Begin your journey at the (2) Melbourne Maritime Museum, home to the iconic Polly Woodside, a historic 19th-century tall ship. This beautifully preserved vessel offers a fascinating glimpse into Melbourne’s maritime history and the life of sailors during the late 1800s.

Step aboard the ship and its exhibits, uncovering stories about Melbourne's evolution as a bustling port city. Open on the first and third Sunday of each month, the Polly Woodside is a must-see for history enthusiasts.

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Proceed to the (3) Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), an iconic modern structure located along the Yarra River. While its sleek design represents Melbourne's global reputation in commerce and culture, the area around MCEC once thrived as a bustling port where ships unloaded goods, linking it to the city’s industrial past.

As a tourist, there’s always something happening at MCEC, from world-class exhibitions to exciting festivals. If you’re lucky, you might catch popular annual events like Melbourne International Coffee Expo or the Good Food & Wine Show. Be sure to check out what events are taking place during your visit here.

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For a modern contrast, dive into (4) DFO South Wharf, a premier shopping destination where luxury meets unbeatable deals. As you explore an array of brands like Calvin Klein, Nike, Coach, and Michael Kors, you’ll feel the thrill of discovering fashion treasures at incredible prices.

While the sleek, modern building stands as a hub of style and savings, it’s set on land once bustling with the hustle and bustle of South Wharf’s port, adding a sense of history to your shopping adventure. Reflect on the area’s transformation from industry to indulgence, where the past and present collide in a celebration of leisure and commerce.

For the latest news, offers, and events at DFO South Wharf, click here.

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Next, step into the charm of the historic (5) cargo sheds on South Wharf Promenade, where Melbourne’s past comes alive in a new, vibrant way. These beautiful red brick buildings, once filled with goods from the city’s industrial heyday, have been thoughtfully transformed into trendy bars, restaurants, and event spaces that buzz with life.

As you stroll along the picturesque promenade, it's easy to imagine the bustling energy of Melbourne’s shipping days. The sheds stand as a testament to adaptive reuse, artfully blending heritage architecture with modern design, offering a perfect spot to unwind, dine, and soak in the rich atmosphere of this unique riverside destination.

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