Top 10 Things to Do in Melbourne Today – Wednesday, June 18, 2025
Melbourne is buzzing with incredible events and activities today! From world-class exhibitions to vibrant live music and cozy winter markets, there’s something for everyone in Australia’s cultural capital. Here are the top 10 things you absolutely must do in Melbourne today.
1. Experience French Impressionism at NGV International
Immerse yourself in the masterpieces of Monet, Van Gogh, Renoir, and Degas at the NGV’s blockbuster exhibition featuring over 100 works from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. This winter masterpiece showcases some of the most beloved artworks in history, including pieces never before seen in Australia. The exhibition runs until October 5, 2025, so today is perfect for avoiding weekend crowds.
Book tickets and learn more at NGV International
2. Explore the Star Wars Universe at Melbourne Museum
Step into a galaxy far, far away with the incredible Lego Star Wars Exhibition at Melbourne Museum. Created by renowned Lego genius Ryan ‘Brickman’ McNaught, this mind-boggling display features massive Star Wars brick creations up to four meters tall. The exhibition includes interactive activities for all ages and even features a pop-up Star Wars-inspired café!
Visit Melbourne Museum for tickets and information
3. Catch Live Music Tonight – Spacey Jane at PICA
Music lovers are in for a treat tonight with Spacey Jane performing at Port Melbourne Industrial Centre for the Arts (PICA), featuring special guests Phoebe Go and The Moving Stills. This is part of their highly anticipated tour and promises to be an unforgettable night of indie rock.
Check Songkick for tickets and venue details
4. Discover the Queen Victoria Winter Night Market
Tonight’s Wednesday Night Market at Queen Victoria Market is an absolute must-do! From 5pm to 10pm, the iconic market sheds transform into a winter wonderland featuring global street food, hot drinks, live entertainment, and specialty shopping. Warm up with piping hot soup in bread bowls, churro ice cream, and mulled wine while enjoying silent disco parties and roving performers.
Free entry – Queen Victoria Market Winter Night Market
5. Enjoy Comedy at The Comics Lounge
Get your laughs in tonight with “Best Of The Melbourne Comedy Festival” at The Comics Lounge running from tonight through Saturday. This venue showcases some of Australia’s finest comedians and is perfect for midweek entertainment. The intimate setting makes for a memorable comedy experience in North Melbourne.
Book tickets at The Comics Lounge
6. Immerse Yourself in Cats & Dogs at NGV Australia
Discover the fascinating relationship between humans and their four-legged companions at this charming exhibition featuring over 250 works of art, design, and fashion. Running until July 2025, this free exhibition at the Ian Potter Centre explores how cats and dogs have influenced culture, mythology, and everyday life across different eras.
Free entry at NGV Australia, Federation Square
7. Take a Stroll Through Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne
Enjoy the crisp winter air with a peaceful walk through one of the world’s finest botanic gardens. The gardens offer free guided walks daily, and you can join a ClimateWatch walk to contribute to important climate research while exploring the beautiful landscapes. With over 8,500 plant species, it’s the perfect place for nature lovers.
Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne – Free daily guided walks
8. Experience Rising Festival Events
Melbourne’s winter arts festival, Rising, is transforming the CBD with weird and wonderful events. Don’t miss the quirky mini-golf experience in the historic Flinders Street Station ballroom – a unique Melbourne experience that combines heritage architecture with contemporary art and entertainment.
Check What’s On Melbourne for Rising Festival locations
9. Explore Melbourne’s Famous Laneways and Street Art
Take advantage of the winter weather to explore Melbourne’s iconic laneway culture. Wander through Hosier Lane, AC/DC Lane, and Degraves Street to discover ever-changing street art, hidden cafes, and boutique shops. The cooler weather makes it perfect for leisurely exploration without the summer crowds.
Melbourne Street Art Guide – Visit Melbourne
10. Discover Wurrdha Marra at NGV Australia
End your cultural day with this ongoing, dynamic exhibition celebrating First Nations art and design. Located on the ground floor of the Ian Potter Centre, this ever-changing space showcases masterpieces and never-before-shown works from the NGV’s First Nations collection, offering deep insights into Indigenous Australian culture and artistic traditions.
Free entry at NGV Australia, Federation Square
Melbourne is buzzing today—get out and enjoy the action! Whether you’re into world-class art, live music, delicious food, or cultural experiences, this incredible city has something special waiting for you every single day.
