Top Spots to Watch New Year’s Eve Fireworks

Sanya
Author
10 min Nov 17th, 2025
New Year Eve Fireworks

Docklands: Family-Friendly New Year’s Eve by the Waterfront

Fireworks in Dockland

Looking for a family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration? Head to Docklands, where early fireworks, waterfront dining, and plenty of open space make it perfect for families and groups. You’ll find live entertainment, food trucks, and spectacular reflections of fireworks dancing over the harbour.

Stay nearby:

Punthill Manhattan – a short tram ride to Docklands and city highlights
Punthill Flinders Lane – perfect for easy access to Docklands and the CBD
Punthill Little Bourke – close to city transport and family dining options

Yarra River & Southbank: Dinner and Fireworks Melbourne

Yarra River Fireworks

If you’re after a livelier vibe, Southbank Promenade is the place to be. Enjoy dinner at one of Melbourne’s top riverfront restaurants, then step outside for breathtaking views of the fireworks lighting up the Yarra.
Whether you’re after a romantic evening or a group celebration, Southbank offers some of the best dinner and fireworks Melbourne experiences.

Stay nearby at Punthill South Yarra, offering stylish apartments just minutes from the riverfront action.

Federation Square: The Heart of the City

Fed Square New Year Eve

For an alcohol-free, family-friendly celebration, Federation Square hosts Melbourne’s official NYE event with live music, light projections, and front-row views of the midnight fireworks. It’s a lively yet welcoming atmosphere for all ages and just moments from several Punthill Hotels.

Stay nearby at Punthill Little Bourke or Punthill Flinders Lane, both offering stylish serviced apartments within easy walking distance of Federation Square and Melbourne’s top attractions.

The Shrine of Remembrance: Panoramic Fireworks Views

For a quieter vantage point with sweeping city views, pack a picnic and head to The Shrine of Remembrance or the nearby Royal Botanic Gardens. You’ll see the city skyline burst into colour from a comfortable, relaxed setting – ideal for families or couples looking for a slower pace.

Stay nearby at Punthill Manhattan or Punthill South Yarra, both offering modern serviced apartments within easy reach of the Shrine, the gardens and Melbourne’s stunning skyline views.

Rooftop Fireworks: Elevate Your Night

Rooftop Fireworks

Melbourne’s rooftop bars offer some of the most unforgettable ways to celebrate the countdown. Spots like QT Rooftop, Loop Roof, and Siglo are famous for rooftop fireworks Melbourne experiences, where the cocktails are as impressive as the views.

Stay nearby:
Punthill Little Bourke or Punthill Flinders Lane – perfect for exploring the city’s rooftop scene

Beyond Melbourne: Celebrate in Brisbane and Canberra

If your New Year plans take you further afield, Punthill has you covered there too.

In Brisbane, the South Bank Parklands come alive with fireworks over the river and a relaxed, family-friendly vibe – perfect for guests staying at Punthill Spring Hill.

In Canberra, gather by Lake Burley Griffin for a lakeside celebration, complete with reflections of the fireworks across the water. The newly opened Punthill Tuggeranong offers modern serviced apartments just minutes away from the festivities.

Stay Close to the Fireworks with Punthill

Wherever you’re celebrating – Melbourne, Brisbane, or Canberra, Punthill Apartment Hotels make it easy to stay close to the action. With spacious serviced apartments, kitchenettes, and central locations, you can enjoy all the excitement of New Year’s Eve with the comfort of feeling right at home.

Book early to secure your stay and start 2026 in style!