Explore Melbourne's Best 40th Birthday Venues

Some people want a quiet dinner. Others want a cocktail in one hand and a dance floor. However you plan to ring in your 40th, one thing’s certain: the right venue will set the tone. In a city like Melbourne, you’ve got no excuse for throwing a boring party. 

This guide covers everything from where to host to how much it’ll cost—minus the stress.

What to Think About Before You Book your 40th

It sounds obvious, but before you fall down a Pinterest rabbit hole, figure out your basics. How many people are you inviting? That’s your starting point. Small and intimate dinners feel weird in a 100-capacity venue, while larger groups will need more than a back corner of a bar.

Next, timing. Melbourne’s weather is kind of moody, so if you’re hoping for a courtyard or rooftop moment, aim for late spring or early autumn when the nights are still warm but not hitting the heat index. If you’ve got your heart set on a weekend night, especially in November or December, lock something in at least two or three months prior to your celebration because these venues tend to be fully booked.

Lastly, mood matters. Is it luxe or laid-back? Regardless, having a clear vision helps. 

Not into full themes? That’s fine. Think more along the lines of: “we’re going for wine bar energy” or “sunset drinks that turn into a dance party.” That kind of direction makes planning easier across the board.

Venue Styles That Suit a 40th

Melbourne does variety well. Riverside views, a hidden bar or a full venue takeover, there’s something for every type of birthday celebration.

Private dining rooms are ideal if you’re after something low-key but still special. Most restaurants in Melbourne have spaces that don’t need much styling.

Rooftop bars and terraces. If the weather’s on your side, sunset drinks never fail. Spots in Southbank and South Wharf offer those sea or skyline views that feel instantly special.

Converted warehouses and blank spaces are perfect if you want to bring in your own caterers or go big with styling. These often suit larger parties with a DJ or live music, especially in Richmond and the inner south.

If you’re chasing something more relaxed, a semi-private section in a bar or a pub with a back room might be all you need. Great for groups who want drinks, snacks and good music without the full venue hire price tag.

Food and Drinks Packages for a 40th

Here’s the truth: most people remember the drinks and the vibe. Food matters, but it doesn’t need to be a seven-course tasting menu unless that’s your thing.

Set food and drinks packages make life easier. You’ll see offers like $85 a head for roaming canapés and a drinks package, pretty straightforward, no one goes hungry, and the tab doesn’t spiral.

Bar tabs are good if you want flexibility. Set a cap, let people order what they like, and when it runs out, guests can order on their own. This works well for casual groups or if you’ve got a mix of drinkers and non-drinkers.

For food, grazing tables, shared plates or roaming bites suit most parties. They keep things moving and feel more social than a formal meal. But if your group is more of a sit-down dinner than a canapé crowd, a two or three-course menu is still a great way to go (but check if you can bring your own cake!)

Have a few plant-based mates or gluten-free eaters? Most venues are used to dietary requirements these days, but flag it early to avoid last-minute adjustments. And if you’re going the BYO route, make sure you ask about corkage and staffing because those little extras can add up.

How Much Does a 40th Birthday Cost?

Expect to spend around $75 per person. That’s the average for a good mix of food and drinks. Some packages come in closer to $60, especially if it’s more casual. On the higher end, premium venues or longer drinks packages will hit $90 or more.

Most venues don’t charge a hire fee. Instead, they work on a minimum spend. That means you agree to spend a certain amount of food and drinks, and in return, they give you the space. On weekends, that can go up higher depending on the size of the venue and your guest count.

If you’re looking at exclusive venues, you might come across a venue hire fee. This can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand, depending on what’s included (e.g sound systems, private staff, or extra hours.)

If you’re watching your budget, consider booking on a Sunday afternoon or a weeknight instead. These often come with lower minimum spends and a bit more availability.

Getting To and From Your 40th Party

The good news is that most of Melbourne’s best party suburbs particularly Southbank, South Wharf, Richmond, South Yarra and St Kilda are all well connected. Trains and rideshares are easy to come by, especially earlier in the evening.

St Kilda is perfect for daytime-to-night parties, but parking can be rough on weekends. Try to share nearby car parks in your invite or suggest people catch a ride.

Hosting somewhere like South Wharf? Those riverfront venues are gorgeous but can be a bit hidden. We suggest dropping a Google Maps pin to make life easier.

Wherever you book, make sure the venue has a clear drop-off zone and no surprise lockout rules. Nobody wants to be stranded in party clothes at the end of the night.

Popular Suburbs in Melbourne for a 40th Birthday Party

Southbank is ideal if you want something central and stylish, it’s perfect for cocktail-style celebrations with a dressier crowd.

South Wharf offers a more laid-back feel. Great for sunset drinks. You’ll find restaurants and bars here that know how to handle a celebration.

St Kilda keeps things playful. Beach views, retro charm, and a few solid party venues with real character. If it’s a long lunch or a night out, there’s always somewhere to go after.

South Yarra suits more refined celebrations. You’ll find dining rooms, hotel lounges and wine bars that feels a bit more "boujee"

Richmond has great pub spaces, cool industrial venues and spots that let you push the party later into the night.

Ideas to Make Your Birthday More Fun

You don’t need a big theme, but adding something personal always helps. A printed menu with your name, a signature drink, or a playlist that plays the hits from your early twenties, it doesn’t take much to make the night feel like yours.

You can also set up a photo booth (even a DIY one), or bring in a live acoustic set or DJ. 

Decor doesn’t need to be over the top. A few fresh flowers, warm lighting and styled nibbles go a long way. If you’re keen on a stylist, brief them early. But honestly, in a well-designed space, less is more.

If you’re the sentimental type, a short toast or speech (keep it under five minutes) adds a nice moment. And don’t forget the cake because people will remember dessert.

Final Thoughts Before You Lock In Your 40th Birthday Venue

Before you pay a deposit, ask the venue for a clear rundown of what’s included. Does the package cover staff, styling, speakers, and egress? What’s the backup plan for bad weather? Are outside suppliers allowed?

Read the cancellation terms and find out what happens if your numbers shift. Some places are flexible, others lock you in early.

And wherever possible, visit the space in person. You’ll get a much better feel for layout, lighting and sound than you will from photos alone.

The right venue won’t just host your 40th, it’ll shape the whole feel of it. Once that’s sorted, the rest of the planning gets a lot more fun.

How much do Melbourne 40th birthday venues cost?

What are the top Melbourne 40th birthday venues?

Here are some of our favourite Melbourne 40th birthday venues:

1. Harbour Kitchen
2. Hophaus
3. Ludlow Bar
4. State Library of Victoria
5. Aerial
6. Luminare
7. Riverland Bar
8. Yarra Queen
9. La Di Da
10. Cookie Melbourne

How do I find and book Melbourne 40th birthday venues?

How far in advance should I book a Melbourne 40th birthday venue?

Can VenueNow help me find a Melbourne 40th birthday venue?