Melbourne CBD is set to welcome a game-changing new entertainment destination this August, with Funlab launching its highly anticipated Hijinx Hotel and Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq at QV Melbourne.
Spanning 1,600m2 and launching on Friday 1 August, the immersive, multi-experience venue redefines the retail and leisure mix with a powerful injection of competitive socialising and next-generation entertainment.
This marks the first Melbourne CBD location for Hijinx Hotel, a concept that invites guests to “play, not stay” through a series of immersive game rooms styled as quirky hotel suites.
Guests swipe in for a high-energy experience through five of 10 rotating challenge rooms, packed with colourful ball pits, puzzles, and theatrical design. With two to six players per group, the venue delivers fast-paced, shareable experiences that are both nostalgic and cutting-edge.
Exclusive to the QV location are new game concepts, including an art heist-themed challenge room and an interactive, light-up floor grid game designed to test reflexes and teamwork — adding fresh drawcards for Melbourne’s experience-seeking audience.
Adjacent to Hijinx Hotel, Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq brings its circus-themed arcade and cocktail bar to the precinct, featuring retro games, claw machines, Godzilla VR, and outlandish signature cocktails served in unicorn bowls and disco balls. The combined venue offers two private function spaces, karaoke rooms, and capacity for up to 400 guests, making it a strong contender for group bookings, corporate events, and destination nights out.
“We’re on a mission to unleash serious fun into Melbourne’s social scene”, said Michael Schreiber, CEO, Funlab. “This venue is about escaping the ordinary. Whether it’s a date night, a team outing, a birthday celebration or a spontaneous hang with friends, we’ve created a space where play comes first, energy is high, and everyone leaves with a smile. Melbourne deserves unforgettable nights out, and that’s exactly what we’re here to deliver.”
For QV Melbourne, operated by Dexus, the arrival of Hijinx Hotel and Archie Brothers represents a strategic uplift in entertainment-led visitation. The destination joins a growing wave of immersive retail and hospitality concepts helping to re-energise CBD retail through placemaking, dwell time, and a broad demographic appeal that captures both locals and tourists.
As traditional retail continues to converge with experience, the new launch underscores the importance of bold activations and mixed-use tenancy strategies in driving repeat visitation. With social gaming, theatrical F&B, and function-ready event spaces under one roof, Funlab’s latest venue signals the next step in the evolution of entertainment as anchor.
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