Melbourne is a city full of hidden gems and lesser-known spots that are worth exploring. Here are some recommendations from Redditors on unique and interesting things to do in Melbourne:
Cultural and Historical Sites
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Abbotsford Convent: A beautiful riverside setting with a creepy Hogwarts gothic vibe, various arty but lowkey performances. "Abbotsford convent (beautiful riverside setting, creepy hogwarts gothic vibe, various arty but lowkey performances ( check to see what’s on first)"
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Footscray Market: Offers Venezuelan restaurant, pho, Pacific and Southeast Asian veggies. You can walk from here through the little Africa district and surrounding streets towards the village-like Yarraville. "Footscray market - Venezuelan restaurant, pho, pacific and southeast Asian veggies."
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Astor Theatre: Arthouse in beautiful if slightly tatty art deco splendor. "Astor theatre - Arthouse in beautiful if slightly tatty art deco splendor."
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Lygon Street: Italian al fresco dining, readings bookstore, arthouse films at the Nova, shisha and Indonesian gelato at Beku. "Lygon street - Italian al fresco dining, readings bookstore, Arthouse films at the Nova, shisha and Indonesian gelato at beku."
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Smith Street: Known for street art, op shops, and hipstery stuff. Vintage warehouse is a must-visit. "Smith Street if you havent already. This sounds like Ground Zero for the kind of stuff you would like - street art, op shops, hipstery stuff."
Unique Markets and Shops
Outdoor and Nature
Unique Dining and Bars
Art and Exhibitions
Hidden Gems and Quirky Spots
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Nicholas Building: Get a lift to the top floor and walk your way down, exploring interesting studios, galleries, book and record stores. "Go to the Nicolas Building in the city, get a lift to the top floor and walk your way down the levels, so many interesting studios, galleries, book and record stores and it's a great old art deco building."
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Sofitel 35th Floor Toilets: Known for their great views. "Sofitel 35th floor toilets (if you know, you know, just walk in and have fun!)"
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Elvis Presley Shrine: In the Melbourne General Cemetery in Carlton, the only authorized Elvis monument outside of the USA. "There’s a shrine to Elvis Presley in the Melbourne General Cemetery in Carlton. It was unveiled by Johnny O’Keefe in 1977, and is the only authorised Elvis monument outside of the USA."
Subreddits for More Local Advice
These subreddits are great places to ask for more personalized recommendations and get up-to-date information from locals. Enjoy exploring Melbourne's hidden gems!