6 things to do in Melbourne Winter

Winter in Melbourne is anything but dull! This vibrant city comes alive on a cold winter’s day, transforming into a wonderland of exciting activities, cozy escapes, and unforgettable experiences. Whether it’s cheering on your favourite AFL team, skating under twinkling lights, or exploring snow-dusted mountains, there’s so much to embrace.

August is the winter season here in Victoria, and as locals who love a thrill, we’ve done pretty much everything there is to do when the chill comes around. While there are a million and one things to do and places to visit, we’ve collected the 6 best things to see and do in Melbourne this winter (well, our favourites anyway). Whether you’re in Melbourne’s inner city or decide to go searching the regional surrounds in winter for a new thrill, there’s plenty to do. 

So, grab your gloves, your puffer jacket and a steaming hot chocolate and let’s get going!

1. Get the live AFL experience

Melbourne is the birthplace of AFL, and come winter, Footy Season may as well be the city’s official religion. The crazed sporting atmosphere is contagious, and tickets are cheap, so it’s no surprise that AFL has the highest attendance at all sporting events across Australia. Matches take place until the end of September at the MCG and Marvel Stadium.

Tips for enjoying an AFL game

• Book early: Secure your tickets in advance to get good seats and avoid freezing in the nosebleeds.

• Dress warmly: Bring gloves, a beanie, and a thick jacket. Melbourne’s winters can be chilly, especially in the stands.

• Grab a pie: No AFL game is complete without a classic meat pie from the concessions.

Bonus tip for sports lovers: The MCG Tour is highly recommended if you want to know more about Melbourne's sporting culture while exploring one of the world's most iconic stadiums.

Alongside the passionate sport scene, locals and visitors alike enjoy a thriving arts and culture hub. Melbourne is the art capital of Australia, and the proud home to one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious film festivals. Running every year since 1952, the Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) returns this winter from the 1st-18th of August.

Why MIFF is a must-do

• Global talent: See films from the most innovative filmmakers worldwide.

• More than movies: Panels, Q&A sessions, and networking events make this festival stand out.

• Flexibility: MIFF passes, vouchers and memberships are available to suit your schedule.

Don’t miss your chance to experience the transformative power of film this winter.

3. Sip and skate at the Winter Village

Melbourne cranks up the chill factor between May and August, transforming Federation Square into a Euro-style winter wonderland. Skate on the ice rink before devouring winter-themed food and drink inside a gigantic communal igloo.

What to know before you go

• First-timers welcome: Skates, helmets, and lockers are available for hire.

• Private igloos: Book a private igloo for an exclusive group experience.

• Season passes: Get the best value for money with a season skate pass for the whole family.

4. Hit the slopes

The city is cool, but if you want a real winter experience, you need to take a little drive out of town. Contrary to popular belief, Australia does get snow, and with less than 2 hours of driving from the CBD, you can toboggan at Mt Donna Buang.

Best spots for winter fun

• Mt Donna Buang: Perfect for family picnics and free tobogganing.

• Mt Stirling: A 4-hour drive from Melbourne with breathtaking landscapes and budget-friendly ski options.

Pack a picnic, dress warmly, and enjoy the Australian snow with the family.

5. Indulge at the Winter Night Markets

Even if your weekends are pretty quiet over the next few months, we encourage you to brave the cold on Wednesday nights. The Winter Night Market has an installation for anyone — food, music, shopping, live acts!

Highlights to look forward to

• Seasonal treats: Artisan chocolates, mulled wine, American-style BBQ, and churros.

• Christmas in July: Carollers, puddings, eggnog, and prizes for ugly Christmas sweaters.

• Cosy vibes: Fire pits and live music create the perfect winter atmosphere.

6. Race like a pro — rain, hail or shine

We won’t pretend like this isn’t our favourite attraction. Floodlights glow in the cold night air as rain splatters on the wide, wet track. You’ve nailed the corners, but will you be brave enough to take the 105-metre straight at 75 km/h?

Why Ace Karts is the ultimate go-karting experience

• Explore the karts: Ace Karts offers a range of high-performance options. Learn more about the fleet on our karts page.

• Master the track: Ace Karts boasts Australia’s longest and widest outdoor circuit. Check out our track for details on layout and features.

• Perfect for events: From birthdays to corporate outings, Ace Karts caters to all. See our parties and events page for planning inspiration.

• Easy bookings: Ready to race?Book your session!

Bonus tip for motorheads: If you’ve avoided racing in the rain, you’re missing out on the real pro racing experience! Are you ready to Arrive and Drive?

Winter’s not so bad when you know where to go

Melbourne might be chilly in winter, but it’s anything but boring. From the roar of an AFL crowd to the serenity of a snowy mountain, if you’re feeling cold on a chilly day, there’s plenty to do to get your blood pumping! So, grab your coat, rally your mates, and embrace the season like a true Melburnian. Winter adventures are waiting — what’s stopping you?