Bourke Street Mall (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Bourke Street Mall?
What makes it 75% Kids-Friendly: Children like buskers, free tram rides, Gaunt’s Clock and bright laneway art; still, the mall lacks playgrounds and the dense foot traffic and trams demand close adult supervision.
![Exploring Bourke Street Mall, Melbourne || [4K] Ambient Walk](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/fBrYma8pAn4/hqdefault.jpg)
![MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA 🇦🇺 [4K] Bourke Street Mall — Walking Tour](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/4mUZM-Hvvus/hqdefault.jpg)
Positives:
- Family-friendly entertainment: Street performers run most days and keep kids engaged with magic and music.
- Easy access: Pedestrian mall is flat and stroller-friendly with lifts in adjacent arcades.
- Central hub: Arcades, eateries and shops are steps away for quick breaks or shelter.
Challenges:
- Crowds: Weekends and lunchtimes get busy, so keep younger kids close.
- Limited seating: Benches fill quickly during popular performances.
- Weather exposure: Open mall has little shelter, so prepare for sun or rain.
What is Bourke Street Mall?
- A pedestrian- and tram-only thoroughfare through Melbourne’s central business district
- A retail precinct anchored by the Myer and David Jones department stores and lined with specialty boutiques and heritage arcades
- An urban streetscape featuring historic architecture, glass-roofed arcades and embedded tram tracks
What is so special about Bourke Street Mall for with kids?
- Free tram rides let kids feel like locals.
- Street performers entertain all ages.
- Arcades offer indoor fun and hourly clock shows.
- Laneway art walk becomes a fun treasure hunt.
- Food court has quick, child-friendly options.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time to watch street performers, explore arcades, spot street art and enjoy a meal without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Bourke Street Mall
Watch street performers:
Enjoy live music, magic acts and dance shows on the pedestrian mall.
Tip: Arrive 10–15 minutes before each set to grab a bench spot for the kids.
Explore Royal Arcade & Gaunt’s Clock:
See the carved figures strike the hour in Australia’s oldest arcade.
Tip: Plan to be there at the hour and take photos under the glass canopy.
Self-guided street-art walk:
Follow laneway maps to spot colourful murals in nearby lanes.
Tip: Pick up a free map at the Visitor Booth between Swanston and Elizabeth Streets.
Ride free CBD trams:
Hop on city trams running through the mall without needing a ticket.
Tip: Board at the Bourke St stop and remind kids to hold poles for safety.
Shop & dine at Emporium Melbourne:
Cross the footbridge to browse 200+ stores and a kid-friendly food court.
Tip: Head to Level 3 food court for quick meals like noodles, burgers and sushi.
When is the best time to visit Bourke Street Mall (Melbourne, Australia)?
In summer (Dec–Feb), bring sunscreen, hats and water to beat heat. In winter (Jun–Aug), carry a raincoat as weather changes quickly. In December, enjoy holiday lights and carol performances along the mall.
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Reviews of Bourke Street Mall (Melbourne)
Nick M
Lately, a lot of shops have been closing down but you still have the big shopping centres that have a great variety. Public transport is easy and the best way to visit the mall.
Harshada Patil
Bourke Street Mall is the heart of Melbourne and my personal favorite spot in the city. The vibes here are unmatched, with stunning city views and constant energy. Easily accessible by trams, it’s well-connected, though parking can be tricky. There’s always something happening—live musicians, street performers, and festive events keep the place lively. During Christmas, the Myer windows add a magi...
Hansel. S
Bourke Street Mall – A Vibrant Night in Melbourne I recently had an unforgettable night exploring Bourke Street Mall, and if you’re planning to visit Melbourne, this spot is a must. My friend and I kicked off our adventure in Chinatown, then made our way to Bourke Street Mall around 9:13 PM on a Saturday. The atmosphere was buzzing – the trams were packed, and the streets were filled with people....
Shabana Parveen
Great place for shopping. In Christmas and new year its having amazing lighting and theme display being loved by kids.
Bob Elliott
Broke street mall is vibrant, busy bustling site. A good mix of shops and new and old buildings. Trams go through the mall in steady procession. Also emergency vehicles use the team lanes to take short cuts through the city. There was an excellent busker named Cam Nicholson who performed an amazing show with his violin and acustica music accompanying him. A great entertainer
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Food court meal (4 people) | AUD 60 |
| Ice cream cones | AUD 32 |
| Coffee for adults | AUD 10 |
| Small souvenirs | AUD 20 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 122 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Bourke Street Mall
- Visit on weekdays: Weekdays see fewer crowds and more space for kids to move.
- Download art map: Get a free laneway mural map at the Visitor Booth before you start.
- Pack light snacks: Bring easy snacks to save time and keep kids happy between meals.
Map of Bourke Street Mall
Address: Bourke Street Mall, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
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About Bourke Street Mall
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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