12 Awesome Hidden Gems in Melbourne, VIC, Australia

Melbourne is a culturally diverse city with its own unique flair, making it an attractive location for events and productions of all types. Whether you’re planning a hen party, corporate fundraiser, or photoshoot, finding the right venues that are a little off the beaten path may seem like a daunting task. In this list, we’ll be sharing with you some awesome hidden gems in Melbourne that are sure to make whatever you’re planning a hit!

Along the way, we’ll also introduce you to Peerspace, the world’s largest digital marketplace for hourly venue rentals. In Melbourne alone, there are hundreds of options available for functions and productions. So let’s get started and see what’s out there!

1. French farmhouse just outside the city

menzies-creek-vic-Tuscan-French-style-farmhouse.jpeg
Source: Peerspace

Want a little European vacation without leaving Australia? Then you need to see this home in the beautiful Dandenong Ranges. It’s an adorable farmhouse that happens to perfectly replicate the iconic Tuscan or French farmhouse aesthetic.

When looking through the high-quality photos uploaded by the host, you’ll see the rustic furnishings and architecture of the building as well as the beautiful garden attached to the home. All of this comes together for a beautiful and outside-the-box option for a photoshoot or small event!

2. Secret speakeasy bar hidden behind a fridge

For someone really looking for the true hidden gem experience, Jungle Boy is the most authentic speakeasy in the city. Hidden behind the fridge door at Boston Sub in St. Chapel, the hip and relaxing atmosphere of this bar is sure to make you want to stay a while and enjoy yourself.

3. Dramatic indoor greenhouse and courtyard

Places To Take Pictures Near Melbourne
Source: Peerspace

Looking for hidden gems in Melbourne that really feel like an escape? Then check out Botanicah. It is a dramatic indoor event space with over 250 plants, conveniently located right in Prahran. The high-pitched ceiling opens up the grand greenhouse, offering more opportunities for hanging plants while giving a romantic quality for intimate functions.

Need a well-equipped space for work with flexible rules? Then you need to see these coworking spaces in Melbourne next!

4. Luxurious mansion with a tennis court and private cinema

Luxurious Mansion with Tennis Court, Ivy Gardens, Pool
Source: Peerspace

Our next stop is in Hawthorne for a stunning mansion covered in lush green ivy that’s perfect for a creative project or event that needs something elegant. With two kitchens, one just for catering events, a private cinema room, pool, and tennis court, this mansion really has it all. All of this also comes at an affordable hourly rate and a dedicated host. So be sure to check out the glowing reviews from Peerspace community members who love this home!

5. Experience a live movie in an undisclosed location

Underground Cinema is one of the coolest and most secretive things that you can check out in Melbourne. The company puts on immersive, live-action versions of movies in undisclosed locations. In doing so, they create an experience that will take going to the movies to a whole new level. Every show is different, so you never know quite what you’ll experience when you get your tickets!

6. New York-style studio in Footscray

NY studio style
Source: Peerspace

Searching for a New York City-style industrial studio that feels ripped from the pages of a fashion magazine? Then you can find it right here in Footscray! La Fabrica is one of those hidden gems in Melbourne you don’t want to miss out on. When you book time in the studio on Peerspace, you’ll also have access to tons of great amenities like lighting equipment, backdrops, and more. Using all of these great features and amenities in combination with the abundant natural light is a definite way to upgrade your photoshoot!

7. Tropical Mediterranean escape

Mediterranean Tropical Escape
Source: Peerspace

Want a spot where you can soak up the sun, dine from charcuterie boards, and sip some adult beverages or coffee? Then Lennox is the cafe for you! Located in Hampton, this groovy venue with a Mediterranean flair is renowned in the area for its cool decor and good vibe atmosphere. Not only do they have an open-air courtyard for relaxing outside, but there are also multiple comfortable indoor spaces where you can cool off, or warm up by the fireplace.

8. Abandoned railcar on a rooftop

Our next dining option is a little different. Easey’s is the only spot in town where you can dine on burgers and drink beers in abandoned rail cars, and on a rooftop! Three decommissioned Hitachi rail cars were lovingly kept alive by graffiti artists in the city by perching them up on a roof for everyone to enjoy.

9. Parisian salon in the design precinct

Indoor Photoshoot Locations in Melbourne
Source: Peerspace

Nestled away in Melbourne’s design and fashion precinct is Apartment 26, an opulent private salon full of Parisian furniture and art pieces. We think this location is best seen to be believed since it’s most likely the only place in Melbourne where you’ll see chairs that were handmade for Marie Antoinette. Don’t sleep on this rare opportunity to experience an elegant side of history!

Check out these cool places to take pictures in Melbourne for more venue discoveries!

10. Step back in time to an abandoned ballroom

At the top of Flinders Street Station is an abandoned ballroom from the early 20th century that has to be seen to be believed. The stunning industrial space is perfect for photos and a tour that anyone interested in the history of Melbourne should definitely check out!

11. Beautiful and airy urban oasis

Urban Oasis, Beautiful Airy Light Loft Studio Space
Source: Peerspace

If living in or visiting the city makes you feel like you need to clear your head, this unique loft studio space in Richmond is the place to do it. Purpose built to be a Sensory Yoga and System Regulation Studio, this relaxing space is equipped with sensory LED lighting that can bathe the room in a variety of warm colors. Planning an event or workshop? They also have catering available as an add-on service!

12. Moroccan-inspired space in Prahran

Hidden Gems in Melbourne
Source: Peerspace

Last, but not least, we’re checking out one of the best hidden gems in Melbourne for functions and celebrations of all kinds. This one-of-a-kind Moroccan-inspired event space in Prahran has large daybeds, a dance floor, a private bar, and other features that make it comfortable and functional. Dynamic lighting creates a dreamy environment that you and your guests will surely get lost in!

Find unique hidden gems in Melbourne on Peerspace

Get together somewhere better

Book thousands of unique spaces directly from local hosts.

Explore Spaces

Share your space and start earning

Join thousands of hosts renting their space for meetings, events, and photo shoots.

List Your Space