1. Go to the zoo
đź“ŤMelbourne Zoo, Elliott Ave, Parkville VIC 3052
đź“ŤWerribee Open Range Zoo, K Rd, Werribee South VIC 3030
đź“ŤHealesville Sanctuary, Glen Eadie Ave, Healesville VIC 3777
2. Visit the aquarium
If you’d rather chill with animals inside instead of outside, visit Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium, the home of Pesto the Penguin. They’re also open on Christmas, and have heaps of adorable penguins, cool sharks and interesting fish to keep you busy. Book your ticket before you go.
đź“ŤKing St, Melbourne VIC 3000
3. Relax at Peninsula Hot Springs
Does dinner with the relatives stress you out? Get away from it all and escape to Peninsula Hot Springs on Christmas Day. Immerse yourself in the healing waters and let all your troubles melt away. It’s the perfect way to treat yourself. Stay a little longer and spend the night in one of their Eco Lodges.
If you want to go for a nice long drive, sister location Metung Hot Springs in Gippsland will also be open.
đź“Ť140 Springs Ln, Fingal VIC 3939
4. Take part in this free breakfast from Queerspace
Queerspace will hold their 7th annual Free Breakfast on Christmas morning. LGBTQIA+ folk and allies are invited to go to the Provincial Hotel for a hearty breakfast, good company and entertainment. The event runs from 9am to 11:30am. Gluten-free, vegan and halal options will be available. Learn more here.
Provincial Hotel, 299 Brunswick St, Fitzroy VIC 3065
5. Start your day with yoga
Spend your Christmas morning breathing, meditating and celebrating life with a bit of yoga at Riviera Beach Club. The morning starts at 8:30am with breathwork, meditation and movement, while listening to live music. After that, enjoy a picnic and hang out with new friends. See more here.
đź“Ť42B Marine Parade Elwood, VIC 3184
6. Meet other people at the Melbourne Social Club Christmas Day Lunch
Not taking part in a traditional family Christmas lunch? Why don’t you meet some new people at this Melbourne Social Club gathering in Queen Victoria Gardens. Bring your own food and drink, a picnic blanket, rug or chair, sunscreen, and if you like, some outdoor games equipment like a football. You can bring food for yourself, or to share with others. A name tag will be handy too. You’ll find the group underneath a shady tree opposite Arts Centre Melbourne. The event will start at 12pm and end at 3pm. See more here.
đź“ŤQueen Victoria Gardens, St Kilda Rd, Melbourne VIC 3004
7. Soar up to Melbourne Skydeck
Spend your Christmas Day on top of the world by taking things to the next level at Melbourne Skydeck. Head up to the highest observation deck in the southern hemisphere and take in unbelievable views of the city. They’re open from 12pm to 5pm, with last entry at 4:30pm. See more here.
đź“Ť7 Riverside Quay, Southbank VIC 3006
8. Have a merry time at Metartworld
Immerse yourself in dazzling art exhibitions, VR adventures and more at Metartworld. Located in Port Melbourne, this venue will be open on Christmas Day, and will even have face painting and workshops for the kids at select times. Learn more about this space here.
đź“Ť155 Boundary St, Port Melbourne VIC 3207
9. Go to the movies
Spend the day at the cinemas and pass the time by watching some awesome movies. Enjoy screenings at Pentridge Cinema in Coburg, Cinema Nova, Hoyts and more.
đź“ŤMelbourne
10. Grab a bite to eat at some incredible restaurants
A variety of restaurants around Melbourne are open for Christmas Day dining. Get out of the kitchen and indulge in a hearty feast instead. Bookings are strongly recommended. See what’s open here.
đź“ŤMelbourne
11. Take part in a workshop
Get creative and join a class at Heer Pottery on Christmas Day. Make candles, create festive designs, make incense ornaments and more. See what’s available here.
đź“ŤUnit 3/29-31 Clarice Rd, Box Hill South VIC 3128
12. Go to the beach
If the weather looks good, head outside and soak in the summer at some fabulous beaches. There’s plenty of lovely beaches in Melbourne for you to visit on Christmas Day, as well as some picturesque places around Victoria. If you’ve got a furry friend, take them to a dog beach and play in the sand! Hug the shoreline and explore some coastal towns, and keep an eye out for some great seaside attractions.
đź“ŤVictoria
13. Explore the wonders of nature
Walk around some fabulous national parks or have a grand time in some beautiful parks and gardens around Victoria. Pack your own picnic and settle down in the perfect picnic spot, go for an easy walk, look for flowers and more. If it’s hot, check out some lovely lakes or dip into a swimming hole.
đź“ŤVictoria
14. Go on a day trip
Get in the car and go! Drive to far away beaches, wander through the trees and enjoy gorgeous views. Check ahead of time to see if there are any local restaurants open, or bring your own food for the journey. There’s plenty of scenic drives for you to admire, such as Black Spur Drive and the Great Alpine Road, as well as exciting road trip destinations. If you don’t want to drive, you can hop on a V/Line and explore regional towns like Ballarat and Bendigo.
đź“ŤVictoria