Staying put this summer? Enjoy these 7 activities in and around Melbourne
Summer is finally here. And with sun, comes a whole lotta fun – especially in Melbourne. There’s so much to do in our city – and its backyard – that staying close to home this summer can be as jam-packed or as relaxing as you’d like.
And, if you’re anything like the team at Gary Peer, you’ve already been jotting down things to do this silly season. But to help you narrow down your itinerary, we’ve come up with seven Melbourne-area must-dos. Let’s get exploring!
Sip the rosé at Pt Leo Estate
The Western Port side of the Mornington Peninsula is a hidden gem. And that’s exactly where you’ll find Pt. Leo Estate: a winery with wow.
Spanning over 50 acres, the winery’s vineyard grows the grapes for its very own chardonnay, pinot noir, pinot gris and shiraz.
But what really attracts visitors from near and far? The Estate’s 330-acre Sculpture Park. Enjoy a stroll through a tableau of 60 large-scale, awe-inspiring sculptures, while drinking in (quite literally!) the horizon-spanning ocean views.
After a wine and a walk, you’ll be ready for a feed. So head on over to Laura, the Estate’s restaurant, to treat yourself and your loved ones to a fine dining experience.
Trust us – you’ll be on cloud wine!
Scope out the sport
Summer is when footy fans hunt for other sports to fill their weekends. But with tennis and cricket in full swing, they’re spoilt for choice.
If you’re a menace for tennis, checking out the Australian Open is a no-brainer. And why not perch yourself at the Beach House while you watch the match? With sand, water, cabanas, drinks and activities all day, it’s the perfect place to kick back, soak up the sun and take in the tennis.
And is it really Australian summer if the cricket’s not on? Having truly passed the test of time, cricket is often regarded as Australia’s most popular summer sport. So this summer, slather on the sunscreen and head to the ‘G to be part of one of the most passionate crowds in the country.
Catch a complimentary concert
For over 90 years, the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra has been treating the city’s music fans to concerts at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl.
The best part? They do it for the passion, not the price! So you and your family can enjoy the cadence of classical music – cost-free.
And while you listen, look around! With a twilight sky above and green gardens surrounding you, these are the summer moments your kids will remember for a lifetime.
Get the adrenaline pumping – in nature
After some spectacular scenery with a side of nerves? Well, award-winning Enchanted Adventure Garden in Arthurs Seat will have you yelling – yahoo!
We recommend the Grand Tree Surfing experience. With over 50 aerial obstacles – including bridges, rock climbing walls, Tarzan swings and ziplines – the park’s team makes sure you won’t forget this experience any time soon. Just don’t look down!
Still, the Enchanted Adventure Garden offers something for all comfort zones. And, if you prefer to keep your feet planted firmly on the ground, the park’s greenery is a gorgeous way to do it. Wander through its gardens, tube slides and canopy walks, and get lost in its wonderland mazes.
Only an hour out of Melbourne, it’s a small journey – for a big day of fun!
Watch a feature film in the open air
Each year as the weather warms up, Melburnians choose to catch the must-see flicks outdoors instead of in.
Not sure where to go? Well, say hello to our go-tos: Moonlight Cinema, Classic Rooftop, Lido on the Roof and Cameo Cinema.
So one balmy night, grab yourself a ticket, some popcorn and a drink – shaken, not stirred – and head to an outdoor cinema near you.
Cool down at the museum
If you can’t handle the heat, museums have the best air conditioning around.
So why not spend those melt-worthy days appreciating art at some of Melbourne’s mesmerising museums?
In such a creative city, finding a place to indulge in innovation and imagination takes a simple Google search. But here at Gary Peer, we have some favourites to share.
You’ll always strike gold at the NGV, Melbourne Museum, Immigration Museum, ACMI, Scienceworks and the Australian Music Vault.
Float your boat down the Yarra River
With companies like Go Boat and On A Boat, you can captain your own cruise down the Yarra – with no need for a supervisor or a license!
But if your boating skills are below par, simply sit back and relax. Nibble on your own food and drink. And let the boat company skipper ferry you down one of Victoria’s most iconic waterways.
After all, that serenity you’re looking for this summer might just be in the middle of the city. All aboard!
