Where to find Christmas Day entertainment without leaving Melbourne

Whether you're away from home this Christmas or just fancy doing something a little out of the ordinary, Melbourne's a great place to be. There's plenty on and lots of attractions and facilities open for at least part of the day. For residents of Brunswick and Carlton property who want something different this year, we've lined up a few ideas.

1) Head to St Kilda beach

Join the masses and go celebrate the festive season at St Kilda beach, just south of the city. It's super easy to reach, and is bound to have a mix of families and backpacker revelers all enjoying the sunshine and sea. Take a picnic and a couple of your favourite beers to enjoy responsibly.

There are public toilets and other amenities at St Kilda beach too, making it easy for a day out, especially for families with young children. Public transport operates for free on Christmas Day, running to the Sunday timetable.

Remember to look out for the penguins who often make an appearance down by the pier at dusk.

2) Be a tourist

You might be surprised at the sheer number of tourist attractions open on Christmas Day in Melbourne. For uncrowded city views, try the Eureka Skydeck 88 for 360 degree views and daring Edge experience, or slow it down by taking a trip in the Melbourne Star Wheel. Either way you can enjoy Melbourne's city skyscape in peace, and plan your next stop with your bird's-eye view.

If you like learning about animals, both Melbourne Zoo and the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium are open to visitors. Delighting children and adults alike, these two attractions have the cutest and most mysterious creatures of our world, side by side. 

The city's free attractions are also open – so take yourself on a tour of the famous Melbourne street art, go see the town hall light show or wander around Federation Square and the nearby Southbank. 

There are also a large number of cafes, bars and restaurants open on Christmas Day, so you won't go hungry. Just remember that some of them will be pretty busy at peak times and at short notice you might have to stick to a foodcourt rather than expect a full Christmas Lunch. 

3) Catch a movie

Snuggling up to a family movie is a common activity for our northern hemisphere friends who experience a chilly Christmas period. However, there are a number of options for watching a movie on Christmas Day in Melbourne, with air conditioning rather than a crackling fire. Several cinemas open for afternoon and evening sessions, with popcorn and the latest releases on hand.

4) Take a picnic to a city park

The humongous Royal Botanic Gardens are open on Christmas Day and make a lovely spot for a picnic full of all your favourite things. If you don't fancy prepping your own lunch, book in for High Tea at The Terrace.

There's plenty of shade available in the gardens, and they're big enough that you can enjoy a leisurely wander to wear off your picnic treats. The afternoon sees a concert by harpist Michael Johnson in tribute to lost loved ones.

There are also a number of other parks open in the region, such as the nearby Carlton Gardens and Fitzroy Gardens.

If you're thinking about a Christmas or New Year property move, or would like to know more about what's available, have a chat to the team at Ray White Brunswick.