Guide To Melbourne's High Street, The Coolest In The World

Each year, global media company Time Out releases an annual list of the "coolest streets in the world right now." The list for 2024 has been revealed and compiled by their global editorial team. The selection criteria used were based on the activities and experiences offered by these streets. They consider the opinions and insights of locals to highlight the must-see streets in cities worldwide, where people can have a good time sampling local food, activities, culture, and more. The top 10 streets in their list offer a blend of local and global urban culture, fostering a strong sense of community. Topping the 2024 list is High Street in Melbourne, which runs through trendy suburbs and is easily accessible via a tram line. 

Melburnians are fortunate to have many popular streets offering a mix of food, culture, and entertainment. Chapel Street, Sydney Road, and Smith Street are some of the well-known ones. However, in 2024, High Street, which runs through Thornbury, Northcote, and Preston in the inner-north suburbs, will be the centre of attention. High Street has all the cool features you would expect, such as excellent dining places, hidden bars, live music venues, indie cinemas, and boutique shops. However, the warm sense of community spirit that welcomes everyone is what sets it apart.

Things To See And Do On High Street

Have A Drink At A Food Truck Park

One of the unique features of Welcome to Thornbury, a bar and food truck, is that the food trucks rotate daily, so there's always something new to try. It was built by converting a former car manufacturing factory into a permanent bar and food truck park. Their space houses multiple bars and a beer hall.

Watch A Movie At Thornbury Picture House

This local independent cinema on High Street in Thornbury is housed in a beautifully renovated Art Nouveau garage dedicated to promoting and showcasing films. They exhibit a variety of films, including new releases, documentaries, cult and classic movies, and kids' films, and they also support local filmmakers.

Jam At A Live Music Session

The Northcote Social Club on High Street is a well-known live music venue and a popular spot for locals to hang out and enjoy pub eats and beer. Thanks to its regular live bands and spacious deck, it has earned a reputation as one of Melbourne's finest music venues. The pub features a charming old man's bar and a large beer garden and is a space for up-and-coming artists.

Check Out A Community Space

High Note is another great place to hang out and get a feel of the area. It is a music bar and venue located in the heritage Northcote Theatre. It has a bar which serves drinks, as well as some local food. High Note also reflects the creativity of the area's community by hosting various events like neighbourhood dance parties with local or international DJs, intimate live performances, creative lectures or workshops, and even exhibitions or record fairs.

Chill Out Over A Brew

High Street in Melbourne boasts some great cafes ranging from Westgarth to Preston. For instance, Barry, which is a local favourite. Or try Phil's Westgarth Bakehouse, Serendib, or All Are Welcome. As you move towards the north into Thornbury, you should check out Umberto Espresso Bar or Casa Nata.