The Iglu Guide | Blog
Cool things to do in Melbourne right now
Living at Iglu in Melbourne, you’ll never be short of places to go and things to do. The city is brimming with cultural experiences – and you won’t even have to set foot on a tram to get there. Here’s how to get the very best out of Melbourne living, and make the most of your uniquely central location.
What’s near Iglu Melbourne City?
Centrally positioned in the heart of the action, Iglu Melbourne has an unrivalled advantage when it comes to city living. And when that city just happens to be the cultural capital of Australia, it makes sense to set aside a little time to explore.
Start out with Queen Victoria Markets located just across the road, and the largest market in the southern hemisphere. Operating for over 140 years, this bustling inner-city community unfailingly offers up fresh produce, artisan goods and specialty shopping – as well as the very best in food and coffee. Factor in the live music, entertainment and night markets and you might find it hard to go home.
Just under 5 minutes in the opposite direction will take you to Flagstaff Gardens, the oldest park in the city. In service since 1862, these peaceful lawns and garden features are the perfect place to unwind after a long day studying – or somewhere to linger over a picnic on a sunny Melbourne day.
If you’re after a change of study scene, head to Melbourne’s State Library. Established back in 1854, this is officially Australia’s oldest public library and the beautiful domed reading room is definitely worth a visit alone. At just 10 minutes’ walk from your bedroom, if you forget to bring along one of your books it’s not a problem.
When you’re in the mood for a light-hearted night out, head north of Flagstaff gardens and try out the live musical restaurant experience that is Witches in Britches. Promising surprises around every corner, once you finish your meal you can dance it off at the Dungeon Disco and then amble a whole 7 minutes back to bed.
If comedy is more your thing, Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre is on hand for live entertainment and is perfectly located just 20 minutes’ walk away from Iglu Melbourne City. This elegant, balconied space has been promoting talent since 1928 and holds a special place in the entertainment scene.
Loop round to Chinatown on your way home and explore the laneways, alleys and rooftop bars that crisscross the area. Don’t miss out on the hawker-style eateries that will keep you coming back for more.
With so much going on outside your door, it’s easy to forget you’re only 25 minutes’ walk from all the wonderful shopping that Bourke St Mall has to offer, and just 25 minutes from the outstanding National Gallery of Victoria. Founded back in 1861, the NGV is Australia’s oldest, largest and most visited museum and must not be missed.
What’s near Iglu South Yarra?
Once a retreat for the rich and well-to-do, today South Yarra is filled with shops, bars, restaurants and activities that welcome everybody to the area. Blending foodie passion with cool vibes and fresh experiences, the area has attracted like-minded individuals over the years and has evolved into an epicentre of diversity that continues to thrive and grow.
Sitting at the heart of the action, Iglu South Yarra has prime pickings on all the action. If you want to sample the best of Melbourne shopping, Chapel Street has the answer. Actually starting on Toorak Street, just minutes from your door, this area is famed for its fashion forward feels. From local designers to international brands and everything in between, this truly is retail heaven on a plate.
Keep heading down Chapel Street and you’ll find yourself at Prahran Market within 15 minutes. This popular foodie destination has a delicious range of fresh produce on offer – be sure to get there Sunday afternoon to snag a bargain or two.
For a more chilled experience, take a 10-minute stroll up to the Yarra River and enjoy a meander along the banks to Como Park. Home to Como House, this park is famed for its spectacular views overlooking the water – hence the Italian-inspired name.
Grab some friends and head to the Jam Factory for a movie, less than 10 minutes’ from your bedside. Dedicated to tempting, entertaining and inspiring you all in one place, this ex-Jam Factory (no, really) now has 15 cinema screens, dining options and retailers hand-picked for your delight.
Even closer to home is the art deco inspired Palace Cinema Como. This glammed up theatre offers the very best in arthouse, foreign and cutting-edge flicks with a café and bar to complete the experience.
And when it’s time to just chill, you can take it down a notch at Fawkner Park, a popular Melbourne hangout. Combining shaded pathways with grassy parklands and community sports fields, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Melbourne living just doesn’t get any better.
