The 10 Best Things to Do in St Kilda: A Guide to This Melbourne Suburb

St Kilda, the famous seaside suburb, is a haven for backpackers, beach lovers, food enthusiasts, and culture seekers. Nestled along the coastline, a visit to St Kilda offers a unique blend of attractions, from historic amusement parks to bustling markets and scenic botanic gardens. If you're looking for the best things to do in St Kilda, let GoGet guide you through the top spots that make this Melbourne suburb a must-visit destination. With hundreds of easy rentals available and so much to see around the area, GoGet is the perfect solution.

Explore Nature Around St Kilda

St Kilda's Botanical Gardens

Start your day with a refreshing visit to the St Kilda Botanical Gardens. Established in 1859, these gardens are a serene escape from the urban hustle, featuring a diverse collection of plants, beautifully landscaped areas, and several unique attractions. Some of the best spots to ease into your morning are the Rose Garden, Rain Man Fountain (a great spot for a picnic), and the Eco Centre, where you can learn about sustainable practices and local environmental projects. The gardens provide a respite from the bustling streets and the perfect opportunity for an afternoon nap in the shade.

Ripponlea Gardens

Less than a 5 minute drive down the road is Rippon Lea Gardens, a breathtaking gem that offers visitors a glimpse into Melbourne's historic past. This Victorian mansion, surrounded by 14 acres of beautifully manicured gardens, gives peak Bridgerton vibes. Explore the heritage-listed mansion with its 19th century architecture, bask in the Kitchen Garden which supplies fresh produce for seasonal cooking workshops, or take a stroll around the lake and fernery.

A Foodies Heaven: Where to Eat in St Kilda

Best Things to Eat in St Kilda

Next up, find some lunch or sweets. Acland Street Village is at the heart of St. Kilda, consisting of a main strip well known for its eclectic variety of shops. From famous restaurants like Abbey Road, to mom-and-pop pastry shops like Monarch Cakes and Europa, you won't be hard-pressed for choices as this area has everything from asian, mexican, american, and classic aussie foods.

For a more upscale dining experience, head to Fitzrovia on Fitzroy Street. This stylish eatery serves modern Australian cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Whether you're in the mood for brunch or dinner, Fitzrovia's menu promises to delight with its innovative dishes and relaxed, bright ambiance.

Cafes to Quench Your Caffeine Fix

St Kilda is renowned for its vibrant cafe culture. If you want something right on the strip, we recommend Jagger's for a bright and open air experience or Cicciolina, which draws locals and tourists alike for their coffee and menu. At the opposite end of the street, there's Wedge Espresso serving 'Gram-worthy smoothies and incredible matcha lattes.

Monk Bodhi Dharma, tucked away in a little corner of Balaclava nearby, offers a rustic, intimate setting with a menu that emphasizes organic and sustainable ingredients. This specialty coffee house is perfect for those who appreciate a good brew paired with wholesome, delicious food.

Setting the 'Bar' High: Best Cocktail and Beers Spots

Acland Street has plenty of incredible venues to grab a pint of classic Aussie beers like Village Belle Hotel and Loud Mouth (or for lovers of a good Guinness, there's Jimmy O'Neills). For those willing to venture just slightly outside of St Kilda, The Local Taphouse on Carlisle Street offers an impressive selection of craft beers in a cozy, pub-like setting (with an open air bar on the second floor). It's a great spot to unwind and sample some of the best brews Melbourne has to offer.

Cocktail Venues

If cocktails are more your style, take a leisurely stroll along the St Kilda promenade down to Republica. Sit outside under the umbrellas, soak in the beachside views, and drink up an aperol spritz. In summer, this venue always has something going on with live music and hosts a party for Triple J's Hottest 100.

For a classic St Kilda bar within walking distance of Acland Street and sun set views of St Kilda beach, head to Ellora. Boasting pink palm tree decor, delicious tapas, and creative beautiful cocktails, this spot is the perfect place to enjoy a sophisticated drop with friends.

Experience the Beat: Live Music and Entertainment

Live Music Venues in St Kilda

St Kilda's live music scene is legendary, with venues that have hosted both local talents and international stars. The Palais Theatre, an iconic music venue, offers an unforgettable concert experience with its grand architecture and superb acoustics. You can't go to St Kilda without catching a show here.

Another hotspot for live music is The Prince Bandroom on Fitzroy Street. This venue has a rich history of hosting some of the biggest names in music. With its intimate setting and electric atmosphere, it's a fantastic place to enjoy live performances up close.

Cultural and Quirky Spots

Beyond the music venues, St Kilda is rich with cultural and quirky attractions. Luna Park, with its historic amusement rides, is a nostalgic trip back in time and a fun day out for all ages. For a more laid-back experience, the St Kilda Esplanade Market, on every Sunday, offers a vibrant mix of arts and crafts stalls, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs.

Thrills for Adventurers in St Kilda

Skydiving Over St Kilda Beach

For the ultimate adrenaline rush, nothing beats skydiving over St Kilda Beach. Imagine free-falling from thousands of feet above, with panoramic views of the Melbourne skyline and Port Phillip Bay beneath you. This exhilarating experience offers thrill-seekers the chance to see St Kilda from a completely unique perspective.

Paddle Boarding Along the St Kilda Foreshore

If you prefer your adventures a bit closer to sea level, try paddle boarding along the St Kilda Foreshore. This popular activity is perfect for enjoying the coastal beauty of St Kilda at a leisurely pace, and if you're lucky, you might even spot some of the little penguins that reside at the end of St Kilda pier!

Conclusion

St Kilda is a suburb that truly has it all. Whether you're an art lover, foodie, beer enthusiast, live music fan, or thrill-seeker, there are countless things to do in St Kilda. Embark on a journey with your GoGet through this vibrant Melbourne suburb, explore its energetic vibe, and discover why St Kilda is one of Melbourne's most beloved destinations.

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