”Fed Square”, as it’s known locally, is a magnet for Melbourne society. There’s always something happening in the city’s main public plaza, from early morning tai chi classes to international sports events on the big screen.
First-time visitors should head straight for the Melbourne Visitor Centre, where you can join a free guided tour or pick up a map to explore the area at your own pace. Here you can also find out about forthcoming events and activities and get information about public artworks and other attractions.
One of the most striking features of Fed Square is its uncompromisingly modern architecture, which contrasts sharply with the surrounding Victorian-era buildings. Take time to explore the striking glass-and-steel Atrium, home to the National Gallery of Victoria’s pioneering Ian Potter Centre, the first major gallery in the world dedicated exclusively to Australian art. The Deakin Edge theatre offers stunning views across the Yarra River, as well as a programme of musical and theatrical performances, while the Zinc on the riverfront is a dramatic setting for special events, banquets and exhibitions. The Australian Centre for the Moving Image, meanwhile, shows popular and arthouse films, and showcases the latest in gaming technology.
During major sporting events such as the FIFA World Cup and the Australian Football League final, Fed Square is packed with sports fans catching the action on giant open-air screens. At other times, people flock to the many cafes and bars to eat, drink and catch up with the rest of the world from the biggest free Wi-Fi site in Melbourne.
Fed Square is on the corner of Swanson and Flinders streets, flanked by Flinders Street Station and the Yarra River. Public transport by tram, bus or boat is plentiful, and there are pay car parks as well as secure bike racks and rentals nearby.
Federation Square
Visit Fed Square
Plan a trip to see Fed Square
Tours & day trips
See all 303 activitiesOpens in new tabGreat Ocean Road & 12 Apostles Small Group Day Tour
Food, drink & nightlife
See all 93 activitiesOpens in new tabFrom Melbourne: Great Ocean Road, 12 Apostles, Wildlife Tour
History & culture
See all 88 activitiesOpens in new tabGreat Ocean Road Tour Luxury Small Group - Max 11 Passengers
Private & custom tours
See all 76 activitiesOpens in new tabGreat Ocean Road Tour Luxury Small Group - Max 11 Passengers
Adventure & outdoor
See all 27 activitiesOpens in new tabGreat Ocean Road Tour Luxury Small Group - Max 11 Passengers
Reviews of Fed Square
5/5 - Excellent
Eltham north
5/5 - Excellent
Ask for a view of the water the residences building
3/5 - Okay
I lived here when it was built. Big sports events made it a good place to be. It's now just a local haunt but I wouldn't eat at places there.
3/5 - Okay
Lot of construction going on.
4/5 - Good
Transit rooftop bar. Great views Great blues music and atmosphere
3/5 - Okay
very interesting
Popular places to visit
Australian Centre for the Moving Image
See it, make it or even star in it – there’s something for every film fan at Melbourne’s world-famous museum of the moving image.
Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia
You can spend time exploring the galleries in Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia in Melbourne. Experience the fascinating museums and acclaimed theatre scene in this vibrant area.
Forum Theatre
For lovers of stylish entertainment, this historic Melbourne theatre is just the ticket!
St Paul's Cathedral
Appreciate the peaceful atmosphere when you explore the interior of this vast neo-Gothic cathedral and architectural anchor in Melbourne’s inner-city streetscape.
Hosier Lane
During your visit to Melbourne, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Hosier Lane. Experience the fascinating museums and acclaimed theatre scene in this vibrant area.
Lightning Ridge Opal Mines
Enjoy an outing to Lightning Ridge Opal Mines during your stay in Melbourne. Discover the acclaimed theatre scene and shops in this vibrant area.
Top Fed Square Hotel & Accommodation Deals
Check availability on hotels close to Fed Square
Experience the vibrant culture of Melbourne at Fed Square
Federation Square, located in the heart of Melbourne, is a geographic wonder that seamlessly blends architecture, urban life, shopping, art, theater, and dining. This bustling city mall is a vibrant meeting place, where friendly locals and tourists gather. With its proximity to Melbourne Showgrounds and the City of Melbourne, Fed Square is a hub of activity and a perfect starting point to explore the city's main attractions. From nearby Melbourne Central to the iconic tram that connects you to most attractions, Fed Square is the ultimate city getaway. Don't miss the stunning scenery and impressive skyscrapers that surround this must-visit destination.
Where to stay near Fed Square
Planning a luxury-themed holiday in Fed Square, Melbourne? You're in for a treat! This vibrant neighborhood is a haven for architecture enthusiasts, offering stunning skyscrapers and urban landscapes. Get your retail therapy fix at the shopping precinct, or immerse yourself in art and culture at the museums and theaters. Fed Square is also known for its friendly locals and scenic views. Indulge in exquisite dining experiences and soak in the lively atmosphere. Whether you're a fan of modern architecture or simply enjoy a luxurious holiday experience, Fed Square has it all.
- Melbourne: Melbourne is a vibrant city known for its stunning architecture, diverse urban landscape, and world-class shopping. Immerse yourself in the thriving art scene by visiting the numerous museums and galleries. Indulge in exquisite dining experiences and explore the family-friendly attractions. Melbourne's towering skyscrapers create a stunning backdrop for your luxury holiday.
- Portarlington: Portarlington is a coastal city that offers a luxurious escape. Pamper yourself at the spa and unwind while playing golf. Relax on the pristine beaches and take leisurely walks along the shore. Visit the local wineries and enjoy the natural parks. The friendly locals and coffee culture add to the warm and inviting atmosphere of Portarlington.
- Melton: Melton is a charming city that offers a mix of friendly people, cozy bars, and delightful cafes. Explore the local shops and embark on exciting excursions. Indulge in the diverse dining options and enjoy leisurely walks around town. Melton provides a relaxed atmosphere for a luxurious holiday experience.
Explore the best activities and sights near Fed Square
Experience the vibrant local atmosphere of Fed Square in Melbourne, Victoria. This luxury themed holiday destination offers a range of attractions and activities, including stunning architecture, urban exploration, shopping, museums, art galleries, theaters, and a diverse culinary scene. The friendly locals contribute to the warm and welcoming atmosphere, while the picturesque scenery and towering skyscrapers provide a stunning backdrop. Whether you're strolling through the city mall, visiting the Melbourne Showgrounds, or immersing yourself in the culture of the City of Melbourne, Fed Square offers a plethora of main attractions to explore and enjoy.
- Crown Casino: This iconic casino offers a unique urban experience with its mesmerizing architecture, vibrant shopping scene, and world-class art museums. The friendly atmosphere and bustling theater add to the excitement, while the stunning cityscape and towering skyscrapers create a picturesque backdrop. Whether you're looking for a romantic night out or a thrilling casino adventure, Crown Casino has it all. Located just 1.3km away from Fed Square, it's a must-visit destination in Melbourne.
- Melbourne Central: Immerse yourself in the heart of Melbourne's shopping scene at Melbourne Central. This architectural marvel combines modern design with urban charm. Explore its diverse range of shops, museums, and art galleries, or catch a show at the theater. With its friendly atmosphere and striking skyscrapers, Melbourne Central offers an unforgettable city experience. Perfect for families, entertainment seekers, or business enthusiasts, this point of interest is conveniently located only 1.0km away from Fed Square.
- Melbourne Cricket Ground: Step into history at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, a historic sports stadium that showcases impressive architecture and offers a range of activities. From shopping and urban exploration to visiting museums and art galleries, there's something for everyone. The friendly atmosphere and beautiful gardens provide the perfect setting for a leisurely walk. Ideal for sports and culture enthusiasts, the Melbourne Cricket Ground is just 1.2km away from Fed Square.
Discover the flavours near Fed Square
When visiting Fed Square in Melbourne, you'll have plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds. One popular choice is Chocolate Buddha, a highly regarded Asian Japanese restaurant. With its moderate prices and delicious dishes, it's a must-visit for any food lover. Another great option is Big Esso, a well-known Australian restaurant that offers a range of tasty dishes. And if you're craving some local cuisine, Taxi Dining Room is a fantastic choice, serving up delicious Australian dishes in a stylish setting. For more Asian cafes, head to Swanston Street where you'll find a variety of options, including cafes like Cafe Kleimann. Don't forget to check out the nearby hotels for a comfortable stay during your visit.
Best time to visit Fed Square, Melbourne Central Business District
Looking to avoid the rainy, cloudy, or uncomfortably hot or cold months? Our table below will help you find the perfect time for your holiday in Melbourne Central Business District and your visit to Fed Square. Here you will find a year-round average temperature of 14.6°C, reaching a peak of 20.4°C in January, its warmest month, and dropping to an average low of 9.4°C in July, the coolest month. The annual rainfall averages 59.6mm, with October experiencing the heaviest showers, while July is the driest month.
Month | Temperature (Celcius) | Rainfall | Cloud coverage |
January | 20.4 | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny |
February | 20.0 | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny |
March | 18.2 | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny |
April | 15.2 | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny |
May | 12.1 | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny |
June | 9.9 | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny |
July | 9.4 | No Rain (Dry) | Mostly Cloudy |
August | 9.9 | Light Rain | Mostly Cloudy |
September | 11.7 | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny |
October | 13.8 | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny |
November | 16.2 | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny |
December | 18.2 | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny |
Top reasons for your visit to Fed Square
- Architectural Marvel: Federation Square is a geographic wonder that seamlessly blends stunning architecture with urban life. Marvel at the impressive skyscrapers that surround this bustling city mall.
- Cultural Hub: Immerse yourself in the vibrant local atmosphere and explore the rich cultural heritage of Fed Square. Visit museums, art galleries, and theaters to experience Melbourne's diverse arts and culture scene.
- Shopping Paradise: Get your retail therapy fix at the shopping precinct in Fed Square. Enjoy a range of shopping options, from luxury brands to unique local boutiques.
- Culinary Delights: Indulge in exquisite dining experiences and sample the diverse culinary scene in Fed Square. From trendy cafes to fine dining restaurants, there's something to satisfy every palate.
- Picturesque Setting: Take in the picturesque scenery and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding skyscrapers. Fed Square provides a beautiful backdrop for your holiday photos.
How to save money on a visit to Fed Square
- Take advantage of the Expedia website to find package deals for your trip to Fed Square.
- Combine your flights, hotels, and car rentals to save money.
- Check the Expedia rewards program to collect points and save money on future bookings.
- Use the search filters on Expedia to find accommodation within your price range.
- Consider traveling during the off-peak season (October-December) for better deals.
- Explore the various travel experiences available on Expedia to find the perfect getaway for you.
- Holidays and getaways similar to Fed Square
- Are there hotels near Fed Square?
- Hotels near popular Melbourne Attractions
- What kind of hotels are in Fed Square?
- Expedia's Latest Trends
- Crown Casino
- Melbourne Central
- Melbourne Cricket Ground
- Rod Laver Arena
- Marvel Stadium
- Queen Victoria Market
- Collins Street
- University of Melbourne
- Chadstone Shopping Mall
- Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre
- Monash University
- Flemington Racecourse
- Bourke Street Mall
- Princess Theatre
- SEA LIFE Melbourne
- Oaks Melbourne on Market Hotel
- W Melbourne
- Citadines on Bourke Melbourne
- Holiday Inn Express Melbourne Southbank, an IHG Hotel
- Oaks Melbourne on Collins Suites
- Rendezvous Hotel Melbourne
- Dorsett Melbourne
- QT Melbourne
- Meriton Suites Melbourne
- Pegasus Apart'Hotel
- Aura on Flinders Serviced Apartments
- Mercure Welcome Melbourne
- Hotels near Australian Centre for the Moving Image
- Hotels near Melbourne Information Centre
- Hotels near Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia
- Hotels near Koorie Heritage Trust
- Hotels near National Design Centre
- Hotels near Crown Casino
- Hotels near Melbourne Central
- Hotels near Melbourne Cricket Ground
- Hotels near Rod Laver Arena
- Hotels near Marvel Stadium
- Hotels near Collins Street
- Hotels near Queen Victoria Market
- Hotels near University of Melbourne
- Hotels near Bourke Street Mall
- Hotels near Chadstone Shopping Mall
- Hotels near Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre
- Hotels near Monash University
- Hotels near Flemington Racecourse
- Hotels near Princess Theatre
- Hotels near St Kilda Beach