Royal Arcade (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Royal Arcade?
What makes it 59% Baby-Friendly: Prams roll easily on the flat tiles and nearby centres have parent rooms, but the arcade itself lacks change tables, feeding areas, and can be congested each hour, reducing convenience.
Positives:
- Weather protection: The glass roof keeps you dry on rainy days and sheltered from sun.
- Easy pacing: Short distance and seats at cafés allow rest stops with your baby.
Challenges:
- Crowded hourly show: Avoid the Gog and Magog clock display five minutes before and after the hour to keep prams safe.
- No dedicated baby-change: Royal Arcade has no parent rooms; you must use tenant facilities or nearby malls.
What is Royal Arcade?
- A Victorian-era, Italianate-style shopping arcade in Melbourne’s central business district
- A heritage-listed building distinguished by its soaring glass-vaulted roof, intricate cast-iron arches and mosaic-tiled floor
- Home to the mechanical figures Gog and Magog that flank the Gaunt’s clock at the Little Collins Street entrance
What is so special about Royal Arcade for with baby?
- Pram-friendly level flooring under a glass roof
- Off-peak window-shopping with fewer crowds
- Easy coffee and snack stops with bench seating
- Nearby free parent rooms at Emporium and Melbourne Central
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: A 1-2 hour visit lets you browse shops, enjoy a coffee break and rest with the baby without rushing.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Royal Arcade
Pram-friendly architecture tour:
Stroll the full length under the soaring glass roof and admire the tiled floor.
Tip: Use your pram or stroller on the smooth level floor.
Quiet window-shopping:
Browse boutique shopfronts when the arcade is calm.
Tip: Visit before 11 am or after 3 pm to avoid peak crowds.
Coffee and baby snack break:
Grab a latte at Koko Black or The Little Royal with seating.
Tip: Order a banana cake or cookie for the baby and use bench seating.
Locate nearby parent rooms:
Use free baby-change facilities at nearby malls.
Tip: Walk 5–10 minutes to Emporium Melbourne or Melbourne Central.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Royal Arcade
- Off-peak timing: Arrive before 11 am or after 3 pm for quieter aisles and better pram access.
- Plan breaks: Pick a café with known seating and change table availability before you visit.
Reviews of Royal Arcade
Sahil Khanmotra
Fantastic period arcade with individual merchants each with stunning window shows. Would highly recommend a walk through to learn regarding some of the ancient history things, that’s the beautiful, and even u can enjoy coffee also there.
Maria Ngo
This arcade is a little more demure than the more popular Block Arcade but is nonetheless a worthy arcade to visit. This arcade bears similar hallmarks of posh historical arcades where well dressed ladies and gents might come to find a delicate gift for a certain someone.
Christopher Leach
This is a very cool little shopping space in Melbourne. I highly recommend checking it out! We stopped and had coffee in one of the cafe’s and purchased some souvenir gifts for family. It was a nice escape from the rain!
HYUKJAE CHOI (ERIC)
I've been visiting Block Arcade a lot lately. It's a really cool and impressive place. Be sure to visit~ :)
Hao
Royal Arcade in Melbourne is an absolute gem! Nestled in a charming, ancient building, it exudes timeless elegance with its beautifully preserved architecture. The variety of specialized shops is delightful, offering unique finds and treasures that cater to all tastes. It’s a strikingly close resemblance to Queens Arcade in Tāmaki Makaurau, which makes it feel like a home away from home. Despite ...
When is the best time to visit Royal Arcade (Melbourne, Australia)?
Arcade is covered by a glass roof, ideal for rainy days or hot summer mornings. Visit early to avoid summer heat and afternoon crowds.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Entry fee | AUD 0 |
| Two lattes | AUD 14 |
| Baby snack | AUD 5 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 19 |
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 Royal Arcade
Address: 335 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
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About Royal Arcade
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
+61 438 891 21210 BEST nearby Activities
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