How to spend the perfect day in Docklands
Docklands is one of Melbourne’s most bustling entertainment precincts. Located just a short walk from the CBD, Docklands enjoys some of the best views of the urban skyline, made complete by the glistening water of the harbour and the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel towering over it all.
When you visit Docklands, resist the urge to grab a sunny seat and spend the entire day in one of the suburb’s many bars and restaurants. There’s plenty of ways to pass the time – here’s our plan.
9:00 Caffeinate at Code Black and get moving
Melbourne is synonymous with great coffee and Code Black may just be the best of the best. Here, you know your coffee will be smooth, strong and delicious.
Melbourne is synonymous with great coffee.
With your latte in hand, we recommend starting the day on the right foot by heading out on foot. Even early in the morning, Docklands will be busy with pedestrians, cars, boats and everything else you’d expect from an urban centre. Wander by the Yarra and admire the street art along the pedestrian paths.
10:00 Brekkie time
Feel free to drop into any cafe that suits your fancy along the way, but our choice would be Schmucks Bagels! Remember when carbs weren’t evil, coffee was caffeinated and food was wholesome? They do! You can choose from a sesame, seedy grain, rye, vegemite, blueberry or gluten free bagel and choose your filling from their extensive breakfast or all day menu. Our personal favourite is the “Salt’n’Saucer” on a Rye Bagel!
Try a “Salt’n’Saucer” on Dark Rye Bagel at Schmucks Bagels.
11:00 Head over to the District
You can’t go to Docklands without doing a bit of shopping. Formerly known as Harbour Town, District Docklands has recently undergone a $150 million renovation and has plenty on offer, including 90 outlet shops, plenty of dining, indoor gardens, a bowling alley and a HOYTS cinema.
If your plans get sidelined by rain, there are plenty of indoor entertainment options here too!
1:00 ArtVo
ArtVo is an immersive, 3D art gallery or otherwise known as ‘Trick Art’ museum – the first of its kind in Australia. Unlike normal art museums, visitors are encouraged to touch and interact with the artworks, photographing themselves and becoming part of the art.
The artworks are large scale and painted directly onto the walls and floors; with additional sculptural elements added to allow visitors to immerse themselves into the art.
2:30 Lunch at A25
By now you should have a good appetite again, it’s time for lunch. We recommend heading to A25 for some of the coolest handcrafted pizza going around. They mix old world Italian with a twist, for something special. Our favourite is the Bunga Bunga pizza, but don’t worry – they have salad bowls on their menu too if you’re that way inclined. Tip: Head in on a Monday for ‘Happy Days’ and get your pizza for only $14.50!
4:00 Monument Park at NewQuay
As your day is just about winding down, don’t leave Docklands without checking out the Monument Park at NewQuay. At Monument Park you can admire the work of famed international sculptor Callum Morton.
Don’t leave Docklands without checking out the Monument Park at NewQuay.
Melburnians might recognise some of Callum’s inspiration – which largely came from sculptures around the CBD.
5:30 Library at The Dock
Take some time to relax and look around the Library at The Dock, Australia’s first 6-Star Green Star rated public building, architecturally designed by Clare Design and made from engineered timber and reclaimed hardwood.
You can simply enjoy the great views of the Yarra River and a good book or have a further look around by visiting the recording studio, creative editing suites, gallery, exhibition space and much more. see what events are on at The Dock here.
Take some time to relax and look around the Library at The Dock.
7:30 Dinner in Victoria Harbour
Wander down to where Collins and Bourke streets meet and you’ll find yourself in Victoria Harbour – the perfect place to cap off your day with dinner and a drink by the water.
Of course, if something’s on at Marvel Stadium, you won’t want to miss it, so check out the schedule for sports and entertainment in the arena. If coming by car, check out Costco and do some bulk grocery shopping!
If you’re not convinced to move here by the time dinner’s through, we’ll be surprised – so head home, have a rest and come see us in the morning at Nelson Alexander Docklands. Our team of expert agents is here to walk you through any questions you might have and help you make your Docklands lifestyle dreams a reality.
