ArtVo
ArtVo: An Immersive Art Experience in Docklands
The District Docklands: Melbourne's Entertainment Hub
Melbourne's premier shopping and entertainment destination, offering a diverse range of attractions, dining, and international brands.
The District Docklands is a vibrant indoor/outdoor shopping and entertainment precinct located in the Docklands area of Melbourne. Once known as Harbour Town, it has undergone significant redevelopment to become a premier destination for shopping, dining, and immersive experiences. With a wide array of attractions, international brand stores, and dining options, The District Docklands offers something for everyone.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to The District Docklands
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Monday
10 am-6 pm
Tuesday
10 am-6 pm
Wednesday
10 am-6 pm
Thursday
10 am-6 pm
Friday
10 am-6 pm
Saturday
10 am-6 pm
Sunday
10 am-6 pm
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Getting There
Public Transport
From Southern Cross Station, take tram route 70 or 86 directly to The District Docklands. Trams depart frequently on weekdays and at least every 15 minutes on weekends. The journey is within the free tram zone, so no Myki card is required. A Myki card costs $6 for adults. Alternatively, from Flinders Street Station, take bus route 220 to Waterfront City/Footscray Rd. The bus trip takes approximately 9 minutes and costs $5.
Walking
From Southern Cross Station, The District Docklands is approximately a 25-minute walk. Head west along Bourke Street, then turn left onto Harbour Esplanade. Continue along Harbour Esplanade until you reach The District Docklands. Enjoy the waterfront views along the way.
Taxi
From Melbourne CBD, a taxi to The District Docklands takes approximately 10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around $10-$15. Taxi fares in Melbourne start at $5.10, with a per-kilometer charge of $1.98. An airport pickup fee of $4.50 may apply.
Driving
The District Docklands offers convenient parking in its East and West car parks. The first 90 minutes are free, with rates starting at $12 for 90 minutes to 2 hours, and a daily maximum of $18. Early bird rates are available on weekdays if you enter before 10 am and exit between 3 pm and midnight for $13. Both car parks are open 24/7. The East Car Park is located opposite the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel, and the West Car Park is opposite O'Brien Icehouse.
Local tips
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Take advantage of the free tram zone for easy and cost-free access to The District Docklands.
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Check the opening hours for individual attractions and stores, as they may vary.
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Enjoy 90 minutes of free parking at The District Docklands.
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Look out for special events and pop-up exhibitions that add to the vibrant atmosphere.
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Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds.
Discover more about The District Docklands
The District Docklands, situated in the heart of Melbourne's Docklands, is a modern urban village offering a diverse range of experiences. Originally opened as Harbour Town in 2008, it struggled initially before being transformed into The District Docklands through a $150 million facelift completed in 2019. Today, it stands as a bustling hub for locals and tourists alike, providing a unique blend of retail, entertainment, and dining options.
The precinct boasts over 80 stores, including major retailers such as H&M, Uniqlo, and Woolworths, alongside a variety of specialty shops. Entertainment options abound, with attractions like the HOYTS cinema complex, Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq, and O'Brien Icehouse offering fun for all ages. ArtVo, Dreamskape, and Imaginator provide immersive experiences, while Chaos Lab offers playful science exploration.
The District Docklands also acknowledges the traditional lands of the Kulin Nation, specifically the Woiwurrung (Wurundjeri) and Boonwurrung tribes, recognizing the Yarra River's significance to these First Nations people. The area's history as a vital meeting place for trade and social activities adds a layer of cultural depth to the modern entertainment precinct.
With its convenient location within the free tram zone and ample parking, The District Docklands is easily accessible. Whether you're looking to shop, dine, catch a movie, or immerse yourself in a unique experience, The District Docklands offers a dynamic and engaging day out.
A brief summary to The District Docklands
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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