Choose from 889 Fun Things to Do in Australia And The Pacific
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MJ Savage Memorial Park
Michael Joseph Savage is often regarded as the most popular Prime Minister of New Zealand. Not only did Savage lead the nation into the depths of World War II, but he was the founder of many of the social programs which still exist to this day.
Although he passed away in 1940 at the age of 68, his memory lives on near the Auckland waterfront at the park which bears his name. At MJ Savage Memorial Park, not only can you pay your respects to one of New Zealand’s most loved politicians, but you can enjoy the ornately-landscape surroundings and drink in the stunning view.
Located a five minute drive from downtown Auckland, the park sits along a stretch of waterfront which lies just east of the city. The view from the park gazes out over the water towards symmetrical Rangitoto Island, and the famous skyline of Waitemata Harbor occupies the view to the west. From this vantage point, it’s easy to see why it’s considered one of the best views of Auckland you’ll get from along the waterfront.
Once you’ve walked the grounds, toured the mausoleum, and snapped photos in front of the reflection pool, you can walk down the hill to Mission Bay and enjoy the popular eateries and cafés. While tour buses occasionally make stops at the MJ Savage Memorial Park, this is somewhat of a removed attraction you’ll be more than happy you stumbled upon.
Although he passed away in 1940 at the age of 68, his memory lives on near the Auckland waterfront at the park which bears his name. At MJ Savage Memorial Park, not only can you pay your respects to one of New Zealand’s most loved politicians, but you can enjoy the ornately-landscape surroundings and drink in the stunning view.
Located a five minute drive from downtown Auckland, the park sits along a stretch of waterfront which lies just east of the city. The view from the park gazes out over the water towards symmetrical Rangitoto Island, and the famous skyline of Waitemata Harbor occupies the view to the west. From this vantage point, it’s easy to see why it’s considered one of the best views of Auckland you’ll get from along the waterfront.
Once you’ve walked the grounds, toured the mausoleum, and snapped photos in front of the reflection pool, you can walk down the hill to Mission Bay and enjoy the popular eateries and cafés. While tour buses occasionally make stops at the MJ Savage Memorial Park, this is somewhat of a removed attraction you’ll be more than happy you stumbled upon.
Address: MJ Savage Memorial Park, Auckland, New Zealand
From $ 37
Mindil Beach
Mindil Beach is absolutely Darwin’s most visited and best known beach. Home to the famous Mindil Sunset Markets, the beach offers a little bit of everything to the visiting traveler, including 500 meters of golden sand bordered by Bullocky and Myilly points to the north and south, respectively. The beach looks west out onto the waters of the Beagle Gulf, perfectly situated for visitors to sit back and watch the sun set over the waves. The markets showcase the best local creative talent and offer fresh produce while promoting sustainability, supporting locally grown talent and food and encouraging the use of public transportation to and from the beach.
The Mindil Beach Reserve, a large park dedicated to preserving some of the city’s original wilderness, sits near the ocean, and the SKYCITY Darwin, the city's casino, is nearby in juxtaposition.
Practical Info
The Mindil Beach Sunset Markets usually run from Apil through Otober. They are open from 5 p.m. until 10 p.m. on Thursdays and from 4 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Sundays. Mindil Beach is patrolled during the day from June through September.
Address: Darwin, Australia
From $ 27
Menglers Hill Lookout
One of the most popular scenic overlooks in the Barossa Valley, visitors to Menglers Hill Lookout can take in bird's-eye views of the region’s expansive vineyards and rolling hills. The nearby sculpture park, which sits at the foot of Menglers Hill, offers travelers a whimsical, playful look at the works of nine artists who visited the area in 1988. Visitors say this picturesque peak is the perfect place for snapping scenic photos or escaping into the quiet and quaint rural countryside on a trip to Barossa.
Practical Info
The road between Tanunda and Angaston bypasses Mengler Hill, making the overlook easily accessible to those traveling by car. The nearby Barossa Sculpture Park is also worth a stop.
Address: Mengler Hill Road, Bethany, South Australia, Australia
From $ 103
Milford Sound
With its soaring cliffs, dramatic glacial valleys, and thundering waterfalls, it’s easy to see why Milford Sound is one of New Zealand’s most visited sights. This natural wonder is the star attraction of Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and wildlife haven for dolphins, seals, and penguins.
The Basics
Whether you cruise around the fjord, fly overhead in a helicopter, or explore Fiordland National Park by coach, Milford Sound is unforgettable from all angles. Most tours of the fjord run from Queenstown or Te Anau, and also visit highlights such as Mitre Peak, Bowen Falls, and Mount Pembroke.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The weather in Milford Sound can be unpredictable, so prepare for wind and rain even in summer.
- If hiking, wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water, as places to purchase supplies are limited.
- Cell phone coverage is limited, but free Wi-Fi is available at the Milford Sound Information Center.
- Most Milford Sound cruises are wheelchair accessible, but not all activities within Fiordland National Park are accessible to those with limited mobility, so it’s best to check in advance.
How to Get There
Milford Sound is located on the southwest coast of New Zealand’s South Island, about 178 miles (287 kilometers) or 3.5 hours by road from Queenstown, and two hours by road from Te Anau. The quickest way to get to Milford Sound is by taking a plane tour from Queenstown, where the nearest international airport is located.
When to Get There
Summer (December through February) is the most popular time to visit Milford Sound, so if you want to avoid crowds, opt for spring or autumn. Winter visitors will be at the weather’s mercy, but tours and accommodation can be cheaper during this time and the area’s snow-covered peaks are a sight to see.
Natural Wonders of Fiordland National Park
The journey to Milford Sound is just as impressive as the fjord itself, and photo opportunities abound along the Milford Road. Stop at Pop’s Lookout, Mirror Lakes, and Eglinton Valley; marvel at the views as you pass the Chasm and Homer Tunnel; and look out over Lake Wakatipu, Lake Te Anau, and the Remarkables mountain range.
Address: Fiordland National Park, New Zealand
Admission: Free
From $ 32
Milford Track
Lush, rugged and impossibly scenic, the Milford Track is the gold standard of all of New Zealand’s hiking trails. In a country already known for its hiking, this famous track through the heart of Fiordland has been known to trump all others. Tramp your way through alpine scenery where mountains thrust upwards from the lakeshore, and walk beneath the famous Sutherland Falls that spill 1,900 feet down the mountainside. Delve through forests that are brilliantly painted in nearly every shade of green, and then finally emerge at the placid waters of famous Milford Sound.
Practical Info
As one of New Zealand’s famous “Great Walks,” the trail on the Milford Track is well defined and accessible to most levels of hikers. The trail is 31 miles long, takes four days to complete and has shelter provided in pre-booked huts along the way. The trail begins at Glade Wharf along the shores of Lake Te Anau and reaches a dramatic terminus when it finishes at Milford Sound. It can only be walked in one direction (it’s easy to arrange transport back to Te Anau), and the hiking season is only open from late October until late April. Reservations are essential for hiking, and space can regularly be fully booked up to six months in advance.
Address: Fiordland National Park, Southland, Fiordland, New Zealand
From $ 298
Melbourne Cruise Port
Australia’s second largest city, Melbourne is also its cultural capital, with a plethora of museums, galleries and theaters, as well as expansive parklands and attractive Victorian-era buildings. Home to the Australian Open tennis tournament and the Melbourne Cup horse race, the city is also a jumping off point to visit the Great Ocean Road or the penguin colonies on Phillip Island.
How to Get to Melbourne
Your ship will dock at Station Pier in Port Melbourne. The tram station is about a five minute walk from the pier and, from there, it is about a twenty minute ride into the center of Melbourne. Taking a taxi is another option and should cost about $20.
One Day in Melbourne
Begin your exploration of Melbourne by hopping on the free Circle City tram, which makes an hour-long loop around the city center. Then, head to Federation Square, where you will find numerous galleries, shops and cafes surrounding the square, as well as the city’s Visitor Center. Spend an hour or two around the square and then head up to the Eureka Skydeck for jaw-dropping views around the city. If you’re feeling adventurous, step out on the Edge, a glass cube extending from the skydeck that will give you a view 935 feet straight down!
How you spend the rest of your time in Melbourne will depend a lot on your interests. You might get a taste of Australian and Aboriginal art at the National Gallery of Victoria before heading to the State Library of Victoria and the St. Paul Cathedral. Or, make your way to the quirky suburb of St. Kilda to ride the rollercoaster at Luna Park, stroll along the pier and soak up some sun on St Kilda Beach. Others may enjoy simply walking by the Yarra River and exploring the Royal Botanic Gardens or the Melbourne Zoo.
Shopping aficionados will also want to check out Little Collins Street, Collins Street, Brunswick Street and the Queen Victoria Market.
How to Get to Melbourne
Your ship will dock at Station Pier in Port Melbourne. The tram station is about a five minute walk from the pier and, from there, it is about a twenty minute ride into the center of Melbourne. Taking a taxi is another option and should cost about $20.
One Day in Melbourne
Begin your exploration of Melbourne by hopping on the free Circle City tram, which makes an hour-long loop around the city center. Then, head to Federation Square, where you will find numerous galleries, shops and cafes surrounding the square, as well as the city’s Visitor Center. Spend an hour or two around the square and then head up to the Eureka Skydeck for jaw-dropping views around the city. If you’re feeling adventurous, step out on the Edge, a glass cube extending from the skydeck that will give you a view 935 feet straight down!
How you spend the rest of your time in Melbourne will depend a lot on your interests. You might get a taste of Australian and Aboriginal art at the National Gallery of Victoria before heading to the State Library of Victoria and the St. Paul Cathedral. Or, make your way to the quirky suburb of St. Kilda to ride the rollercoaster at Luna Park, stroll along the pier and soak up some sun on St Kilda Beach. Others may enjoy simply walking by the Yarra River and exploring the Royal Botanic Gardens or the Melbourne Zoo.
Shopping aficionados will also want to check out Little Collins Street, Collins Street, Brunswick Street and the Queen Victoria Market.
Port Information
English is the official language in Melbourne, but it is spoken with a distinctively Australian twist. The currency is the Australian dollar and ATMs are widely available throughout the city. The port area is fairly quiet, although there is a large store selling coffee and snacks.
Address: Australia
From $ 79
Melbourne Town Hall
Concerts, theater, weddings, and more grace Melbourne Town Hall, which has welcomed everyone from Queen Elizabeth II to The Beatles. Completed in 1870, this grand neoclassical building is at the heart of Melbourne’s city and cultural life. Although a working town hall, it opens to the public for prebooked tours several days a week.
The Basics
To enter Melbourne Town Hall, you must book a tour in advance. Melbourne Town Hall tours are free and run twice a day several days a week, but numbers are limited, so most visitors opt to experience the town hall simply by admiring its architecturally impressive exterior. This is easy to do on a guided or self-guided Melbourne walking tour, and a number of city tours pass by Melbourne Town Hall.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Photographers will want to visit Melbourne Town Hall either early in the morning, for the best light with minimal crowding, or late at night early in the week, to capture the illuminations.
- If you’d like to see the interior but don’t want to book a tour, consider visiting for a concert, which allows access to the grand auditorium.
- Melbourne Town Hall is wheelchair accessible.
- The impressive portico was added to the building in 1887.
How to Get There
Melbourne Town Hall stands proud on Swanston Street, north of the Yarra River at the heart of the city, and about 950 feet (300 meters) from Flinders Street station. It is most easily reached by public transport or walking from other attractions. Downtown Melbourne is not car-friendly, and parking in the city center is difficult and expensive.
When to Get There
The grand building and portico look their best illuminated at night and often host colorful projections over the Christmas season. If you’d like to access the interior, Melbourne Town Hall tours run a couple of times a day during the week, with the exception of Tuesdays, but must be booked at least 24 hours in advance.
The Melbourne Town Hall Grand Organ
Melbourne Town Hall’s original Grand Organ opened in 1872 but was destroyed by a fire in 1925. Today’s Melbourne Town Hall Grand Organ dates back to 1929 and uses 90,000 cubic feet (2,549 cubic meters) of air every minute to produce its impressive sound. The town hall hosts occasional free organ concerts, which are a great way to see the auditorium.
Address: 90/120 Swanston Street, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
From $ 41
Michaelmas Cay
Calm waters, crystal clear visibility and tons of tropical fish make Michaelmas Cay one of the best scuba and snorkeling destinations outside of Cairns. Underwater enthusiasts love the colorful coral found far below the ocean’s surface and the lively birds that fly high overhead. Time spent on a boat isn’t so bad either.
Leopard sharks, sting rays and sea turtles swim among the coral reefs, and since the sandy lagoon is protected from the elements, snorkeling conditions are ideal regardless of the weather nearby.
Practical Info
The Cay is 21 miles east of Cairns on Michaelmas Reef. The island is known for its green turtles, giant clams and incredible underwater wildlife. Because only a handful of water access permits have been granted to companies that host travelers, booking a tour is essential.
Address: Cairns, Australia
From $ 134
Milford Sound Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory
For as stunning as the Milford Sound scenery can be when viewed above the water, there’s an entire other, underwater world that visitors rarely see. Thankfully, the Milford Sound Discovery and Underwater Observatory allows visitors to journey beneath the waves without even getting their hair wet. After descending over 30 feet beneath the Milford Sound surface, see rare species of black coral and schools of colorful fish, all from the air-conditioned, protected enclosure of the underwater observatory. Aside from simply catching a glimpse of the underwater environment, travelers can also visit the discovery center that’s located above the surface, and hear the ancient Maori history of Milford, or Piopiotahi. There are even videos of terrifying avalanches crashing down on the Milford Road, and documentaries showing the struggles of building the Milford Tunnel.
Practical Info
The Milford Sound Discovery Center and Underwater Observatory are offered as add-ons to Southern Discoveries cruises within the Sound. It’s the only floating structure in the Sound, and accessing the bottom of the underwater observatory requires walking down 64 steps.
Address: Harrison’s Cove, Milford Sound 9600, New Zealand
Hours: Open daily 9am-4pm
Admission: Adults: $36; Children: $18
From $ 33
Milsons Point
Travelers love Milsons Point because of the uninterrupted views of Harbour Bridge and the iconic Opera House. During hot summer nights, locals gather on this tiny peninsula in Sydney Harbour opposite Sydney Cove and watch the sun dip down over the central business district skyline. This quiet spot has become a destination for those looking to capture a perfect picture of the city.
When day turns to night, young couples can be found holding hands as they stroll along the neon-lit midway of nearby Luna Park. The low-key crowd will appreciate the well-manicured suburbs of the north shore that are ripe with quiet cafes, continental restaurants and plenty of friendly locals.
Practical Info
Milsons Point is within walking distance of Luna Park, the Chinese Christian Church and North Sydney Olympic Pool. Firework shows often take place after dark, making evening hours one of the best times to visit. Travelers can easily find free parking in the area from the late afternoon on.
Address: Sydney, Australia
From $ 41
Mirror Lakes
Though Milford Sound is inarguably one of New Zealand’s most popular attractions, the Road to Milford is as much of a sight as the actual Sound itself. Lined with waterfalls, vistas, and trails, the road to Milford is a weaving journey that’s best when traveled slowly—taking time to enjoy the sights and break up the lengthy drive. One of those sights is Mirror Lakes, where small lakes often bear the reflection of the snowcapped Earl Mountains. It’s only a short walk on a wooden boardwalk to reach the popular lakes, and aside from it being a nice place to stretch and shake out your legs from the sitting, there’s an alpine serenity and sense of calm that accompanies the lakeshore scene. Oftentimes, mornings will have the calmest conditions and the least amount of wind, which reduces the ripples and increases the chance of a classic mountain reflection. This is the perfect spot for landscape photographers to capture the beauty of Milford, and perhaps go home with a shot that captures a different side of the journey.
Practical Info
The Mirror Lakes walk is located about 34 miles north of Te Anau, and there is plenty of parking in the associated parking lot as well as along the roadside. Average hiking time is about 10 minutes, and the trail is only about ¼ mile long and is well maintained and signposted.
Address: Te Anau, New Zealand
From $ 120
Mona Vale
Mona Vale is a sanctuary of calm in the midst of bustling Christchurch. Gardens lined with rhododendrons and camellia sit next to a brilliant fernery, and a colorful rose garden provides the perfect moment for stopping to smell the flowers. The 13-acre gardens border the Avon River, and surround a homestead of Victorian architecture that is listed on the historic registry. Dating back to 1897, the elegant property has seen numerous owners make their own improvements to the grounds, and the exceptional gardens are a favorite location for wedding ceremonies in summer.
Unfortunately, the devastating earthquake of 2011 damaged many of the historic buildings, although the gardens remain open for strolling the grounds and drooling over the architecture from afar. In 2014, however, the city council approved the funds for the renovation of Mona Vale, and the famous buildings such as the Bath House and Homestead will be once again be open for visitors. Though nowhere as large as Hagley Park that dominates the center of Christchurch, the boutique nature of this Fendalton estate makes it one of Christchurch’s most peaceful outings.
Address: Riccarton, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand
From $ 25
Melbourne Star Observation Wheel
One of only four giant observation wheels in the world, along with the London Eye, the Singapore Flyer and the Las Vegas High Roller, the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel has some big names to live up to, but with its 360-degree panoramic views reaching as far as the distant Mount Macedon and Dandenong mountain range, there’s no other attraction like it in the city of Melbourne.
Riding in one of the 21 air-conditioned capsules is an experience in itself, reaching heights of up to 400 feet (120 meters or the equivalent of 40 stories) during the 30-minute tour and offering an unbeatable bird’s eye view of the surrounding Docklands and Port Phillip Bay from the floor-to-ceiling glass windows. The most atmospheric time to ride the Melbourne Star is during the evening hours, when the wheel’s specially engineered multi-colored LED-lighting creates a dazzling lightshow over the waterfront.
Practical Info
The Melbourne Star Observation Wheel is located along the waterfront of Melbourne's Docklands and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., with last admission at 9:30 p.m. (from 1 p.m. on Christmas Day and Anzac Day). Adult admission costs AU$32.
Address: 101 Waterfront Way, Docklands, Melbourne VIC 3008, Australia
Hours: Daily 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
Admission: AU$32
From $ 27
Melbourne Zoo
Animals from Australia and around the world have called the Melbourne Zoo home since 1862, making it Australia's oldest zoo. Surrounded by landscaped gardens, the zoo is a popular location for picnics and evening concerts during the summer.
Star attractions at Melbourne Zoo include the colorful inhabitants of the Butterfly House, families of gorillas at play in the Gorilla Rainforest, and native animals like kangaroos, wombats and koalas in the Amazing Australians exhibits.
Most famous of all is the Trail of the Elephants, the Asian village home of the zoo's five elephants, including recent addition baby Mali. Orangutans are viewed from elevated boardwalks, and penguins and seals swim in the Wild Sea display. Don’t miss feeding time and Meet the Keeper presentations.Practical Info
Melbourne Zoo is a couple of kilometers from central Melbourne, on the northern edge of town in Parkville. Catch a tram from the city along William Street, or a train from Flinders Street Station to Royal Park Station. The Zoological Gardens cover acres of different landscapes, including formal gardens, rainforest and jungle. Free guided tours highlight the zoo's star exhibits.
Address: Elliot Avenue, Parkville, Melbourne 3052, Australia
Hours: Open 9am - 5pm every day
Admission: Adults: AU$24.80, Children (4-15yrs): AU$12.40
From $ 33
Mitai Maori Village
Travelers don’t need to venture all the way to the bush for a taste of traditional New Zealand life thanks to the conveniently located Mitai Maori Village. This authentic cultural destination showcases the famed warriors in traditional attire and grants visitors unlimited access to their unique ways of life.
From hand-carved canoe rides to an evening hike through a glowworm forest, to a stop at a sacred freshwater spring a Mitai Maori Village trip features all the highlights in a single evening of fun. Travelers can sample a hangi meal cooked in the earth and enjoy a night of entertainment that includes poi dancing, hand-to-hand combat performances and traditional ta moko tattooing.
Practical Info
The village is located on Fairy Springs Road in Ngongotaha. Shows usually start at 6:30 p.m. and last for three hours.
Address: 196 Fairy Springs Road, Rotorua, New Zealand
Hours: Open every evening except for Christmas Day
Admission: Adults: $116 NZD; Child (10-15) $57.50 NZD; Child (5-9) $22.50 NZD
From $ 83
Mission Estate Winery
New Zealand produces some of the world’s most renowned, award-winning wines, and Mission Estate Winery on the outskirts of Napier is where it all began. Founded in 1851, Mission Estate was started by missionaries who journeyed from France with little more than a dream and a couple of vines. Now, nearly two centuries later, Mission Estate continues to operate as one of New Zealand’s best wineries, and is a staple on any shore excursion or wine tasting tour of Napier.
Head down the tree lined driveway toward the old fashioned estate and its fountain, and you'll immediately fall for the history and regal charm of the area. Step outside on the hilltop veranda for a view of the vineyard landscapes leading back to Napier’s downtown or to sip in the sun protected by the shade of one of the winery's big, white outdoor umbrellas.
Practical Info
Mission Estate Winery is located around 5 miles (8 km) from the heart of downtown Napier, and is about a 10-minute drive. You can access the winery by car, bike, and organized tour—a great option for anyone looking to enjoy their wine without drawing straws for designated driver.
The winery is open daily from 9am to 5pm Monday through Saturday, and from 10:30am to 4:30pm on Sunday.
Did You Know? Along the Mission Estate driveway, there is still one row of Muscat grapes that have been grafted from the original vines that were brought by the French missionaries.
Address: 198 Church Road, Napier, Hawkes Bay, New Zealand
Hours: Mon–Sat: 9am–5pm; Sun: 10:30am–4:30pm
From $ 39
Migration Museum
Telling the stories of the migrants who came from all over the world to make South Australia their home, the Migration Museum provides fascinating insight into Adelaide’s rich history and cultural heritage. With respect for the indigenous people of this region, the museum also illustrates the impact of immigration on native Australians.
The Basics
Explore the Migration Museum on a self-guided tour, or join one of the guided tours or city walking tours that visit the museum. Highlights include exhibitions on “Leaving Britain and Establishing South Australia,” “Immigration in the 20th century,” and “21st Century Migration,” as well as a display devoted to “Pre-European Australia” and the effects that immigration has had on indigenous people.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Entrance to the museum is free, but there is sometimes a charge for special events and temporary exhibitions.
- The museum is suitable for all ages, and children will enjoy the “Discovery Drawers” found throughout the exhibits.
- The museum is fully accessible to wheelchair users, and wheelchairs are available to rent.
How to Get There
The Migration Museum is located on Kintore Avenue in downtown Adelaide, just behind the State Library. It’s a short walk to the museum from the main shopping boulevard of Rundle Mall, and buses 241, 248, and 99C stop right outside the museum.
When to Get There
The museum is open daily, year-round. The quietest time to visit is on a weekday morning. Guided museum tours are offered on weekends only.
History of the Migration Museum
The museum is housed in buildings that once belonged to Adelaide’s Destitute Asylum, which provided government welfare to children and expectant mothers from 1878 until the early 20th century. The exhibition “In this Place” tells the story of the former inhabitants, including 1,678 babies who were born in its rooms.
Address: 82 Kintore Avenue, Adelaide 5000, Australia
Admission: Free
From $ 22
Monkey Mia
While some things in nature are easily explained, others remain a mystery. One of those mysteries is at Monkey Mia on Australia's western coast, where wild dolphins pay regular visits to the shoreline to greet humans. The ritual has taken place almost daily for over 50 years, with a handful of dolphins cruising by the shore up to three times per day, making Monkey Mia one of the world's most reliable places for spotting dolphins in the wild. The site is also a research center for dolphin psychology and behavior.
Although the dolphin appearances are unpredictable, rangers lead guided feedings during which select visitors are chosen to offer fish to the bottlenose dolphins under supervision (the amount of food provided to the dolphins is strictly regulated so as not to interfere with their diet). Thanks to ranger supervision, this is the only place in the Shark Bay region where visitors are legally allowed to be within 100 feet of a dolphin, making it easy to make out their sleek outline as they swim through the knee-high, crystalline waters. Dolphins may approach visitors, but guests should note that the animals are wild and should not touch them.
Practical Info
Monkey Mia 527 miles (850 km), or a nine-hour drive, north of Perth in the UNESCO-listed Shark Bay area. The nearest town is Denham, a 30-minute drive away. Monkey Mia day permits cost $12 for adults and $4.50 for children between the ages of 6 and 15.
Address: 1 Monkey Mia Road, Denham, Western Australia 6537, Australia
Hours: Open daily. To see the dolphins it's recommended you get to the beach by 7:30am
Admission: Adults $12, children (6–15) $4.50
From $ 463
Mitre Peak
Set smack in the middle of Milford Sound, Mitre Peak is the undisputed star in an already impressive show. Craggy, lonely and often shrouded in mist, this iconic spire thrusts a mile upwards from the placid waters of the Sound. When you arrive in Milford Sound after the serpentine road through the mountains, Mitre Peak rises before you like a sentinel to congratulate you on making the journey. This is easily one of the most oft-photographed sites in New Zealand—and when you stare at its stoic profile against the water you can immediately
understand why.
To get a closer view of Mitre Peak, crane your neck upwards at the 5,500-foot summit during a cruise of Milford Sound. Or, paddle beneath its alpine shadow as you kayak in search of marine life.
Practical Info
Mitre Peak is located in Milford Sound about 73 miles from Te Anau. You can view the peak as part of a guided tour from either Te Anau or Queenstown, or drive yourself on the winding road that weaves its way toward the Sound. The summer months of December through March are the most popular time to visit, and while this can also be the wettest time of the year, it makes for dozens of wispy waterfalls that seem to cascade from the sky.
Address: Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound, Fiordland, New Zealand
From $ 33
Melbourne Museum
Melbourne Museum provides a great experience for adults and children alike. A series of permanent exhibitions relating to the culture, history and the environment of Melbourne and Victoria are housed in several galleries including a lush Forest Gallery, an Aboriginal gallery and a Children’s area.
Exhibitions include Science and Life, Melbourne Story, Evolution, Mind and Body, and many more. Get to see bones and displays of Australia’s mega fauna (giant animals), experience the Dinosaur Walk, Bugs Alive!, Amazing Animals and The Human Body.
Temporary exhibitions run about twice a year and cover a variety of themes. The Museum also houses a good café, an IMAX center and – the museum’s most popular object – a taxidermy original of Australia’s most famous racehorse, Phar Lap.
Housed in a striking building with a huge glass façade, Melbourne Museum is not immediately visible if you approach from the CBD as it stands behind the impressive Royal Exhibition Building in Carlton Gardens.
Exhibitions include Science and Life, Melbourne Story, Evolution, Mind and Body, and many more. Get to see bones and displays of Australia’s mega fauna (giant animals), experience the Dinosaur Walk, Bugs Alive!, Amazing Animals and The Human Body.
Temporary exhibitions run about twice a year and cover a variety of themes. The Museum also houses a good café, an IMAX center and – the museum’s most popular object – a taxidermy original of Australia’s most famous racehorse, Phar Lap.
Housed in a striking building with a huge glass façade, Melbourne Museum is not immediately visible if you approach from the CBD as it stands behind the impressive Royal Exhibition Building in Carlton Gardens.
Practical Info
Melbourne Museum is an easy walk from Parliament train station or any tram stop along Nicholson, Victoria or Rathdowne Streets.
Address: Australia
Hours: Open daily 10am-5pm. Closed on Christmas and Good Friday.
Admission: Varies
From $ 39