Three’s a crowd, so what’s eight? Ten? Twenty!? Knowing that entertaining a large group of people can be a bit like herding cats, we’ve done the legwork to help take some of the planning out of your next group activity. Whether you’re booking for a big family gathering, organising a work outing, or just rounding up a group of pals for an unforgettable day out, we’ve got you covered with the best group activities in Melbourne right now.
Grab the gang and head out to the best group activities available in Melbourne right now!
1. Make some magic at Harry Potter™: The Exhibition
A spellbinding experience for Muggles and magical folks alike, Harry Potter™: The Exhibition has Apparated into town with a load of props, interactive experiences, and photo opportunities in tow. We had the chance to check it out before it opened to the public, and found it utterly enchanting; your group will be able to choose their house, interact with familiar faces, and generally feel as if they’ve stepped off the Hogwarts Express. Check out the group bookings on offer here.
2. Play an ‘Among Us’ style game at Saboteurs
If you loved playing the online multiplayer game, Among Us, you’ll want to check out Saboteurs, an immersive, space-themed game played inside 11 converted shipping containers. As a crew member, you’ll complete tasks around a designated moon base with plenty of features like a Decontamination Unit, Sleep Pods, a Medbay, Mining Tools and more. But, beware! There may be an imposter on the ship. Stop and eject these sinister players before they ‘eliminate’ you and your crew.
3. Check out the bar behind bars, Alcotraz
We normally can’t endorse anything that’ll put you behind bars, but we’ll make an exception for Alcotraz. An immersive, Prohibition-themed bar, this place will mix up delightful drinks and add an element of free-spirited fun, as you’ll need to evade the watchful eyes of the warden to sip your drinks in peace. The bar offers the option of special occasion bookings, and even private hire if your party is big enough. Check it out here.
4. Put your tastebuds to the test at Dining in the Dark
A team dinner is a tried-and-tested way to connect, but we’d suggest putting a fun spin on it with this unusual Dining in the Dark experience at Cha Ching on Flinders Lane. Eating in total darkness, and with only vague hints from the menu – ‘meat’, ‘seafood’, or ‘vegan’ menus are all the info you’ll get – you’ll need to rely on your tastebuds to figure out what you’re eating. It’s sure to enhance your dining experience, and figuring out the menu with your colleagues can help break down barriers and forge friendships. Check it out here.
5. Have a madcap day out at Hijinx Hotel
Hijinx Hotel in Chadstone certainly isn’t your average hotel; you’re here to play, not to stay. Inside each room lies a fantastical challenges, and in teams of two to six, you’ll have to tackle several of them during your visit to earn points and top the leaderboard. The competitor in me thinks that’s a perfect excuse to divide your group into teams and go for the victory, but you might fancy a more low-key hotel stay…
6. Beat the clock at 123Boom!
123Boom! has brought its explosive mix of immersive challenges to Australia. You’ll get the chance to become the main player in a high-energy adventure filled with interactive games, team challenges, and an epic finale. Think rooms filled with lasers, interactive screens, and arcade-style games that demand quick thinking, coordination, and a bit of bravery.
7. Visit the seductive Museum Of Desire
Don’t worry, this isn’t just a gratuitous sex museum… The Museum Of Desire is a bold, avant-garde exploration of love, sex and desire that leans into art and class. Expect 25 interactive, sensory-rich spaces with intertwining seductive art, interactive installations, and provocative ideas designed to inspire connection, exploration, ignition and fun. Get your tickets to Melbourne’s hottest event in town here.
8. Immerse yourself in SENSAS
SENSAS is a one-of-a-kind, immersive sensory experience where you and your team are taken on a wild journey through challenges designed to test and engage your five senses in ways you’ve never imagined. We’re talking about two hours of pure, exhilarating fun in the “Sensory Labs” that will leave you and your group buzzing with excitement.
9. Set sail on Titanic: A Voyage Through Time
Experience the tragedy of the Titanic like never before with this virtual reality experience. Dive to the wreck site, then journey back in time to explore iconic spaces around the ship, such as the Grand Staircase. Along the way, you’ll meet characters based on real passengers and crew members. Titanic: A Voyage Through Time is now open at 206 Bourke Street in Melbourne. Get your tickets here.
10. Experience the magic of a Candlelight concert
The candlelit performances have taken place at venues like The Athenaeum and The Astor Theatre as well as at The Timber Yard, the Meat Market and Fed Square. With more venues being added to the growing list, there’s a Candlelight concert around every corner. See what’s on here.
11. Bop along to The Jazz Room
Why not take a trip to the jazz-filled joints of New Orleans to forget the hiccups of the working day? Hosted at Brunswick Ballroom, The Jazz Room invites Melbourne’s talented jazz musicians to tear up the stage with an intoxicating blend of ragtime, blues, and improvised jazz numbers. Pick up a cocktail from the bar, and lose yourself in the music, as you enjoy the camaraderie and cheer of an unforgettable night. Tickets can be found here.
12. Bob around Docklands on an Aquadonut
Perhaps best enjoyed on a sunny day, you may have seen the bright orange Aquadonuts floating around the waters of Melbourne before, filled with grilling, chilling pals on a nautical adventure. That could be you, as the BBQ boats are available for hire and can seat up to ten people, with a nominated captain steering you through the serene waters. Head along from 7-10pm and you can rent them out for karaoke sessions – the sea shanties are optional, though.
13. Assemble the squad for a day out at the MCG
Sports are all about community, the thrill of cheering on your team to victory – or commiserating when they inevitably lose on the last play of the game. Gladiatorial sporting arenas don’t come much better than the venerable MCG, so whether it’s the Big Bash or the AFL, you’ll want to round up a group of willing pals and come ready to roar the players to glory.
14. Book in a group relaxation at a peaceful, candlelit sound bath
We’ve hopefully relieved some of the stress of planning your group day out, but to wash away the rest of your everyday stress, give Mindful Glow a go. Taking place at Collingwood Town Hall, this magical sound bath takes place amongst the glow of candles, and is led by an experienced practitioner who’ll lead you on a guided meditation. Let the soft sounds carry away your tension, and your group will leave here feeling refreshed and invigorated. Book a spot here.
15. Take your group gaming sessions IRL at Fortress
Billed as a ‘house of games’, Fortress is more of a mansion for gamers, with its own e-sports arena, an arcade full of classic favourites, and PC gaming stations with more than 100 games available. If your gang’s idea of a day well spent includes first-person shooters, squad battles, or thrilling races, this might just be the place for you. Plus, you can unwind with a drink and hearty meals at The Tavern, whether you’re celebrating glorious success or commiserating a last-ditch loss…
16. Battle the board game at Monopoly Dreams
Better than sitting down for a game of Monopoly, round up the gang for a day out at Monopoly Dreams, an immersive experience which brings the classic board game to life. As you tackle physical challenges and puzzling adventures, you’ll succeed or fall short as a group, bringing your squad closer together. Group, party, and school bookings are all available on their website.