A Day at Federation Square: Museums, Art, and Culture
Fed Square is Melbourne’s most famous spot and the hub of the city’s cultural scene. From art to live performance, there’s heaps to do. This cultural precinct is right next to Flinders Street Station and is famous for its cultural importance. It has museums, galleries, and event spaces that showcase Melbourne’s artistic and cultural history. Whether you’re a local looking for something new or a tourist wanting to feel the Melbourne vibe, a day at Federation Square is the perfect way to get amongst the art, culture and energy.
With its array of art institutions Fed Square is the go to place for all things art. In this guide we’ll get up close and personal with the must see attractions, the art installations, the cultural events and the nearby landmarks that make Federation Square a must visit.
Museums at Federation Square
National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) Australia and Ian Potter Centre
At the centre of Fed Square is the Ian Potter Centre, part of the ongoing NGV Collection dedicated to Australian art, from colonial to contemporary. This gallery is part of the broader NGV International and houses the largest collection of Australian art in the world, including works by Torres Strait Islanders and Aboriginal artists, so the cultural heritage of Indigenous Australians is preserved and celebrated.
The NGV Collection within the Ian Potter Centre includes painting, sculpture, photography, fashion and textiles. Visitors can see a huge range of art, from delicate floral forms in nature inspired works to abstract vegetal forms. This contrast between old and new art gives a broad view of Australian creativity.
ACMI: The Museum of Screen Culture
Melbourne’s Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) is where you can get amongst the world of film, television and digital culture. Often called the museum of screen culture, ACMI presents the history and future of screen based art forms. From retro films to modern digital installations, ACMI offers immersive experiences where you can interact with the exhibits.
One of the highlights is the video games which connects the past, present and future of digital storytelling. From classic arcade games to VR, ACMI is fun and educational for all ages. This interactive approach is one of the ways Fed Square brings the past and the future together.
Art Installations and Public Art
Public Art at Federation Square
The outdoor spaces at Fed Square are just as beautiful as the indoor ones. The square itself is a work of art, with its bold angles and modern design. And it has public art installations throughout that add to the space, so it’s a feast for the eyes for everyone who comes.
Take a minute to look at the various sculptures and public art around the precinct, including pieces inspired by plants and flowers. These change regularly, so Fed Square gets a fresh injection of creativity every time a new one goes up.
Birrarung Marr: Art Meets Nature
Next to Federation Square, Birrarung Marr is an art and nature haven. This urban park is an important part of Melbourne’s cultural fabric, with walking trails, public art, and river views. The park’s cultural significance is in its recognition of Melbourne’s Indigenous heritage, particularly the stories of the Torres Strait Islander people, told through the sculptures and landmarks.
Follow the paths that connect Birrarung Marr to Federation Wharf, a riverside space to take a leisurely walk or a lazy afternoon by the water. Art, history and nature make Birrarung Marr the perfect foil to the bustle of Fed Square.
Cultural Events and Performances
Live Performances and Festivals at Federation Square
Throughout the year Fed Square hosts a wide range of cultural events that reflect the city’s cultural diversity. From live music to outdoor film screenings, these events attract crowds from all over the city and beyond. Big festivals like Arts South Australia events bring the space to life with big performances and large scale art. Whether it’s a local band or an international artist, Fed Square always has something up its sleeve.
These events are a great way to experience Melbourne’s multiculturalism. The range of products on offer, from food stalls from around the world to artisan crafts, adds another layer to the experience here.
Koorie Heritage Trust: Indigenous Culture
In Fed Square, the Koorie Heritage Trust is all about celebrating and preserving the culture of the Aboriginal people of the Kulin Nation. Visitors can explore exhibitions, workshops and performances that showcase Indigenous art, storytelling and history. The trust also advocates for Indigenous rights and promotes understanding of the cultural significance of these communities.
The Koorie Heritage Trust is a must see for anyone interested in the cultural and historical context of Indigenous Australia. They often run alongside other events at Fed Square so you can see more of Melbourne’s cultural fabric.
Eat and Relax
Eat at Federation Square: From Casual to Fine Dining
After all that art and interactive fun at Fed Square, you’ll be hungry. Luckily for you, the square has loads of dining options. Beer DeLuxe is a chill pub with a great selection of craft beers, and Federation Wharf is a popular riverside spot to grab some casual eats or a more fancy meal.
Each of these eateries offers a different experience. Whether you’re after a quick coffee or a full meal you can taste Melbourne’s food scene while taking in the Fed Square atmosphere. Many of these spots have views of Birrarung Marr or the Yarra River so are perfect to unwind after a day of exploring.
Beyond Federation Square
Nearby Attractions: Flinders Street Station and Beyond
Fed Square is in the middle of Melbourne so it’s a great place to start exploring nearby attractions. Flinders Street Station, Melbourne’s oldest and most famous train station is right across the road from the square, and Swanston Street is just around the corner with shops, restaurants and historic buildings. Swanston St is one of Melbourne’s busiest streets and connects to many of the city’s other main attractions.
If you want to go further afield, consider visiting other cultural sites such as Murray Art Museum, North Down Museum and Ards Arts Centre. These galleries and museums are outside of Melbourne but are part of Australia’s cultural heritage and worth adding to your itinerary if you want to get into the Museum of Art scene.
Seasonal and Ongoing Events: Plan Your Visit
Before you get to Fed Square check out if there are any special events or exhibitions on during your visit. Websites like Time Out have up-to-date information on event times for concerts, film screenings and festivals. From weekend markets to major international cultural festivals, Fed Square is always hosting events and Melbourne Tours.
Conclusion
A day at Federation Square is a day well spent. From the amazing exhibitions at the Ian Potter Centre to the interactive fun at ACMI, Fed Square is the cultural hub. Whether you’re into the Museum of Screen Culture, interested in Indigenous art at the Koorie Heritage Trust or want to soak up the atmosphere of Melbourne’s cultural quarter, Fed Square has something for every kind of traveller. Add to that the great dining options and proximity to Flinders Street Station and Birrarung Marr, and you will have the perfect day in the heart of Melbourne.
FAQ
What to see at Federation Square?
Ian Potter Centre, ACMI, Koorie Heritage Trust, outdoor art installations throughout Fed Square. And Birrarung Marr next door for a peaceful and cultural experience.
Are the museums at Federation Square free?
Yes, most museums, including Ian Potter Centre and ACMI, are free. Some exhibitions may charge.
How do I get to Federation Square?
Fed Square is right in the middle of everything, next to Flinders Street Station and Swanston Street. Public transport is easy.
What’s on at Fed Square?
Throughout the year Fed Square hosts live music, open air film, major festivals. Check Time Out to see what’s on during your visit.
Where to eat?
Beer DeLuxe and Federation Wharf. Food and drink with Yarra River views.