The District Docklands
Docklands, Melbourne, Victoria, 3008
Located on the waterfront, The District Docklands is an indoor/outdoor shopping destination in the Docklands suburb of Melbourne. The urban, modernized mall features a transparent all-weather roof and offers an array of retail, dining, and entertainment options alongside immersive experiences and events. Shop The District Market for fresh food vendors, or stock up on supplies with locals at the country’s first Costco.
The basics
Fuel up with a drink or snack from one of the more than two dozen dining options at The District before exploring its wealth of shopping and entertainment options. Alongside stores from global brands like H&M, Skechers, Miniso, Hype DC, Toyworld, UNIQLO, and Cotton, you can go ice skating, immerse yourself in artwork and touring exhibitions, and even play rounds of glow-in-the-dark miniature golf.
The development was previously known as Harbour Town, and recent additions include co-working spaces and an apartment hotel.
Things to know before you go
Melbourne’s “Free Tram Zone” includes The District Docklands, the Docklands, and central business district.
The hands-on Chaos Lab, Chipmunks Playland and Café, and “trick art museum” at ArtVo make The District Docklands especially appealing for families.
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the center.
How to get there
The District Docklands is easily accessed by car or public transportation. The Port Phillip Ferries, Yarra Trams (City Circle, #70 or #86), buses, and Skybus Airport Express all service the destination. Riders can take the free tram to or from Melbourne’s central business district, with more transit options found at the Southern Cross Station. For drivers, The District Docklands offers 90 minutes of free parking.
When to get there
District Dockland stores are typically open from morning to early evening, with the exception of Market Lane, Woolworths, and Dan Murphy’s, which have earlier hours. Certain entertainment and dining establishments also have different—often later—hours. Check The District Docklands website for detailed information before you go.
The Melbourne Star
It is hard to miss the giant ferris wheel that rises 394 feet (120 meters) into the air, looming over The District Docklands. Its seven spokes are designed to evoke Australia’s seven-pointed star, depicted on the country flag. This Melbourne icon was closed down due to structural defects in 2009, just a year after it was built, and again in 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. There are no current plans for it to reopen.
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