Old Melbourne Gaol (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Old Melbourne Gaol?
What makes it 36% Baby-Friendly: Babies enter free, but three levels of stairs, no lifts, no change tables and narrow cells force carriers and quick visits. The loud role-plays and dark spaces can easily upset infants.
Positives:
- Free Baby Entry: Children under 5 enter at no cost—just purchase adult tickets.
- Inclusive Exhibits: Audio guide and Women & Children exhibit are free with admission.
Challenges:
- No Pram Access: No ramps or lifts—use a baby carrier on the stairs and through narrow doorways.
- No Baby Change Facilities: No changing tables onsite; use standard toilets or plan stops at nearby malls.
What is Old Melbourne Gaol?
- A 19th-century bluestone prison in central Melbourne that operated from 1845 to 1924
- A heritage-listed complex retaining original cells, gallows and Georgian-style penal architecture
- A museum documenting Australia’s colonial justice system and notorious inmates such as Ned Kelly
What is so special about Old Melbourne Gaol for with baby?
- Free entry for children under 5
- Self-guided audio keeps visits flexible with a baby
- Women & Children exhibit offers stroller-clear space
- Iconic Ned Kelly photo spot for fun family pictures
- Baby carrier recommended—prams not supported
Note: Old Melbourne Gaol is 36% Baby-Friendly. You may want to consider other Baby-Friendly Things to Do in Melbourne for a more suitable experience.
Recommended visit duration: 1–2 hours
Why 1–2 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Allows time for audio tour, exhibition, and breaks with baby.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Old Melbourne Gaol
Self-Guided Audio Tour:
Use the free audio guide to hear real stories of inmates.
Tip: Wear a baby carrier and stop at benches to attend to your baby.
Women & Children Exhibition:
Explore cells showcasing women’s and children’s experiences.
Tip: This section has wider pathways—keep your carrier secure and move slowly.
Ned Kelly Armour Photo Spot:
Pose in front of replica armour at Kelly’s cell entrance.
Tip: Hold your baby firmly and avoid lifting heavy plates—just frame the shot.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Old Melbourne Gaol
- Visit Early: Arrive at opening to avoid crowds and have space for your baby.
- Use Baby Carrier: Hands-free carrying helps navigate stairs and tight cells.
- Take Outdoor Breaks: Step into the courtyard for fresh air and a quick rest.
Reviews of Old Melbourne Gaol
Toriie Jay
Tickets are a bit in the pricier side, however the overall experience is good. Throughout the Gaol, cells are set up with information about times from when the Gaol was operational, including inmate stories, stories of the Gaol staff and history relating to the building, operation and eventual closure of the goal. The overall general entry ticket allows you access to each of the 3 floors, with the...
Chang Guan
It’s a fantastic experience in the Gaol especially the City Watch House tour. You get to experience being arrested and locked in one of those cells in the Watch House which is just next to the Gaol. As its closure (1994 I reckon) is relatively recent comparing to the Gaol which is basically operated during the Gold Rush, you get to feel the true jail vibe. The Gaol itself has a lot of history and ...
Amanda Marsh
Must go see adventure into the past. My husband and I visited the Gaol this morning. Our tour guide for Ned Kelly was very informative and witty. We also did the watch house where we all experienced what it was like being locked up! Highly recommended for anyone who wants to dive into history. The tour guides were absolutely fantastic and very informative.
sallyre74
Recently attended both the self guided gaol tour and watch house experience. Firstly the watch house experience was a great way to feel what it was like to be arrested and sent to gaol and then the gaol itself historically decorated with information and memoribilla of past criminals such as Ned Kelly making it a very informative educational journey. Having no time limits made it easy to take yo...
Jo Seaby
An eerie experience walking around the Gaol and reading about the inmates . The $5 extra to see the watch house was well worth it with Sergeant Pepper doing a great job and very informative. There is an app that you can download prior to your visit which gives you information on a self guided tour. Toilets available.
When is the best time to visit Old Melbourne Gaol (Melbourne, Australia)?
Summer visits can feel warm in narrow cells—bring water. In winter, dress in layers as mornings are chilly indoors.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2 Adult general admission tickets | AUD 76 |
| Baby entry (under 5) | AUD 0 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 76 |
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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Map of Old Melbourne Gaol
Address: 377 Russell St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
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About Old Melbourne Gaol
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+61 3 9656 9889Explore Popular Things to Do
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