Arguably Australia’s cultural capital, there won’t be a shortage of things to do in Melbourne when you’re here for IAGR in October 2022.

You’ll find Melbourne a truly multicultural city, filled with world-class art, vibrant music and comedy scenes, historic architecture and a food scene unmatched anywhere in Australia.

To get you started, our conference hosts, Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission, have put together some top picks for when you’re on the ground.

National Gallery Victoria (NGV)

NGV is the largest and oldest art institution in Australia. Make sure you catch one of its blockbuster visiting exhibitions or view the free permanent exhibitions.

Melbourne Cricket Ground (pictured)

The locals simply call it ‘the G’ and, with a capacity of 100,000, it is home to some of the great sporting events held in Victoria.

If you’re game (don’t mind the pun), head to a cricket match. On non-match days, there are tours that take you through the stands, changing rooms and coach areas. There is also a National Sports Museum attached to the G where you can find out more about Australia’s favourite pastimes.

Queen Victoria Market

The Queen Vic Market was officially opened in 1878 and has since operated as a cemetery, a livestock market, and a wholesale fruit and vegetable market. Today, it’s one of the city’s most vibrant community centres, with entire halls dedicated to produce including meats, cheeses and artisan wares.

Melbourne International Jazz Festival

From 14 to 23 October 2022, Melbourne will be celebrating the world’s leading modern jazz masters and showcasing jazz culture alongside leading and emerging contemporary Australian artists. The Festival will feature events across the city.

Theatre and shows

Melbourne’s theatre scene offers a wealth of entertainment, from hit musicals to cutting-edge performances and late-night cabaret shows. Big productions such as Harry Potter and the Cursed Child will be playing or, if you are a lover of ballet, perhaps grab tickets for a three-part festival starting 20 October that will showcase the depth, range and diversity of the nation’s dance community.

Staying a bit longer?

There’s plenty to do outside of Melbourne. To the south, there is the Mornington Peninsula, where the rolling countryside meets the sea. For those partial to raising a glass, the Yarra Valley is one of Australia’s best-known wine regions. And Daylesford is a town to the north of the city renowned for its food scene and healing natural mineral springs.

Mornington Peninsula

The lush land of the peninsula lends itself to great produce. You’ll find small farms with all types of fresh foodstuffs and picturesque vineyards across the rolling hills. Of note, Point Leo Estate is set across 50 acres and is home to one of the finest sculpture parks showcasing over 60 Australian and international exhibits.

Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges

Less than an hour from Melbourne, the Yarra Valley is Victoria’s oldest wine region with the first vines planted in 1838 at Yering Station. There are over 80 vineyards to check out, many with cellar doors where you can try and buy wine.

Simply known as the Dandenongs, here you will find mountain and forests, scenic villages and renowned gardens to wander around and while the day away. You can also get up close and personal with 200 species of native animals and birdlife at Healesville Sanctuary wildlife park.

Daylesford

Also an hour from Melbourne, Daylesford is filled with striking landscapes, quirky cafes and general stores, and an abundance of health and wellness spots to help you unwind.

Great Ocean Road

If you can hire a car, consider taking a drive along one of the world’s most scenic coastal roads. You’ll see the rugged beauty of the 12 Apostles (although only 8 proudly stand there now), lush rainforests and pristine beaches along the way.