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There’s an entrance fee, but it’s worth it because you get a sleek bar with a clubby feel. Recent editions have landed in November. But if you like your drinks paired with amped up tunes, then wander through the dark doors and prepare to groove beneath the disco ball.
Been there, done that? As the highest public viewpoint in the Southern Hemisphere at 975 feet tall, it’s the best place to get your bearings, with 360-degree views across the city.
The versatile venue is looking smarter than ever after after a recent multi-million dollar refurbishment. Thankfully, it's a good one and right in the gay area. Embrace the city's passion for brunch at a quirky café in Fitzroy, then as evening falls, join the locals at a rooftop bar to toast to the city's dazzling skyline and, perhaps, to new friendships.
In Melbourne, the spirit of the LGBTQ+ community intertwines seamlessly with the city's cultural fabric, resulting in an atmosphere that celebrates individuality, diversity, and love.
Trains are best for longer hops though, and late-night services run on weekends.
Luxury
The Olsen – An upscale, art-forward, boutique-lux stay with five-star swagger. Visit early for the best food picks or come during one of the famous Night Markets for live music, cocktails, and a buzzing festival vibe.
Wander through historic sheds packed with artisan cheeses, cured meats, coffee, pastries, and global street eats, then browse rows of stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to quirky souvenirs. They also run themed nights ranging from fetish to pool competitions to “blokeoke.”
Sircuit – This gay bar is one of the most popular in the Fitzroy area.
Its spacious rooms and suites are spacious sanctuaries, many with private terraces and deep soaking tubs.
Mid-range
Ovolo South Yarra – Ovolo South Yarra proves that 70s glam never actually left — it just moved into a super-artsy boutique hotel with bubble machines, bold patterns, plus vinyls, Cher portraits, and even a modern-looking Mona Lisa adorning the walls.
In 1998, VCAT granted the Laird 'male-only' status, but it occasionally opens its doors to the wider community for events. Make sure to try fairy bread (white bread spread with butter and covered with multi-colored round "hundreds and thousands," the Australian term for sprinkles), the famous salt and pepper calamari plate, and Anzac biscuits that are a sweet treat for the tastebuds.
This men-only hotel leans proudly into its heritage, offering a classic, community-first vibe. There’s always a designer coffee shop within a five-minute walk in Melbourne serving the best coffee in the world.
There are also bubble poppers and simple food to help people feel more at ease.
This Collingwood 'bear and leather' bar opened in 1980 and has remained one of Australia's longest-running gay-owned and operated venues. Think again, my friend.
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The low-lit den oozes attitude with its sultry vintage touches, velvet banquettes, and a vibe cooler than your cocktail selection.