The Block Arcade (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is The Block Arcade?
What makes it 62% Kids-Friendly: Kids may like the honey tasting, mosaic-tile treasure hunt and guided tour, but there is no play zone, no on-site toilets and breakable shop displays require close supervision.
Positives:
- Covered walkway: The arcade is fully roofed, so visits are comfortable in any weather.
- Easy access: Located off Collins Street, it’s a short walk from tram and train stops.
Challenges:
- Crowded corridors: Narrow walkways fill quickly at peak times, which may slow strollers.
- Uneven floor: Watch for small step edges in the mosaic that can trip little ones.
What is The Block Arcade?
- A late-Victorian shopping arcade dating from 1891, modelled on Milan’s Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
- A heritage-listed promenade featuring intricate mosaic tile floors, marble columns and stained-glass windows beneath a lofty glass roof
- A retail precinct of boutique shops and a historic tea room set within a meticulously preserved 19th-century architectural landmark
What is so special about The Block Arcade for with kids?
- Let kids hunt for patterns in the 19th-century mosaic floor
- Sample free honey varieties at Beechworth Honey
- Treat kids to colorful gelato at Barbarella
- Explore quirky gift shops for unique souvenirs
- Enjoy a dry, covered walk in Melbourne’s historic arcade
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Covers time for a tile hunt, honey tasting and quick treats without tiring young kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in The Block Arcade
Mosaic floor scavenger hunt:
Search for animals, flowers and shapes in the mosaic tiles.
Tip: Print or sketch a simple checklist before arriving to keep kids focused.
Beechworth honey tasting:
Sample free honey varieties at the in-arcade counter.
Tip: Let each child pick their favorite and compare sweetness.
Gelato at Barbarella Gelato & Wine:
Grab a kid-sized scoop of colorful gelato.
Tip: Visit mid-afternoon for smaller queues.
Browse toy and gift shops:
Explore The Art of Dr Seuss and Card & Caboodle for playful buys.
Tip: Set a budget list to teach kids decision-making.
Rotunda photo stop:
Pose under the glass canopy at the central rotunda.
Tip: Use morning light for the best tile color in photos.
When is the best time to visit The Block Arcade (Melbourne, Australia)?
The covered arcade stays dry in rain. In summer, mornings are cooler and less crowded. Look for festive holiday lights on the mosaic floors in December.
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Reviews of The Block Arcade (Melbourne)
Adriana N
Lovely arcade with some interesting, experiencial shops - aromatherapy, chocolate, cake & tea... All quite attractive... And the mosaics are very attractive, as well...
Susanne Harford
fun visual Melbourne experience & see if you can locate their very expensive, truly delicious classic; cuppa tea and marvellous cucumber, smoked salmon wholemeal sangers! Recommend.
Revital Youthspan
This is a must visit place which takes you back to another time and has an amazing vibrancy. There are many shops but what stunned me was the architecture. I just kept looking up at threat craftsmanship of the people who built this.
poojashree chouksey
The Block Arcade, Collins Street, Melbourne CBD Experience: Stepping into The Block Arcade feels like stepping back in time. With its stunning 19th-century architecture, mosaic-tiled floors, glass canopy, and intricate design, it’s one of Melbourne’s most elegant and historic shopping arcades. What I loved: The beautiful Victorian-era charm and attention to detail Boutique shops with handcraft...
Debi Slinger
A must visit in Melbourne. If you can make a booking for the tea rooms that’s also essential. A tireless tradition for Melbourne visitors. The architecture and decor still well appreciated by many and the building is heritage listed. Do look up and down. The mosaic tiles, the glass ceilings, the archways and painting. Stunning. Plenty of cafes and stores to keep you busy for an hour. Wheelchair fr...
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Entry | AUD 0 |
| Honey tasting | AUD 0 |
| Kids gelato | AUD 10 |
| Snacks & coffee | AUD 15 |
| Small souvenir | AUD 20 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 45 |
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 The Block Arcade
- Arrive early: Visit at opening to avoid crowds and get fresh morning light for photos.
- Plan your hunt: Use a simple map or smartphone photo to mark tile patterns before you start.
Map of The Block Arcade
Address: 282 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
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About The Block 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 3 9654 524410 BEST nearby Activities
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