Once an industrial port, now a sleek urban playground Docklands has transformed into a harbourside precinct with high rises, ferris wheels, public art, and a full-on sporting colosseum in the form of Marvel Stadium.
Marvel Stadium
Formerly known as Etihad Stadium and Telstra Dome, this retractable-roof venue hosts:
- AFL matches, including Friday night blockbusters
- Soccer, concerts, wrestling, and esports
- Seating for up to 53,000 fans, with high-quality viewing from nearly every angle
- Home teams include Essendon, Carlton, and North Melbourne
Tours are available (on non event days) including change rooms, media areas and the player’s race.
What to Do in Docklands
- Ride the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel (currently paused but due to relaunch)
- Explore public sculptures and street art (check out the ‘Cow Up a Tree’ by John Kelly)
- Dine along NewQuay Promenade think waterfront seafood, cocktails and sunset views
- Check out The District Docklands – a shopping centre with outlet stores, a cinema, Legoland, and Icehouse skating rink
Getting There
- Easy via free trams from the CBD (Routes 70, 86, and City Circle)
- Also walkable from Southern Cross Station
- Cycling trails run all along the harbour and into West Melbourne
Docklands may still be growing into its identity, but its mix of sport, modern architecture and harbour views makes it a different side of Melbourne worth exploring.
