Late-night activities that don't involve drinking

Did you know that a British anthropologist discovered evidence that bowling was played in ancient Egypt, as far back as 5200BC? That probably has a lot to do with how simple the game is; if you have a ball and a few pins, you can bowl. To this day, it's remained a fun, inexpensive and inclusive sport for all ages and skill levels. Whether your bowling prowess is akin to the Dude from The Big Lebowski or you're the type to be throwing goose eggs without the help of gutters or a bowling ramp, it's still going to be a good time.

There are many things to like about laser tag: it's thrilling and competitive, it's not as painful as paintball and it's an excellent way to get your steps in. Are you a sniper who slinks into dark corners and wait for your prey? Or a more brash player who prefers to take risks, guns blazing? We've rounded up our favourite laser tag arenas in Melbourne, so gather your mates, put together a dream team and see who will win in a fight to the finish. 

Video games are fun and all, but it's hard to fully immerse yourself when the corners of your room are still visible on the periphery. If you're keen on a truly all-encompassing experience, give virtual reality a try. It's come a long way since the first headset was created in the late 1960's, when it was mainly used to provide training across skills like aviation and surgery. Now, you can visit one of these centres across Melbourne, strap on a headset and enter everything from cyberpunk universities and zombie apocalypses to racecar simulators and the surreal, mind-bending world of Alice in Wonderland.

This self-serve frozen yogurt joint takes variation to a whole new level. As far as flavours go, they’ve got your basics covered, and then some. There are a few unusual options for the more adventurous yogurteers, like taro, lemon cheesecake, cookies and cream and banana, and the usual suspects such as classic vanilla, chocolate, and signature tart. Yes, the yogurt is all natural and most flavours are 98% fat free, but its easy to go a little crazy on toppings. Whatever you can imagine, they’ve probably got it; fresh fruit, cheesecake, chocolate cookie chunks, mochi, fruit pearls and even caramel bananas. Next time you're looking for a wholesome evening outing, round up the crew and head to Yo-chi, to see who can make the winning combo. 

Not quite ready to tackle the big holes yet? Rather not spend the better part of your day on the green? That's OK – putt your way through these miniature courses instead. Mini golf is like regular golf's goofy younger sibling, with punny and themed holes, quirky obstacles and pumping tunes. Many of these venues also feature arcades and well-stocked bars, so the fun doesn't stop once you've played through your round. 

'Total Eclipse of the Heart'. 'Rock Lobster'. 'Someone Like You'. 'Man! I Feel Like a Woman!'. What do these songs have in common? They're all A-grade bangers that will help you slay your next karaoke set and leave your fellow singers gasping. Who needs alcohol when you've got clean, wholesome sing-offs?

Since opening in 1977, this Fitzroy pool hall has barely changed – and that's why we love it. It's an unlicensed venue, so order an old-school milkshake and while away a few hours carving up the felt.