Melbourne is a pretty remarkable place to live on any given day, and if you’re looking to add a little pixie dust to your life, you’ll find lots of ways to make it happen. Feel like you’re living in your very own fairy tale by stumbling across wondrous settings, bewitching shops and enchanting exhibitions. Some of these magical things to do in Melbourne are for adults only, while others are fun for all ages. Are you ready to embark on your own marvellous adventure? Keep reading for that spark of inspiration.
The most magical things to do in Melbourne and beyond
Harry Potter: The Exhibition
Feel like you’ve Apparated from Melbourne to Hogwarts at Harry Potter: The Exhibition. See authentic props and set pieces from the films, and go on your own magical journey. Conjure your own Patronus, test your Quidditch skills and more! Get your tickets here.
📍62 Dawson St, Brunswick VIC 3056
Spellbox
Wander into Royal Arcade and marvel at the iconic store, Spellbox. This spellbinding space in Melbourne sells all kinds of magical wares, including charms, crystals, talismans and books. Take part in psychic readings, and try a bewitching class or two. Nearby, in Block Lane, you’ll also find Spellbox Cauldron, an apothecary filled with potions and herbal charms. Learn more here.
📍Royal Arcade, Shop 17 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000
The Fairies Tree
Editorial credit: Leonard Zhukovsky / Shutterstock.com
The next time you’re in Fitzroy Gardens, take a moment to visit the whimsical Fairies Tree. This delightful tree features carvings of fairies, dwarfs, gnomes and more by Ola Cohn. These carvings were done on the stump of one of the original red gum trees in the garden. The work was completed in 1934. On a plaque in front of the tree, you’ll find the following inscription from Cohn: “I have carved a tree in the Fitzroy Gardens for you, and the fairies, but mostly for the fairies and those who believe in them, for they will understand how necessary it is to have a fairy sanctuary – a place that is sacred and safe as a home should be to all living creatures”.
📍230-298 Wellington Parade, East Melbourne VIC 3002
Witches in Britches
Treat yourself to a wonderfully wicked dinner and a show at Witches in Britches. Walk through the catacombs, tuck into a three course meal and watch a live show. Then, make your way to the Dungeon Disco, where you’ll dance the night away. Sip on themed cocktails throughout the night and soak in the Halloween-inspired atmosphere. More info here.
📍84 Dudley St, West Melbourne VIC 3003
StoryVille
If you’re looking for a bar with a little bit of extra enchantment, then StoryVille is the place for you. Inspired by fairy tales, this themed bar is decked out with lush foliage, glowing mushrooms, cascading lights and more spellbinding elements. Sip on cocktails inspired by your favourite stories, such as Harry Potter or Alice in Wonderland. Then, from 11pm till late, the space transforms into a nightclub, so you can escape your own reality. More info here.
📍185 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000
O3
So, you have to study or do some work. You could do it at home, or you could do it at O3, a workspace that’s like Hogwarts set inside a park. Hit the books or type away on your laptop, while surrounded by trees, ambient lights and more. You’ll also find a treehouse, a car, a digital fireplace and a cafe. Learn more here.
📍87 Queens Bridge St, Southbank VIC 3006
Montsalvat
Feel like you’ve stepped into a European fairy tale at Montsalvat. This picturesque artist community in Eltham was heavily inspired by Medieval architecture in France, as well as Gothic cathedrals in France and Spain. Stroll around this heritage-listed property and encounter stunning chapels, galleries, courtyards and more. Check out their program calendar for exhibitions and workshops, and stick around for a coffee or a glass of wine.
📍7 Hillcrest Ave, Eltham VIC 3095
Puffing Billy Railway
Are you riding a train, or are you taking a magical journey to Hogwarts? Feel whisked away to another time and place when you hop aboard the popular Puffing Billy Railway. Move across trestle bridges and through lush forests in this unforgettable experience. Learn more here.
📍1 Old Monbulk Rd, Belgrave VIC 3160
Little Shop Of Horrors
Little Shop Of Horrors is an excellent place to find a costume and let your imagination run wild. Purchase or hire an outfit that will help you feel like a hero or villain, and take it to the next level with their in-store make up salon. Their showroom is also getting a facelift, and will reopen in just a few weeks, offering more exciting experiences, such as a princess boutique, magical workshops for young witches and wizards and the spooky Nightmare Alley. More info here.
📍16 Bennetts Rd, Mornington VIC 3931
Fairy Park
Go on an adventure and uncover your favourite myths and legends at Fairy Park. Just 25 minutes away from Geelong, this family-friendly attraction features hand-crafted scenes from your favourite stories. Walk around the castle, encounter mystical creatures, let loose on the playground and more. Learn more here.
📍C141/2388 Geelong-Ballan Rd, Anakie VIC 3213
Kyral Castle
Enter a kingdom filled with knights, wizards and more at Kryal Castle. Feel amazed by jousting displays, take part in archery, cast spells, make potions, get lost in a maze and more. Throughout the year, there’s also themed events to look forward too, so you can look out for fairies, goblins, unicorns and more mythical creatures. See what’s happening here.
📍121 Forbes Rd, Leigh Creek VIC 3352
Glow worms in Melba Gully
For a bit of magic in nature, venture into the Otways in search of glow worms. Located in Melba Gully, you can walk along a trail and look out for these shimmering creatures around the forest. These glow worms look particularly stunning after rain, or on a night with no moon. Learn more here.