Think you've seen all this country has to offer? Partied at Bondi Beach? Swam over the Great Barrier Reef? Got on the wrong side of a buck on Kangaroo Island? Those tourist honeypots are just the tip of the iceberg. If you're looking for some of the most unique activities in Australia, we're rounding up our personal hits, from pink lakes in the middle of major cities and Insta-friendly farms to a movie-famous pub in the Outback. Read on to find out what's on our bizarre bucket list for unusual things to see in Australia.
🌏🌏🌏
Climb An Iconic Landmark In Sydney
Looking for quirky things to do in Sydney? Scaling one of the world's most famous structures might just fit the bill. Voted among the best experiences in the country, BridgeClimb will see you clambering up the landmark Harbour Bridge to enjoy some exceptional views of the city. Ideal for those on the hunt for the best things to see in Australia, the panorama from the top takes in the whole CBD, including iconic sights of the Opera House and the tip of the Sydney Tower.
Climb to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge for one of the craziest things to do in Australia.
Peace Out In Paradise With Nimbin
So, you've heard of Byron Bay (or Byron Baes, Netflix fans) but just over an hour’s drive inland from the iconic beach sees a place with a more chilled out vibe: say hello to Nimbin. Unusual activities are two a penny around here, including hippy markets, colourful craft galleries, secluded waterfalls, off-the-beaten-track nature trails and, ahem, herb workshops. Although it's not really a hidden gem, especially since its appearance in The Inbetweeners 2, Nimbin is as strange as you can get in Australia.
Trippy hippy scenes that should be next on your agenda.
Snap A Gorgeous Lavender Farm In Tasmania
Established by a London perfumer in 1921, Bridestowe Lavender Estate is one of the most beautiful things to see in Australia. Located on the northern edge of Tasmania, the farm is home to rolling purple hills and manicured gardens just dying to make a lilac splash on your Instagram grid, while their onsite shop sells all manner of fragrant gifts, from soaps and candles to cuddly toys. Once you've got your fill of snaps and smells, head to their cafe for lavender-infused ice creams, lattes and signature scones.
We can promise this gorgeous lavender farm smells as good as it looks.
Get A Bullseye In A Circus-Themed Bar In Perth
When your standard boozer isn't cutting it anymore, consider taking a trip to Flight Club down Murray Street for a game of social darts. Having only opened in December 2021, and following hugely successful ventures in the UK, this interactive and high-tech twist on the classic game will see you compete with your mates in fairground-themed surrounds. But being top player is thirsty work, so kick back while sipping on bottomless prosecco or tuck into one of their famous pizza platters.
All the fun of the fair, including a round of darts, right here in Perth.
Visit A Pink Lake In Central Melbourne
If you're on the hunt for alternative things to do in Melbourne, we'd recommend a trip to one of the city's most eye-catching natural features. Just a short car journey beyond the CBD you'll find Westgate Park, restored wetlands on the banks of the Yarra River. While this verdant nook is an impressive sight all year round, in the warmer months its central lake becomes one of the most unusual things to see in Australia as the water takes on a stunning pink colour. The beetroot hue is caused by increased salt levels and remains visible from early summer right through to autumn.
Best kept secret places in Australia? This pink lake makes for a hot Melbourne summer.
Munch On Endless Wings Near Cool Graffiti In Brisbane
Yes, Brissy’s art scene has exploded in recent years, but how about merging your passion for painting with your love for drinking? If so, grabbing a pint next to a huge wall of graffiti should be right up your street. This seriously impressive mural can be found at DogTap, who not only brew their very own beer in-house, but they also promise epic 2-4-1 deals, unlimited buffalo wings on Wednesdays, ace brewery tours and slick live music sessions. Oh, and the views of the Brisbane river are worth checking out too.
Get involved boozehounds, as Dogtap's incredible artwork and industrial-chic interiors are weird 'n' wonderful in equal measure.
Meet A Star Of The Silver Screen In The Outback
One of the most unique places in Australia, this traditional pub may feel familiar to eagle-eyed film fans. The Silverton Hotel and the surrounding town has been a key location for a whole host of cinematic classics, from Mission Impossible II to Priscilla, Queen of the Desert and, of course, Mad Max 2 (there's a dedicated museum to the movie just a five-minute walk away). The quirky Outback pub is more than just set piece though, with a range of tasty Australian beers, classic grub and walls covered with photos from the flicks that made them famous.
This Outback pub has been featured in some iconic movies.
Looking for more cool Australian activities? Check out our roundup of fun things to do in Sydney.
