Federation Square is the hub of cultural attractions in the city of Melbourne. The area is home to world-class events, exhibitions, sculptures, tourist experiences and a myriad of bars, restaurants, and specialty shops. The residents of the city and visitors gravitate to Federation Square, as it’s the perfect city meeting place with much to see and do, attracting more than 10 million people each year.
Federation Square in Melbourne’s inner city is centred on two major open squares, St. Paul’s Court and The Square, and an additional covered building named The Atrium. One of the focal points in Federation Square is the giant TV screen used to showcase major sporting events, attracting visitors from all over Melbourne and the surrounding areas. The city’s visitor centre is located underground opposite St. Paul’s Cathedral and Flinders Street Station; it is here tourists can access any information pertaining to the city. The oldest collection of Australian artworks also resides in Federation Square in The Ian Potter Centre, home to over 20,000 important works of art, sculptures, fashion and photographic exhibits. Exceptional dining facilities are also on offer with local brew houses, cafes, and variety of International restaurants available to tempt the most discerning taste buds.
Federation Square is a quick and easy 17-minute walk or an even shorter bike ride from Melbourne’s Central Business District. Located next to Yarra River, the area can also be accessed by train, tram, and bus, disembarking at nearby Flinders Street Railway Station. The City Circle Tram is a unique and free way to get around the city and to the main attractions. The tram stops at City Museum, Docklands, Parliament House, Federation Square, the Melbourne Aquarium and Princess Theatre.
Federation Square is Melbourne’s first public square dating back to 1968. It was initially commissioned when the local government wished to remove two buildings that were considered eyesores on the Melbourne skyline. These buildings obstructed the great heritage structures of St. Paul’s Cathedral and Flinders Street Station which are now focal viewing points and tourist attractions. An architectural design competition was announced by the Prime Minister of Australia in 1997, with a purpose to integrate a building that would complement the surrounding architecture and enhance the area while also becoming a major city landmark. Federation Square you see today was born, and the rest as they say, is history.