You’re only going to be 21 once! Such an occasion calls for a proper celebration with your mates. Luckily, with its wide array of hip bars in the CBD and stunning venues with waterfront views, Melbourne offers plenty of opportunities to celebrate in style. While it seems like the tradition of getting a key might be dying out, a 21st birthday party is still seen as an important milestone. So, we’ve put our heads together and come up with a list of the 21st birthday venues for your party in Melbourne. We’re also listing some important tips for you to keep in mind!
In Melbourne, prices of 21st birthday venues average $2000 minimum spend per event. Costs vary depending on guest capacity, popularity, location, and amenities like sound systems or bar services. Extra charges may apply for custom catering, decor, or event planning services. Packages with add-ons, such as DJs, photo booths, or other entertainment services, can also increase the overall cost. Check out the typical price ranges in Melbourne, based on Tagvenue data:
From $1000 | to $3000 | minimum spend per event |
From $21 | to $70 | per person |
From $300 | to $1000 | hire fee per event |
Based on the popularity and user ratings on Tagvenue (updated August 2025), the best options include:
Main Bar at Bonny
in Fitzroy - rated 4.9/5
Our user said: ‘Bonny hosted my daughters 21st birthday party.’
Cocktail Bar at La Di Da
in Melbourne CBD - rated 4.8/5
Our user said: ‘Absolutely amazing venue would highly recommend. Barry is an absolute delight and is so easy to work with.’
Rooftop Indoors at Two Hands Rooftop Bar
in Abbotsford - rated 4.7/5
Our user said: ‘Nice open windows, nice space with disco lights and speakers available...’
Melbourne offers a really impressive list of venues! You can hire anything from fabulous ballrooms, lounges, exclusive bars, elegant function rooms, soulful restaurants and many more. The sky’s the limit.
Make sure to start looking for the perfect venue around 3 months in advance. That way, you’ll have a long list of options to choose from and have enough time to thoroughly check the offers, compare them and pick the one that suits you best.
What kind of venues are popular for a 21st birthday in Melbourne? Well, it’s got to be private bars and restaurants with function rooms! After all, who wouldn’t love a good drink at a 21st birthday party? Those places usually have delicious cocktails matched with cool interiors that will help you keep all of your spirits high. You can have an elegant cocktail party in a rooftop venue, a romantic dinner in a romantic birthday restaurant, or hire a yacht or party boat for a cruise with dreamy views! The sky’s the limit!
As turning 21 is a special celebration, we bet you’ll want to give your friends and family a night to remember! So when planning your special bash, make sure to keep the following things in mind:
Central Location
Choose a venue that's easy for everyone to reach. Areas like South Yarra, Richmond, and Collingwood are packed with amazing birthday spots and have great public transport options. Temperance Hotel in South Yarra is a popular pick for that reason.
Something Out of The Box
If you're after something extra special, think rooftop bars with twinkling city lights, riverside spaces, or even private boat cruises. The Rooftop at Onesixone in Prahran definitely delivers that wow factor.
Minor-Friendly Policies
Some guests might still be under 18, so check if your venue allows minors. Serving fancy non-alcoholic cocktails is a great way to keep everyone included in the fun. Storyville in the CBD is one spot that’s known to be flexible for mixed-age groups.
Food Options
Planning a sit-down dinner or casual finger foods? Lock in your food style early to find a venue that fits, whether it's a stylish bar, a private dining room, or a blank canvas space you can make your own. Bonny in Fitzroy is a great option with both seated and standing layouts.
Space to Party
Too cramped = bad vibes. Make a guestlist early so you can book a venue with plenty of room to eat, drink, dance, and celebrate. For larger crowds, The Rogue Squire in South East Melbourne offers plenty of space and energy.
Budget-Friendly
From trendy cafes to private function rooms, Melbourne has 21st party venues to suit every budget. On Tagvenue, you can filter by price to quickly find your dream spot without blowing your wallet. Venue Sixty-Nine in Richmond is one that’s both versatile and affordable.
There are heaps of great venues for your 21st birthday that won’t blow your budget. Here are four awesome spots to check out:
As turning 21 is a special celebration, we bet you’ll want to give your friends and family a night to remember! So when planning your special bash, make sure to keep the following things in mind:
The success of every party depends on knowing what will please your guests. Make sure the activities and entertainment you’re planning are age-appropriate. For example, if you’re inviting older relatives, then booking a group bungee jump may not go down too well. And the other way around!