Parliament House: A Glimpse into Victoria's Governance
Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of Parliament House in East Melbourne, Victoria's center of governance and democracy.
Parliament House in East Melbourne, a majestic edifice of historical and architectural significance, stands as the heart of Victoria's political landscape. This government office and tourist attraction invites visitors to delve into the intricacies of the state's governance while marveling at the stunning architecture that reflects both grandeur and history. The building is renowned for its impressive façade, adorned with intricate carvings and expansive porticos, providing an ideal backdrop for photographs and leisurely exploration. Inside, guided tours offer an enlightening experience, showcasing the legislative chambers where crucial decisions are made and the opulent decor that reflects Victoria's rich heritage. Visitors can admire the beautiful artwork, including portraits of past leaders, and hear fascinating stories about the state's political evolution. These tours are available on weekdays, ensuring that tourists can plan their visits accordingly. Additionally, the surrounding gardens provide a peaceful retreat, perfect for a stroll or a moment of reflection after a tour. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply curious about how the government operates, Parliament House offers an accessible and engaging experience that enriches your understanding of Victoria’s democratic processes.
Local tips
- Plan your visit for a weekday to join a guided tour, as they are not available on weekends.
- Check the official website for any special events or exhibitions that may coincide with your visit.
- Arrive early to explore the gardens and take photos before your tour begins.
A brief summary to Parliament House
- Spring St, East Melbourne, Victoria, 3002, AU
- +61396518911
- Visit website
- Monday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from any location in Central West, head towards the nearest major highway that connects to the Hume Freeway (M31) or Calder Freeway (M79) towards Melbourne. Once you are in the Melbourne metropolitan area, follow signs for the City Centre. Take the exit towards Elizabeth Street and continue on this road. Follow Elizabeth Street until you reach Spring Street, where you will find Parliament House at 1 Spring St, East Melbourne VIC 3002. Look for parking options nearby; note that parking in this area may incur costs ranging from AUD 2 to AUD 5 per hour.
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Public Transportation
To reach Parliament House via public transport, locate the nearest train station in Central West. Board a train heading towards the city on the Metro train lines (look for the Sandringham, Frankston, or Dandenong lines). Disembark at Flinders Street Station. From Flinders Street Station, you can either walk to Parliament House (approximately 15 minutes) or take tram route 11 or 12 from the tram stop located outside the station. If taking the tram, get off at the 'Parliament' stop, which is right in front of Parliament House. Note that a Myki card is required for travel, and you should load it with sufficient funds (AUD 6 for a card, plus the cost of travel).
Attractions Nearby to Parliament House
- The Princess Theatre
- Coles Fountain
- Stanford Fountain
- Gordon Reserve
- Parliament Gardens
- St Peter's Eastern Hill Anglican Church
- East Melbourne Hebrew Congregation
- Old Treasury Building
- St Patrick's Cathedral
- Sir William John Clarke Memorial
- Charles George Gordon Memorial
- Little Lon Distilling Co.
- Her Majesty's Theatre
- Impossible Occurrences - Melbourne's Exclusive Magic Show
- Museum of Chinese Australian History
Landmarks nearby to Parliament House
- Coaxial Cable Memorial Plaque
- Adam Lindsay Gordon Statue
- Visit Victoria
- Dr. Sun Yat Sen Statue
- Statue of Meditation
- River God Fountain
- Hochgurtel Fountain
- Scar Tree
- Royal Exhibition Building
- Melbourne Town Hall
- Old Bandstand
- Ormond Statue
- Statue of Joan of Arc
- Manchester Unity Building
- Old Melbourne Gaol