PLACE TO VISIT - iFLY

Looking for the next big thing to do in Melbourne? Ever felt like flying might be your new thing? iFLY offers a whole new experience for those wanting to try something different. Regardless of your experience, age, your taste for adrenaline, or if you're just plain curious, iFLY truly is something you need to put on your bucket list.

Having taken the world by storm, iFLY is known worldwide for its impeccable indoor skydiving experience. We travelled to their Melbourne base at Essendon Fields to find out all about indoor skydiving, and to try it out for ourselves. After checking in downstairs (make sure you fill out your waivers online!), we were all ready to start out experience. Making our way upstairs, we were immediately blown away by the professional moves and tricks the instructors were pulling, as well the sheer size of the wind chamber.

When our time slot was called, we were taken into the orientation room, where we're given a run down on some do's and don't's, as well as some important hand signals to learn. Next, it was time to suit up! For those that have breathing difficulties, or would just rather not have air blowing in their faces, full face helmets with visors can be hired for an additional cost. If not, your suit, standard helmet, earplugs, and goggles hire are included in your fee.

We sat watching the previous group finish up in awe, and finally it was our time to fly! We're taken into the wind tunnel area, and one by one, each have our turns having some quality time floating on a cushion of air. While we haven't personally gone skydiving, it's really an experience that you can't describe - other than the fact that it doesn't feel like you're falling. Throughout your allotted time, your instructor will correct your body's positioning and signal to you if you need to adjust your legs or chin.

If, like us, you signed up for some extra time in the tunnel, you'll get a few extra minutes to enjoy. The second flight around, floating is a lot more comfortable than before, and if you've adjusted yourself correctly, you'll even learn how to change direction. Pay a bit extra when you book, and you'll be able to do a 'high flight', which is the pièce de résistance and shouldn't be missed. Grabbing hold of you, your instructor will take you up to the top of the tunnel and back down again a number of times. It's something that really was the cherry on top of our experience, and shouldn't be passed up on.

Throughout our session, we also had a few demonstrations from professional indoor skydivers that had us picking our jaws off the floor. Explicit proof of what we're capable of, or a way to get us back? Nevertheless, it made us want to come back ASAP. All up, our session lasted for just over an hour, including orientation and suiting up. Prices start from $79 per person, depending on what experience you are after. Head to iFLY Melbourne's website for more info and to book in today!

At the heart of Docklands is the Melbourne Star; the only Giant Observation Wheel in the Southern Hemisphere. With a view like no other, the Melbourne Star and its crew will ensure you'll have an experience to remember. With a 360 degree view of the city, the attraction really is something special.

On entering through the gates, you'll be led through to take some souvenir photos - make sure you check these out after your ride! Before boarding, you'll also have the option to stop at the cafe if you're wanting some last minute snacks or drinks. The ever-friendly crew are there to welcome you along the way, and will make sure your boarding goes smoothly. Once onboard, you're on the move, and are in for a treat!

The view from the top is like no other you'll get in the CBD. With a perfect view of the Docklands and Melbourne's CBD cityscape, you couldn't see Melbourne from a more magical viewpoint. The wheel really is perfect for any occasion; whether you're taking the family, celebrating a milestone, or are on a date. During our ride, we were even lucky enough to witness a proposal when our cabin reached the top of the wheel. 

After you've disembarked from the Star, immerse yourself in the District Docklands; a shopping hub that also has plenty of food options. If you're in the area at night, you'll be able to see the Melbourne Star lit up in a kaleidoscopic LED display of colour and light.

The Melbourne Star runs 7 days a week, from 11am-9.30pm. Sunset is the prime time to go, as we found out firsthand. There's a few ticketing options available, but if you're wanting to ride in style, spend a little extra and you'll be able to enjoy your ride with a glass of sparkling in hand. Tickets and deals can be found on Melbourne Star's website - book online now and save up to 25% off!

The ever-expanding Holey Moley is now in the South-East! The pop-culture themed mini golf centre has settled in at the Bayside Entertainment Complex in Frankston, and it couldn't be in a better location. Smack bang in the middle of Frankston, the mini golf bar is surrounded by the local cinema, bowling lanes and a huge range of dining options; making it the perfect venue for date night, family activities, or just for good times in general.

The Bayside location features classic golf courses seen at the flagship centres, such as the Simpsons-themed room, Operation and the Upside Down from Stranger Things. New holes include scenes from Jaws, The Big Lebowski and E.T. - each more over-the-top, yet fantastic as you go along. We won't give away the final hole on the second course, but hats off to whoever finishes it in par (we gave up 9 attempts in).

At the centre of the venue is the fully licensed bar, serving up plenty of food and drink options. Perfect for finishing off your golfing session (or starting it!), the cocktail bar offers something for everyone. To top off the one-of-a-kind experience, the always-friendly staff are more than happy to help you throughout your putt-putt experience.

Holey Moley is notoriously popular, so your best bet is making a booking if you're headed down there with a group. Head to their website for more info, or to make a booking online. 

https://www.holeymoley.com.au/locations/bayside

General Public is an entertainment hub ideal for any occasion. Located less than five minutes from Moorabbin Airport and DFO, the Dingley Village entertainment venue offers fun for the whole family with 10 lanes of Ten Pin Bowling, an impressive arcade, an indoor beer garden, and a variety of amazing dining options. 

Open from 11am onwards, General Public offers a sanctuary for all ages to let loose, kick back and enjoy themselves. A casual dining experience with the chance to shoot some hoops, knock down some pins and play some ping pong or pool, there’s a lot to draw you in and even more reasons to stay. With live music, happy hour specials and a Monday night pot and parma special, the venue is well worth a visit. 

General Public is a fantastic option for birthdays, corporate and special events and has the facilities to host big group bookings. We recommend spending your next night out with family and friends down at General Public, where you can have it all. 

Visit their website for more info on weekly specials and bookings. 

Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium has been a staple of Melbourne tourism since its first opening back in 2000. After a few updates made each year, the aquarium is thriving and better than ever. No longer are aquariums home to just fish - now it’s about an interactive experience and a learning journey about all of Australia’s native wildlife, as well as marine life. 

A must-visit for all families and those visiting Melbourne, the Aquarium has something for everyone. Whether you’re on a family outing, on a date, looking for something to do on the weekend or a big animal nerd (like some of us at MEL Live), the aquarium is a must and a great day out for all. 

If you are looking to visit the Melbourne Aquarium, we recommend getting your tickets here. 

Tucked away on Little Bourke Street in the CBD is Holey Moley Golf Club; a mini golf experience like no other. Stretched out over two levels, the venue is home to three mini golf courses and two bars. The golf club houses 27 holes over the three courses, so golfers can go for a light putt, or go all out and play all. Mini golf plus drinks; what could be better?

Whether you’re out with friends, on date night, or just starting a big night out, Holey Moley is fun for everyone. Groups and parties are encouraged by the venue, but keep in mind that while walk-ins are accepted, the venue does pack out - so booking ahead is always best. 

Holey Moley takes something we all know and love, and amps it up to 11. Each hole is pop-culture themed - some of our favourites being the Simpsons lounge room, and the Wizard of Oz run, complete with the Tin Man and Dorothy’s red shoes. Each hole is well thought out, and on multiple occasions, requires you to do a little more than just play golf. At one point you’ll even find yourself pinging a golf ball around a pinball machine. We won’t reveal what other surprises are in store - you’ll have to find out for yourself.

Holey Moley was definitely the most fun we’ve had playing mini golf in a long time. From the amazing staff, to the golf puns scattered throughout the venue in neon, Holey Moley is a great night out, especially for those who want a little extra something.

Visit their website to book your tickets.