On the hunt for interesting things to in Melbourne? Whether you’re a visitor coming from interstate or overseas, consider Fed Square your jumping-off point for a range of exciting – and mostly free! – activities in Australia’s cultural capital.
As one of Melbourne’s top attractions, Fed Square is a cultural icon and meeting place situated conveniently in the heart of the city, opposite Flinders Street Station. At Fed Square, you can find a wide variety of activities, dining options and cultural experiences on offer – anytime you visit. Fed Square is also the gateway to the Melbourne Arts Precinct, and hosts spectacular events and festivals throughout the year, while our famous ‘Big Screen’ is the place to catch all the major sporting events and free outdoor cinema in Summer.
Fed Square is proudly home to three of Australia’s premier arts and culture organisations, including The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, ACMI and the Koorie Heritage Trust (KHT).
NGV Australia houses the world’s largest collection of Australian art, with works from both established and emerging artists. Free to visit, you can explore works from the permanent Australian Art and Joseph Brown Collections as well as current temporary exhibitions, which draw from the Gallery’s extensive permanent collection of paintings, sculpture, decorative arts, photography, prints, drawings, fashion and Indigenous Art. NGV Australia also run daily tours, in both English and Mandarin, which are free to participate in and don’t require booking.
ACMI is a museum dedicated to the moving image and digital culture, featuring exhibitions and interactive experiences. The permanent exhibition The Story of the Moving Image is open daily and free to visit, and a great place to while away a few hours in the city. You can discover how the first optical illusions paved the way for the world of film and television and gaming, as you animate shadows, assemble film scenes, play games and see original cameras, iconic costumes and movie sets.
The Koorie Heritage Trust is a museum and cultural centre that honours the rich history and culture of Victoria’s First Peoples. Over three levels of the Yarra Building at Fed Square, you can explore the fascinating collection of First Peoples art and artifacts and shop for authentic First Nations jewellery and art at shopKOORIE, located on the ground floor.
A visit to Naarm (Melbourne’s name in the local Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung language) isn’t complete without a Birrarung Wilam (River Camp) walking tour. The tour begins at KHT with an experienced First Nations guide, before heading out into Fed Square and then down to the Birrarung (River of Mists). You can book online for this tour, which takes place each weekday at 1pm.
Melbourne is known for its love of food and dining culture – and Fed Square is no exception. For out-of-state or international visitors, a visit to Victoria by Farmer’s Daughters is a must. Travel the state with your tastebuds, as the seasonal menu and local wine list takes you on a culinary journey, celebrating Victoria’s great regions and producers.
If you’re looking to explore the authentic Indigenous Australian flavours in a relaxed and friendly environment, Big Esso by Mabu Mabu is your go-to destination. From the famous Green Ant-tini (with real green ants!) to the fried crocodile on the menu – it’s delicious, exciting and a true taste of Australia.
Hero, helmed by famous Australian chef Karen Martini, offers uncomplicated Mediterranean-inspired cuisine in contemporary, artistic surrounds – stop in for lunch, dinner or bar snacks and a drink.
Transport Hotel and Beer Deluxe serve up classic pub fare and local beers while award-winning Taxi Kitchen showcases modern Australian cuisine with stunning views of the Yarra River. Transit Rooftop Bar is a popular spot for cocktails, tapas and regular live music, with panoramic city skyline views. Riverland Bar is located on the banks of the Yarra River and offers casual dining and drinks with a relaxed atmosphere, and Pilgrim Bar next door offers cocktails, wine and craft beer – along with share plates and cheese boards.
Fed Square is a vibrant and ever-evolving destination that should be at the top of your list of things to do in Melbourne. It offers a unique and exciting blend of culture, entertainment and dining – and is always an experience to remember.
Check out our ‘What’s On’ section of our website for up-to-date information about what’s on this month at Fed Square.