Melbourne is a beautiful destination to explore, but it’s expensive. I’ve created a full guide to free things to do in Melbourne. If you love art, nature, street culture, or just want to relax with friends, there’s something fun for free waiting for you.
Free Things to Do in Melbourne for Teens
Outdoor Activities of Melbourne
- Royal Botanic Gardens
Take a walk through the gardens; find cool plants, look for turtles in the lake, or just relax on the grass with friends.
- 1000 Steps Kokoda Track
This iconic hike in the Dandenongs is completely free and a great way to push yourself physically while learning some Aussie history.
- Watch the Penguins at St Kilda Pier
There are also penguins in Melbourne! After sunset and you might see them around the rocks at the end of the pier.
- Brighton Beach
Take a picture in front of the famous colorful beach boxes, or just enjoy the waves and sunlight.
- Riverslide Skate Park
Carry your skateboard or scooter and show your skills to people at one of the best skate parks in Melbourne.
- Join a Free Walking Tour
Many local companies offer free city tours. They’re fun, full of facts, and a great way to discover Melbourne with a guide.
City Exploration
- Hosier Lane
Hosier Lane is famous and continuously changing. It’s like an outdoor art gallery that never stays the same.
- Federation Square
This Place always has something going on—free exhibitions, live screens, and interactive installations for teens to explore.
- Southbank
Southbank is a great place to relax by the river and take in the street performers and city skyline.
- Queen Victoria Market
While shopping isn’t free, the market often has free music, entertainment, and cultural events.
Museums and Culture
- National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)
Australia’s oldest and most visited art gallery, and it’s completely free. Explore modern art and international exhibitions.
- Melbourne Museum
Free for under 16s! Learn about dinosaurs, Aussie history, and science in a place that’s interactive.
- ACMI
Their permanent exhibitions are free and fun for anyone into media.
- Koorie Heritage Trust
Learn about the original culture through art and storytelling. Located in Fed Square and always free.
- Street Art Self-Guided Tour
Melbourne is known for street art. Plan a route and hit places like Croft Alley, Duckboard Place, and Union Lane.
Nature Beauty
- Royal Park
Melbourne’s biggest park is full of walking tracks, wildflowers, and space for games or picnics.
- Fitzroy Gardens
Fitzroy Gardens is famous for its fountains, tiny Tudor village, and beautiful paths.
- Albert Park Lake
Walk around the lake, watch the swans, and maybe even see some rowing teams.
- Yarra Bend Park
The Yarra Bend Park has trails, beautiful views, and even a flying fox colony at dusk—pretty wild for the city!
- Carlton Gardens
Bring your mates and hang out near the fountains. It’s also a great photo place with the Royal Exhibition Building in the background.
Unique Experiences
- Shrine of Remembrance
Climb to the balcony and enjoy a peaceful.
- Moomba and White Night festivals
Moomba is full of concerts, rides, and a parade. White Night transforms the city with light shows and concerts, great for teens to discover with friends.
- State Library Victoria
Inside, you’ll find amazing architecture, comfortable lounges, art exhibitions, and free workshops and discussions.
- Tour Parliament House
You can take a free tour of Victoria’s Parliament and even sit in the chamber seats. It’s surprisingly fun and educational.
- Yarra Bend at Dusk
Go to Yarra Bend around sunset to watch thousands of fruit bats fly out from the trees. It’s like a mini wildlife documentary, but real life.
Fun with Friends
- Picnic at Treasury Gardens
Take snacks, carry a speaker, and enjoy a chill afternoon under the trees with friends.
- Play Outdoor Basketball
Hit up one of Melbourne’s many free public basketball courts, like those at Flagstaff Gardens or Carlton.
- Cycle Along Capital City Trail
Bring a bike and explore this scenic 29km loop that connects parks, rivers, and urban views. Even if you don’t do the whole thing, parts are perfect for a weekend ride.
- Docklands Park
Docklands has a modern feel with free art installations, an awesome playground, and wide open space to skateboard, run, or lounge.
- Birrarung Marr
This unique tunnel reacts to motion and sound, offering an interactive, futuristic experience right by the river.
Art and Creativity
- Join Free Art Workshops (NGV Teens)
NGV often runs free creative programs for teens—like drawing classes, screen-printing, or digital design sessions.
- Graffiti Paths
Take your phone or camera and discover the coolest graffiti places. It’s a dream for anyone into photography or social media content.
- Blender Studios
This local artist collective often opens its entries to the public. You can chat with artists, see new works by artists, and feel part of the creativity.
- Abbotsford Convent Grounds
This heritage site offers peaceful gardens, free exhibitions, and sometimes free music events. It’s a chill place to relax and feel inspired.
Best Places to Visit
- Secret Rooftop Garden at Curtin House
Not many teens know this one! Curtin House has a cool rooftop with a garden feel and amazing views of Swanston Street.
- Degraves and ACDC Lane
Degraves is great for photos, while ACDC Lane rocks (literally).
- Free Libraries Across Suburbs
Little street libraries are everywhere in Melbourne. It’s a fun way to find something surprising.
- Gym at Princes Park
Princes Park has free fitness equipment. Great for teens who like a bit of a workout outside.
- Labyrinth of Chinatown
Discover the arcades, smells, and sights of Chinatown. While eating food might cost money, the atmosphere and neon lights are completely free.
Events in Melbourne
- Watch Free Outdoor Movies (Summer Series)
During summer, parks like Fed Square and Docklands host free outdoor movie nights.
- Join Free Workshops during Melbourne Knowledge Week
This week-long event brings tech, creativity, and science to life with free talks, workshops, and demos, great for curious teens.
- Visit Open House Melbourne
Once a year, Melbourne opens up its coolest buildings for public tours. You can discover theatres, old jails, TV studios, and more for totally free.
Tech & Science Activities
- Science Gallery Melbourne
This space regularly has free entry exhibitions on cutting-edge science, tech, and design—designed especially with young people in mind.
- Watch Free Planetarium Shows (Certain Dates)
While not always free, some special events at Scienceworks offer free planetarium access. It’s a cosmic trip without spending a cent.
More Social Ideas
- Join Free Youth Events at Local Councils
Many local councils run free teen events—like movie nights, workshops, open mics, and game tournaments. Just check the local council’s site.
- Helper at a Local Event
Want to meet new people? Offering your service at festivals, libraries, or community gardens is a great way to have fun and grow your skills.
Conclusion
Who says fun has to cost money? Melbourne shows that you don’t need to spend a large amount of money to enjoy more. If you’re enjoying nature, learn about their culture, skating, taking pictures, or just meeting with friends, something is amazing for every teen, also for every group of age group.
