You’ve done another lap around the sun, and you’re now a little older and wiser. It’s time to celebrate! If you’re stuck for ideas, Melbourne is full of wonderful things to do on your birthday, or any special occasion really. Go on scenic tours, get your adrenaline pumping, treat yourself to a relaxing spa experience and much more. You can do some of these things alone, and some of them with loved ones. There’s so many things to do in Melbourne and beyond on your birthday, so scroll through this list and find some inspo. Happy birthday!
1. Go on a hot air balloon ride
Your birthday is the day to make memories and go all out. If you haven’t done it before, why don’t you try soaring above the city on a hot air balloon ride? Enjoy the day to the fullest, wake up before sunrise and feel rewarded with stunning views of the city. If you’d rather a change of scenery, there’s also plenty of blissful and picturesque spots in the Yarra Valley and Mansfield. After an unforgettable flight, treat yourself to an indulgent breakfast.
2. Have a dreamy time and go Punting on the Lake
Nestled within the Royal Botanic Gardens, you’ll find Punting on the Lake. This scenic boat cruise will take you around the islands of Ornamental Lake. As you glide around on a wooden punt, a professional guide will tell you all about the gardens and wildlife. Whip out a parasol for a touch of romance, pack a picnic to have on board, and bring your well-behaved dog along. If you didn’t pack any food, stop by The Terrace before or after your ride for a bite to eat.
Punting on the Lake is open daily, except during the winter months and on Christmas Day. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate your birthday or any special occasion in Melbourne. Bookings are strongly recommended.
3. Dine above the clouds at Eureka 89
It’s your birthday! Start your new year of life by feeling on top of the world at Eureka 89. Set one level above the iconic Melbourne Skydeck, you’ll enjoy fine dining and breath-taking views of the city skyline. The chef’s tasting menu is always changing, so you can enjoy seasonal produce from Victorian and Australian producers. Learn more here.
4. Race over to Auscarts for indoor go karting
Celebrate your birthday in Melbourne with some adrenaline-pumping indoor go karting. Visit Auscarts in Port Melbourne and check out their purpose-built track. Feel like a Formula 1 driver and zoom around, with plenty of turns and hairpins to keep your heart racing. Your kart will go up to 55km/hr. Find out more here.
5. Stay overnight with a Slumber Safari at Werribee Open Range Zoo
If you love animals, this event is a must-do. Visit Werribee Open Range Zoo and get up close and personal with a range of behind-the-scenes animal experiences. Go on a safari tour of the savannah, and stay overnight in a luxury lodge. Enjoy refreshments on arrival and a complimentary glass of sparkling wine, and end the day with an African-inspired dinner. Walk up to the sounds of animals, have breakfast, and embark on another day of adventures at the zoo. Your wild journey begins here.
6. Feel a rush with indoor skydiving
It’s your birthday, and you want to try something new. Why don’t you feel the rush of skydiving without worrying about the risk of dying? Head to iFly Melbourne and experience the closest sensation to freefalling. This exciting activity is great for flyers of all ages and abilities. Find it in Essendon Fields.
7. Treat yourself to an elegant high tea
Melbourne is simply bursting with dreamy and historic places for you to have high tea on your birthday. From luxurious hotels to garden venues, you can find our list of recommendations here.
8. Round up your friends for a chaotic time at Hijinx Hotel
Head to Chadstone and feel transported to a world where Wes Anderson meets Willy Wonka. Together with your friends, you’ll enter a series of challenge rooms and play games inspired by your childhood. After you play, unwind with a cocktail and a bite to eat. Each room at Hijinx Hotel is designed for two to six players. Learn more here.
9. Feel like you’re in a movie on a helicopter flight
Your birthday is the best time for you to embrace that main character energy. Splurge on a helicopter ride and take in scenic views of Melbourne. If you’re looking to get out of town, you can also find helicopter rides in other picturesque locations around the state, including around the 12 Apostles, Lakes Entrance and the Grampians.
10. Go to a spa
Find your bliss and check yourself in to a tranquil day at the spa. Chill out at wonderful day spas around Melbourne, rest at an infrared sauna in the CBD, or go even further and escape to a spa in regional Victoria. With plenty of hot springs and spa treatments to choose from, it’s the perfect way to celebrate any special occasion.
11. Bust out of an escape room
Need a challenge? Just want to hang out with your mates? Flex your (brain) muscles and try out one of the escape rooms around Melbourne. See our list of recommendations here.
12. Have a picnic
If all you need is good food and good company, celebrate your birthday by having a picnic in one of these peaceful places around Melbourne. Pack one yourself or get something catered. If you want to level up your picnic game, why don’t you have one on a cliff at Mount Buffalo? Or if you’d like a surprise, go on self-guided mystery picnic adventure in Melbourne or the Yarra Valley.
13. See a theatre show
Melbourne has a thriving theatre scene, and if you’ve been eyeing a show, your birthday is definitely the best time to see it. Think Mary Poppins, & Juliet, Harry Potter & The Cursed Child and more!
14. Embark on a sightseeing cruise
See Melbourne like never before by going on a sightseeing cruise. Journey along the Yarra River, see the city shining at sunset or enjoy the view while dining on the water. Go beyond Melbourne, and take part in wildlife sightseeing cruises around Phillip Island, go on a boat tour around Gippsland Lakes, and journey up the Murray River on the historic paddlesteamers.
15. Sip your way through a wine tour
Melbourne is surrounded by incredible wineries in the Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula and Bellarine Peninsula. Celebrate your birthday by going wine tasting through one of these lovely regions. One option includes Hop It, a bus which allows you to hop on and hop off around wineries in Victoria.
16. Go on a getaway
Escape your everyday life and celebrate your birthday by going on a getaway. Go on a scenic drive and discover some incredible road trip destinations, head out on a day trip and explore charming towns not too far from Melbourne.