Thanks to its extensive and lively community, Melbourne has earned a reputation as effortlessly creative and unashamedly multicultural, liberal, and progressive. As the art, cultural, and design capital of Australia, it is packed with innovative and inspiring establishments and environments that draw in hundreds of thousands of art lovers every year.

For international travelers hoping to visit these exclusive and remarkable locations, it is essential to note that Australia imposes strict border controls and regulations that heavily restrict various items brought into the country, including vapes and vaping products. If you are someone who indulges in vaping, you will need to consult with a pre-approved medical practitioner to obtain a prescription nicotine vape while visiting Australia. However, to avoid any unnecessary hassles upon arrival, it is strongly recommended that you leave your vape safely at home.

National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) International

When searching for must-see art and sculptures in Melbourne, there is no better place to start than the National Gallery of Victoria International. Located across from the Art Center Melbourne in Southbank, the NGV is the oldest and most visited art museum in the entire country, established just 26 years after Melbourne itself.

The NGV is home to an impressive 76,000 works across its entire collection, but visitors to the museum will mostly encounter a deep selection of international art from Europe, Asia, the Americas, and Oceania, including priceless works by Monet, Rembrandt, and Picasso.

The Dax Center

The Dax Center is best described as an establishment housing thought-provoking art with a noble cause. Located on the University of Melbourne’s Parkville campus, it explores the concepts of psychological trauma nd mental health through the means of art.

The center operates as a non-profit establishment that exhibits work done by individuals with experience living with various mental health issues. The gallery aims to eradicate stigmas associated with mental health disorders and foster an environment of communication through its collection of 16,000 pieces and by hosting events, special exhibits, and educational workshops.

Hosier Lane

Just a short walk from Flinders Street Station, art lovers will find Hosier Lane, Melbourne’s most popular street art spot. The explosion of bright, bold, and unique graffiti and street art that plasters the walls of this city's alley is a treat for the senses, making it a must-see for anyone with a passion for creativity and art. And because it is constantly changing, there is always something new to observe and appreciate every single time you visit.

It is considered by locals to be one of the most famous attractions in the city and a showstopping stop for many art and walking tours in and around Melbourne. For anyone looking to enter Melbourne's extensive and dynamic art scene, Hosier Lane is a fantastic and easy entry point.

Pt. Leo Estate

For the owners and operators of Pt. Leo Estate Winery on the Mornington Peninsula, the vast open areas around their vineyards offered the perfect opportunity to develop and open a majestic sculpture park, allowing their guests to explore and appreciate great works of art while sipping delicious wines.

The Pt. Leo Estate Sculpture Park spans 330 acres (134 hectares) and displays a range of beautiful sculptures by both international and local Australian artists. The display even includes a showstopping piece framed by Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, which can be toured alongside wine-tasting adventures.

Australian Center for the Moving Image (ACMI)

The ACMI, formerly known as the Australian Center for the Moving Image, was created to remind visitors that art is an ever-changing, dynamic concept that can be expressed and interpreted in many ways.

The primary focus of the ACMI is to celebrate screen culture and the impressive technology that has created everything from TV and film to video games and innovative interactive experiences we know and love today. Its permanent exhibition showcases the history of moving images, paired with rotating temporary features such as screenings, programs, and exhibits. Additionally, the establishment occasionally holds film festivals, including the annual Melbourne Women in Film Festival.

Presgrave Place

Melbourne city is not short of weird, wild, and wonderful street art. It can be found along the walls of many buildings throughout the town, providing unique and engaging imagery to the city’s art scene.

However, there is one public art installation considered a hidden gem of the city, located in the heart of the CBD: Presgrave Place. This back alley, found just off Hower Place arcade along Little Collins Street, showcases a fascinating collection of eclectic framed artwork, graffiti, and bizarre sculptures that look as if they simply appeared one day from outer space.

ArtVo

While most art carries an important message or deep cultural meaning, ArtVo, located in Docklands, proves it can also be a fantastic source of fun and clever entertainment. A visit to this interesting location offers an immersive gallery experience, where you can explore many interactive, highly creative art pieces and exhibits.

The collection of 3D installations, dreamscapes, and trick art provides a location for a family-friendly outing, wonderfully designed to engage everyone of all ages. Posing for silly and creative photos is not just allowed here, but strongly encouraged.