Lightscape Melbourne is returning to the Royal Botanic Gardens this winter, and it’s set to be even more spectacular in 2025.
From Friday 20 June to Sunday 10 August, the gardens will come alive with light, music, and wintery magic. If you’ve never been or even if you have, this is one of those events you really don’t want to miss.
Think glowing tunnels, dancing projections, and a moody, photo-perfect trail that winds through some of the most beautiful corners of the gardens. Here’s everything you need to make the most of it.
Contents
What Is Lightscape?
Lightscape is a curated after-dark light trail that’s taken over major cities around the world, and Melbourne has made it its own. Installed throughout the Royal Botanic Gardens, it’s a one-way illuminated walk that mixes light installations, soundscapes, and nature.
Each year is different, but expect highlights like fire gardens, colour-shifting trees, and moments of silence where the lights pulse to music. It’s immersive, it’s stunning, and it feels like walking through a movie set.
Lightscape 2025 Useful Information
Event Dates
The Lightscape 2025 season runs for nearly two months, right across the school holidays and winter weekends.
- Start: Friday 20 June 2025
- End: Sunday 10 August 2025
Session Times
Entry for Lightscape 2025 is staggered to avoid overcrowding, so you’ll choose a session time when booking.
- Every night from 5:15 PM to 11:00 PM
- Entry every 15 minutes (last entry around 9:30 PM)
Most people take about 60–90 minutes to walk the full trail.
Ticket Price
Lightscape Melbourne 2025 tickets start from $36 for adults and $24 for children, with family and concession passes available. Tickets can be booked online via Ticketek.
- Adults: from $36
- Children (4–15): from $24
- Under 4s: Free
- Family and concession passes available
Hot tip: weekday sessions are usually cheaper and less crowded.
Entrance
The entrance to Lightscape Melbourne 2025 is via the Observatory Gate at the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne, located on Birdwood Avenue, South Yarra. This is the only official entry point to access the illuminated trail.
Location
Lightscape Melbourne is held in the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne, with entry via the Observatory Gate on Birdwood Avenue, South Yarra.
- Easy to get to from the CBD
- Close to Arts Centre, Shrine of Remembrance, and Alexandra Avenue
Lightscape Melbourne 2025 Hours
The event runs nightly from 5:15 PM to 11:00 PM. The lights are timed, and it’s best to arrive early so you don’t miss your slot.
Getting There
If you’re coming from the city, you’ve got options:
- Tram: Domain Interchange (Routes 58, 5, 6, 64)
- Train: Flinders Street Station + short tram ride or walk
- Driving: Paid parking near Arts Centre or limited metered spots nearby
Accessibility
The Lightscape Melbourne trail is wheelchair-friendly and mostly flat, with staff on hand for assistance if needed.
- Accessible toilets available
- Assistance animals welcome
What to Expect on the Lightscape Trail
There’s no official map for Lightscape Melbourne, and part of the fun is discovering each zone. That said, you’ll likely see:
- A huge tunnel of lights
- LED-lit trees and bushes
- Fire pits
- Interactive sound-light zones
- Reflections on the lake
Expect music, mist, warmth from the fire gardens, and a few wow moments.
Food and Drinks
Come hungry. Inside the trail, you’ll find:
- Gourmet food trucks
- Mulled wine, hot choc, donuts, and comfort food
Nearby, you’ve got options like:
- The Terrace (inside the gardens, book ahead)
- Jardin Tan (fusion food near the entrance)
- Gilson (great for pizza and cocktails on Domain Rd)
Visit Melbourne Gardens
If you’re coming during the day, the gardens are also worth a stroll.
Opening Hours
- Daily from 7:30 AM to sunset (not part of Lightscape access)
Location
- Birdwood Avenue, South Yarra VIC 3141
Stay Up to Date
This event sells out fast, especially on weekends. To stay in the loop:
- Follow Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria on socials
- Join their Lightscape email list for early access alerts
Contact Details
Need help or lost your ticket?
- Website: rbg.vic.gov.au
- Phone: (03) 9252 2300
- Tickets: via Fever or Ticketek (search “Lightscape Melbourne 2025”)
FAQs
How long is the Lightscape Melbourne trail?
About 2 km. Most people take 60–90 minutes.
What if it rains?
It’s Melbourne. The event goes ahead rain or shine.
Can I bring my dog?
Only registered assistance animals are permitted.
Is it kid-friendly?
Very. It’s pram-accessible and safe for all ages.
Are there toilets?
Yes—multiple accessible toilets are along the trail.
