Have you ever wondered what it feels like to be on top of the world? Well, you can get pretty close to that feeling at the Eureka Tower, Melbourne's tallest and most iconic skyscraper. This stunning structure offers you a chance to see the city and its surroundings from a whole new perspective, and to experience some of the most exciting and exclusive attractions in Australia. Whether you are looking for a breathtaking view, a thrilling adventure, or a luxurious treat, the Eureka Tower has something for everyone.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about the Eureka Tower and its attractions, such as the Skydeck, The Edge, and Eureka 89. We will also give you some tips and suggestions on how to plan your visit and make the most of your trip to Melbourne.
What is the Eureka Tower and Why is it Famous?
The Eureka Tower is a skyscraper that stands at 297 meters (975 feet) high, making it the tallest building in Melbourne and the second tallest in Australia. It is located in the Southbank suburb, on the banks of the Yarra River, and it has 91 floors, of which 84 are residential and 7 are public. The tower was completed in 2006, after four years of construction, and it was designed by the renowned architectural firm Fender Katsalidis, who also designed other landmarks in Melbourne, such as the Federation Square and the MONA museum.
The Eureka Tower is not just a skyscraper, but also a civic and cultural icon for Melbourne. The tower's name, design, and art are inspired by the Eureka Stockade, a historical event that took place in 1854, during the gold rush era in Victoria. The Eureka Stockade was a rebellion of gold miners against the colonial authorities, who imposed unfair taxes and regulations on them. The miners built a stockade, or a fort, and raised a flag with a white cross and five stars, representing the Southern Cross constellation. The flag became a symbol of democracy and resistance, and it is now displayed at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Eureka in Ballarat.
The Eureka Tower pays tribute to this event and its significance for Melbourne and Australia in several ways. The tower's gold crown and red stripe represent the gold and the bloodshed of the rebellion. The tower's blue glass cladding and white horizontal lines represent the blue and white of the Eureka flag. The tower's 13-meter (43-foot) gold-plated star on the 88th floor represents the Southern Cross. The tower also features several artworks that reflect the theme of the Eureka Stockade, such as the Eureka Skydeck entrance, which resembles a gold nugget, and the Eureka Stairwell, which displays a poem by the Australian poet Chris Wallace-Crabbe.
The Eureka Tower is not only famous for its history and symbolism, but also for its architecture and engineering. The tower is a masterpiece of design and innovation, and it has received several awards and accolades, such as the Emporis Skyscraper Award in 2007, the RAIA Victorian Architecture Medal in 2007, and the Guinness World Record for the highest residential building in 2011. The tower is also a marvel of sustainability and efficiency, as it uses solar panels, wind turbines, water recycling, and natural ventilation to reduce its environmental impact. The tower is also designed to withstand earthquakes, strong winds, and lightning strikes, and it has a sophisticated fire safety system.
What are the Attractions and Activities at the Eureka Tower?
The Eureka Tower offers you a chance to experience some of the most amazing and unique attractions and activities in Melbourne, and in the world. Here are some of the highlights that you should not miss:
- Skydeck: The Skydeck is the highest observation deck in the Southern Hemisphere, and it is located on the 88th floor of the tower. The Skydeck gives you a 360-degree view of Melbourne and its surroundings, from the CBD to the Dandenong Ranges, from the Port Phillip Bay to the Yarra Valley. You can enjoy the view from the floor-to-ceiling windows, or from the outdoor terrace, which is open on sunny days. You can also use the viewfinders and the binoculars to zoom in on the landmarks and the details. The Skydeck is open from 10 am to 10 pm every day, and the admission fee is $25 for adults, $15 for children, and $60 for families.
- The Edge: The Edge is a glass cube that extends from the Skydeck and gives you a thrilling experience of being suspended in the air, 300 meters (984 feet) above the ground. The Edge can accommodate up to 12 people at a time, and it slides out from the building, with the glass changing from opaque to transparent, revealing the view below your feet. The Edge is not for the faint-hearted, but it is definitely worth a try if you are looking for an adrenaline rush. The Edge is open from 10 am to 10 pm every day, and the admission fee is $12 for adults, $10 for children, and $40 for families, in addition to the Skydeck fee.
- Eureka 89: Eureka 89 is a fine dining restaurant and cocktail bar that is located on the 89th floor of the tower. Eureka 89 offers you a seven-course degustation menu, featuring seasonal and local ingredients, and a selection of wines and cocktails, all accompanied by a stunning view of the city. Eureka 89 is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 6 pm to 11 pm, and the reservation is required. The price for the degustation menu is $150 per person, and $220 with matching wines.
How to Plan a Visit to the Eureka Tower and Melbourne?
If you are planning to visit the Eureka Tower and Melbourne, here are some tips and suggestions that will help you make the most of your trip:
- How to get to the Eureka Tower: The Eureka Tower is located at 7 Riverside Quay, Southbank, VIC 3006. You can get there by public transport, by car, or by bike. By public transport, you can take the train to Flinders Street Station, and then walk for 10 minutes along the Yarra River. You can also take the tram to the Casino East stop, and then walk for 5 minutes. By car, you can park at the Wilson Parking Eureka Car Park, which is located at the base of the tower, and costs $16 for up to 4 hours. By bike, you can use the bike racks at the entrance of the tower, or the Melbourne Bike Share station nearby.
- Where to stay: If you want to stay close to the Eureka Tower, you have plenty of options to choose from, depending on your budget and preference. You can stay at the Crown Towers, which is a five-star hotel that offers luxury rooms and suites, a spa, a pool, and a casino, and is located just across the river from the tower. You can also stay at the Quay West Suites, which is a four-star hotel that offers spacious and comfortable apartments, a gym, a pool, and a restaurant, and is located next to the tower. You can also stay at the Urban Central, which is a budget-friendly hostel that offers dorms and private rooms, a kitchen, a bar, and a lounge, and is located a 15-minute walk from the tower.
- What to wear: The weather in Melbourne can be unpredictable, so it is advisable to dress in layers and bring a jacket or a sweater. The temperature can range from 10°C (50°F) to 25°C (77°F) in summer, and from 5°C (41°F) to 15°C (59°F) in winter. The Skydeck and The Edge are air-conditioned, so you may feel cold inside. The Eureka 89 has a smart casual dress code, so you should avoid wearing shorts, flip-flops, or sportswear.
- What to do: There is a lot to do and see in Melbourne and its surroundings, besides visiting the Eureka Tower. You can explore the Southbank, which is a vibrant and cultural precinct that offers arts, entertainment, and shopping. You can visit the Arts Centre, the National Gallery of Victoria, the Melbourne Recital Centre, and the Hamer Hall, which host various exhibitions and performances. You can also stroll along the Yarra River, which offers scenic views and recreational activities, such as boating, kayaking, and cycling. You can also cross the river and visit the CBD, which is the heart of the city and offers a mix of history and modernity. You can visit the Federation Square, which is a public space that hosts events and festivals. You can also visit the Flinders Street Station, which is a historic and iconic railway station. You can also visit the Royal Botanic Gardens, which is a beautiful and tranquil park that features thousands of plants and flowers. You can also take a day trip to the Great Ocean Road, which is a scenic and spectacular coastal drive that offers stunning views and attractions, such as the Twelve Apostles, the Loch Ard Gorge, and the London Bridge.
Conclusion
The Eureka Tower is a must-see attraction for anyone who visits Melbourne. It offers you a chance to experience the city and its surroundings from a whole new perspective, and to enjoy some of the most exciting and exclusive attractions and activities in Australia, such as the Skydeck, The Edge, and Eureka 89.
