Melbourne is a city that has a special way of working its magic despite the strangely grey skies and pouring rain. Famous for its colourful culture and active way of living, this city never sleeps and provides a great list of indoor attractions regardless of the weather. 

Whether you like golfing, painting, or simply love finding cute and entertaining immersive experiences, Melbourne will not disappoint you. Now, let’s go through some things to do in Melbourne on a rainy day. 

Exciting Things to Do in Melbourne on a Rainy Day

1. Virtual Golf at X-Golf Clyde North and X-Golf Preston

Rainy weather doesn’t have to dampen your passion for golf. At X-Golf Clyde North and X-Golf Preston, you can indulge in state-of-the-art indoor activities and golfing experience. These venues combine cutting-edge technology with a comfortable environment, allowing you to perfect your swing without braving the rain.

The simulators at X-Golf provide a realistic golfing experience, featuring detailed replicas of some of the world’s most famous courses. The advanced ball tracking technology ensures accurate feedback on your shots, helping you improve your game. 

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer looking to sharpen your skills or a beginner wanting to learn the game, X-Golf offers an enjoyable and immersive experience. With food and drink options available, it’s also a great spot to hang out with friends or family on a wet afternoon. Special deals and group bookings make it a budget-friendly option as well.

2. Mini Golf at Hey Caddy Preston

Mini golf enthusiasts rejoice! Hey Caddy Preston offers a vibrant and quirky indoor mini-golf experience perfect for the rainy day activity in Melbourne. The venue is designed with a fun, family-friendly atmosphere that makes it ideal for all age groups.

Each hole features creative themes and challenges, ensuring plenty of laughs and friendly competition. From navigating winding tunnels to tackling cleverly designed obstacles, every hole is a new adventure. The indoor setting guarantees a great time regardless of the weather outside. 

Plus, the venue often hosts themed events, such as glow-in-the-dark mini golf nights, and offers delicious snacks and beverages, making it a memorable spot to visit during Melbourne’s unpredictable weather. For parents, it’s also a stress-free option to keep kids entertained.

3. Explore Melbourne’s Art at National Gallery of Victoria

For art lovers, the National Gallery of Victoria is a haven of creativity and inspiration. Located in the heart of Melbourne, this iconic gallery houses an extensive collection of art from around the world. It boasts masterpieces by renowned artists and is a perfect place to make it to the list of best indoor activities in Melbourne. 

The NGV’s indoor exhibitions are perfect for a rainy day. From classical art to modern installations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The gallery also hosts special exhibitions and events. It offers visitors an opportunity to engage with art in unique ways. 

The highlights include a water wall at the entrance, immersive multimedia exhibits, and interactive workshops for children. Whether you’re admiring the stunning architecture or exploring the latest exhibits, this art gallery  is a must-visit destination. Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop for unique souvenirs or the café for a cozy coffee break.

4. Dive into Australian Art at Ian Potter Centre

The Ian Potter Centre, dedicated to Australian art is another addition to the list of rainy day activities in Melbourne.  Located at Federation Square, this venue showcases a diverse range of artworks. It celebrates Australia’s rich cultural heritage and showcases indigenous art to contemporary pieces. This will help you take a deep dive into the nation’s artistic journey. 

Each gallery room tells a story and has a number of indoor adventures for you. It weaves together themes of culture and nature. The interactive exhibits and guided tours provide additional layers of understanding as well. This makes the place a fantastic learning experience for visitors of all ages. 

Further, its central location makes it easily accessible. Plus, the warm, inviting interiors provide a perfect escape from the rain. You must take your time to explore the exhibits here. If you’re lucky, you might catch a live artist talk or workshop to enrich your visit.

5. Discover Marine Wonders at Sea Life Melbourne

Sea Life Melbourne is an aquatic wonderland. It offers a magical escape from the wet weather. This indoor aquarium is home to a wide variety of marine life. It includes penguins, sharks, rays, and colourful fish.

One of the highlights of Sea Life Melbourne is its immersive experiences. This includes walking through the Oceanarium’s glass tunnel. You’ll feel as though you’re underwater, surrounded by fascinating marine creatures. The penguin exhibit is particularly popular here. It offers a chance to watch these adorable animals frolic in a simulated Antarctic environment. 

For families, the interactive rockpool exhibit allows kids to touch and learn about sea stars and other creatures. With interactive displays, live feeding sessions, and engaging exhibits, Sea Life Melbourne is an excellent activity for families. Even couples or anyone looking to learn more about the underwater world will enjoy their time here. 

6. Solve Mysteries at Escape Rooms

If you’re up for a mental challenge, Melbourne’s escape rooms offer an exciting indoor adventure. These rooms are designed to test your problem-solving skills as you work with a team to solve puzzles and uncover clues within a set time frame.

Melbourne boasts a variety of themed escape rooms, ranging from mystery and horror to science fiction and fantasy. Popular options include Trapt and Escape Hunt, each offering a unique storyline and set design. These immersive experiences are perfect for groups of friends or family looking to bond over a shared challenge. Escape rooms not only provide a thrilling experience but also keep you dry and entertained on a rainy day. Be sure to book in advance, as slots often fill up quickly on wet days.

7. Knock Down Some Pins at Bowling Alleys

Bowling is a classic activity that never goes out of style, and Melbourne’s modern bowling alleys are no exception. Venues like Strike Bowling and Kingpin offer a mix of traditional bowling and contemporary entertainment options.

With neon lights, music, and gourmet food options, these bowling alleys provide a lively atmosphere that’s perfect for rainy days. Many venues also offer additional activities, such as laser tag, arcade games, and karaoke rooms, making them a one-stop entertainment hub. Whether you’re competing with friends or enjoying a casual game with family, bowling is a guaranteed way to have fun indoors. Don’t forget to check for any ongoing deals or packages to make the most of your visit.

8. Experience Live Art at Contemporary Theaters

Melbourne’s theater and museum scene is vibrant and diverse, making it an excellent choice for indoor entertainment on a rainy day. From contemporary plays to musicals and experimental performances, the city’s theaters offer something for everyone.

Venues like Malthouse Theatre and Arts Centre Melbourne host a variety of performances throughout the year. The intimate settings and world-class productions ensure an unforgettable experience, even when the weather outside is less than ideal. 

For those new to theater, many venues offer behind-the-scenes tours and pre-show talks to enhance your experience. It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Melbourne’s artistic culture while staying cozy indoors.

9. Relax and Unwind at Spa and Wellness Centers

A rainy day is the perfect excuse to pamper yourself, and Melbourne’s spa and wellness centers offer the ultimate relaxation. From soothing massages to luxurious facials and wellness therapies, these centers provide a rejuvenating escape from the hustle and bustle.

Popular spots like Crown Spa and Aurora Spa Retreat offer serene environments where you can unwind and recharge. Many spas also feature hydrotherapy pools, steam rooms, and yoga classes, allowing you to create a personalized wellness experience. Indulging in self-care on a rainy day is a delightful way to make the most of Melbourne’s wet weather while focusing on your well-being.

10. Glide on Ice at Indoor Ice Skating Rinks

If you fancy something different and fun without being outdoors, the Melbourne indoor skating rinks are the best. O’Brien Icehouse is a recommended option, featuring a large, clean-surface rink ideal for beginners and professional skaters alike. Given that ice skating is an indoor activity, both amateur and professional skaters can enjoy it for recreation. 

You will also find special programs like Disco on Ice, Disco Skating, and DiscoBlade. The seating area is to one side of the playing field to ensure viewers have a good view while following the game and sipping tea and coffee at the neighbouring café.

Conclusion

Activities to do on a rainy day in Melbourne do not have to be boring or sad at all. There are countless Melbourne museum tours, galleries, theatres and other attractions that can keep you indoors while you have all the fun. 

Whether the activity is taking a swing at X-Golf, appreciating artworks on display at The National Gallery of Victoria or exploring aquatic life at Sea Life Melbourne, there is always something special to look forward to.

So, what are you waiting for? Haven’t you packed a bag already?