12 things to do in Melbourne during The Tax Summit
Published: 25 Jul 2023
Wondering how you’re going to squeeze in some R&R time this year? We’ve got the perfect solution: pick up a ticket to Australia’s biggest tax event of 2023 and turn your trip into a mini-vacay while you’re at it.
The Tax Summit runs from Tuesday 5th to Thursday 7th September this year and is the perfect opportunity to extend your stay in Melbourne to explore and immerse yourself in all Australia’s cultural capital has to offer.
We’re looking forward to a wonderful three days of tax technical insights – but we’re also looking forward to the chance to unwind and refresh. There are two included networking events with your Tax Summit ticket – the Welcome Reception and the Gala Dinner (not to be missed!) – but for those keen to make this trip into a mix of business and pleasure, there’s even more on offer throughout the city.
Whether you’re exploring solo, spending time with colleagues or bringing the whole family along for a trip, there’s plenty to see and do for everyone.
1. South Wharf Promenade
South Wharf Promenade is Melbourne’s hottest “go-to” location for amazing food, sensational shopping, bars, walks and wonderful views of Melbourne. Take a leisurely stroll along the Promenade, enjoy the views, dine at one of the award-winning restaurants, cafés or bars or shop in DFO.
2. Sample award-winning cuisine
Eat and drink your way through Melbourne. Stake out the city to find everything from cozy coffee dens, rooftop bars and modern cuisine. Chat with locals over craft beers and a steak at an inner-city pub, settle in for an indulgent eight-course degustation menu, or choose a direction and hit the road for a weekend of indulgence.
3. Immerse yourself at LUME Melbourne
Ranking among the most-loved and most-visited attractions in Australia’s capital of arts and culture, THE LUME Melbourne immerses visitors into the world’s finest art at a truly jaw-dropping scale. An expansive 3,000 square metre, four-story high space, THE LUME Melbourne is the first permanent space in the Southern Hemisphere of its kind.
4. Catch a game at the MCG
Victoria is a sports-mad state that punches above its weight in the big-event stakes. It’s quite possibly the best place in the world to be a sporting spectator or a footy fan. From 7–10 September, you can catch the AFL qualifying and eliminating finals.
5. Visit Queen Victoria Market
The Queen Victoria Market, affectionately known by locals as ‘Queen Vic’ or ‘Vic Market’ has been a vibrant and bustling landmark of Melbourne culture for over 100 years. Shop at over 600 small businesses and pick up local and imported gourmet foods, clothing and souvenirs.
Queen Vic Market is open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
6. Boat down the Yarra river
The iconic Yarra river runs through the middle of Melbourne. Exploring the Yarra River by boat is a unique experience and perspective on the city. Bring along drinks and snacks as you enjoy the spring weather and the scenery. Join an organised cruise or hire a boat and be your own captain!
7. Catch a show
Indulge in Victoria’s ever-expanding arts and culture scene in venues across the state. From theatre shows and live music to comedy clubs, museums, galleries and festivals, there's something for everyone.
Our pick: Moulin Rouge! The Musical at Regent Theatre in the heart of Melbourne.
8. Tour Melbourne’s best street art
Melbourne is renown for its incredible street art. Either join an organised tour or set your own path through the laneways and alleys to experience the interesting and ever-changing world of Melbourne’s street art. Plus, take the chance to drop into one of the many laneway cafes for a coffee and pastry.
9. Drive the Great Ocean Road
Looking for something a little more adventurous? Why not extend your stay and take a weekend drive down the Great Ocean Road, one of the most iconic drives in Australia. Step away from the hustle and bustle of the city and work, to take in the region’s stunning landscapes, historic towns and renowned food and wine. The state’s compact size means you can travel from high in the mountains to the rugged southern coast and back to the city in just a short space of time. So hit the road on a touring route, make your own way around, or follow an itinerary and see the wonders of Victoria for yourself.
10. Visit Melbourne Museum
A visit to the Melbourne Museum includes the Forest Gallery, home to tall trees and wondrous wildlife, the Science and Life Gallery, the Melbourne Gallery, Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre, Te Pasifika Gallery, the Children's Gallery, 3D documentaries and Hollywood blockbusters on the giant IMAX Melbourne screen, plus visiting exhibitions.
What’s on: If you’re bringing the family, check out Fantastic Beasts: The Wonder of Nature, an exhibit showcasing creatures from the Wizarding World alongside the remarkable animals from London’s Natural History Museum collection.
11. Explore Indigenous Victoria
Journey through Aboriginal Victoria for a traditional and contemporary experience of this ancient land. Learn more about the spiritual beliefs and unique traditions of South Eastern Australia’s First People, culturally significant sites, renowned art and original crafts, and a living history which reaches back more than 60,000 years.
12. NGV Friday Nights
Extend your trip and drop into the NGV for a very special night. Experience the works of French painter Pierre Bonnard amidst designs by award-winning architect and icon India Mahdavi. And while you’re at it, enjoy some of Melbourne’s best bands and DJs along with French-inspire dining.
What’s on: Head to Melbourne early for Pookie and General Vibes on 1 September, or extend your stay for Rara Zulu and Surana on 8 September.
So, what are you waiting for? Get your ticket today, pack your bags and enjoy a week in wonderful Melbourne.
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