A small shout-out to the suburb where I grew up. Glen Waverley is home to Victoria’s Police Academy, where cadets undoubtedly partake in the same 80s-style hijinks as seen in the movies.
The Astor always makes going to see a film feel special. The art-deco building itself is beautiful and the program of cults and classics are always well curated. There's no comparison to seeing a film in it's original format - 35mm and the rare 70mm.
Besides being covered in the street art that is synonymous with Melbourne, the laneways also lead to some of the city’s best cafes, shops and restaurants, and are always worth taking time to explore.
The Chapel Street Bazaar is a vintage wonderland. Over 70 stalls densely packed with finely selected vintage treasures. Full of everything you really want and nothing you really need. It’s a great place to take a stroll back through time and for gathering inspiration.
A specialist bookshop that stocks a vast range of books relating to graphic design, photography and architecture, to name a few. Many hours (and dollars) can easily be spent here.
My favourite commercial gallery in Melbourne, Utopian Slumps represents a group of early to mid career Australian and New Zealand artists. Exhibitions are always intriguing and the opening nights are great for people watching.