Consider taking the self-guided Maritime Heritage Walk, a mapped walking tour posted on the South Wharf Melbourne website that highlights eight historic points of interest, including the Seafarer’s Bridge, Wharf Hotel, and Pump House Display. The map starts at the Maritime Time Museum and Polly Woodside, a vessel from 1888 that you can board on weekends to learn about its seagoing past.
When you’re ready to rejoin the present-day, you’ll find neighborhood options to enjoy a high-end meal, stroll along the river, or snag a deal at a Direct Factory Outlet store.
Food lovers should check out the South Wharf Melbourne website, which offers several themed foodie trails, such as “Around the World” and “Vegan-Friendly.”
Show your event ticket, lanyard, or promotional postcard for any South Wharf events to receive 10 percent off at selected bars and restaurants, listed on the website.
Five parking lots serve South Wharf. The main lot accessed off Normanby Road charges by the hour and offers a flat rate after 6 pm, with partial validation available from South Wharf shops, restaurants, and bars.
Both private and public transportation are good options to get to the South Wharf. Major roads heading into the area include the Westgate Freeway, Lorimer Street, and Montague Street. The main parking lot is off Normanby Road. By rail, catch trams 96 or 112 from Southern Cross Station and stop at the convention center. The walkway around the convention center and the wooden walkway along the river will take you onto the South Wharf Promenade.
Retail shops are open daily mid-morning to evening, with extended hours on Fridays. Unless open for breakfast, most dining establishments open at noon and serve late into the evening. The Melbourne Maritime Museum and Polly Woodside has the most restrictive hours, open for visitors on Saturdays, Sundays, and school holidays. Last entry into the museum is typically at 3:15pm.
Visitors to Melbourne can shop like locals at South Wharf, where the DFO (Direct Factory Outlet) South Wharf offers deals up to 70 percent off retail prices at more than 180 of the top Australian and global brands, such as Guess and Lacoste. The bottom floor showcases home goods, furniture, and lifestyle brands.
