Best Function Venues Melbourne for Hire

Packed with award-winning restaurants, art galleries and charming function rooms, the vibrant city of Melbourne has no shortage of beautiful venues for event planners. Whether you're looking to party by the Yarra River, dine in the suburbs, or admire the glistening city from high altitude, there are a whole bunch of beautiful event spaces across Melbourne just waiting to be discovered. Our Melbourne Function Venue Guide will lead you through Melbourne's best suburbs for holding events, some tips and tricks on how to plan and manage an event, and will help you to find the perfect venue in Melbourne.

Unique Melbourne function venues

Whether you want to indulge your inner child or wow your guests, Melbourne VIC has tons of awe-inspiring event spaces that won’t let you down. There is surely a perfect function venue for you.

Take a look at this sampling of the unique function rooms Melbourne has to offer:

Melbourne Zoo - Melbourne Zoo presents an unparalleled event space, boasting both indoor and outdoor settings capable of hosting 10 to 3000 guests. Nestled amongst live animals and bespoke environments, including tranquil Japanese gardens and exclusive animal exhibits, it serves as the perfect backdrop for a variety of events, ranging from corporate meetings to celebratory gatherings.

StoryVille - Inspired by well-loved tales like The Hobbit and The Chronicles of Narnia, this fantasy-themed bar located in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD is your best bet for a whimsical New Year’s Eve bash, birthday party, engagement or other major events.

Kingpin Crown - This exclusive function venue comes with a luxury pool table, private karaoke, mahogany bowling lanes, gold bowling balls and a butler to greet you at the private VIP street entrance — what more could you want? It’s a high-end space perfect for an indulgent hens night, bucks night or company Christmas party.

SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium - Celebrate your milestones surrounded by sharks, stingrays and gorgeous marine life! This striking venue accommodates both small and large gatherings and can be transformed into a memorable setting for a wedding reception, corporate function or private party.

Spice Market Melbourne - Spice Market, an opulent venue inspired by the historic Spice Route, provides a luxurious, underground experience. With flexible event spaces that can host up to 600 guests, it is accessed through Melbourne's historic alleys.

Rialto - Rialto at Collins Street Rialto at Collins Street is an iconic Melbourne function venue that offers a unique and sophisticated setting for events. Located in the heart of the city, Rialto combines historic charm with modern elegance. With a flexible floor layout, impeccable service and amazing food, Rialto provides the perfect backdrop for a wide range of events.

How to book Melbourne function rooms on a budget

Host the celebration of your dreams without putting a hole in your pocket. Here’s how to snag exceptional function rooms on a tight budget.

Schedule your event outside of peak season

Hosting your event in the off-season is a tried-and-tested way of saving on venue-hire costs. For instance, some couples choose to get hitched in winter, when many venues and suppliers offer winter specials. Weekends are by far the busiest time for weddings, engagement parties and other social events, so you might consider celebrating on a Wednesday or Thursday.

Think outside the box

Instead of booking a hotel in the Melbourne CBD for your next conference, why not go for a roomy cafe or restaurant? Nowadays, whether you’re planning an intimate wedding or an end-of-financial-year bash, there are plenty of unexpected venues and versatile event spaces to help you keep your event budget on track.

Bring your own bottle

Look for function rooms with a BYO beverage policy. This allows you to choose your drinks based on what you can afford, helping you cut costs significantly. If you can find venues that allow external catering, that will help you save even more! VenueNow allows you to filter your search results by both of these perks.

Check for packages

Check for packages offered by function venues in Melbourne. Many venues offer package deals that include catering packages, beverage packages, and additional services, all for a discounted price. These packages can help you save money and simplify the planning process.

Get venue hire quotes

One of the simplest ways to compare function room prices is by requesting quotes from different venues. At VenueNow, we make this process super easy — simply tell us your event requirements and budget, and we’ll do the hard work for you, providing a comprehensive list of top-rated function rooms that match your specific needs.

Looking for function rooms in Melbourne?

If you’re searching for the perfect event space to host your next event, look no further than VenueNow. We’re Australia’s largest venue-booking platform, with a wide range of unique and stylish spaces to choose from. Whether you’re planning a birthday party, corporate event or wedding reception, we’ll help you find the perfect venue to suit your needs and budget. Start planning your memorable event today.

Best neighbourhoods in Melbourne for function venue hire

From uber-cool North Melbourne to bustling South Yarra and all the eclectic neighbourhoods throughout, there are hundreds of function rooms to discover in Melbourne. But what are the best neighbourhoods for function venue hire?

Melbourne CBD

Home to Federation Square, Eureka Tower and other renowned sights, the Central Business District is filled with chic high-rise venues and sprawling laneways dotted with world-class food spots and trendy cafes, bars and galleries. The Central Business District is filled with chic high-rise venues and sprawling laneways dotted with world-class food spots and trendy cafes, bars and galleries. Melbourne CBD is an excellent choice for hosting functions in Melbourne. The CBD offers a vibrant and cosmopolitan atmosphere, making it a popular destination for both business events and social gatherings.

Collingwood

This hip inner-city neighbourhood is known for its lively bars, cool cafes and eclectic mix of shops and galleries. Once an industrial hub, Collingwood’s warehouses and factories have been transformed into unique function spaces, perfect for everything from corporate events to birthday parties. Your next private event in Collingwood is guaranteed to be a memorable one.

Brighton

Brighton is an affluent coastal suburb of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia that is 11 km south-east of Melbourne’s central business district and is one of the most popular locations for Melbourne function venues due to its coastal views.

Prahran

Prahran is another sought-after neighbourhood for hosting functions in Melbourne. Located just southeast of the CBD, Prahran offers a vibrant and diverse atmosphere, with its mix of trendy boutiques, vibrant markets, and popular restaurants and bars. Function venues in Prahran range from chic rooftop spaces with stunning views of the city skyline to intimate cocktail bars and stylish event spaces.

Fitzroy

Known as Melbourne’s “Bohemian Quarter,” the inner-city suburb of Fitzroy is home to buzzy nightclubs, popular eateries, modern function rooms, artist-run spaces and heaps of unexpected venue hire options for any function or special event.

Port Melbourne

Port Melbourne is another fantastic area in Melbourne for hosting functions. Located just south-west of the CBD, Port Melbourne offers a unique waterfront setting with stunning views of the bay. There are a variety of function venues in Port Melbourne that cater to different styles and preferences. One popular option is to host your function in one of the many stylish hotels and event spaces that line the waterfront. These venues offer modern amenities, spacious rooms, and professional staff to ensure a successful event. Whether you're planning a corporate conference or a glamorous wedding, these venues can accommodate your needs.

Brunswick

Located just north of Melbourne's CBD, Brunswick is a trendy and eclectic suburb that is known for its vibrant arts and cultural scene. It is also home to some fantastic function venues that are perfect for hosting a wide range of events. One of the main draws of hosting a function in Brunswick is the unique and hip atmosphere of the area. The suburb is filled with cool cafes, trendy bars, and funky art galleries, providing a lively backdrop for your event. Whether you're looking to host a small intimate gathering or a large-scale celebration, there are function venues in Brunswick that can cater to your specific needs.

St. Kilda

Located southeast of the CBD, St. Kilda has some of Melbourne’s most visited attractions and hosts many of its biggest events and festivals. This gives your guests plenty to see and experience before and after your event! Find the largest event spaces and entertainment venues in St. Kilda to host your next function.

South Melbourne

Located on the north bank of the Yarra River, this neighbourhood is a sought-after destination for foodies and those looking for an active night out. Here you’ll find Melbourne's top pubs and bars as well as boutique hotels, restaurants, cafés, galleries and function rooms. South Melbourne has a distinctly European feel and is home to some of Melbourne’s most popular restaurants and thriving café culture. It’s also close to Melbourne Park, Melbourne Convention Centre and the city centre making it an ideal location for your next event!

South Yarra

South Yarra is home to some of Melbourne's best bars, restaurants, cafes and galleries as well as excellent venues right in its backyard. With plenty of room for events, South Yarra is Melbourne’s ultimate function destination.

The vibrant Chapel Street Precinct in South Yarra is renowned for its nightlife, with a range of bars, nightclubs and pubs to suit any taste. It’s also home to some of Melbourne’s best shopping, with designer boutiques, vintage stores and high-end retailers all within easy reach. And if you’re looking for a unique function venue, Chapel Street has plenty to offer, from hidden bars and speakeasies to rooftop bars with stunning city views and converted warehouse venue options.

Richmond

Richmond offers a mix of Victorian charm and modern Melbourne with its vibrant café culture and outdoor spaces perfect for your event in Melbourne's Inner East! There are many Melbourne venues that line the banks of the Yarra River, making Richmond a popular choice for those looking to escape the city without going too far.

Northcote

Super trendy Northcote is a great option if you want to impress your guests with an energetic, lively and upbeat event space. In such close proximity to Flinders Street Station, this hip suburb has it all — from café culture and buzzing laneways to creative galleries and boutiques galore.

Top function venues and event spaces in Melbourne

Melbourne is teeming with one-of-a-kind function rooms for almost any purpose and capacity. Whether you’re looking for a contemporary event space for a workshop, a venue with scenic views of the Yarra River or a private lounge for an intimate engagement party, you’ll find your perfect function room on VenueNow.

Here are our top picks for Melbourne function rooms:

La Di Da

Located in the vibrant heart of Melbourne's CBD, La Di Da stands as a multifaceted venue that masterfully combines modern comforts with unparalleled style. This premier destination boasts an array of features, including several bars, a fine dining restaurant, dance floors, and exclusive private function rooms, making it perfectly suited for both corporate gatherings and intimate celebrations. La Di Da presents a chic, sophisticated atmosphere complemented by versatile event packages and a selection of spaces. These range from a cozy heated courtyard to elegant private rooms, designed to accommodate everything from engagement parties and cocktail soirées to corporate events, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all guests.

Marvel Stadium

Marvel Stadium, located in Melbourne, Australia, stands as a top-tier venue, catering to a diverse range of events from sports and concerts to private gatherings. It boasts cutting-edge technology, outstanding catering services, and flexible spaces complemented by a retractable roof and adaptable seating arrangements. Since its inauguration in 2000, the stadium has welcomed over 35 million guests, playing host to significant international sports competitions and concerts by world-renowned music artists. This has cemented its reputation as one of Australia's most sophisticated and adaptable stadiums.

Ibis Hotel Melbourne

Ibis Hotel Melbourne offers dynamic conference spaces in the heart of the central business district, equipped with state-of-the-art audiovisual facilities and dedicated on-site technical support, accommodating up to 300 participants. Perfectly situated near major landmarks such as the Queen Victoria Markets and Melbourne University, the hotel boasts 250 well-appointed rooms, in-house catering, and conference equipment and provides versatile event packages tailored to meet the needs of both business and leisure guests.

Arts Centre Melbourne

Located on St Kilda Road and distinguished by its iconic Spire, Arts Centre Melbourne presents a variety of event spaces, from theatres and galleries to outdoor areas, making it an ideal choice for events ranging in size. This premier venue hosts performances from renowned groups such as the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and Opera Australia. Additionally, it features versatile function rooms and comprehensive accessibility features, catering to a wide array of events including meetings and gala dinners. Its modern design and versatile venues make it a sought-after venue for various functions in Melbourne. Their function room hire services are highly flexible and can be customised to suit the specific needs of each event.

Harbour Kitchen

Harbour Kitchen, located in the vibrant Docklands of Melbourne, presents an unparalleled function venue that boasts breathtaking views of Victoria Harbour and the city's skyline. This premier destination offers a wide array of catering and beverage choices, meticulously designed to complement any event. It features versatile settings, including an elegant garden, a sleek marble bar, and adaptable layout options, catering to a diverse range of events from corporate gatherings to private celebrations. Its unique style and coveted position near the CBD enhance every occasion, making Harbour Kitchen the epitome of excellence for event hosting.

Eureka 89

Perched on the top floor of the iconic Eureka Tower, Eureka 89 offers a truly unforgettable function experience in Melbourne. As one of the highest event spaces in the Southern Hemisphere, guests will be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline, Port Phillip Bay, and beyond. With floor-to-ceiling windows, Eureka 89 offers an unparalleled setting for any special occasion.

Eureka 89 showcases a luxurious and contemporary design, creating an atmosphere of elegance and sophistication. The venue can accommodate a range of events, from intimate cocktail parties to grand corporate functions, with a capacity of up to 350 guests. The space can be easily adapted to suit any event style or theme, ensuring a personalised and memorable experience for all attendees.

Baroq House

Located in the heart of the bustling CBD, Baroq House is a luxurious and extravagant function venue in Melbourne. This stunning venue seamlessly blends old-world charm with modern elegance, creating a unique and unforgettable atmosphere for any event. With multiple function spaces spread across three levels, Baroq House offers versatility and flexibility for events of all sizes. The interior of Baroq House exudes opulence, with its ornate crystal chandeliers, lush furniture, and lavish decor. Each room has its own distinct character, adding a touch of sophistication and grandeur to your event. The venue's experienced event planners are on hand to assist with every detail, ensuring that your vision becomes a reality.

Melbourne Cricket Ground

The Melbourne Cricket Ground, also known as the MCG, is not only a world-renowned sports stadium, but it also offers exceptional function venues for hire. With its vast capacity and iconic status, the MCG provides a unique and memorable setting for corporate events, conferences, weddings, and other special occasions.

The Boatbuilders Yard

Nestled on the banks of the Yarra River, The Boatbuilders Yard is a picturesque and charming function venue in Melbourne. This unique venue combines rustic elegance with a relaxed riverside setting, creating a one-of-a-kind atmosphere for your event. The venue features both indoor and outdoor spaces, giving you the option to host your function amidst the breathtaking views of the river or within the cozy and intimate interiors. The Boatbuilders Yard offers a range of function spaces to suit different event sizes and styles. You even have the option for an exclusive venue hire.

Popular event types for function venues in Melbourne

Melbourne has a wide range of event spaces for any type of event. Whether you're looking for a versatile conference space for multi-day conferences or an outdoor space for outdoor gatherings, Melbourne has it! Here are a few event styles you can hold in Melbourne:

Corporate functions

Corporate functions range from training workshops to conferences where people come together for a shared goal or purpose. These corporate meetings often take place over an extended period of time so it’s important that your venue is comfortable enough to keep participants engaged for long periods of time with amenities like wifi access, ample space for breakout sessions as well as catering services available throughout the day. It also helps if you have meeting rooms away from each other so there's a separation between break-out session topics and discussions happening at once which can be overheard by others not participating in that particular discussion. Corporate function venues in Melbourne offer a wide range of options to host your corporate event. From stylish conference rooms to contemporary boardrooms, you can find the perfect venue to suit your requirements.

Engagement party

Engaged couples who want to throw the ultimate celebration for their big day without breaking the bank often turn to venues in Melbourne’s Inner East, such as Richmond where they can find function rooms that offer a mix of Victorian charm and modern Melbourne with its vibrant café culture and outdoor spaces perfect for your engagement party!

Wedding

As the most significant event in many people’s lives, weddings are often planned over a long period of time and require an extensive amount of planning. When looking for function venues in Melbourne it's important to consider what your guests will need during their stay with things like ample parking available nearby, food options that suit every taste profile, wifi access so they can quickly upload photos from the day as well as entertainment options such as live music or DJ sets after dinner.

Birthday party

From children’s outdoor birthday parties to lavish affairs for adults, venues in Melbourne are perfect for throwing the most memorable bash. You might be looking for a function space that caters specifically to kids with a party room full of bright colours and an inflatable slide or you could go all out at an event space like Higher Ground where there are acres of green open spaces, sleek minimalist design and award-winning food! Your birthday celebration should be a reflection of your personality, and Melbourne has a wide range of function venues that can cater to any theme or style you have in mind. Whether you want an intimate gathering with close friends and family or a grand party with a large guest list, there is a perfect venue for you.

Award Ceremony

If you're hosting your next awards ceremony in Melbourne, it can feel daunting trying to navigate which venue is best suited as they each offer their own unique benefits. Your decision will depend on many factors such as budget restrictions or if you require any special amenities (e.g., live music). However, investing in a venue space that can successfully cater to your needs for whatever the event is will make it easier on you and those helping organise!

Cocktail Party

Cocktail parties are all about mingling and enjoying drinks with friends so naturally, you'll want a function venue in Melbourne that can accommodate this. Many cocktail party venues are open plan with lounge areas and plenty of mingling space for guests. Some cocktail event venues may even have an outdoor area that is perfect for summer parties! Your next cocktail-style event in Melbourne is guaranteed to be a hit with the variety of stunning venues available.

Private Dining

Private dining is a great way to celebrate a special occasion with family and friends. Whether it's a birthday, anniversary or engagement, private dining rooms offer an intimate setting that allows you to enjoy good food and conversation without being interrupted. Many private dining rooms also have their own kitchen so you can choose to have your meal cooked by a professional chef or you can bring your own food and drink to your private functions.

Networking Event

Networking events are a great way for professionals to connect, build relationships, and expand their professional networks. When planning a networking event in Melbourne, it is crucial to find a function venue that can accommodate all your needs. Fortunately, Melbourne offers a plethora of event space options that are perfect for hosting networking events.

Product Launch

When it comes to product launches, it's all about creating a grand entrance and making a big impact. Many function venues in Melbourne offer creative spaces that can be transformed to suit your event's needs. For example, The Glasshouse in Collingwood has an entirely blank canvas space that can be styled to perfection for your next big launch!

Dinners

Evening events at function venues in Melbourne offer the perfect setting for a memorable and elegant dinner. Whether you are planning a corporate gala, an anniversary celebration, or a special family gathering, you'll find a wide range of function rooms in Melbourne that cater to your specific needs. Choose from exclusive event venues to dining rooms with stunning views of the city skyline or waterfront locations that provide a picturesque backdrop for your dinner event.

Meetings and Conferences

If you're looking for a meeting or conference venue in Melbourne, there are plenty of options to choose from. It's important to consider the size of your event and what type of facilities you'll need such as audio-visual equipment, catering, and break-out areas. Many function venues will also offer special rates for corporate events so it's always worth enquiring. Plan your next successful conference in Melbourne by exploring the various function venues available in the city.

As you can see, there are many different types of events that call for a function venue in Melbourne. Depending on your budget and the size of your event, you'll be able to find the perfect space to accommodate your needs. From smaller, more intimate events to large-scale events, there's a venue in Melbourne that will be perfect for you!

Contact VenueNow today to help you get started.

Book your function venues today!

Melbourne has a myriad of options for event venues. Whether you are planning a corporate event, a wedding reception, a milestone celebration, or any other special occasion, there is a perfect venue waiting for you. To make your search easier, VenueNow is here to help you find and book the best function venue in Melbourne.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning for your upcoming event and make it an unforgettable event!