10 unique gift experiences for under $50 in Melbourne

Things come and go, but memories last a lifetime. And in an action-packed city like Melbourne, you don't have to splurge to find the best gift experiences. Whether you’re hunting for unique gift experiences in Melbourne that are entertaining, educational, or exhilarating, we’ve gathered an inspiring list that guarantees smiles without breaking the bank.

1. Go karting

If you’re after pure thrill, nothing beats the high-speed rush of Ace Karts in Albion. This is one of Melbourne’s top adrenaline gift ideas under $50. Our 700-metre outdoor track offers an unbeatable racing experience for all skill levels:

• Super Karts that hit up to 75 km/h, perfect for adults and seasoned racers who crave speed and tight turns.
• Rookie Karts are explicitly designed for beginners and kids (ages 6+), offering a safe and confidence-boosting first experience.
• Two-seater karts for adults with junior passengers are ideal for family fun or introducing younger kids to racing excitement.

Race sessions start at just $49, and our gift cards can cover race packages, snacks, drinks, merchandise, and even future bookings. What's more, Ace Karts provides all necessary safety equipment, including helmets and briefing sessions, ensuring every participant feels secure and ready to hit the track.

For anyone searching for unique gift experiences Melbourne locals rave about, Ace Karts delivers heart-pounding fun, competitive excitement, and a chance to create thrilling memories that go beyond a typical gift. Whether you're buying for a birthday, holiday, or just because, it's a sure-fire way to give the gift of speed and adventure.

ROOKIE KART

Are you starting your racing journey? Our Rookie Kart is ideal for beginners, offering safe speeds and easy handling for ages 6-11. It’s the perfect way to introduce kids to the excitement of go karting, with plenty of fun around every corner.

Top Speed

40km/h

Handling

Easy steering for beginners

Learn more

2-Seater Kart

For young racers not quite ready to drive solo, our 2-Seater Kart is the perfect solution. Share the excitement with an adult in our tandem karts while enjoying the smooth handling and mid-speed thrills of our popular outdoor karting track.

Top Speed

55km/h

Handling

Easy and comfortable

Learn more

SUPER KART

Our Super Kart is perfect for thrill-seekers who love high-speed fun and want to feel the speed with the fastest karting on the track. With a finely tuned Honda engine boasting impressive horsepower and highly responsive handling, it’s designed for those ready to test their limits on our technical turns to test your skills and wide and twisty track.

Top Speed

75km/h

Handling

Highly responsive

Learn more

2. Melbourne Zoo

Let the kids go wild while learning about the importance of caring for animals and the environment. Melbourne Zoo is open every day of the year from 9am to 5pm. 

Not only is it a place to admire majestic lions, playful orangutans, and graceful giraffes up close, but it's also an educational hub where visitors of all ages can learn about conservation efforts, endangered species, and how we can help protect the planet. Stroll through beautifully designed habitats, attend fascinating keeper talks, and watch the animals during their feeding times, all of which turn a simple zoo visit into an immersive experience.

Adults’ general admission is $38, but kids under 16 get in free on weekends, public holidays, and school holidays — extra savings for treats, stuffed koalas, or even a stop at the zoo’s cafes for lunch.

3. Trampoline park

A session at one of Melbourne's trampoline parks, such as Bounce Inc, will put a spring in almost anyone’s step. 

With ninja obstacle courses, dodgeball arenas, and foam pits, this is one of the most playful experience gifts Melbourne offers. But there’s more to these parks than just bouncing – many also offer slam dunk basketball zones, climbing walls, and even parkour areas for those wanting to test their agility and coordination.

You can book a casual session, join a fitness class, or even arrange a group booking for birthdays or special occasions, making it a versatile gift idea for all ages. Entry starts at just $10 for kids on weekdays, and adults can join the fun too, making it a perfect activity for families or friends looking to laugh, play, and create energetic memories together.

4. Mini golf

Putt your way to fun at one of Melbourne’s many quirky mini golf spots. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly daytime fun or something a bit cheekier like late-night adult sessions with cocktails and music, Melbourne has a mini golf experience to match every vibe.

From glow-in-the-dark courses under UV lights that transport you to another world to creatively themed obstacle challenges that test your putting precision, these venues go beyond the standard mini golf experience. Some spots even offer rooftop mini golf with spectacular city views, making the outing as Instagram-worthy as it is entertaining.

Prices start from just $10, making this an easy, affordable gift option that suits families, couples, or groups of friends. For the competitive at heart, why not turn the experience into a fun tournament with small prizes or challenges along the way? Mini golf is not only a game but a chance to laugh, connect, and enjoy one of the most charming experiences Melbourne has on offer.

5. Luna Park

The historic Luna Park has been making special memories for over a century. You can ride the classic Ferris wheel, enjoy the charming carousel, or take on pulse-racing rides like the Power Surge and the iconic Scenic Railway, one of the oldest roller coasters in the world. Beyond the rides, Luna Park offers carnival games, fairy floss, and old-fashioned fun that evokes a nostalgic charm.

Entry is just $5, or splash out on an unlimited ride pass for under $50, making it a fantastic and affordable gift option. You can even plan a day of laughter, photo ops, and seaside fun right next to St Kilda Beach.

6. Bike tour

Explore the city on two wheels! Give the gift of adventure with a bike or e-bike rental. A full day on an e-bike starts at $50, offering an eco-friendly, fun way to see Melbourne’s iconic laneways, gardens, and river trails.

But it’s not just about transportation – it’s about immersing yourself in the city’s unique personality. Imagine cycling past vibrant street art in the inner suburbs, stopping at hidden coffee spots, or riding along the Yarra River to catch a stunning sunset. Many rental companies provide maps, recommended routes, and even guided tours for those who want a little extra insight into Melbourne’s culture and history.

It’s a fantastic way to cover more ground than walking and soak in the sights at your own pace. Whether your gift recipient is an avid cyclist or just looking for a fun and active day out, this is a great choice for outdoorsy friends who love unique gift experiences Melbourne has tucked away, blending fitness, exploration, and unforgettable memories.

7. IMAX movies

Sure, we all love Netflix – but there’s nothing quite like seeing a movie on the giant seven-storey-high IMAX screen. The sheer scale of the screen, combined with state-of-the-art surround sound and crystal-clear visuals, completely immerses you in the film, making even the most familiar stories feel fresh and awe-inspiring.

Whether it’s a blockbuster, an animated family favourite, or a breathtaking documentary about space or wildlife, this experience offers something special for every type of movie lover.

You can even plan the outing to include a visit to the Melbourne Museum next door or grab a bite at one of the nearby cafes, turning it into a full afternoon of fun. Adult tickets start at $23; kids from $12, making it an affordable but memorable gift option that goes far beyond a regular movie night.

8. Indoor rock climbing

For those with a head for heights, indoor rock climbing is an unforgettable challenge. Many Melbourne climbing gyms welcome beginners, families, and experienced climbers alike, offering a wide range of climbing walls, from gentle beginner routes to advanced overhangs that test strength, balance, and problem-solving skills.

These gyms often provide helpful instructors, beginner-friendly induction sessions, and all the necessary safety equipment, so even first-timers can feel confident. Sessions typically start around $30 including gear hire, making it an accessible and exciting gift idea.

9. Williamstown ferry

Relax and unwind with a scenic Williamstown ferry trip. Cruise from Southbank through Docklands, under the Westgate Bridge, and into the charming seaside suburb of Williamstown.

Along the way, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Melbourne skyline, historic shipping docks, and maybe even spot playful seals or seabirds if you’re lucky. Once in Williamstown, the adventure continues: stroll through quaint streets lined with boutique shops, enjoy fresh fish and chips on the beach, visit local art galleries, or explore maritime history at the local museum.

Adult return tickets are $32, and kids (ages 4–14) are $14, making it a cost-effective gift that delivers relaxation and exploration.

10. Aquarium

Dive into the wonders of the underwater world with a visit to SEA LIFE. Your gift recipient will come face to face with sharks, penguins, giant rays, and even a massive crocodile. But that's just the start!

SEA LIFE offers interactive touch pools where visitors can touch starfish and sea cucumbers, fascinating talks from marine experts, and breathtaking underwater tunnels that give the sensation of walking beneath the ocean. The park also has themed zones showcasing everything from the vibrant coral reefs of tropical seas to the mysterious creatures of the deep.

Adult tickets are $42, and kids’ tickets are $28, making it a fantastic value for the depth of experience provided.

Still searching for the perfect gift?

Still searching for the ultimate gift for a speed demon? Look no further than an Ace Karts gift card. It’s the closest they’ll get to pro racing without needing a fireproof suit. Just 20 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD (off the Western Ring Road), Ace Karts offers an unbeatable mix of speed, fun, and adrenaline, making it one of the best gift experiences Melbourne thrill-seekers can enjoy. Check out our race packages and get ready to take a lap.