Think you’ve experienced all Melbourne has to offer? The city is full of surprises that go beyond the well-trodden tourist paths. From cafes in unexpected places and obscure museums to unique galleries, discover these offbeat treasures for a fresh perspective of Melbourne. And best of all, they’re all accessible too!

Science Gallery Melbourne
Mix a dose of science, with a dash of art, and a pinch of innovation and you get Science Gallery Melbourne, where art and science meet. A unique cultural space, it aims to inspire curiosity and critical thinking through the fusion of art and science. Part of Melbourne University, it’s designed to engage young people in the creative industries and science.

The experience begins before even entering this ingenious laboratory. Look at the façade and see the digital bricks display. Entering through the auto sliding doors, pause in wonder at the light-filled space. Enjoy ever-changing interactive exhibits, thought-provoking installations, and collaborative events.

The split-level space is welcoming and accessible to all. Levels can be accessed via stairs, ramps or lift. Wheelchairs are available from the front desk. Earplugs and sensory maps are there too. All artwork labels come with a large font option. The website has an audio-described venue map, social scripts and a visual storytelling guide to help you prepare for your visit. Accessible toilets are on two levels and there’s seating throughout. Accessible platform super stops are nearby on Swanston Street.

Tram Café
Ding, ding, all aboard the Tram Cafe! While it doesn’t travel anywhere, you can still ring its bell. This unique cafe, part of the William Angliss culinary and hospitality school, provides opportunities for students to gain new skills. Dine-in and takeaway coffee and student-made baked goods are on offer. You’re in luck if you visit on the day of a chocolate-making class!

Built inside a restored and refurbished 1930s tram, it sits in the school’s courtyard. A ramp or stairs lead to the elevated area into the tram’s step-free wide doorway. Sit at one of the height-adjustable stools with views onto La Trobe Street. Or slide into a booth-style table. There are power points and USB outlets at each one.

You can order drinks and treats from the window and sit outside at bench seats and long tables too. Big umbrellas offer protection on sunny days. Accessible toilets are just down the ramp in the Building C foyer. Nearby, you’ll find accessible public transport options at Flagstaff Station and platform super stops at Spencer Street.

Gothic Bank Museum
While the thought of visiting a banking museum sounds a little dull, you’ve never seen anything quite like this one. Housed in the most magnificent building, the items on display at the Gothic Bank Museum are fascinating. If you can stop looking up at the ornate ceiling, or down at the exquisitely crafted mosaic tile floor, that is. Celebrating Australia’s rich banking history, there are old ATMs and fun piggy banks. There’s even a replica Dalek, the alien from the Doctor Who TV series, once used in an advertising campaign.

Recently restored, this masterpiece of Gothic-style architecture is one of Melbourne’s most important heritage buildings and is accessible. A flat, paved laneway from Queen Street leads to the Queen & Collins building’s courtyard and the bank’s auto-door entrance. There is also a stair entry from Collins Street. There’s lots of room, but the plush carpeted area may hinder easy rolling for some wheelchair users. Seating options are available throughout, and accessible toilets are via a lift on the first floor of the Queen & Collins building. Accessible platform super stops are on Collins Street and Bourke Street.

Brick Lane Market
Situated in the Queen Victoria Market precinct is Brick Lane Brewing’s newest spot, Brick Lane Market. At the forefront of craft brewing, this independent local brewer makes a wide range of beers to suit all occasions. But this place is more than just about drinks. Its extensive menu makes the most of the Market’s fresh foods. Cauliflower with dates. A stacked Wagyu beef burger. And market cheese platter with quince and honeycomb. Oysters, lobster, and sashimi are all served at the raw bar. Suggested beer pairings are on the menu too.

A welcome respite from the busy market, the downstairs taproom is split level. Auto-door entries on Therry Street and Queen Street allow access to both levels. There’s a mix of stools and high and low tables and bar seats. The industrial-chic vibe continues to the dining room upstairs. Accessed via lift or stairs, it’s light-filled and has lots of greenery. Banquettes, chairs with arms, and stools are seating options. Tables are a good height for wheelchair users and there’s live music and DJs. The outdoor terrace is accessible too and has great views over the market. Accessible toilets are on both levels and the nearest accessible platform super stops are on Elizabeth Street.

Lumen People
Indulge in sardines on sourdough with tea-soaked currants and hazelnuts. A braised leek toasted sandwich. Or a chocolate and cinnamon croissant pudding. Lumen People is a day-to-night venue honouring the growers, producers and makers behind their seasonal menu. You can also enjoy beer, wine and a selection of classic cocktails.

A ramp leads you into the welcoming space with its Scandi-like minimal décor. it’s cosy and has room to move around. The day’s pastries are on display in a glass case on the low countertop. Linger on the built-in long bench seating which runs along one wall with low tables and chairs. Or sit on stools at the high counter. There’s outdoor seating and tables too. A linen-curtained hallway leads to the accessible toilet. Tucked away on Victoria Street, the nearest accessible platform super stops are not too far away on Peel Street.