Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) Acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Narrm, the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people of the Kulin Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and to Elders of all First Nations communities that visit MCEC.

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What's on: Go Beyond the Australian Open with MCEC

By Bree Pagliuso|

Heading to the Australian Open? Over two weeks in January, Melbourne transforms into one massive sporting festival packed with activities for everyone, even those uninterested in tennis. Between matches, you'll find plenty being served throughout the city, and with MCEC just a tram ride or an 11-minute Uber away, it's the perfect complement to your Aus Open experience.

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Here's what you can do in and around MCEC.
Enjoy a leisurely walk

Enjoy a walk from the Australian Open arenas to MCEC along the Southbank and South Wharf Promenade. Catch glimpses of the Arts Centre along the Yarra /Birrarung, soak in the lively South Bank atmosphere, and end up at the charming South Wharf Promenade with dining spots featuring artefacts from the 1920s-1940s maritime heyday. If you have time, explore Melbourne's sports precinct, wander around the vast Royal Botanic Gardens, and don't miss the chance to experience the iconic Flinders St Station.

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Refuel and recharge 

Looking for a snack, quick lunch or a Melbourne coffee without the wait? 

  • Visit Goldfields Cafe, an oasis perfect for groups or quiet moments. Enjoy coffee, pastries, all-day dining, and wine by the glass. 

  • For a unique experience, explore the Habitat Cafe within The BBC Earth Experience —taste eco-friendly snacks, animal-themed cupcakes, and sustainable coffee sourced locally and carbon-neutral.

  • There's also plenty of potential for outdoor seating alongside the Yarra within the South Wharf Promenade , with something for everyone to enjoy a genuine 'Melbourne' taste at diverse restaurants, bars, and cafes. 

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Be entertained 

Feeling the heat outside? Enter our perfectly cooled venue and explore THE LUME Melbourne and The BBC Earth Experience.

Enjoy scenes from the BBC Series Seven Worlds, One Planet, narrated by David Attenborough, at The BBC Earth Experience . Book online to skip the queues during the Australian Open!

Or visit THE LUME Melbourne , Australia's first digital art gallery, currently showcasing "Connection", the most expansive tapestry of First Peoples' art ever assembled, with nearly 650 works from 110 visual and musical artists. Catch it before it closes in early February.

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Entertain the family 

Looking for a simple, family-friendly adventure? Explore Polly Woodside . Climb aboard, join the Polly Woodside crew, and experience life on a real tall ship from the 1800s. Dive into a maritime adventure through an interactive gallery, immersive theatre, and special events. Afterwards, unwind and soak in the city views, or for the more adventurous, head to DFO for a shopping spree !

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Try something new

Into yoga, pilates, or meditation? Add a bit of movement to your post-Aus Open plans. Try THE LUME Melbourne's Reconnect program for fun multi-sensory wellness classes. They mix mindfulness, movement, and nature-inspired themes, offering a different wellness experience with cool soundscapes and unique scents.

View the wellness activity timetable here: THE LUME Melbourne's Wellness Program .

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Are you visiting MCEC?  Roam our spaces and navigate our iconic venue before you arrive or check out our latest and upcoming events on our What's On page.

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