Old Melbourne Gaol (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Old Melbourne Gaol?
What makes it 72% Kids-Friendly: School-age children get maps, role-play arrests and code trails that make history engaging. Some gallows stories are grisly and many stairs tire little legs, so parental judgment is vital.
Positives:
- Interactive Learning: Hands-on puzzles and role-play make history fun for kids aged 5–12.
- Flexible Pace: Self-guided audio lets families stop and go to suit younger children’s attention spans.
Challenges:
- Pram Accessibility: No lifts or ramps; narrow doorways make strollers impractical. Use a baby carrier instead.
- Cell Conditions: Uneven floors and stairs may be tiring for younger kids. Schedule rest breaks in the Women & Children exhibit.
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 kids?
- Engaging self-guided audio tour with kids’ treasure map
- Hands-on Forensic Investigator puzzles for ages 5–8
- Interactive arrest role-play in the Watch House tour
- Fun Ned Kelly armour photo opportunity for all ages
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for self-guided audio, interactive exhibits and a break without rushing young children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Old Melbourne Gaol
Self-Guided Audio Tour:
Use the free audio guide and map to explore cells at your own pace.
Tip: Collect the kids’ treasure map at entry and follow video projections to keep them engaged.
Crime Busters – Forensic Investigators:
Solve puzzles based on Ned Kelly’s skull theft and Ann Davis’s escape.
Tip: Book in advance during school holidays and arrive 10 minutes early to choose seats.
Life in the City Watch House Interactive Tour:
Role-play an arrest, experience a lock-in and explore exercise yards.
Tip: Bring a flashlight or use phone torch for the pitch-dark cell experience.
Ned Kelly Costume Photo Op:
Try on replica armour and take family photos in front of the gallows.
Tip: Ask staff for help adjusting the armour so it’s safe and fun for kids.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Old Melbourne Gaol
- Arrive Early: Beat crowds and pick up maps and audio guides before the late morning rush.
- Download Audio Guide: Install the gaol’s app and download narration ahead of time to avoid on-site Wi-Fi issues.
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)?
During Victorian school holidays, book kids’ activities online early. In summer, start early to avoid midday heat; in winter, dress in layers as the gaol can be chilly.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Family ticket (2A + 2C) | AUD 85 |
| Crime Busters extras (4 x $5) | AUD 20 |
| Watch House tour extras (4 x $5) | AUD 20 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 125 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
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
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+61 3 9656 9889Explore Popular Things to Do
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