Step Back in Time at Old Melbourne Gaol
Discover the chilling history of justice and punishment at Old Melbourne Gaol, home to Australia's most notorious criminals and immersive exhibits.
Old Melbourne Gaol, a must-visit for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike, provides a deep dive into Australia’s colonial past. This historic site, once a working prison, is now a museum that tells the story of the nation's justice system and its notorious inmates, including the infamous bushranger Ned Kelly. As you explore the gaol's preserved cells and grim hallways, you’ll be transported back to a time when law and order were strictly enforced in a harsh environment. The museum features a variety of engaging exhibits that highlight the lives of the prisoners, the conditions they endured, and the harsh reality of punishment in the 19th century. Guided tours are available, offering deeper insights and personal anecdotes about the individuals who were incarcerated here. The interactive displays and informative signage make learning about this significant part of Australian history both entertaining and educational. Additionally, the atmosphere of Old Melbourne Gaol is undeniably haunting, with its stone walls and eerie silence evoking a sense of reflection on the past. Visitors can also participate in special events and evening tours, which add an extra layer of intrigue to the experience. With its rich history and compelling stories, Old Melbourne Gaol is an essential stop for anyone looking to understand the darker chapters of Australia’s story.
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to avoid larger crowds.
- Consider taking a guided tour for a more in-depth history.
- Check for any special events or night tours for a unique experience.
- Allocate at least two hours for a thorough exploration of the site.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved.
A brief summary to Old Melbourne Gaol
- 377 Russell St, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000, AU
- +61396569889
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car within Central Victoria, head towards Melbourne. Use the Calder Freeway (M79) which connects to the Tullamarine Freeway (M2). As you approach Melbourne, follow signs for the city center. Once in Melbourne, take the exit for Flemington Road. Merge onto Flemington Rd and continue straight. Turn left onto Victoria Street, then right onto Russell Street. Old Melbourne Gaol is located at 377 Russell St, Melbourne VIC 3000. Parking is available nearby, but be aware that city parking can be charged, typically around AUD 5-10 per hour.
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Public Transportation - Train and Tram
To reach Old Melbourne Gaol using public transport, travel to a major train station in Central Victoria and take a train to Southern Cross Station in Melbourne. From Southern Cross Station, exit and catch tram number 86 or 96 from the tram stop on Spencer Street. Get off at the stop called 'La Trobe St/Russell St'. Walk east along Russell Street for a short distance, and you will arrive at Old Melbourne Gaol at 377 Russell St, Melbourne VIC 3000. Train fares vary depending on your starting location but expect to pay around AUD 10-15 for a one-way ticket.
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Public Transportation - Bus
If you prefer to take a bus, check the local bus routes that connect to Melbourne from your location in Central Victoria. Most routes will take you to a central location where you can transfer to a train or tram. Once in Melbourne, you can take a bus towards the city center. Alight at a stop near Russell Street and walk to Old Melbourne Gaol at 377 Russell St. Bus fares can vary, but a typical fare is around AUD 5-10.
Attractions Nearby to Old Melbourne Gaol
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City Watch House
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Eight Hour Day Monument
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State Library Victoria
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Architectural Fragment
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The Melbourne Central Clock
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Shot Tower Museum
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Drinking History Tours - Hidden Bar & History Walking Tours Of Melbourne
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Impossible Occurrences - Melbourne's Exclusive Magic Show
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Curtin House
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Museum of Chinese Australian History
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Chinatown Melbourne
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St Francis’ Church
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Her Majesty's Theatre
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170 Russell
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Little Lon Distilling Co.
Landmarks nearby to Old Melbourne Gaol
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Ormond Statue
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Charles La Trobe Statue
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St George and the Dragon Statue
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Statue of Joan of Arc
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Sir Redmond Barry Statue
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Dr. Sun Yat Sen Statue
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Visit Victoria
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Hochgurtel Fountain
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Melbourne Visitor Booth
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Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre (Museums Victoria)
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Parliament House
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The City of Melbourne Building
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Manchester Unity Building
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Adam Lindsay Gordon Statue
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Melbourne Laneways & Arcades Self-Guided Walking Tour