Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix: Things to do off the track in Melbourne
Whether you're a Formula One enthusiast that's in town to watch the electrifying Australian Grand Prix or someone simply along for the ride, there's no doubting Melbourne is currently the place to be.
As revheads (and token Drive to Survive fans) descend on the iconic Albert Park circuit and its surrounds, the vibe in this already buzzy city is set to be at its peak.
Continuing the rising trend for sports-related travel, Hilton Melbourne hotels report they're nearing capacity at 96 per cent occupancy due to Formula One frenzy, with Aussies accounting for 70 per cent of weekend guests.
From legendary restaurants to must-visit attractions, there's plenty to see, eat and do away from the track. Here are some of the unmissable experiences.
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The annual Australian Grand Prix sees hordes of travellers flock to Melbourne. Getty images
Waterside cocktails
Soak up the busy, bustling atmosphere of the city while sipping on your favourite cocktail at floating bar, Afloat Capri.
Inspired by the glitz and glam of Italian beach clubs and with uninterrupted views of the Yarra River, this is the place to tuck into delicious Italian fare and watch the world go by.
Soak up the sunshine and spectacular views at Afloat Capri bar. Instagram/afloat_melbourne
Foodies paradise
Melbourne is renowned for its excellent restaurants, but there's one place to head if you're after elevated European fare - Gimlet.
Found in the heart of the CBD in a sleek 1920s building, feast on indulgent dishes such as Southern rock lobster baked in saffron rice or dry-aged Muscovy duck.
Keen for some sustenance after a long day at the track? There's also a supper menu after 10pm of cocktails, caviar service and pasta.
Perfect for long lunches or late-night snacks, Gimlet is a top pick. Instagram/gimlet.melbourne
Kingpin Melbourne
For those keen to keep the adrenaline going once the high-octane racing is done for the day, Kingpin Melbourne has you covered.
This one-stop entertainment spot has immersive bowling lanes, interactive darts, laser tag, karaoke rooms and more to keep everyone happy no matter how they get their kicks.
Unleash your inner kid at Kingpin. Instagram/kingpin_play
Located in the Crown Entertainment Complex, there's also restaurants and bars on site, so you can really hunker in for the night and play to your heart's content.
With Ferrari star Lewis Hamilton known for his love of bowling (he has a yearly tradition of taking his F1 team bowling in Japan), you never know who you might see letting off some steam...
Lewis Hamilton has been spotted in the Paddock ahead of the F1 Grand Prix. Getty images
Iconic eats
Have you really been to Melbourne if you haven't indulged in a heavenly Lune croissant?
While this world-famous bakery has since expanded to other cities around Australia, it might be a case of the original still being the best, so head to one of the three locations scattered around Melbourne.
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Lune's top-notch pastries have made headlines around the world. Instagram/lunecroissant
Soak up the street art
There's no need to head to a gallery or museum to enjoy works of art in Melbourne - simply take a walk down the city's famous laneways.
It has even been named among the best places in the world to see the cool graffiti.
Melbourne is famous for street art. Visit Victoria
Adorned with pieces from some of the best street artists from all around the world, be sure to include Hosier Lane, Duckboard Place, and AC/DC Lane on your itinerary.
Best of all? It's completely free.
