King's Birthday Long Weekend Melbourne 2026 — Things to Do, Events & What's Open

King's Birthday Long Weekend Melbourne 2026 — Things to Do, Events & What's Open

Your complete local guide to making the most of the June long weekend in Melbourne

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There's something special about a long weekend landing right in the heart of a Melbourne winter. The King's Birthday long weekend — falling on Saturday 6 June to Monday 8 June 2026 — is that perfect excuse to rug up, get out, and enjoy everything this city does brilliantly in the colder months. Whether you're planning a cosy staycation, chasing the first snow of the season, or just wondering if the shops are actually open (spoiler: they are), this guide has you covered.

Let's get into it.

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When Is the King's Birthday 2026 in Victoria?

The King's Birthday public holiday in Victoria falls on Monday 8 June 2026. This gives Melburnians a glorious three-day long weekend:

• Saturday 6 June — Regular weekend
• Sunday 7 June — Regular weekend
• Monday 8 June — King's Birthday Public Holiday

If you're strategic with your leave, taking Tuesday 9 June through Friday 12 June off gives you a nine-day break (Sat 6 June – Sun 14 June) for just four days of annual leave. Just saying.

Why Is It Called the King's Birthday?

Since 2023, the holiday has been known as the King's Birthday, following the accession of King Charles III to the throne after the passing of Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022. Before that, Victorians knew it as the Queen's Birthday — same long weekend, new name.

Fun fact: King Charles III was actually born on 14 November 1948. The June date has nothing to do with his real birthday. It's a tradition dating back to King Edward VII (who reigned from 1901 to 1910). Edward was also born in November, but rather than making troops parade in the cold for the Trooping the Colour ceremony, he shifted the official celebration to the warmer months. The tradition stuck — even in Australia, where June is decidedly not warm.

In Victoria, the King's Birthday is observed on the second Monday of June, in line with most other Australian states. Queensland and Western Australia march to the beat of their own drum and celebrate on different dates later in the year.

For the official list of Victorian public holidays, check the Victorian Government's public holidays page.

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What's Open on the King's Birthday in Melbourne?

Here's the question on everyone's lips: can I actually go shopping?

Yes. Yes, you can.

The King's Birthday is a public holiday, but it is not a restricted trading day in Victoria. Only three days each year carry restricted trading rules: Good Friday, ANZAC Day, and Christmas Day. The King's Birthday isn't one of them.

What this means in practice:

Shopping Centres & Major Retailers

• Chadstone, Highpoint, Westfield Doncaster, Eastland, Northland — open, typically with slightly reduced hours (think 10am–5pm or 10am–6pm instead of the usual 9am–9pm)
• Melbourne Central, Emporium Melbourne, QV — open with public holiday hours
• DFO South Wharf and DFO Essendon — open and usually bustling, as outlet shopping on a public holiday is a Melbourne tradition
• Most standalone retailers — open at the discretion of the business, but the majority in shopping strips like Chapel Street, Bridge Road, and High Street Armadale will trade

Supermarkets

• Coles and Woolworths — generally open with reduced hours (often 9am–6pm or 10am–6pm)
• Aldi — typically open with shorter hours, though individual stores may vary
• IGA and independent grocers — most will open, hours vary by store

Cafés, Restaurants & Bars

Melbourne's hospitality scene doesn't stop for a public holiday — if anything, it leans into it. Expect:

• Most CBD cafés and restaurants to be open, especially in areas like Degraves Street, Hardware Lane, and Lygon Street
• Rooftop bars and cosy winter cocktail spots — absolutely open
• Some smaller independent cafés may choose to close, so check their socials before trekking across town for your favourite flat white
• Be aware: public holiday surcharges of 10–15% are common across hospitality venues

Public Transport

• Trains, trams, and buses run on a public holiday/Sunday timetable on Monday 8 June
• Services are generally less frequent, so plan accordingly — especially for trains to regional areas
• Myki fares apply as normal; there's no free travel on public holidays

Other Services

• Melbourne Museum, Scienceworks, Immigration Museum — open (standard hours)
• NGV International and NGV Australia — open and free for general admission
• Melbourne Zoo — open daily including public holidays
• SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium — open
• Most pharmacies — open with reduced hours; look for the "duty pharmacist" roster in your area
• Post offices — generally closed on the public holiday Monday
• Banks — closed on Monday

The bottom line: Almost everything is open. You might find slightly shorter hours and a surcharge on your eggs benny, but Melbourne doesn't shut down for the King's Birthday.

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Things to Do in Melbourne on the King's Birthday Long Weekend

Indoor Activities — Because It's Winter

June in Melbourne means temperatures sitting around 8–14°C, frequent rain, and the kind of grey sky that makes you want to be inside, holding something warm. Here's how to make the most of it.

Hit the Galleries and Museums

Melbourne's gallery and museum scene is genuinely world-class, and winter is arguably the best time to explore it.

• NGV International (St Kilda Road) — Always free for the permanent collection, plus there's usually a blockbuster winter exhibition running. The NGV typically launches major shows in late autumn/early winter, so the King's Birthday weekend is prime time.
• The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia (Federation Square) — Australian art from colonial times to contemporary. Free entry.
• ACMI (Federation Square) — The Australian Centre for the Moving Image is a gem. Free permanent exhibitions, plus ticketed features. Their Game Worlds interactive exhibition has been a recent standout.
• Melbourne Museum (Carlton) — From the Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre to the dinosaur walk, it's a full day out. Perfect for families.
• Scienceworks (Spotswood) — The planetarium alone is worth the trip. Book ahead for Lightning Room shows.

Get Cosy at a Laneway Bar

Melbourne's laneways come into their own in winter. There's something about ducking down a narrow alley, pushing open a heavy door, and finding yourself in a candlelit bar with a cocktail menu the length of your arm.

• Bar Americano (Presgrave Place) — Standing room only, perfect Negronis, tiny and wonderful
• Eau de Vie (Malthouse Lane) — Speakeasy vibes, excellent whisky list
• Beneath Driver Lane — Underground cocktails, literally
• Heartbreaker (Russell Street) — Rock and roll, cheap drinks, good times
• Boilermaker House (Lonsdale Street) — Whisky and beer pairings in a warm, moody setting

Catch a Show

The winter theatre season is always stacked in Melbourne. While specific June 2026 programming hasn't been announced at time of writing, here's what typically runs:

• Arts Centre Melbourne — Check for musicals, ballet, and drama at the State Theatre, Playhouse, and Fairfax Studio
• Princess Theatre and Her Majesty's Theatre — Major musical theatre productions
• Malthouse Theatre — Independent and provocative Australian theatre
• Comedy Theatre, Regent Theatre, Forum Melbourne — Everything from stand-up to opera

Indoor Sports and Recreation

• LEGOLAND Discovery Centre (Chadstone) — A hit with kids, and secretly fun for adults
• Holey Moley — Mini golf and cocktails. Multiple locations across Melbourne.
• Escape rooms — Try Trapt in the CBD or Escape Room Melbourne for a team challenge
• Bowling — Strike Melbourne Central and Kingpin Crown are solid options

Warm Up with Melbourne's Best Hot Chocolate

Because you need one. Or three.

• Koko Black (Royal Arcade) — Rich, Belgian-style hot chocolate
• Mörk Chocolate (North Melbourne) — The campfire hot chocolate is iconic
• Ganache Chocolate (various locations) — Local, artisan, exceptional
• San Churro (various locations) — Churros + hot chocolate = winter perfection

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Outdoor Activities — For the Brave and the Bundled-Up

Yes, it's cold. No, that shouldn't stop you.

Walk the Tan

The Tan Track around the Royal Botanic Gardens is stunning in winter. The gardens look completely different in the cooler months — misty mornings, bare European trees against moody skies, fewer crowds. The 3.8km loop is flat and well-maintained. Reward yourself with a coffee from one of the cafés along Domain Road or in the gardens themselves.

Explore the Street Art

Melbourne's street art doesn't have a season. Hosier Lane, AC/DC Lane, Blender Lane, and the ever-changing walls of Fitzroy and Collingwood are always worth a wander. It's free, it's outdoors (bring an umbrella), and the art changes constantly.

Head to the Beach (Seriously)

St Kilda Beach in winter has its own charm. The pier is quieter, the sunsets are moodier, and you can walk along the breakwater to see the little penguins at dusk without the summer crowds. Grab fish and chips from one of the Acland Street spots and eat them on the foreshore like a true local.

Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens

Beyond the Tan Track, the Royal Botanic Gardens are beautiful in winter. The rainforest gully is lush year-round, the succulent garden is spectacular, and there are often guided walks and programs on public holiday weekends.

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Winter Events in Melbourne Around the King's Birthday

While specific 2026 event listings will be confirmed closer to the date, the King's Birthday long weekend traditionally coincides with several major Melbourne winter events and happenings. Here's what typically runs in late May through mid-June:

Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) Previews

While MIFF itself usually runs in August, preview screenings and related events often begin to pop up from June. Keep an eye on the MIFF website for early announcements.

Rising Melbourne

Rising is Melbourne's major winter arts festival, typically running across late May and into June. It transforms the city with large-scale art installations, music performances, theatre, dance, and late-night events. In past years, Rising has featured everything from immersive projections on Flinders Street Station to experimental music in underground car parks. If Rising 2026 overlaps with the King's Birthday long weekend, you're in for something special.

Melbourne Jazz Festival

The Melbourne International Jazz Festival often runs in or around June. Expect gigs across CBD venues, from Bennetts Lane Jazz Club's spiritual successors to larger performances at Arts Centre Melbourne.

Winter Night Markets

The Queen Victoria Market Winter Night Market is a beloved Melbourne tradition. Running on Wednesday evenings through winter, the market is packed with street food vendors, craft beer, live music, and artisan stalls. If the night market season has kicked off by early June, the Wednesday before or after the long weekend is a great excuse to go.

• Queen Victoria Market — Check their website for 2026 winter night market dates

Open House Melbourne

Open House Melbourne typically runs in July, but its lead-up program of talks and tours sometimes starts in June. It's a rare chance to peek inside architecturally significant buildings that are usually closed to the public — for free.

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Day Trips and Weekend Getaways from Melbourne

The King's Birthday long weekend is perfectly timed for escaping the city. Three days (or more, if you took that extra leave) opens up some brilliant options.

Hit the Snow — Mt Buller, Falls Creek & Mt Hotham

The King's Birthday weekend traditionally marks the unofficial start of the Victorian snow season. Ski resorts typically open their lifts in the second week of June, meaning the long weekend often coincides with opening weekend.

Mt Buller

Just under three hours from Melbourne, Mt Buller is the most accessible major ski resort. Even if natural snow is thin in early June, the resort usually has snow-making facilities running. It's a great spot for:

• First runs of the season — beginner to advanced terrain
• Village atmosphere — restaurants, bars, and lodges
• Non-skiing activities — tobogganing, snowshoeing, scenic chairlift rides

Top tip: Book accommodation well in advance. The King's Birthday weekend is peak booking time for snow lodges. Day trips are possible but tiring — the drive plus resort entry, chains, and parking add up.

Falls Creek and Mt Hotham

Further afield (4–5 hours from Melbourne), Falls Creek and Mt Hotham offer more terrain and typically better early-season snow coverage due to higher elevation. Both are better suited to a full weekend stay.

Lake Mountain

Only 90 minutes from Melbourne, Lake Mountain is a family-friendly option for cross-country skiing, tobogganing, and snow play. It's the closest snowfield to Melbourne and doesn't require snow chains as often as the bigger resorts. Perfect for a day trip with kids.

Soak in Hot Springs

There's no better time to sink into a thermal pool than when it's 10°C and drizzling.

Peninsula Hot Springs

About 90 minutes south of Melbourne on the Mornington Peninsula, Peninsula Hot Springs is Victoria's premier geothermal bathing destination. With over 70 globally inspired bathing and wellness experiences, it's an incredible day out. They offer:

• Bath House — Family-friendly, multiple pools at different temperatures
• Spa Dreaming Centre — Adults-only, tranquil and immersive
• Spa treatments — Massages, facials, body treatments
• Dining — On-site restaurants with seasonal menus
• Accommodation — Glamping and eco-lodges on-site

Book ahead. Peninsula Hot Springs is extremely popular on long weekends, and sessions often sell out weeks in advance.

Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa

In the heart of Daylesford, about 90 minutes northwest of Melbourne, the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa has been operating since 1895. The region is famous for its natural mineral springs, boutique accommodation, and excellent food scene. Combine a soak at Hepburn with:

• A wander through Daylesford's main street (antiques, bookshops, galleries)
• Lunch at Lake House — one of regional Victoria's best restaurants
• A visit to the Convent Gallery
• Drives through the surrounding countryside

Wine Regions

Winter is a gorgeous time to visit Victoria's wine regions. Fewer crowds, misty vineyards, and cellar doors with roaring fires.

Yarra Valley

Just an hour east of Melbourne, the Yarra Valley is home to some of Australia's best cool-climate wineries. The King's Birthday long weekend is ideal for:

• Cellar door tastings — Yering Station, De Bortoli, Oakridge Wines, Chandon Australia
• Long lunches — Ezard at Levantine Hill, Yering Station's restaurant, or TarraWarra Estate
• Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery — Yes, even in winter

Mornington Peninsula

Combine hot springs with wine tasting. The Mornington Peninsula wine region produces outstanding Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, and winter is when the tasting rooms feel their cosiest. Try Port Phillip Estate, Montalto, or Ten Minutes by Tractor.

Great Ocean Road

A long weekend gives you time to drive the Great Ocean Road properly. In winter, the coastline is wild and dramatic:

• The Twelve Apostles in winter light are extraordinary
• Lorne and Apollo Bay are less crowded and full of charm
• Stop at Brae in Birregurra (if you can snag a booking) for one of Australia's best dining experiences
• Whale watching season starts in June along the coast — keep your eyes peeled

Phillip Island

About 90 minutes southeast of Melbourne, Phillip Island is worth a winter visit for the Penguin Parade alone. Watching hundreds of little penguins waddle up the beach at dusk is magical in any season, but in winter, the smaller crowds mean a more intimate experience. The Phillip Island Chocolate Factory is also a crowd-pleaser.

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Markets and Shopping

Queen Victoria Market

The Queen Victoria Market is Melbourne's beating heart. The largest open-air market in the southern hemisphere, it's open on the King's Birthday weekend (check specific public holiday hours on their website). Browse:

• Fresh produce — fruit, veg, meat, seafood, deli goods
• General merchandise — clothing, souvenirs, homewares
• Food hall — grab a bratwurst, jam doughnut, or dim sims (a Melbourne institution)
• Winter Night Market (if running) — Wednesday evenings with street food, live music, and drinks

South Melbourne Market

South Melbourne Market is a local favourite, known for its famous dim sims (the originals), excellent coffee, fresh produce, and artisan goods. A wonderful spot for a Saturday morning wander and breakfast.

Prahran Market

Prahran Market is the foodie's market — smaller than QVM but packed with quality. Think specialty cheeses, fresh pasta, boutique butchers, and seasonal produce. Open Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

The Sunday Market at Southgate

Running along the Yarra at Southgate, this weekly market features local makers, artists, and designers. It runs throughout the year including winter and is a lovely way to spend a Sunday morning.

Bridge Road and Smith Street Shopping

For vintage, thrift, and independent retail, Bridge Road in Richmond and Smith Street in Collingwood are your spots. Both strips are packed with op-shops, boutiques, cafés, and weekend shoppers even in the dead of winter.

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Family Activities for the Long Weekend

Melbourne is a fantastic city for families, and the King's Birthday long weekend gives you time to tick off some bucket-list experiences.

Melbourne Zoo

Melbourne Zoo is open every day of the year, including public holidays. Winter is actually a great time to visit — many animals are more active in the cooler weather, and the crowds are significantly thinner than in summer. Don't miss the new habitats and the Trail of the Elephants.

SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium

Right on the banks of the Yarra, SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is an easy and engaging indoor activity. The oceanarium walkthrough and penguin enclosure are highlights. It's warm, it's dry, and the kids will love it.

Scienceworks and the Planetarium

Scienceworks in Spotswood is one of Melbourne's best family destinations. Interactive exhibits, the Lightning Room electrical show, and the stunning Planetarium make it a full day. Book Lightning Room and Planetarium sessions in advance — they fill up on long weekends.

LEGOLAND Discovery Centre

Located at Chadstone Shopping Centre, the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre is designed for kids aged 3–10 (adults must be accompanied by a child). Features include LEGO-themed rides, a 4D cinema, building workshops, and a miniature Melbourne made from LEGO.

ArtVo Immersive Gallery

ArtVo at The District Docklands is a trick-art gallery where the whole family can pose in 3D optical illusions. It's quirky, fun, and perfect for a rainy afternoon.

Melbourne Star Observation Wheel

The Melbourne Star at Docklands offers 30-minute flights with panoramic views of the city. On a clear winter day, you can see all the way to the Dandenong Ranges and Port Phillip Bay.

Ice Skating

Winter means ice skating season in Melbourne. Look out for pop-up ice rinks that typically appear around June/July at locations like Federation Square or the Melbourne CBD. Check What's On Melbourne closer to the date for specific 2026 locations.

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Free Things to Do on the King's Birthday Long Weekend

You don't need to spend a cent to have a great long weekend in Melbourne.

Free Gallery Entry

• NGV International — The permanent collection is always free. World-class European, Asian, and contemporary art.
• NGV Australia at Federation Square — Free for the permanent collection. Australian art from First Nations to contemporary.
• ACMI — Free permanent exhibitions exploring screen culture and the moving image.

Free Museums and Cultural Spaces

• State Library of Victoria — One of Melbourne's most beautiful buildings. Free entry, stunning architecture, and regular exhibitions. Don't miss the La Trobe Reading Room dome.
• Immigration Museum — Free for kids, affordable for adults, and deeply moving exhibitions on Australia's migration history.
• Koorie Heritage Trust (Federation Square) — Free exhibitions celebrating Aboriginal culture and art.

Free Walking Experiences

• Street art walking tour — Do it yourself through Hosier Lane, AC/DC Lane, Caledonian Lane, Blender Lane, and up through Fitzroy and Collingwood
• Royal Botanic Gardens — Free entry, open daily. Guided walks sometimes available on weekends.
• Federation Square — Always free to visit, with regular free events and performances
• Shrine of Remembrance — Free entry to the memorial and galleries. The rooftop terrace offers panoramic city views.
• The Tan Track / Yarra River trails — Beautiful winter walks along the Yarra from Southbank to Abbotsford or beyond

Free City Tram Zone

Melbourne's CBD is covered by the Free Tram Zone, meaning you can hop on and off trams within the central city without touching your Myki. This makes exploring the CBD, Docklands, Federation Square, and Queen Victoria Market easy and free.

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The History of the King's Birthday Holiday in Australia

The King's Birthday holiday has a fascinating and slightly quirky history.

A Birthday That's Not Really a Birthday

Australia has celebrated the reigning monarch's birthday as a public holiday since at least 1788, making it one of the oldest observed holidays in the country. But the date has rarely — if ever — aligned with the actual birthday of the sitting monarch.

The tradition of celebrating on a date other than the real birthday began with King Edward VII (1901–1910). Born on 9 November, Edward wisely decided that standing around watching military parades in the cold was no fun, and moved the official celebration to a warmer month. Every subsequent monarch has continued this tradition.

From Queen to King

For most living Australians, this holiday was the Queen's Birthday, honouring Elizabeth II's 70-year reign. When King Charles III ascended to the throne on 8 September 2022, state and territory governments updated their public holiday legislation to reflect the change. The first "King's Birthday" was celebrated in 2023.

In practice, nothing changed except the name. Same day, same traditions, same long weekend.

Different Dates, Different States

While most Australian states observe the King's Birthday on the second Monday of June, it's not universal:

Queensland moved its celebration to October in 2016 to avoid clashing with other winter events, while Western Australia's date is set annually by the state governor.

The Honours List

The King's Birthday is also when the King's Birthday Honours List is announced. This is the biannual awards list recognising Australians who have made significant contributions to their communities, professions, or the country. Titles like Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) and Member of the Order of Australia (AM) are conferred on this day.

21-Gun Salute

At noon on the King's Birthday, a 21-gun salute is traditionally fired at key locations around Australia, including at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne. It's a brief but stirring moment if you happen to be in the area.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When is the King's Birthday in 2026?

The King's Birthday public holiday in Victoria is on Monday 8 June 2026. The long weekend runs from Saturday 6 June to Monday 8 June.

Is the King's Birthday a public holiday in Victoria?

Yes. The King's Birthday is a gazetted public holiday in Victoria. Employees who normally work on a Monday are entitled to the day off (or penalty rates if they work).

Are shops open on the King's Birthday in Melbourne?

Yes. The King's Birthday is NOT a restricted trading day in Victoria. Most shops, shopping centres, and supermarkets are open, though many will operate on reduced hours. Only Good Friday, ANZAC Day (25 April), and Christmas Day are restricted trading days in Victoria.

Do I have to pay a surcharge at cafés and restaurants?

Many hospitality venues apply a public holiday surcharge (typically 10–15%) on the King's Birthday Monday. This is legal and standard practice across Melbourne. It's usually noted on the menu or at the entrance.

Is public transport running on the King's Birthday?

Yes. Trains, trams, and buses run on a Sunday/public holiday timetable on Monday 8 June. Services are less frequent than normal weekdays, so check PTV for specific timetables.

What's the weather like in Melbourne in early June?

Expect typical winter conditions. Average temperatures range from 8°C to 14°C. Rain is likely — Melbourne averages about 10 rainy days in June. Pack layers, a waterproof jacket, and an umbrella. That said, Melbourne can surprise you with a crisp, sunny winter day that makes everything sparkle.

Is it too early for snow in June?

Not at all. Victorian ski resorts typically open for the season in mid-June, and the King's Birthday weekend often marks the unofficial start of the snow season. Natural snow coverage may be light, but resorts like Mt Buller use snow-making facilities to ensure skiing and snowboarding are available. Early season conditions can be excellent — fewer crowds and fresh groomed runs.

Can I do a day trip to the snow from Melbourne?

Yes, but it's a big day. Mt Buller is about 3 hours each way from Melbourne. Lake Mountain is closer at about 90 minutes. If you're just going for snow play and tobogganing, Lake Mountain is the better day-trip option. For serious skiing, an overnight stay at Mt Buller, Falls Creek, or Mt Hotham is recommended.

Is the King's actual birthday in June?

No. King Charles III was born on 14 November 1948. The June date is a historical convention. The tradition of celebrating the monarch's birthday on a date other than their actual birthday started with King Edward VII, who moved the celebration to a warmer month for the Trooping the Colour parade. Australia has maintained the June tradition ever since (in most states).

What's the best free thing to do on the long weekend?

It's hard to beat the NGV (free entry to permanent collections at both locations), combined with a walk through Federation Square, along the Yarra River, and through the Royal Botanic Gardens. You could easily spend a full day doing all of this without spending a cent — just pack a thermos and some snacks.

Do I get penalty rates if I work on the King's Birthday?

For most employees under the national employment standards, the King's Birthday is a public holiday, which means you're entitled to penalty rates if you work. The specific rate depends on your award or enterprise agreement — it's commonly double time or double time and a half. Casual employees are also entitled to penalty rates. Check the Fair Work Ombudsman for details.

Is the Monday before the King's Birthday (1 June) also a holiday?

No. Only Monday 8 June is the public holiday. The weekend before (30–31 May) is a regular weekend with no special holiday status.

What events are on during the King's Birthday long weekend in Melbourne?

Event programming varies each year. Major events that typically run around this time include Rising Melbourne (winter arts festival), winter night markets, and the start of the snow season. For up-to-date event listings, check What's On Melbourne, Time Out Melbourne, and Broadsheet Melbourne.

Where should I book for dinner on the long weekend?

Long weekends are busy in Melbourne's best restaurants. Book well in advance for popular spots. In the CBD, try Chin Chin, Supernormal, Cumulus Inc., or Tipo 00. For something special, Attica (Ripponlea), Vue de Monde (CBD), or Lûmé (South Melbourne) are worth the splurge. In winter, look for restaurants with fireplaces or cosy settings — the experience is everything.

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Plan Your King's Birthday Long Weekend

Here's a quick itinerary to inspire your long weekend:

Saturday — Explore the City

• Morning: Breakfast at a Degraves Street café, then browse the NGV
• Afternoon: Laneway walk for street art, followed by hot chocolate at Mörk
• Evening: Dinner in Chinatown, drinks at a rooftop bar

Sunday — Day Trip

• Option A: Drive to the Yarra Valley for cellar door tastings and a long lunch
• Option B: Head to Peninsula Hot Springs for a full day of bathing and spa treatments
• Option C: Chase the snow at Mt Buller or Lake Mountain

Monday — Slow and Local

• Morning: Queen Victoria Market for breakfast and shopping
• Afternoon: Melbourne Museum or Scienceworks
• Evening: Cosy pub dinner at a local neighbourhood spot

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Final Thoughts

The King's Birthday long weekend is one of Melbourne's great winter escapes — a chance to slow down, rug up, and remember why this city is brilliant even when the skies are grey. Whether you're skiing at Mt Buller, soaking at Peninsula Hot Springs, exploring the NGV, or just curling up in a laneway bar with a whisky, there's no wrong way to spend it.

Just don't forget to book. Melbourne on a long weekend fills up fast.

Enjoy the long weekend, Melbourne. 🖤

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Last updated: February 2026. Event details and opening hours are subject to change — always check venue websites for the latest information before heading out.

For more Melbourne events and guides, visit amirbrooks.com.au.