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Historical Melbourne Venues
March 02, 2021
Venues with a history behind them
Melbourne is home to a number of outstanding and architecturally significant venues with a rich past. Create an inspiring experience at one Melbourne’s renowned historical venues, each with its own remarkable history to discover and makes for a unique event setting.
The current Melbourne Town Hall, located in the heart of the city, officially opened on 11 August 1870 and for over 150 years, it’s been at the heart of events which have shaped the city's future. Experience the history and splendour of the Melbourne Town Hall as the venue for your next special event. There is no doubt that this heritage listed building with its grand entrance lobbies and unique period features will add a distinctive character to any celebration.
The Forum Melbourne is renowned as one of Melbourne’s most unique and best live music venues, it plays host to many bands, singers, comedians and popular festivals every year. It first opened in 1929 with the largest seating capacity of any theatre in Australia and has an extensive history covering film, cabaret, comedy and live music. When not being used for live music, the venue comes alive as an incredible and versatile state-of-the-art unique event space perfect for cocktail events from 400 - 1500 and dinners from 250 - 520.
The Plaza Ballroom, is one of Melbourne’s most spectacular iconic venues, situated in the heart of Collins Street at the famous Regent Theatre. Originally built in 1929, the venue today is more lavish and grand than ever. combining award-winning catering and impeccable service in a setting unmatched in history, grandeur and ambience. Complete with high ceilings, mesmerising Spanish Rococo architecture, Juliet balconies, bespoke lighting and original chandeliers it’s the perfect backdrop to compliment any modern-day event.
Step back in time and host your business event at Melbourne’s most feared destination since 1845, the Old Melbourne Gaol. Constructed in blue stone, it still contains the original cells and historic features where some of Australia’s most notorious criminals were held, including the infamous bush ranger Ned Kelly. Add to the experience with guest appearances from Ned Kelly or duty sergeants and gaol governors.
Originally built in the 1850’s Australia’s oldest public Library has become an impressive historical destination in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD that significant items reflecting Victoria's cultural and social heritage. These include historical documents such as the journal of Melbourne’s founder John Batman and Ned Kelly's armour. Events and conferences of various sizes can be catered to thanks to interconnected spaces within the library.
The National Heritage listed Rippon Lea Estate, established in 1868, sits amidst 14 acres of breathtaking gardens and is a grand intact example of 19th century suburban high lifef. The mansion was originally 15 rooms, that Frederick Sargood liven in with his first wife, nine surviving children and 17 household staff. Located only ten kilometres from Melbourne this venue offers a sublime setting close to the CBD. A variety of remarkable locations across the 14 acres of beautiful picturesque gardens are available to book a special event, whether it’s a work family fun day or a grander occasion such as a corporate gala dinner.
The Savoy Hotel on Little Collins offers a timelessly elegant space to escape. Located in the heart of Melbourne, your work colleagues won’t have to travel far to enjoy all this lively city has to offer. Bursting with a fascinating history since the 1880s, it’s been home to events and famous guests who could once be found during the jazz-era at the Alexander Bar, sipping on cocktails while listening to the easy sounds of crooners sharing the scene. Host your next meeting within the grandeur of this Art Deco heritage building. Six stylish and versatile meeting rooms are available and elegant accommodation that can be booked for extended stays.
For your next business meeting or celebration, consider booking a private dining room at Donovans. Originally one of three original bathing houses built in 1920 on the St Kilda foreshore, its main purpose was to provide separate facilities for men and women visiting the beach. The private dining room seating to 26 individuals with floor to ceiling windows overlooking the bay will no doubt make for a memorable event.
The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is steeped in a rich history; established in 1853, less than 20 years after the founding of Melbourne. Often described Australia’s most iconic ground, it’s been the home of Australian football since 1859 and was the birthplace of Test cricket in 1877 and one-day international cricket in 1971. For a unique corporate experience, consider a guided tour of the Australian Sports Museum and take in the highlights of the stadium including the famous Long Room, player change rooms, alongside a walk on the boundary. The MCG can cater to conferences, meetings, and corporate functions of various sizes overlooking the MCG arena, CBD or Yarra Park.
Find out how the Melbourne Convention Bureau can support you or search for suppliers with access to venues steeped in history that will create lasting impressions.