Crowne Plaza Melbourne Review: A Relaxing City Getaway
Sometimes, the best getaways are the ones right in your own backyard. Our recent stay at Crowne Plaza Melbourne proved just that—a perfect mix of comfort, convenience, and indulgence.
Not to be confused with the Crown Casino complex across the river, Crowne with an ‘E’—much like the imaginative Anne of Green Gables—is a true delight.
>> Head straight to our personal tidbits including accessibility advice for Crowne Plaza Melbourne
Our Family Stay at Crowne Plaza Melbourne
A Warm Welcome & A Room with a View
From the moment we arrived at Crowne Plaza Melbourne, we felt at ease. The check-in process was smooth and welcoming, setting the tone for a relaxing stay. Our family of four checked into a spacious Family Room, featuring an interconnecting King room for us and two incredibly comfortable double beds for the kids—plenty of space for everyone to unwind.
Meanwhile, my parents settled into a King Riverview Room, where floor-to-ceiling windows showcased breathtaking views of the Yarra River. Watching the boats glide by while enjoying afternoon tea and hot chocolates was a highlight for all of us.
Exploring South Wharf & A Splash in the Pool
With such a prime location, it is easy to step outside and explore. We take a leisurely stroll to South Wharf, where we browse the shops at DFO and soak up the lively riverside atmosphere.
After an afternoon of retail therapy, we return to the hotel for a quick dip in the outdoor heated pool. Even with Melbourne’s unpredictable weather, the water is warm, and the kids can’t get enough of it!
Terrie’s review
Staying at the Crowne Plaza Melbourne was like a mini holiday! Is this what they call a staycation? ‘Nanna and Grandpa’ and their young family—mum, dad, and two grandchildren—had a great time in this family-friendly accommodation.
Easy access to the hotel from street level, either by lift or stairs, made arriving a breeze, and the friendly staff made us feel very welcome. We took the train into the city, just a short walk from Southern Cross Station, so we didn’t need the valet parking service.
I loved the many spacious areas where guests can sit and chat.
The building itself has a unique round shape, and the views from our sixth-floor room overlooked the river. Our window was huge! We didn’t even turn on the TV—just enjoyed watching the city come alive after dark. The scenery was impressive, with the lights of the city buildings, the big Ferris wheel, and the movement of trams and cars creating a giant painting that was actually alive.
The bed was very comfortable, and the shower was great. While there were no handrails, the tiles were not slippery. I also enjoyed the fig and feijoa shampoo.
Before leaving, we had time to explore a little and enjoy coffee in the Pow Wow room. Next time, we’ll make sure to have a cocktail or drink at the Dive Bar!
– Terrie
A Delicious Dinner at Ottie’s
Dinner at Ottie’s, the hotel’s stylish in-house restaurant, is a treat. The kids’ meals are generous (and much appreciated by our hungry little travellers), while the adult dishes are full of flavour and beautifully presented.
The relaxed setting and friendly service make it a great spot for our group of six to unwind together. View the menu for Ottie’s here.
The Ultimate Breakfast Buffet
No staycation is complete without an indulgent breakfast, and Ottie’s breakfast buffet does not disappoint. A spread of hot and cold options, fresh fruit, pastries, and espresso coffee ensure we start our day well-fed and satisfied.
Whether you prefer a full-cooked breakfast or something lighter, there’s plenty to enjoy.
School Holiday Fun at Crowne Plaza Melbourne
These school holidays, Crowne Plaza Melbourne is making family stays even more special with exciting offers and activities for kids.
Start your mornings with a free breakfast buffet for kids at Ottie’s, where little ones under 12 can enjoy bacon, eggs, and all their favourites for free with an accompanying adult (valid 5th – 27th April). After a delicious start to the day, head out to explore Melbourne or relax in the hotel’s Family Rooms, designed for comfort and quality time together.
For on-site fun, the School Holiday Kids’ Club (5th – 27th April) is open daily from 8am – 8pm, offering books, games, toys, and movies to keep young guests entertained. And don’t miss the Easter Egg Hunt on Easter Sunday (20th April), where the Easter Bunny will lead a fun-filled scavenger hunt around the hotel!
Whether you’re planning a city adventure or a relaxing staycation, Crowne Plaza Melbourne has something for the whole family. Read more about their family package here.
Chris’ review
Over 30 years ago, whilst working as a map maker, I remember creating artwork for a sheet map of Melbourne CBD. In the South West corner of the map, next to the Spencer Street Bridge, a circular structure was plotted that jutted right out into the Yarra River. Whilst field-checking I noted a unique curved building, a hotel named Eden on the Yarra, and wondered what it was like inside…
This week my wife and I stayed a wonderful night in that same Hotel now named The Crowne Plaza Melbourne.
Advertised as Melbourne’s only absolute riverfront hotel the Crowne Plaza has obviously been modernised and refurbished since 1990 which, for us, proved to be an escape into relaxing luxury enhanced by contemporary décor and fittings.
Our room was spacious, clean and very comfortable. The mesmerising vista, seen through the large window, framed the City skyline, the Yarra and Southbank were always interesting and so watchable.
The state-of-the-art equipment in the Gym beckoned, but we opted to keep up with the relaxing theme and went for an afternoon swim in the outdoor heated pool… so nice… definitely the right decision!
Before venturing out for our evening’s entertainment we had dinner at Ottie’s, the Hotel restaurant. From the bistro-style menu, I was happily tempted by the Seafood Risotto with a side of seasonal greens and for dessert the Mango Passion Sundae.
Dinner was delightful and satisfying but the real hit at Ottie’s was the buffet breakfast the next morning. Everything you could think of for breakfast was laid out, and continuously refreshed, in a help-yourself buffet. Eggs, fresh fruit, pastries plus more.. all perfectly presented.
We enjoyed the wonderful vibe of the whole Crowne Plaza experience but, I reckon, what is most likely to draw me back is the mouth-watering memory of the brekky.
– Chris
Things to Explore Nearby
Staying at Crowne Plaza Melbourne puts you within reach of some of the city’s best attractions. Art lovers can immerse themselves in the Arts Precinct along Southbank, or the breathtaking digital exhibitions at The LUME Melbourne.
Shopping enthusiasts will love hunting for bargains at South Wharf DFO, home to an incredibly wide range of outlet stores. For entertainment, the Crown Casino complex offers everything from world-class restaurants to live shows.
For the kids, SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium as well as the Immigration Museum are only a short distance away.
And for something a little different, history buffs can visit the Mission to Seafarers, a unique organisation showcasing Melbourne’s maritime heritage in a beautifully restored heritage building. On Thursday nights they host a free evening of Sea Shanties and Singalongs.
Whether you’re after culture, shopping, or a touch of nightlife, it’s all right at your doorstep.
Tidbits for Staying at Crowne Plaza Melbourne
- Sustainability Focus – The hotel is committed to sustainability, offering amenities on request to reduce waste and providing Wallaby Water in refillable aluminium bottles.
- IHG Rewards & Seniors Discount – As part of IHG Hotels & Resorts, Crowne Plaza Melbourne offers discounts for Seniors Card holders—worth checking when booking!
- Accommodation Options – Room types at Crowne Plaza Melbourne include a King Room with different views, from two sides of the building, as well as internal towards the swimming pool. The interconnecting Family Rooms have one King and two Double Beds.
- Hotel Room Features – In-room amenities include a coffee machine with complimentary coffee pods, tea, and hot chocolate.
- Prime Location – Right on the Yarra River, plan a getaway packed with fun activities with easy access to Southbank, Docklands, and public transport.
- Outdoor Heated Pool – Enjoy a swim year-round, even in cooler weather.
- Great Dining Options – Ottie’s Restaurant & Bar offers quality meals from breakfast through to dinner, with generous portions for all ages. Additional dining options within the hotel include Pow Wow, a relaxed café-style bar for lighter bites and drinks.
- Concierge Service – The hotel’s concierge team is available to assist with local recommendations, transport bookings, and anything else to enhance your stay.
- 24-Hour Gym Access – The fitness centre is open 24/7, allowing guests to keep up with their workout routine whenever it suits them.
- Buffet Breakfast – Outside guests are welcome, bookings recommended. Cost is $40 per person and $25 for kids aged 4-12 years. (Free for kids during the school holidays!)
- Note – This is a cashless venue. Also, at the restaurant a 10% surcharge applies on Sundays and a 15% surcharge applies on public holidays.
Accessibility at Crowne Plaza Melbourne
Crowne Plaza Melbourne is designed to accommodate all guests, with accessible rooms featuring roll-in showers, wider doorways, and grab rails.
Located close to elevators, the accessible rooms feature large open-plan showers with handrails and a shower seat, lowered power points and switches, plus automatic closing doors. There are also options tailored for hearing and vision-impaired guests.
The hotel offers step-free access throughout, including to the lobby, lifts, and dining areas.
Service staff are attentive and happy to assist with any additional needs, making it a comfortable choice for those with mobility concerns.
Getting There
Located on Spencer Street, Crowne Plaza Melbourne is easily accessible by public transport.
Southern Cross Station is just a short distance away, providing train and tram connections across Melbourne and beyond. If you’re arriving from the airport, the SkyBus offers a direct service to Southern Cross.
For those driving, the hotel has on-site parking available at an additional cost.
Crowne Plaza Melbourne
1-5 Spencer St, Docklands VIC 3005
(03) 9648 2777
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The Seniors in Melbourne team visited as guests of Crowne Plaza Melbourne. All opinions are the writers’ own.
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