Royal Exhibition Building (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Royal Exhibition Building?
What makes it 76% Kids-Friendly: Kids can play on lawns, visit LEGO or flower shows and manage the Dome stairs, yet activities are event dependent and parents must watch children near ponds and road traffic.
Positives:
- Spacious gardens: Large lawns let kids run freely while adults watch from nearby paths.
- Nearby museum access: Direct access to Melbourne Museum adds interactive exhibits for children.
Challenges:
- Stair climb on dome tour: Nine flights of stairs may tire younger children; plan breaks.
- Limited shade areas: Sun exposure in the gardens can be strong; bring sun protection.
What is Royal Exhibition Building?
- A 19th-century exhibition centre in Melbourne featuring a monumental copper-domed roof and a fusion of Byzantine and Italian Renaissance design
- One of the few surviving original international exhibition pavilions, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its architectural and historical significance
- A prominent civic landmark set within Carlton Gardens, distinguished by its ornate façades, grand central hall and role as Australia’s provisional federal parliament venue in 1901
What is so special about Royal Exhibition Building for with kids?
- Feed ducks and play on vast lawns in Carlton Gardens.
- Climb the historic dome on a guided tour for family-friendly views.
- Visit the adjacent children’s gallery and playground at Melbourne Museum.
- Join seasonal events like the Flower & Garden Show or Brickvention.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for garden play, duck feeding and a guided dome tour without rushing younger children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Royal Exhibition Building
Duck feeding and lawn play:
Feed ducks by the pond and run or toss a frisbee on the open lawns.
Tip: Bring healthy bread alternatives and a frisbee or ball for safe games.
Dome Promenade Tour:
Climb inside the dome on a guided tour for panoramic city views.
Tip: Book online in advance; children under 16 tickets are $15 each.
Melbourne Museum children's gallery:
Explore interactive science exhibits and an outdoor playground next door.
Tip: Check if your dome tour ticket includes museum entry or buy separate passes.
Seasonal family events:
Attend LEGO Brickvention or the Flower & Garden Show when scheduled.
Tip: Visit the venue’s events page for dates and separate ticket bookings.
When is the best time to visit Royal Exhibition Building (Melbourne, Australia)?
In spring (March) catch the Flower & Garden Show draping the building in blooms. Summer days can get hot – pack hats and water. In winter bring warm layers and a raincoat.
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Reviews of Royal Exhibition Building (Melbourne)
Steven Ho
I've been to many events here both working and just to see an expo. Building its self is magnificent to see. Recently I really enjoyed going to the international flower show. I thought it was very cool it being indoors and outdoors. It's crazy how such an old building to be standing and used so regularly! Definitely one of the many cool old buildings in Melbourne. Definitely worth checking out an ...
Senarath Angammana
Stunning Venue for Special Occasions – Royal Exhibition Building, Melbourne I recently had the pleasure of attending a graduation ceremony at the Royal Exhibition Building, and it was truly a memorable experience. The building itself is a masterpiece of architecture—grand, elegant, and beautifully preserved. Its high ceilings, detailed interior, and historical charm make it an inspiring venue for...
Chang Guan
The building is marvelous just like Melbourne’s old name, the Marvelous Melbourne. The Dome Guided Tour is fantastic, the professional guide Phil told us loads of fascinating stories about the building and the city it is located in. In the main hall, Phil showed us the paintings and their history. And then we went upstairs to the rooftop, enjoyed the great views and checked out the golden top whic...
Ashlee Pond
This beautiful old building is such a stunning site. It looks extra majestic in the lovely Carlton Gardens, and the Dome Tour you can do through the Melbourne Museum is absolutely wonderful, providing a lot of detailed history and some really unique and incredible views. I've been to a lot of events here - from uni exams and graduations, to the flower and garden show, to vegan festivals and art s...
GG Shopping
I went to the Melbourne Garden and Flower Show this year which was held in this building and Carlton Gardens. What a magnificent building with ultra high ceilings and large doors. The outside of the building makes a beautiful backdrop when taking photos in the garden but is normally closed. Going to this show was a chance to see inside the building. It’s massive and impressive. Easily accessible b...
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Dome Promenade tour tickets (2 adults + 2 children) | AUD 88 |
| Family tram return | AUD 20 |
| Picnic snacks | AUD 20 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 128 |
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 Royal Exhibition Building
- Arrive early: Start before 10 am to find quiet spots and secure dome tour availability.
- Pack a picnic blanket: Bring a blanket to set up under shaded trees by the fountain.
Map of Royal Exhibition Building
Address: 9 Nicholson St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia
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