Historic Sites in Melbourne

"Lookout north-westerly down the Ceremonial Avenue back toward the CBD as the light fades and the sun drops to the west and the twilight colours briefly fill the sky. Can you see someone staring back at you?. It’s the face of William Barak on the ‘Portrait Building’."

"One of the more lifeless buildings of Melbourne on the outside, the old Melbourne Gaol has quite a ghastly history to back it up. Sitting right on Russel street (another very famous Melbourne street) is an incredibly eerie, 3 story high former prison. While it’s no longer a prison (it was officially closed in 1924), it’s now a museum filled with relics of the past and the history of some of Australia’s most notorious criminals."

"For 87 years, Victoria’s Old Melbourne Gaol housed minor offenders and notorious criminals including gangster Squizzy Taylor. Among those executed were bushranger Ned Kelly and Jack the Ripper suspect Frederick Bailey Deeming. Today, the prison operates as a museum where visitors can see death masks, Kelly gang weapons and memorabilia from prisoners and staff."

"You may not want to attend a sitting but there are also tours that you can book when Parliament is not sitting. This way you can get access to some extra information on the building and the things that happen behind the scenes. The express tours take only 20 minutes, perfect if you have children that have the attention span of a goldfish."

"With such highlights included on the tour itinerary as St. Paul's Cathedral, Federation Square, Chinatown, Parliament House and much more, you're sure to get a true taste of the diversity that Melbourne is all about."

"If you compare it to Europe, Australia does not have many big churches that are worthwhile exploring. Having said that, St Paul’s in Melbourne does deserve a second look. First of all, it is a pretty old church at just 125 years old but most importantly it is the seat of the Anglican Primate of Australia."

"Where St Paul's Cathedral sits is the site of Melbourne's first Christian service, held in 1835. The block was then used as a corn market until St Paul's Cathedral was constructed in 1891. Since then it's been a significant piece of Melbourne's identity."

"With such highlights included on the tour itinerary as St. Paul's Cathedral, Federation Square, Chinatown, Parliament House and much more, you're sure to get a true taste of the diversity that Melbourne is all about."

"Perhaps the most notable council building is Melbourne Town Hall. This heritage listed building was the prototype for numerous suburban town halls. While the building’s architectural significance is clear with its impressive Tasmanian freestone façade (built in 1867), the Prince Alfred Tower (added in 1869) and temple-like portico (1887), it’s also notable for its role in many historical moments."

"The Mission to Seafarers, Victoria, active from 1857, has operated since 1917 from the heritage-listed building, 717 Flinders St, on the banks of the River Yarra. The Mission is highly regarded for its long and continuing service to those who live and work at sea. Guided tours available or casual visits are welcome 365 days of the year, refreshments available."

"78 Williams Rd, Prahran, Stonnington, Victoria 3181 AustraliaEuropean, Australian, ContemporaryLunch, DinnerSeating, Parking Available, Street Parking, Free Off-Street Parking, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Wine and Beer, Accepts American Express, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Reservations, Private Dining, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service[email protected]+61 3 9525 2178http://www.woodlandhouse.com.au/"

"The scene:Woodland House is the place to go when you want the traditional fine dining ambiance. Expect perfectly-pressed crisp linen tablecloths, pale grey walls, very polite wait staff and a pretty garden view through the over-sized windows that could trick you into thinking your dining in an old English cottage. But although the atmosphere can feel a bit formal and proper, the food is anything but."

"Located in the heart of St Kilda, this is the second entrant with the name Fat on our list. Fat Jaks is an American-style burger joint that doesn’t disappoint in the portion and taste departments. Burgers are made with locally sourced premium ingredients in a comfortable and relaxed space."

"Located in Essendon, Beats Burgers is another no-nonsense burger joint. It provides customers with tasty meals at an affordable price that are made with quality ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood for beef, chicken or pulled pork burger, or a tasty hotdog, this Melbourne burger shop can cater to your desires."

"Home to one of Melbourne’s most celebrated live music venues, the greenery-filled rooftop at Corner Hotel is the perfect spot for an afternoon drink. The beers are simple with Carlton Draught, Melbourne Bitter, Fat Yak and Mountain Goat Steam Ale the main pours. Corner Hotel(03) 9427 730057 Swan Street, RichmondTues 4pm-1am, Wed-Thur 12pm-9pm, Fri-Sat 12pm-3am, Sun 12-9pmcornerhotel.com"