So summer has finally decided to show up in Melbourne. To help you keep cool, we’ve found a tonne of fun things to do that will keep you cool and smiling, when the temperature starts rising.
On the water
It’s a boat and it’s a doughnut. Yes, you heard us right. The Aqua Donut Barbecue Boats are shaped like your favourite snack and come complete with a DIY charcoal grill. Hire a ‘donut’ for a two-hour lazy cruise around Docklands and invite up to nine friends along for the ride.
Float away on an Aqua Donut
If you prefer to let someone else do the hard work, signing up for a High Tea Cruise might be more up your alley. The MV Mandalay takes you through Melbourne’s waterways while you kick back, enjoy the view and partake of some delicious high tea fare (scones are guaranteed). With so many cruise operators in town, there’s definitely no excuse to stay indoors this summer!
Jump on a board a cruise with one of Melbourne’s many tour operators
Take a dip
Make like Fonzie and ‘be cool’ on the next sunny day with a trip to the North Melbourne Recreation Centre Aquatic Facilities. These guys like to throw in some entertainment on the outdoor pool deck and offer regular ‘dive-in’ movies and DJs, and even serve members a free breakfast on the first Friday morning of the month.
If you’re keen to keep the young ‘uns busy and cool, the Kensington Community Recreation Centre has a sizeable kids’ pool, outdoor play equipment and shady spots for lunch. Carlton Baths also offer outdoor swimming fun for the whole family and the Melbourne City Baths on Swanston Street is perfect for a quick dip on your lunch break.
North Melbourne pools are keeping it cool this summer with ‘dive-in movies’ and outdoor entertainment
Cool-down spots
If you prefer not to get your hair wet, there’s a few places in town where you can ‘chill’ without a hair-dryer on hand. Take the family for a stroll through Trin Warren Tam-boore (Bellbird Waterhole) – a stunning urban wetland located next to Royal Park, or take the kids to Parliament Gardens Reserve for a walk inside Coles Fountain. Stick around for a picnic under the palm trees afterwards and remember to pack lots of water, sunblock and a hat!
Walk between the cascading water at Coles Fountain in Parliament Gardens Reserve
What’s your favourite way to stay cool on a hot Melbourne day?