Melbourne’s Luna Park on the edge of Port Phillip Bay occupies a very special place in the city’s history. When the park was opened in 1912, its bright lights and breathtaking rollercoasters were a novelty – no one had seen anything like it before in the quiet suburb of St Kilda. Largely closed during the First World War, it regained its wild popularity following a spectacular relaunch in 1923. During the Second World War the park stayed defiantly open, its only concession being to dim its lights at night so as not to attract enemy bombers.
Many of the historic rides are still in operation today, although the iconic Big Dipper was destroyed by a fire in the 1980s. You can still ride around the perimeter of the park on the heritage-listed Great Scenic Railway, the world’s oldest continually operating rollercoaster, taking in the same fabulous views over Port Phillip Bay that visitors have been enjoying for a century.
Modern thrill-seekers can get their adrenaline kicks on white-knuckle rides like the Pharaoh’s Curse and G-Force while, for those of a more nervous disposition, there are old-fashioned family favourites including colourful carousels and the gentle highs of the Ferris wheel.
To reach Luna Park, take the tram from central Melbourne (two services stop directly outside) or come by car and take advantage of nearby street parking. The park is open on weekends, school holidays and public holidays, but it’s advisable to check the website in advance for opening hours and days as these can vary. Entrance to the park is free but rides and shows are subject to charge. An unlimited day pass is a convenient way to make sure you don’t miss out on anything. Snacks can be bought inside the park, or you can bring your own food, and lockers are available to rent so you can store your picnic while you ride.
Luna Park Holiday Packages
Plan a trip to see Luna Park
Melbourne Lifestyle Apartments - Best Views on Collins
Reviewed on 17 Sep. 2024
Aspire Melbourne
Reviewed on 16 Sep. 2024
YEHS Hotel Melbourne CBD
Reviewed on 28 Jul. 2024
Tours & day trips
See all 339 activitiesOpens in new tabGreat Ocean Road & 12 Apostles Small Group Day Tour
Attractions
See all 19 activitiesOpens in new tabThe Ultimate Melbourne Pass - Unlimited
Food, drink & nightlife
See all 98 activitiesOpens in new tabFrom Melbourne: Great Ocean Road, 12 Apostles, Wildlife Tour
Air, helicopter & balloon tours
See all 7 activitiesOpens in new tabMelbourne: Private Yarra Valley Winery Lunch by Helicopter
Adventure & outdoor
See all 35 activitiesOpens in new tabGrampians National Park Wildlife and Wilderness Escape Tour
Reviews of Luna Park
5/5 - Excellent
Was super fun for myself and my 12 year old daughter
5/5 - Excellent
Get in early
5/5 - Excellent
Don’t go on too many dizzy rides in a row and then eat a huge mound of fairy floss... Decent fun for young people (and parents!) of all ages.
4/5 - Good
Wasn't open, but easy walk there for future reference
2/5 - Disappointing
Was closed on Friday....
3/5 - Okay
Not happy that you now pay $5 to go in ... even if you don't go on a ride. Scenic Railwya shut
Popular places to visit
Palais Theatre
This famous art deco St. Kilda landmark hosts a range of live shows, including concerts, film festivals, dance performances and theater shows.
St Kilda Beach
From rollercoasters to rock bands, fine dining to fish and chips, St Kilda is the archetypal seaside resort.
Acland Street
Everyone knows the way to Melbourne’s heart is through the stomach and this famous dining strip in St. Kilda has been winning hearts for nearly a century.
St Kilda Pier
Stroll, cycle, rollerblade or go fishing at one of Melbourne’s most cherished landmarks and enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline and the waterfront.
St. Kilda Botanical Gardens
This historic botanical garden has a modern twist, incorporating a fascinating Eco-Centre into its green lawns, stunning native flowerbeds and rose garden.
Fitzroy Street
During your trip to Melbourne, you can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Fitzroy Street. Amble around this trendy area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its lively bars.
Top Luna Park Hotel & Accommodation Deals
- Holidays and getaways similar to Luna Park
- Are there hotels near Luna Park?
- Hotels near popular Melbourne Attractions
- Expedia's Latest Trends
- Crown Casino
- Melbourne Central
- Rod Laver Arena
- Queen Victoria Market
- Melbourne Cricket Ground
- Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre
- Marvel Stadium
- Collins Street
- University of Melbourne
- AAMI Park
- Bourke Street Mall
- Flemington Racecourse
- Monash University
- Chadstone Shopping Mall
- SEA LIFE Melbourne
- Hotels near Crown Casino
- Hotels near Melbourne Central
- Hotels near Rod Laver Arena
- Hotels near Queen Victoria Market
- Hotels near Melbourne Cricket Ground
- Hotels near Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre
- Hotels near Marvel Stadium
- Hotels near Collins Street
- Hotels near University of Melbourne
- Hotels near AAMI Park
- Hotels near Bourke Street Mall
- Hotels near Flemington Racecourse
- Hotels near Monash University
- Hotels near Chadstone Shopping Mall
- Hotels near SEA LIFE Melbourne
- Hotels near Melbourne Arts Centre
- Hotels near St Kilda Beach
- Hotels near Princess Theatre
- Hotels near St Kilda Road
- Hotels near Melbourne Zoo