Docklands Melbourne: Waterfront Suburb with Shopping, Dining, and Fun
A coveted business location for national companies, just over one mile from Melbourne’s Central Business District (CBD), Docklands is also home to a variety of shops, restaurants, bars and of course, entertainment options. A mixture of technology park, business centre and art-inspired neighborhoods, it’s easy to see why this Melbourne suburb is quickly becoming a hot spot among Melbourne’s citizens.
Modern Melbourne Landmarks Dot the Docklands Landscape
The Docklands is home to several splendid landmarks, among them, Docklands Stadium and the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel. Speaking of the latter, it is indeed the only observation wheel of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, and one of the ten biggest Ferris wheels in the world. You’ve no doubt heard of, and perhaps even experienced, the London Eye: meet Melbourne’s counterpart. You’ll quickly notice the unique design of the wheel, a ‘Star within a Star’ which represents the seven-pointed Federation Star on the Australian flag.
Once aboard this 120-metre tall wonder, you’ll be stunned by the 360-degree views of Melbourne, Dandenong Ranges, and Port Phillip Bay. When the sun goes down and the stars come out at night, Melbourne Star illuminates in spectacular fashion with LED lights that can produce over 16 million display combinations. And for a truly one-of-a-kind experience, sip on a glass of sparkling wine as you ride the wheel on the ‘Welcome to Melbourne Sparkling Flight.’
For a more laidback adventure, set off down the Yarra River on a Docklands boat cruise. Many trip options are available for exploring this vital Melbourne waterway, among them, the Melbourne Tramboat. Here on this vintage-style cruise, you’ll experience the world’s first floating tram. Choose from several different packages, most which include Morning Tea as well as lunch and beverages. Don’t miss out on the delicious fish ‘n chips!
Meanwhile, the Lady Cutler Melbourne Showboat provides a more refined experience, and still other cruises boast interesting themes such as Japanese and burlesque.
Docklands Hotels Keep You Rested, Refreshed and Ready for Adventure
You can select from a wide range of accommodation options when staying at the Docklands. Choose from luxury hotels with top-notch amenities to serviced apartments, chain hotels and most everything in between.
For a luxury experience, consider Peppers Docklands. Located a stone’s throw from Docklands Stadium (also known as Marvel Stadium) and about a 15-minute walk from the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel. There, you’ll discover comfortable rooms, on-site dining and a beautiful outdoor pool, ideal for a refreshing dip after a day exploring the Docklands.
You could also stay at the highly acclaimed Travelodge Hotel Melbourne Docklands. Rooms boast Melbourne city views, and you can take advantage of breakfast and dining options. It’s also an ideal spot from which to explore Docklands shopping, restaurants and bars on foot.
No matter where you choose to stay while visiting the Docklands, you’ll have easy access to everything that makes it an up-and-coming destination for locals and visitors alike. From taking in an Aussies rules football game at Docklands Stadium to shopping in ‘The District’ to marveling at the sunset over Central Pier, you’ll be glad you came.