
15 Things To Do in Melbourne When You’re in Town for the Australian Open
Add these off-the-court activities to your Melbourne itinerary for when you’re in between matches.
Attending a concert at the Forum Melbourne is a quintessential experience for music fans. Shows take place at the venue’s two different stages. The Forum I is the main stage and its lavish design is unmistakable, complete with an original 1920's mosaic floor, marble columns, and a sky-blue ceiling dotted with twinkling lights. Upstairs, the Forum II is a smaller, more intimate venue often used for private events and screenings.
Forum Melbourne is located on Flinders Street in the heart of downtown Melbourne. The venue is easily reached on foot from many central attractions—it’s right opposite Federation Square. The closest train station is Flinders Street, a 2-minute walk away, while trams stop right outside (Stop 6 - Russell Street).
Live music concerts are held at the Forum several nights a week. Doors typically open at 7:30pm, with support acts taking to the stage around 8pm and the headliner around 9pm. The Forum also hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including Melbourne International Comedy and Film Festivals (March/April), Melbourne Jazz Festival (May/June), and Melbourne International Arts Festival (October).
Aussies often rave about Melbourne’s live music scene and the city has produced numerous popular bands over the years, including Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, Crowded House, Jet, Dirty Three, and the Temper Trap. Music fans can attend a concert at the Palais or Festival Hall; check out local bands at venues such as Birds Basement, the Old Bar, and Prince Bandroom; or grab a drink at rock bars such as Cherry Bar and the Ding Dong Lounge.