THE MELBOURNE COLLECTIONS
Start with a total you are both comfortable spending. These ideas have a published entry cost or estimated spending allowance of A$50 or less for two, including the alternative. Meals and drinks are included when they are the date; your order and any surcharges determine the final bill.
Check what each allowance covers and leave room for travel. A free gallery collection does not mean every exhibition is free. A no-extra-cost home evening depends on already owning the listed supplies; cooking plans include a grocery allowance. Check the current menu or tickets before committing.
Melbourne CBD fringe
Explore the plant collections at Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne at your own pace. If the weather looks unsuitable, choose NGV International’s indoor collection before setting out.
See the plan ↗Federation Square
Explore film, television, videogames and interactive displays together at ACMI’s free exhibition, The Story of the Moving Image, in Federation Square.
See the plan ↗AN EVENING IN
A relaxed card night for two at home, once you both feel comfortable meeting there. Allow an hour, with a practice hand if needed, then play for as long as you fancy.
See the plan ↗Melbourne CBD
Meet for a short weekday coffee at Patricia Coffee Brewers in the CBD. It’s standing-room-only, so choose a seated alternative if either of you needs a chair.
See the plan ↗St Kilda
Take a free daylight walk along St Kilda Pier for views across Port Phillip towards Melbourne’s skyline. Check access alerts first; penguin viewing isn’t included.
See the plan ↗Melbourne
Spend an afternoon browsing NGV International’s free art and design collection, following whatever catches your attention.
See the plan ↗Studley Park picnic area
Bring a vegetarian picnic and alcohol-free drinks for a daylight lunch beside the Yarra at Studley Park’s picnic ground in Yarra Bend Park.
See the plan ↗Melbourne CBD
Browse World of the Book at State Library Victoria, exploring book design, production and illustration through more than 300 collection items.
See the plan ↗AN EVENING IN
Choose a romantic comedy from SBS On Demand’s Rom-Com Collection before the evening, then settle in together at home. Snacks are optional; the film is enough.
See the plan ↗Melbourne CBD
Explore Melbourne history together at the Old Treasury Building, a small, free museum on Spring Street.
See the plan ↗