: (03) 7003 9772

7. Play Mini Golf at Holey Moley Golf Club at Crown Melbourne

Price: from AU$20pp

• Why we like this idea: Mini golf dates are a sure way to the next date, there’s hardly any room to mess this up. Remember what Chubbs Peterson once said, “It’s all in the hips.”

There’s no better way to win over a date than losing to them on purpose at a game of mini golf. Holey Moley is more than just your average putting range. It’s located within the Crown Casino, so you’ll have plenty to do before and after your date (should it go well). Playing mini golf through bright lights and brighter cocktails means you and your significant other will have plenty to laugh about.

Located in: Crown Metropol Melbourne
Address: Shop 121-124&127, Level 1 Clarke Street, 8 Whiteman St, Southbank VIC 3006
Hours: Mon-Thur & Sun 10am-11pm, Fri-Sat 10am-1am
Phone: 1300 727 833

8. Cool Down at Icebar Melbourne

Price: from AU$45pp

• Why we like this idea: IceBar Melbourne is perfect for those who want to catch a drink and a cold. Of course, we’re kidding, but it is fantastic to cool down and get to know one another in a different setting.

Cool things down at the coolest place in town, IceBar Melbourne. This is the only ice bar in Australia and a great novelty bar to see how long you can withstand the cold. Open every day till late, this 45-minute session means you channel your inner Andrew Huberman and Joe Rogan whilst sipping on cocktails and experiencing the coolest date you’ve ever been on.

Located in: Fed Square
Address: The Atrium Federation Square, Melbourne VIC 3000
Hours: Mon-Wed & Sun 2-8pm, Thur-Sat 1-10pm
Phone: 1300 423 227

9. Catch a Show at Southbank Theatre

Price: from AU$35

• Why we like this idea: Shake things up a little. Cinemas can be great, but nothing can replace live music and entertainment.

Take in a show at the Southbank Theatre, as part of the Melbourne Theatre Company for the night. As one of the largest theatre companies in the world and with up to 12 plays annually, a night at the theatre is a significant date alternative to catching a movie at the cinema. Located in the iconic Melbourne Arts Precinct, the diversity of shows portrayed spans from comedy to drama to realism. Be prepared to experience a range of emotions with your date!

Located in: The University of Melbourne
Address: 140 Southbank Blvd, Southbank VIC 3006

10. Hangman’s Night Tour at Old Melbourne Gaol

Price: from AU$40pp

• Why we like this idea: Night tours can be the perfect date if romantic things aren’t for you. Just be sure to do something more light-hearted on the next date. Otherwise, you may not go on a third.

You don’t have to wait until Halloween for spooky date ideas and a fun date night. With an Old Melbourne Gaol Night Tour, take the hangman’s night tour and let the hangman guide you through the Gaol’s disturbing history. This is the ideal date night if you’re both more adventurous. If this specific tour isn’t up your alley, couples can also get locked up in the city watch house or hunt for ghosts together. Though the Gaol is open from 10 am, a night-time booking is recommended to make the most of the eerie experience.

Address: 377 Russell St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Hours: Mon-Sun 10am-5pm
Phone: (03) 9656 9889

11. Visit the Queen Victoria Night Markets

Price: Free

• Why we like this idea: There’s nothing more ‘Melbourne romantic’ than a trip to the market of markets. Try cuisines from worldly places, experience the chilly Melbourne winter, pack your beanies and warm clothes, or hold hands. It’s a romantic and subtle nod to old-school dating in the city.

Why not visit the Queen Victoria Night Markets for date night? There’s always something new and exciting to see, with proof that cheap date ideas in Melbourne can be good. So check the calendar via the link below, find some sights, sounds and tastes and get amongst the locals without spending a lot of cash.

Address: Queen St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Hours: Wed 5-10pm

12. Gaze at the Stars at Planetarium Nights

Price: from AU$45pp

• Why we like this idea: Watch stars glow in the dark and planets spin around you. The planetarium is like an adult magic show and is perfect for a particular date night where the night sky will act as your guide, transporting you from the southern hemisphere and past the atmosphere of your home world.

Recline under the stars at this romantic date night idea in Melbourne. The Planetarium is a simulated night sky where you can learn the wonders of the stars for a cute date in Melbourne. They’re more advanced than you recall from school trips and offer a uniquely immersive environment.

Located in: Scienceworks (Museums Victoria)
Address: 2 Booker St, Spotswood, VIC 3015
Hours: Mon-Sun 10 am-4:30 pm
Phone: 03 9252 2300

13. Tap Your Feet to Jazz at Bird’s Basement

Price: from AU$30pp

• Why we like this idea: If there had ever been an open love letter to Jazz, it would have been written here. What could be better than live music, over one hundred cocktail choices and food inspired by Middle Eastern and Greek cuisines?

Explore the world of jazz for some swingin’ live music. The first-class jazz venue offers international and homegrown music talent to delight your ears and have you clicking your fingers and shuffling your feet. This date night will take you on a musical journey that will feed the soul and nourish the senses. Any date who doesn’t like jazz cannot be trusted, so take this as a great opportunity to uncover any red flags that may be before you.

Address: 11 Singers Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000
Hours: Wed-Sat 6-11pm
Phone: 1300 225 299

14. Watch a Movie at the Moonlight Cinema Melbourne

Price: from AU$26

• Why we like this idea: It’s an old-school date perfect for romance, summer nights by the Ornamental Lake and clear skies.

One of the best spots for a picnic in Melbourne is the Royal Botanical Gardens, and during the summer, it is the perfect open-air cinema in the city. There’s unbelievable flora and fauna, beautiful greenery, an Ornamental Lake and flowery scents, making this one of the most romantic date nights you can organise. If you want to recreate the scene from The Notebook, you can even look for your date among the many bean bags in the Royal Botanical Gardens, as the Moonlight Cinema is the perfect night. The Moonlight Cinema opens on the 1st of December this year, and it books out fast. You can book your tickets online to prevent any disappointment.

Dates: December

Address: Birdwood Ave, South Yarra, VIC 3141
Phone: (03) 9252 2429 or +61 3 9252 2300

15. Get Close to Furry Farm Animals at the Collingwood Children’s Farm

Price: Adult: $17, Child: 2–17 yrs $8, Child under 2 yrs: $0

• Why we like this idea: Unique date ideas are great for animal lovers and those who enjoy coffee dates. It’s like the perfect animal adventure park that’s local and is one of the fun things you can do that isn’t too far or too expensive.

Get out of the city and cosy with some furry farm animals at the Collingwood Children’s Farm. It’s always good to get away from the CBD and de-stress by playing with some sweet little farm animals that will melt your date’s heart. Visit the Farm cafe for fresh espresso shots or a hot almond cappuccino; it may warm up more than your belly. Collingwood Farm is indeed targeted at kids, but who wouldn’t love getting up close to cute animals on a date?

Address: 18 Heliers Streets, Abbotsford, VIC 3067
Hours: Mon-Sun 9:30am-4:30pm
Phone: (03) 9417 5806

16. Grape Stomping at Noisy Ritual

Price: from AU$130pp

• Why we like this idea: An urban winery like Noisy Ritual provides some of the best unique date ideas in Melbourne. Blending more than just wine, you’ll become a specialist in all things romantic after this date, and it’s all about looking forward to the next one.

Noisy Ritual, a haven for food, music and booze lovers, will give you that truly unique date night. Make your wine from grape to glass and do some grape stomping. The wine stomping is only available via membership (Feb-April of each year), but otherwise, they’re open as a bar from Thursday, Friday, and Sunday if you want to pop in for some wine, cheese or a tasting flight!

Address: 249 Lygon Street, Brunswick East VIC 3057
Hours: Thu 5 pm-10 pm, Fri 5 pm-11 pm, Sat (sometimes), Sun 1 pm-7pm
Phone: (03) 8394 2772

17. Take a Bike Ride On the Yarra River

Price: from AU$99

• Why we like this idea: This low-maintenance date is ideal for active couples who like the outdoors and want to get to know each other in a relaxed setting.

Why not bike around the city and learn about Melbourne’s rich history and culture? Blue Tongue Bike’s tours follow iconic landmarks around the city. Blue Tongue Bike’s guided tours are also available in a Brews n Bikes variation, where you can discover Melbourne’s best craft breweries. This outing is perfect for a daytime date, where you can get active during the ride and then cool down with a few pints afterwards!

Address: 2 Rebecca Walk, Melbourne VIC 3000
Hours: Daily during summer, spring, and autumn seasons from 10am
Phone: 0490 553 673

18. Hit the Driving Range at Melbourne Golf Park

Price: from AU$18 for 50 balls, $10 for club hire

• Why we like this idea: Our hot tip is to visit for a game of Beer’N’Bash with 100 balls and beer from $30 on weekdays and weekends.

Hit a few balls at Melbourne Golf Park (previously Albert Park Driving Range) for a sporty date during the weekend. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a complete novice and prefer a mini golf session instead, Albert Park will care for you and your date because it’s all about having fun and enjoying your time together. What makes Albert Park the perfect spot is, it’s location against the stunning backdrop of Melbourne.

Located in: Albert Park
Address: Driving Range, Aughtie Dr, Albert Park VIC 3206
Hours: Mon 10am-11pm, Tues-Fri 7am-11pm, Sat-Sun 7am-10pm
Phone: (03) 9696 4653

19. Catch A Drive-In Movie in Dromana Drive-In

Price: from AU$18

• Why we like this idea: There’s something innately human about a drive-in movie; it’s famed as the old-school heartthrob date that’s fuelled love stories for centuries. Why not make a weekend of it and stay in the Mornington Peninsula?

For cinema viewing done a little differently, experience a movie at Dromana Drive-In. The quintessential dating go-to when you’re unsure what to do, but the comfort and seclusion of your car outweighs sitting in a cinema full of strangers. This cinema also has an authentic 50s-style American dinner so you and your partner can snack on classic nibbles during the movie.

Address: 133 Nepean Hwy, Dromana VIC 3936
Phone: (03) 5987 2492

20. Imitate Life at a Drawing Class at The Butterfly Club

Price: from AU$22

• Why we like this idea: As far as date ideas go, this is one of the most enjoyable date nights you can experience when first getting to know someone. So bring your drinks, kick back and bring your best Picasso arm.

Try a life drawing class with Drawing Straws at The Butterfly Club on Tuesdays at 7:30 pm. The wickedly fun drawing classes have a burlesque theme, and you can continue your date by enjoying a show and a drink after your sketching session. Perfect to let loose in a fun and vibrant setting!

Address: 5 Carson Place, Little Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Hours: Tuesdays at 7:30pm
Phone: (03) 9663 8107

21. Go on a Chocoholics Walking Tour

Price: from AU$99

• Why we like this idea: A unique date idea perfect for a sweet tooth and backed by romance and chocolate, and those two make a potent combination when put together. 

This is one for the chocoholics who just can’t help themselves. Take a Chocolate Walking Tour for the ultimate expedition through Melbourne’s secret lanes and arcades and discover Melbourne’s treasured chocolatiers. Available in 2 delectable variations, Melbourne Lanes and Melbourne City, this is your chance to explore this rich city with a bit of sweet romance.

Address: Melbourne Lanes meets outside The Block Arcade on Elizabeth Street, Block Court. Melbourne City meets outside St. Paul’s Cathedral, Flinders Street.
Hours: Melbourne Lanes starts at 10:45am, and Melbourne City starts at 2:15pm
Phone: 1300 915 566

22. Public Skating at O’Brien Icehouse

Price: from AU$30pp

• Why we like this idea: There’s nothing more attractive than someone who can make fun of themselves and doesn’t take themselves too seriously, and ice skating is often a vector for that.

When you’re looking for fun all year round, go ice skating. After you’ve worked up an appetite from all the skating, head to the café for warm drinks and snacks.

Located in: The District Docklands
Address: Ground/105 Pearl River Rd, Docklands VIC 3008
Hours: Mon 9am-3:45pm, Tues-Thur 9am-10pm, Fri-Sat 9am-11pm, Sun 9am-9:30pm
Phone: 1300 756 699

23. Take a Salsa Dancing Lesson

Price: from AU$59

• Why we like this idea: The Salsa Foundation knows how to spice your night up and bring out your inner artist. To shake things up, you may receive a free beginner’s class so you and your date can learn the art of ‘the Salsa’.

Hit the dance floor with the Salsa Foundation. This fun dating idea will work all year round in Melbourne. It’s easy and accessible, meaning you’ll learn salsa dancing. Do you want the best news of all? The beginner’s salsa class is free.

Address: 600 Little Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Hours: Mon 6-10pm, Tues-Thur 5:30-10pm
Phone: 0400 933 285

24. Visit the National Gallery of Victoria

Price: Free

• Why we like this idea: Visiting art galleries is a free and cheap option for a date that still shows thought and care. Those who visit Melbourne tend to head to Federation Square, so if you’re from out of town, bring your date to the city centre for a night of exploration and fun.

Fewer date ideas are cooler than art gazing at the National Gallery of Victoria. There’s a huge selection of exhibitions from home and abroad over two separate buildings, the NGV International on St Kilda Road and the NGV Australia in Federation Square. You’re in the city’s heart and may even choose to visit the Melbourne Museum.

Address: 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne VIC 3006
Hours: Daily 10 am-5 pm
Phone: (03) 8620 2222

RELATED: Check out the 15 best museums in Melbourne including the National Gallery of Victoria.

25. Paint Your Own Pottery at Glaze It Studio

Price: from AU$

• Why we like this idea: While you aren’t hitting dance floors, this pot painting activity is another way to impress your date without shaking your hips. Instead, channel your inner artist and show them what you’ve got.

Paint some pots at Glaze It Studio for a quirky dating idea in Melbourne. The light-filled studio offers a creative and fun experience decorating ceramics and expressing your artistic side. Staff will guide you through the process, and you’ll have a little keepsake to take home.

Address: 328A Glen Eira Road, Elsternwick VIC 3185
Phone: 0433 723 433

26. Pizza in the Park With Small Print Pizza Bar

Price: from AU$23

• Why we like this idea: This is a simple, no-nonsense date idea that will work for singles and couples. It lets you get to know your date without any overly involving activities like rock climbing, etc.

Small Print Pizza offers free deliveries to Victoria Gardens dog park. All you have to do is order, grab a rug and head to the park across the street. This is a friendly and easy date in Melbourne, as the guys at Small Print Pizza deliver you a tasty hot meal while you and your date relax and soak up the sun.

Address: 388 High Street, Windsor, VIC 3181
Hours: Mon 5 pm-9 pm, Tue-Thu & Sat 4 pm-9:30 pm, Fri 4 pm-10pm, Sun 4 pm-9pm
Phone: (03) 9533 8402

27. Walk St Kilda Beach

Price: Free

• What we like this idea: We love a good beach walk, and there are plenty of bars and eateries near St Kilda beach; just dress warmly and prepare for all seasons. You can also visit Melbourne’s local theme park, Luna Park, for the most traditional Melbourne date.

This is a Melbourne classic. Walk along St Kilda Beach and the esplanade for a tremendous casual afternoon in the sun, or visit Luna Park. The long esplanade is perfect for a stroll, with many rest stops and cafes to choose from. Stop at the pier and take in the ocean views, turn around and do it all over on the return trip.

Address: St Kilda Beach, VIC 3182

28. Rock Climb at Hardrock Climbing, Melbourne CBD

Price: from AU$22pp

• Why we like this idea: Rock climbing is an action-packed date, the perfect opportunity to show what you’ve got. It will eliminate those butterflies in the stomach while taking your date game to new heights.

Rock climbing isn’t going to be the first thing that comes to mind when you’re thinking about great first dates, and you’d be right. However, this would make a great second, third, or fourth date if you’re looking to spice things up. It’s better suited for athletic and adventurous people, but whether you’re a seasoned climber or an absolute beginner, you and your date could have some sweaty fun at any of these rock climbing gyms in Melbourne.

Located in: Verve Apartments
Address: 4/8 Franklin St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Hours: Mon 12-10pm, Tues-Fri 11am-10pm, Sat-Sun 11am-7pm
Phone: (03) 9631 5300

Why You Should Trust Our List

With an editorial team full of foodies, Man of Many has had the unique opportunity to sample and experience perfect date spots in Melbourne. It is also based on our experience, in-depth research and customer reviews of date places in Melbourne. As expert journalists who guide people between competing products and services, we have provided our independent opinion in formulating Man of Many’s selections. Man of Many has utilised Steve Kavakos’ knowledge of his home city. Our editors have considered fun things, cute dates and romantic nights while also making a concerted effort to highlight a few spots outside of the CBD. You can review our editorial policy here regarding how we maintain our independence in our editorial reviews.

Key Things to Consider for Date Night Ideas in Melbourne

The key factors to keep in mind when deciding where to go:

• Location – Is it central for the perfect date?
• Value – Is it value for money?
• Service – Great service goes a long way, especially with big groups.
• Venue – Atmosphere is vital for a fun things to do on date night.
• Romance — Is it romantic?
• Research — Do your research especially if you are going to visit Melbourne.

Alternatives to Melbourne Date Ideas

If you’re looking for other cuisines or food ideas in Melbourne, we’ve covered you with some options listed below. You can also check out our list of Fun Thing To Do in Melbourne. If you’re looking for a more specific cuisine, check out our list of Japanese Restaurants in Melbourne or the Best Italian Restaurants in Melbourne. If you’ve hit a food coma and want to get active, we can also show you the Best Camping sites in Victoria.

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• Best Beer Bars in Melbourne
• Best Outdoor Dining in Melbourne
• Best Sunday Sessions in Melbourne