Melbourne is a beautiful city, and there’s so many wonderful ways for us to take in the view, from classic lookout spots, to rooftop bars, and even the newly reopened Melbourne Star. And if you like your view with a side of history, why don’t you try taking a guided tour of the Royal Exhibition Building Dome Promenade? Built in 1880, this stunning Dome was based on the design of Brunelleschi’s Duomo in Florence, and was closed to the public for 100 years. It reopened to the public in 2022, and now offers dreamy views of Carlton Gardens and the city skyline.
Royal Exhibition Building Dome Promenade
The Royal Exhibition Building was the first building in Australia to receive a UNESCO World Heritage status. It was made during a time of optimism, when Melbourne was filled with the wealth and potential of the gold rush. The landmark was built in less than 18 months for the 1880 Melbourne International Exhibition, and attracted over one million visitors. In 1888, it hosted the Centennial International Exhibition, and received over two million visitors.
Royal Exhibition Building: Guided Dome Promenade Tour
23 November 2026 10:00 + more dates
Royal Exhibition Building
For both of these exhibitions, the Dome Promenade was a key part of the experience, offering guests a view of the gardens. In 1888, a lift up to the dome was installed, and adults could pay six pence to ride it, or three pence to take the stairs.
Follow in the footsteps of these first eager visitors by taking your own guided tour of the landmark. Learn all about the history of the building, and its various uses over time. Then, go up to the Promenade deck, about 21 metres above ground level, and take in 360-degree views. Gaze at Carlton Gardens, the Melbourne skyline and beyond.
Things to know
The tour will take you on four levels – the basement, mezzanine, lower promenade and upper promenade. The first three are wheelchair accessible, but you’ll need to climb about 20 steps to reach the upper promenade. As you walk around the upper promenade, there will be additional stairs here and there.
Tours run for about 60 minutes, and run on various dates. Tickets are $29 for adults and $15 for children. For tickets and availability, click here.
📍9 Nicholson St, Carlton VIC 3053
