From cabaret shows and padel courts to pop-up bars, DJs, and riverfront dining, Crown Melbourne is rolling out one of its biggest summer programs yet along the Riverwalk

Piper’s Playhouse

If cabaret, champagne, and theatrical chaos are your thing, this one is calling your name. Piper-Heidsieck has transformed The Playhouse into a full cabaret pop-up with live jazz, burlesque, drag, acrobatics, and illusion. Hosted by Jimi the Kween and headlined by Diesel Darling, it is unapologetically bold and made for late nights.

When: 15 January to 28 March
Where: The Playhouse
Times: Thursday to Sunday evenings
Booking: Bookings recommended

Crown Racquet Club

Yes, padel has officially landed on the Riverwalk. Two panoramic courts sit right on the Yarra, mixing sport with cocktails and river views. Play a match, then switch to a Vittoria coffee in the morning or a Grey Goose cocktail by sunset. Food comes from heavy hitters like Marmont, Ging Thai, and Bistro Guillaume, with DJs setting the tone most days.

When: 12 January to 11 April
Where: Crown Riverwalk
Times: Courts 6am to 11pm, bar from midday
Booking: HERE

Heineken Road to Palm Springs

Lumia Rouge has gone full desert festival mode. Think Palm Springs styling, cabana seating, a Coachella-inspired photo wall, and festival highlights looping in the front bar. There is also a chance to win Coachella tickets, which never hurts. Nervo fronts the campaign and curates an all-female DJ lineup every Friday and Saturday.

When: 23 January to 27 March
Where: Lumia Bar and terrace
Times: DJs Friday and Saturday from 8pm, bar open daily from midday
Bookings: Coming Soon! 

Asahi Otoya

This one is for vinyl lovers and yakitori fans. Asahi Otoya blends Japanese street food with curated vinyl sets from local record stores and labels. It is relaxed, music-led, and built for dropping in rather than locking in plans.

When: 15 January to 29 March
Where: Crown Melbourne
Times:
Thu and Sun 5pm to midnight
Fri and Sat 5pm to 2am
Bookings: Walk-Ins Only 

Layal

Layal is Crown’s newest permanent addition and brings Middle Eastern flavours to the Riverwalk. Expect mezze plates, grilled dishes, and cocktails, with a balcony that is prime real estate at sunset. It feels made for long, unhurried evenings.

When: Now open
Where: Crown Melbourne
Times:
Thu 5pm to 11pm
Fri and Sat 5pm to 2am
Sun 5pm to 11pm
Bookings: HERE

Summer Spritz Series

Sometimes, simple wins. Until the end of February, Crown is running a spritz special across multiple venues. Two options, both $18, available all day.

Huzu Spritz with elderflower, Prosecco, lime, and yuzu
Tickled Pink Spritz with Gordon’s Pink Gin, Prosecco, and grapefruit

When: 5 January to 28 February
Where: Atrium Bar, Sports Bar, Velvet Bar, and The Pub
Times: All day
Pick Your Spot HERE

Alfresco Riverwalk Dining

If all you want is a table by the water, the Riverwalk delivers. From French classics at Bistro Guillaume to bold Thai flavours at Ging Thai, there is no shortage of options for lunch or dinner with skyline views. Simple, reliable, and very Melbourne.

When: Available now
Where: Crown Riverwalk
Times: Lunch and dinner
Find Your Table