Joanna James
Melbourne wins for sheer ingenuity when it comes to some of the most unique activities available in any Australian city. Here are 5 such quirky activity hubs.
Tipped to be one of the most magical corners of Victoria's capital, the Kryal Castle is one of a kind amusement park in Melbourne. Transporting visitors to a magical world where noble knights, flying dragons and wise wizards walk the streets, this sprawling kingdom down Forbes Road is a must-visit highlight for all travellers. Entered through a drawbridge, the castle resembles a medieval royal residence right down to the Torture Dungeon. Some of the most popular areas of the adventure park include the Dragon's Labyrinth and the Sword in the Stone enclosure while the Museum and public areas of this park which first opened its doors in 1974 are equally engaging.
Although most travellers have toured the Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne which is revered for its exquisite horticultural heritage, few have signed up for the punt tour of the venue. Available as of 2013, the guided tours escort visitors across the shallow waters of the Royal Botanic Gardens' Ornamental Lake to discover a new vantage point from which to discover the many highlights in the garden. Turtles are frequently spotted during this over water tour of the garden. The punts which are available throughout the day can seat nearly 8 guests per ride and the entire tour lasts half an hour.
As one of the most disturbing excursion options available to Melbourne holidaymakers, the Coffin Ride is not for the faint of heart. Head to the GlowGolf Docklands to enjoy The Last Ride, which involves participants climbing inside a black casket before being carried on a hearse by two gravediggers no less. The ride ends in the graveyard where participants can listen to the eerie sound of the gravediggers piling dirt on top of the casket. The entire experience is recorded on video for the viewing pleasure of friends and family too.
Located down Lee Street in Melbourne's Flemington area, the Escape Room is an exciting group activity that's ideal for Agatha Christie fans and mystery lovers from around the world. Visitors are trapped in a room where they must uncover clues and solve puzzles to figure out how to escape the venue. Located in 6 different locations in and around Melbourne, the Escape Room experience allows every group a maximum of 70 minutes to free themselves. The most enjoyable aspect of the game is the many brain teasers which test the mathematical, visual, lingual and special knowledge of the participants. Visitors based at the Avani Central Melbourne Residences or any similar serviced apartment in Melbourne can book an evening in The Escape Room via their accommodation provider.
The Colonial Tramcar Restaurant is not only the first of its kind in Melbourne but has been a novelty dining experience since it's first opened its doors to diners in 1983. Although there are a number of Colonial Tramcar Restaurants across Australia, the experience of wining and dining inside the burgundy colour trams is a unique dining encounter for those who love to enjoy their meal on the go.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
