Plan the Perfect Midweek Visit to The District Docklands
Think leisurely browsing, a tasty lunch, and a little treat to take home — that’s the charm of a midweek visit to The District Docklands.
We love heading out during the week, when everything feels calmer and less crowded. The District Docklands makes it simple, with affordable dining and plenty of attractions — many offering Seniors Card discounts. Whether you’re catching a movie, stepping into interactive art, or browsing shops at your own pace, it’s a relaxed day out that’s both accessible and enjoyable. We couldn’t recommend this outing idea more!
What to do at The District Docklands
Stroll the Laneways
One of our favourite parts of The District Docklands is simply wandering the laneways. It’s all undercover, and even though there are plenty of shops and restaurants, it never seems overwhelming.
Our recommendation? You don’t need a plan — just meander and enjoy the public art scattered throughout the precinct.
The sculptures by internationally renowned artists Gillie & Marc are a highlight. Their well-loved characters, Rabbitwoman and Dogman, pop up across Melbourne, but here at The District, they take centre stage in a very special way.
It’s worth stopping at Flight for Freedom, a breathtaking installation in the Event Plaza. It depicts Rabbitwoman and Dogman hosting a grand banquet for birdlife, a playful reminder of the urgent need to protect our feathered friends.
Observe the three empty seats at the table — inviting you to sit down, take a photo, and reflect on the message of conservation.
You can also have a casual hit of table tennis, with several tables located throughout the precinct, inviting passers-by to have a go.
Terrie’s review
Wow! I had the best day at The District Docklands. My tip — plan to spend the whole day there. The area is spacious, inviting, not noisy or crowded, and very easy to navigate.
I was amazed at the variety of shops. Souvenirs Direct was a real highlight — such good quality items, not just souvenirs. I couldn’t resist starting my Christmas shopping early and found gorgeous gifts for both adults and grandchildren. I even picked up a T-shirt from one of the clothing stores. When you find something beautiful at a reasonable price, you just have to grab it!
There are plenty of cafés and restaurants to choose from. We stopped at The Coffee Club for coffee (I had my favourite Earl Grey tea) and cake, which was excellent. For lunch, we treated ourselves to Seoul Garden Korean BBQ Buffet. The $19.90 all-you-can-eat buffet was an absolute bargain — delicious food and great service. If you want to splurge, the $43.90 option lets you cook your own meats and seafood with an incredible range of sides, salads, and desserts.
I was pleasantly surprised to discover there’s also a HOYTS cinema here, with spacious recliner seating, very comfy. Popcorn and a choc top made it a classic cinema experience.
ArtVo was another exciting find. While it’s great for the grandchildren, I think it would be just as fun to visit with a group of friends. There’s so much to explore, I’ll definitely be back for another visit.
We travelled into the city by train, then walked from Southern Cross to The District Docklands — about 20 minutes. It was an interesting stroll with striking architecture and a peaceful promenade dotted with restaurants (very quiet in the early morning). On the way back we hopped on the tram, which was quick and easy.
The District Docklands is a wonderful alternative to the busy city centre — much more relaxed and leisurely. I’m already planning my return to check out more shops and activities. The Melbourne Star isn’t operating yet, but I hear it’s set to return soon. I went home feeling happy, relaxed, and very pleased with my early Christmas shopping.
Step Inside the Art at ArtVo
If you’re after something a bit different, ArtVo is a must. And we are pleasantly surprised by how much fun it is, stepping into larger-than-life murals and taking those clever 3D photos.
It’s also fantastic value at $25 for Seniors Card holders. We recommend stopping for coffee at Daybreak Café before heading into ArtVo, which makes it feel like a proper little outing.
And if you’re visiting with the grandkids, Imaginator is another great option at The District Docklands. Its colourful sensory installations are interactive and playful, so you can take your time while little ones explore. Families with younger children can also enjoy Little Builders, a hands-on play area designed for creative fun.
We like that once we arrive at The District Docklands, everything feels close together. There are no long walks between attractions, which makes it easy to explore at a relaxed pace.
Settle in for a Movie at Hoyts
Who doesn’t love a trip to the cinema? At The District, you can’t go wrong with HOYTS.
Visit on Cheap Tuesdays, and you can catch a film for just $13 (Seniors Card holders). On other days, Seniors Card holders receive a 20% discount on movie tickets ($24).
Or for something a little special, there’s HOYTS LUX. Before your film starts, you can relax in the spacious bar and lounge areas with a wine before the lights go down.
Once inside, you’ll find the cinemas designed for comfort over capacity with fewer seats, more space. The super comfy chairs are extra-wide with generous legroom and a side table, so you can properly stretch out and settle in.
The real highlight is the service. With a call button right at your seat, you can order good quality meals or drinks and have them delivered straight to you while you watch.
The menu goes well beyond typical cinema snacks — think fresh dishes, paired with a good wine or a top-shelf spirit. It’s a world away from juggling popcorn in the dark.
At $25 all day on Tuesdays with your Seniors Card, HOYTS LUX is surprisingly affordable given the experience. It’s a great option if you’d like to turn a midweek outing into something a little indulgent.
Chris’ review
I remember when the Docklands area on the western fringe of Melbourne’s CBD was actually a shipping dock next to a huge railway yard and, in the 1990’s, when the dock had passed its use-by date and the railway yard was re-located, the current day Docklands suburb was berthed.
Although easily accessible within the free tram zone, we chose to walk from Southern Cross Station and were delighted with the decision. Hiking west on Collins Street, the walk first led us on the bridge over the old railway goods sheds, still there and preserved among a forest of modern and very interesting office and apartment buildings. Then after an easy walk through Henry Doodle Park, along the waters edge, past the Ferry Terminal and Marina we reached the real highlight of our day.
We had found The District Docklands. This cluster of shops and eateries on the North side of Victoria Harbour in the shadow of the, soon to be re-opened, giant observation wheel proved to be a surprisingly refreshing destination.
Spacious, modern and well laid out, with an amazing offering of food from ice-cream parlours and coffee shops to restaurants fit for foodies paradise.
But it’s not just dining, renowned fashion and footwear retailers and niche shopping adventures mingled with cinema and immersive art entertainment options make this a world-class destination for a fun day out.
Fuel up with Midweek Lunch specials
With more than 40 dining options, The District Docklands makes lunching out easy, and you can’t go wrong with weekday specials under $20.
A few standouts include:
- Seoul Garden BBQ – Korean BBQ and buffet dining from $19.90.
- Miss Ping’s – A set menu of a main, spring rolls & iced lemon tea for $19.90.
- Urban Alley Brewery – $20 midweek lunch specials, classic pub fare, plus $1 wings on Fridays.
- Yassas – Generous Greek souvlaki and lunch deals.
For something lighter:
- Fresh artisan pastries at Sfoglia de Fico.
- Coffee and brunch favourites at Daybreak Café.
- Easy weekday meal + coffee combos at The Coffee Club.
- Casual bites under $20 at MJ Mojo Jojo.
Please note: all offers are subject to change without notice. We recommend checking with individual venues for the most up-to-date details.
A Spot of Shopping
No day out is complete without a browse!
The District brings together fashion, shoes, and gifts in one easy stop. Some of our favourites include:
- Uniqlo – The only Uniqlo in the CBD.
- Souvenirs Direct – Selling unique Melbourne keepsakes for more than 18 years.
- Skechers – Supportive, comfortable shoes.
- Bonds – Everyday essentials.
Everyday Essentials
We finish the day with a quick stop at Chemist Warehouse and Dan Murphy’s. How convenient it is to tick off errands on the way home. You’ll also find:
- Woolworths for groceries.
- East West Marketplace for Asian pantry staples.
And to end on a high note, you can pick up fresh flowers from Blooms by Flawless, or treat yourself to a manicure or pedicure at Nails Avenue or Pure Beauty & Spa.
Looking Ahead
Having called The District home for over a decade, the much-loved Melbourne Star Observation Wheel will return in 2026 under new operators, Skyline Attractions — a Melbourne-based family business.
It’s set to bring a fresh chapter to one of the city’s most iconic attractions.
FAQs
Would we recommend a visit to The District Docklands?
Yes. It gets a big tick of approval from us. The precinct has lots to do and is easily assessibke with step-free access throughout, plus plenty of seating areas for breaks, and public toilets.
Are there Seniors Card discounts at The District Docklands?
Many venues offer Seniors Card pricing, such as ArtVo at $25 and HOYTS 20% discount. Dining specials are also common midweek.
How do I find my way around The District Docklands?
There’s clear signage and a help desk. We recommend accessing the map online here to become orientated before your visit.
How much does parking cost at The District Docklands?
The first 90 minutes are free, it then costs up to $18 for 4+ hours. We recommend taking advantage of the following parking discounts available:
- Early Bird (Mon–Fri): $13 (enter 6–10am, exit 3pm–midnight)
- HOYTS customers: 50% off with ticket barcode, any day of the week.
- Play Partners (Mon–Wed): 50% off parking (capped at $9) with validation at ArtVo, HOYTS, or Imaginator (not valid on school holidays or public holidays)
How do I get to The District Docklands without driving?
By train, tram, bus or on foot! It’s quite nifty that the precinct is located in Melbourne’s Free Tram Zone, so you can travel in by tram at no extra cost from the CBD.
How to claim 50% off parking at The District Docklands (Mon–Wed):
1. Park at The District Docklands car park.
2. Visit a participating play partner (ArtVo, HOYTS, Imaginator, etc.).
3. Ask for a parking validation ticket while there.
4. Use the follow-on ticket at the car park exit.
5. Pay the discounted capped rate (up to $9).
Accessibility at The District Docklands
While individual venues may vary in accessible features, the precinct is generally very good for mobility needs, with lifts and accessible toilets located throughout. It has step-free access and plenty of seating areas.
Download the Docklands Mobility Map here, which clearly shows accessible toilets, parking bays, step-free entry and exit points, as well as other helpful features for a smooth visit.
Getting to The District Docklands
By Car – Parking is available onsite with heaps of street parking and other parking lots nearby. Lifts provide step-free access from car parks.
By Tram – Routes 70, 86, and 35 City Circle stop at Harbour Esplanade, a short walk from the precinct.
By Train – Southern Cross Station is the nearest hub. Take a tram from Spencer Street, about 10–15 minutes.
By Bus – Services stop on Docklands Drive and Harbour Esplanade.
On Foot – Flat, step-free paths from NewQuay Promenade and Victoria Harbour, with plenty of resting spots.
We highly recommend visiting The District Docklands for a fun day out.
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This article has been published in collaboration with The District Docklands.
The Seniors in Melbourne team visited as guests of The District Docklands. All opinions are the writers’ own.
This was a very interesting and useful article. There is one inaccuracy though, UNIQLO is also at Emporium.
Hi Karen,
Thanks so much for your kind words and for pointing that out! You’re quite right that UNIQLO has a store at Emporium—though when we checked, Google currently lists it as temporarily closed. We’ll keep an eye on it and update the article once it reopens. Appreciate you taking the time to let us know!
Amy