Exploring Melbourne’s Waterfront: Docklands and Southbank
Credit: Visit Victoria
Why do we love the Melbourne waterfront? This metropolis of dining, shopping, arts and culture is a show-stopping act in the typical Melbourne travel experience, but rest assured, there’s absolutely nothing ‘typical’ about Docklands or Southbank.
Stroll the stunning Yarra River and discover renowned restaurants and bars (some of which float on the river itself), world-class theatre and live music, and a sparkling nightlife.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the highlights so you can plan your trip with ease.
Docklands: Art, Footy, Food and Fun
Credit: Visit Victoria
West of the Melbourne CBD and just a 25-minute tram ride from Hotel Grand Chancellor Melbourne, Docklands is a premier Melbourne waterfront destination brimming with unique art and delicious food. Home to some of Melbourne’s best restaurants, a plethora of raucously fun family-friendly activities, and one of the city’s most spectacular sporting venues, it’s safe to say there are near-endless things to do in Docklands, Melbourne.
The District Docklands
Start your adventure in the heart of Docklands at The District Docklands, a lively hub of shopping, dining and entertainment. Here you’ll find big-name stores and local boutiques alongside everything from escape rooms to an ice rink and Hoyts cinema.
The District Docklands offers plenty of fun for the young (and the young at heart), making it an unmissable destination for families visiting Melbourne. Some of the must-do activities include:
- ArtVo: This is Australia’s first immersive ‘trick-art’ gallery, where larger-than-life murals let you scale mountains, surf giant waves, and snap clever photos that make you part of the artwork. With over 100 3D installations, it’s a playful spot that delights kids and grown-ups alike.
- O’Brien Icehouse: It’s always ice skating season in The District at O’Brien Icehouse, Australia’s largest ice arena. From casual skating to ice hockey games, curling and figure skating lessons, there’s something here for every skill level.
- Prison Island Melbourne: Team up with friends or family to tackle 34 challenge cells at Prison Island, a clever mash-up of puzzles, agility tests and team tasks that will get your heart racing. It’s a new Docklands highlight, perfect for ages 7 and up.
- Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq: Dive into a neon circus of fun at Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq, where arcade games, VR, dodgems, bowling and over-the-top cocktails keep the good times rolling well into the night.
- Zero Latency: Put on a headset and step right into the action at Zero Latency, an incredible free-roam VR experience that drops you straight into other worlds—no couch gaming required.
- Yesign: Get creative (and snack happy) at Yesign, a unique workshop where you paint edible masterpieces on handmade chocolate. It’s the perfect treat for art lovers and sweet tooths alike.
As far as food goes, the only problem you'll have is deciding which fabulous restaurant to choose. The District Docklands is home to over 30 delicious dining options to please every palate, including the ever-popular District Pizzeria, Miss Ping’s Thai Eatery, The Pink Rabbit, and Gelateria on the Docks.
If you’re wondering “Is Docklands worth visiting?”, this modern precinct shows off exactly why it is—there’s something for every age and interest, and it’s buzzing day and night.
Public Art and Installations
Credit: Niv Singer via TimeOut
Are there any free or low-cost activities in Docklands and Southbank? Absolutely—it’s totally free to walk the Docklands Promenade, and well worth a visit. The waterfront is dotted with striking public artworks and intriguing installations, giving it a contemporary, playful feel and cementing it as one of the best outdoor areas to explore in Melbourne.
The Docklands Public Art Walk spans 36 outdoor artworks in the parks and promenades, with some even built into the architecture itself. Keep an eye out for the giant ‘Cow Up a Tree’ sculpture (yes, really!), or the impressive ‘Blowhole’ kinetic sculpture that moves with the wind.
Marvel Stadium
Just a short stroll away is Marvel Stadium, a treasure trove of major AFL matches, blockbuster concerts (Ed Sheeran, Metallica and Lady Gaga, to name a few) and international sporting events.
Having established its place as one of Melbourne's crown jewels, Marvel Stadium truly embodies the city's sporting culture. It hosts all the biggest and best Australian rules football home games, with major teams like St Kilda, Western Bulldogs, North Melbourne, Essendon, and Carlton playing up to 10 annual home games at the stadium.
Cricket, soccer and rugby league games also fill the stadium throughout the year. And when it's not filled with excited sports fans, Marvel Stadium transforms into one of the world's best concert venues, having hosted international pop stars like Adele, Mariah Carey, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Twice and Ed Sheeran.
Even if you’re not catching a game or attending a concert, it’s worth popping by to see this impressive venue that sits right on the edge of the city.
NewQuay Promenade
Next, head to NewQuay Promenade, an inviting (and relatively new) stretch along the water lined with palm trees, luxury yachts and excellent restaurants. Strolling here is also one of the best free things to do in Docklands Melbourne, offering plenty of people-watching, cool breezes off the harbour and photo-worthy sunsets.
This is one of the best places to enjoy a relaxed lunch or dinner on the stunning Melbourne waterfront, with a couple of popular spots taking the cake:
Cargo
Right on the waterfront at NewQuay Docklands, Cargo serves up a playful mix of modern Australian dishes with global flair—think pizzas, paellas, burgers and share plates perfect for grazing with friends. Grab a spot in the lively beer garden, sip a zesty cocktail or chilled mocktail, and soak up the relaxed, social vibe just steps from Marvel Stadium.
Berth
For something a little more refined, Berth combines sweeping city and water views with a menu that leans Mediterranean, showcasing quality local produce. Whether you’re sharing plates of Hervey Bay scallops and Mooloolaba prawns or diving into a hearty rib-eye, you’ll enjoy generous portions and fresh flavours in a stylish setting that makes the most of its prime waterfront perch.
Hungry for more? Check out our Food Lover’s Guide to Melbourne: Top Dining Picks for more delicious, must-visit Melbourne eateries.
Southbank: Melbourne’s Cultural and Dining Hub
Credit: Visit Victoria
After your Docklands adventures, jump back on a city-bound tram and hop off to cross the historic Queens Bridge into Southbank. Or, if you feel like a leisurely stroll, go on foot from Docklands to Southbank via the beautiful Capital City Trail/Harbour Esplanade route.
As one of Melbourne’s premier areas that draws locals and tourists every day, every season, Southbank is an unmissable destination.
Southbank Promenade
Southbank’s wide riverside promenade is one of Melbourne’s greatest waterfront pleasures. Lined with leafy trees and dotted with outdoor dining, this is where you’ll find top spots like Left Bank Melbourne and Yarra Botanica (one of a string of floating river restaurants), along with a host of other acclaimed eateries showcasing global cuisine.
Buskers often add to the atmosphere, and by evening, the skyline lights create a dazzling backdrop. It’s easy to see why Southbank is a favourite for romantic date nights and group celebrations alike.
If you’re asking, “Where can I find the best dining options along the Yarra River?”, this is your answer. More top foodie spots on the promenade include:
Arbory Bar & Eatery
Back near Flinders Street Station, Arbory Bar & Eatery stretches along the old railway platform by the river. With festoon lights, craft beers, delicious share plates and unbeatable views of the water, it’s a perfect stop at any time of day.
Ponyfish Island
For something quirkier, follow the pedestrian bridge at Southbank down to Ponyfish Island, a tiny floating bar hidden beneath the footbridge. Grab a spritz or a craft cocktail and watch boats drift by right at water level. It’s hard to beat for pure Melbourne atmosphere.
The Boatbuilders Yard
Down on the South Wharf end of Southbank, The Boatbuilders Yard blends historic charm with laid-back waterfront vibes. It’s a popular brunch spot, with great coffee, big breakfasts and sun-soaked tables looking out over the Yarra.
Crown Melbourne
Just across the river from the CBD, Southbank is Melbourne’s go-to for a night out. At its heart is Crown Melbourne, a vast entertainment complex home to high-end casinos, theatres, luxury boutiques and some of the city’s best award-winning restaurants.
Start your night with a drink or two at Velvet Bar before taking a swing at Holey Moley Golf Club or testing your mystery chops at Red Herring escape rooms. Sit down for a lavish dinner at Bistro Guillaume (or opt for something lighter at Fidels Restaurant & Bar) before attending a live show. Stop off at Ghost Donkey for a fiery mezcal, try your luck with a round at the dazzling casino, and enjoy free live music all week and weekend long.
From high teas and happy hours to footy season specials and Sunday lunch soirees, there’s always something on at Crown Melbourne.
Melbourne Skydeck
Credit: Visit Victoria
For the best view in town, you can’t go past Melbourne Skydeck (formerly called Eureka Skydeck). This soaring observation deck on the 88th floor of Eureka Tower is the highest public viewing platform in the Southern Hemisphere.
Step onto ‘The Edge’, a glass cube that slides out from the building (yes, it’s as thrilling as it sounds and probably not for the faint-hearted), or simply take in the sweeping 360-degree views over Melbourne’s skyscrapers, gardens and Port Phillip Bay.
Beyond the sweeping city vistas, try one of these unique Skydeck experiences:
- Altitude Dining Experience: Enjoy a 3-course lunch or dinner paired with complimentary Skydeck entry and a VR tour—perfect for sampling Melbourne from above in just 90 minutes.
- Sky High Romance: Create an unforgettable moment with a private experience designed for proposals, anniversaries, or simply treating someone special.
- Voyager® Theatre: Settle into 6-D pod chairs for an immersive ride through 16 iconic Melbourne sights, blending thrill and discovery in a one-of-a-kind way.
The Arts Precinct: Melbourne’s Creative Soul
Just beyond Southbank Promenade sits Melbourne’s Arts Precinct, home to some of Australia’s leading cultural institutions. Art lovers should make a beeline for the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), which houses everything from European masterpieces to vibrant contemporary exhibitions and stunning Indigenous collections.
Nearby, the iconic spire of the Arts Centre Melbourne marks the heart of the city’s live performance scene. Catch an orchestra performance at Hamer Hall, Australia’s largest performing arts venue and a true spectacle to be immersed in, or simply wander the precinct to take in striking outdoor sculptures and installations. It’s the perfect way to add a splash of culture to your riverside day.
Yarra River Cruises & Kayaking Adventures
Credit: Visit Victoria
Another must while exploring Melbourne’s waterfront is to see it from the river itself. Yarra River cruises operate under a few established companies and depart regularly from Southbank and the CBD, offering everything from quick sightseeing loops to longer lunch and dinner cruises.
We recommend Yarra River Cruises (the Bottomless Cocktail Cruise is fabulous for groups and special occasions), Melbourne River Cruises (sleek, streamlined and relaxing), or Classic Steamboat Cruises (experience a genuine steamboat experience with boutique old-world Melbourne charm).
Keen to experience more of Melbourne’s history? Check out this blog.
Feeling adventurous? Join a guided kayak tour with Kayak Melbourne and paddle past landmarks like Flinders Street Station, Federation Square and the modern glass towers of Docklands.
Choose an evening Moonlight Kayak to see the city lit up at night, a City Sundowner tour to witness the magnificent Melbourne sunsets over the river, or a River to Sky Tour, which takes you right through the heart of Melbourne. It’s a fun way to experience the city from a whole new perspective.
Start Exploring Melbourne’s Waterfront with Grand Chancellor Hotels
Whether you’re drawn to Docklands’ striking modern skyline, Southbank’s buzzing nightlife and arts scene, or simply fancy an afternoon wandering by the water, Melbourne’s waterfront precincts promise countless ways to enjoy the city. Staying at Hotel Grand Chancellor Melbourne puts you right in the heart of it, with Docklands and Southbank just a short stroll or tram ride away.
Ready to explore? Book your stay and discover why Melbourne’s riverside is the perfect place to soak up everything this incredible city has to offer.