Things to do in Melbourne during the Open

Tennis fans are licking their lips with excitement as the first Grand Slam of the year is just around the corner. The Australian Open in Melbourne is a hotspot for tourists. Not only does the high-billing of the tournament attract people from far and wide, but the beautiful location offers a myriad of things to do between matches.

As of early December, Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic are level-pegging in the Australian Open odds, and the fact that the Scotsman has closed the gap on the Serb of late will make for an exciting contest. But between watching the early games starting on January 13, and the Men’s Final on the 31st, what else is there to do while staying in the capital of Victoria?

What Else is There to Do?

Of course, an exploration around the stunning city of Melbourne is an absolute must. Bourke Street Mall, Flinders Quarter, and Collins Street are great places for shopping and drinks, and a short tram ride or walk down the picturesque St. Kilda Road is truly pleasurable.  

For those with time on their hands, renting a car and exploring the state is a once in a lifetime opportunity. One of the most spectacular landmarks in Australia is the 12 Apostles, which are huge limestone cliffs rising up out of the water on the Southern Ocean. Getting there is a four-hour drive down along the Great Ocean Road, about 275 kilometres west of Melbourne.

For wildlife aficionados and those who want to stay a little closer to the city, the Melbourne Zoo makes for a great day out with its range of snakes, lions, elephants, and monkeys.

Lemurs in Jamala Wildlife Lodge.

White Lion at Jamala.

The Australian Open occurs at the perfect time of year for visiting the beautiful state of Victoria. The average temperature at that time is around 20 °C, which is absolutely ideal for adventuring around Melbourne and the surrounding area.

No matter who you want to win in the tennis competition, it is sure to be the trip of a lifetime. 

Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Her husband Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; a website dedicated to opening your eyes to the wild & natural world.

Committed to bringing you the best in adventure travel from all around the globe, there is no mountain too high, and no fete too extreme! They haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on their list.

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