Royal Arcade (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Royal Arcade?
What makes it 72% Kids-Friendly: Kids can marvel at the hourly moving giants, hunt architectural details, and pick small sweets, yet aisles get crowded at peak times so guardians must keep children close.
Positives:
- Free Entry and Pram Access: The arcade floor is level and entry is free, making it easy to bring strollers.
- Photo Opportunities: The mosaic floor, glass ceiling and clock figures create great family photos.
Challenges:
- Peak Hour Crowds: The aisle fills quickly just before the hour for the clock show—hold children close.
- Limited Seating: There are few benches; consider bringing a small folding stool for kids.
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 kids?
- Free entry under a glass roof with pram-friendly floors
- Hourly Gog & Magog clock show to delight kids
- Quirky shops and fairy castle display to spark wonder
- Easy architecture hunt to keep older kids entertained
- Affordable treats at The Little Royal and Koko Black
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time to watch the clock show, explore shops, enjoy treats, and hunt architecture without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Royal Arcade
Gog and Magog Show:
Watch the two giant figures strike the clock each hour.
Tip: Arrive 5 minutes before the hour to secure a good spot and take photos.
Fairy Castle Window Hunt:
Spot tiny fairy homes in the Spellbox shop window.
Tip: Let kids press their faces to the glass and count the miniatures together.
Treat Tasting at The Little Royal:
Grab freshly baked cookies or macarons.
Tip: Order single cookies (A$3) for kids to sample without overspending.
Architecture Scavenger Hunt:
Count archways, find the wrought-iron ceiling and coat-of-arms.
Tip: Create a simple checklist on paper to keep older kids engaged.
When is the best time to visit Royal Arcade (Melbourne, Australia)?
During Nov–Jan the arcade is festively decorated; expect more visitors. In cooler months, the natural light under the glass roof offers a warm, bright stroll.
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Reviews of Royal Arcade (Melbourne)
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 ...
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Entry | AUD 0 |
| 4 cookies (A$3 each) | AUD 12 |
| 2 hot chocolates (A$6 each) | AUD 12 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 24 |
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
How to Maximize Your Visit to Royal Arcade
- Visit on Weekday Mornings: Arrive before 11am to enjoy quieter aisles and shorter lines.
- Plan a Snack Break: Head to The Little Royal or Koko Black just before or after the clock show to avoid queues.
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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