Discover the Historic Old Melbourne Gaol
Explore the haunting history of the Old Melbourne Gaol, a museum that tells the stories of crime and punishment in Australia's colonial past.
The Old Melbourne Gaol, a captivating museum, offers a unique glimpse into the dark and intriguing history of Melbourne. Once a functioning prison from 1842 until 1924, it is renowned for housing some of Australia's most notorious criminals, including the legendary Ned Kelly. Today, the gaol stands as a testament to the city's past, providing visitors with an immersive experience that combines history, architecture, and storytelling. As you wander through its stone corridors and explore the original cells, you will encounter engaging exhibitions that detail the lives of the inmates and the justice system of the time. Guided tours are available, where passionate historians share chilling stories and fascinating facts that bring the gaol's past to life. The atmosphere is both haunting and educational, offering a profound insight into crime and punishment in early colonial Australia. The Old Melbourne Gaol also features an extensive collection of artifacts related to its history, providing a deeper understanding of the social issues that led to the establishment of such institutions. With its rich heritage and compelling narratives, this museum not only appeals to history buffs but to anyone with a curiosity about human nature and societal evolution. Make sure to allocate a few hours to fully absorb the experience, and don’t miss the opportunity to participate in special events and exhibitions that may be happening during your visit. The Old Melbourne Gaol is more than just a museum; it’s a journey into the heart of Melbourne’s past, and a must-visit for every traveler looking to understand the city’s complex history.
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to avoid large crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.
- Check for special guided tours or events that may enhance your visit.
- Allow at least two hours to explore the exhibits and enjoy the atmosphere.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the museum involves a lot of walking.
- Photography is allowed, so don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning architecture.
A brief summary to Old Melbourne Gaol
- 377 Russell St, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000, AU
- +61396569889
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Car
From Ningaloo Reef, head south on Ningaloo Rd toward Exmouth. Follow signs to the North West Coastal Highway (National Route 1). Turn left onto the North West Coastal Highway and continue driving south. After approximately 1,200 kilometers, take the exit toward M1 (National Route 1) towards Perth. Continue on M1 for about 1,000 kilometers until you reach Melbourne. As you approach Melbourne, follow signs for the city center. Once in the city, navigate to Russell St. Old Melbourne Gaol is located at 377 Russell St, Melbourne VIC 3000.
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Public Transportation
From Ningaloo Reef, you will need to first drive or take a taxi to the nearest major bus station in Exmouth, which is about 40 kilometers away. Catch a bus from Exmouth to Perth, which is approximately a 12-hour journey. Once in Perth, you can take a flight to Melbourne, which takes about 3-4 hours. After arriving at Melbourne Airport, take the SkyBus service to Southern Cross Station in the city center. From Southern Cross Station, you can catch a tram (Route 19 or 57) towards the city and get off at the stop closest to Russell St. Old Melbourne Gaol is a short walk from the tram stop.
Attractions Nearby to Old Melbourne Gaol
- City Watch House
- Eight Hour Day Monument
- State Library Victoria
- Architectural Fragment
- The Melbourne Central Clock
- Shot Tower Museum
- Drinking History Tours - Hidden Bar & History Walking Tours Of Melbourne
- Impossible Occurrences - Melbourne's Exclusive Magic Show
- Curtin House
- Museum of Chinese Australian History
- Chinatown Melbourne
- St Francis’ Church
- Her Majesty's Theatre
- 170 Russell
- Little Lon Distilling Co.
Landmarks nearby to Old Melbourne Gaol
- Ormond Statue
- Charles La Trobe Statue
- St George and the Dragon Statue
- Statue of Joan of Arc
- Sir Redmond Barry Statue
- Dr. Sun Yat Sen Statue
- Visit Victoria
- Hochgurtel Fountain
- Melbourne Visitor Booth
- Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre (Museums Victoria)
- Parliament House
- The City of Melbourne Building
- Manchester Unity Building
- Adam Lindsay Gordon Statue
- Melbourne Laneways & Arcades Self-Guided Walking Tour