120 Collins Street

Visiting 120 Collins Street Melbourne, Australia: Guide Including Hours, Tickets and Nearby Attractions

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

120 Collins Street is a landmark skyscraper in the heart of Melbourne’s Central Business District (CBD), celebrated for its distinctive postmodern design that draws on New York’s Art Deco icons. Situated in the prestigious “Paris End” of Collins Street, this building seamlessly bridges heritage with modernity, offering both a historical narrative and a contemporary urban experience. With its recent $34 million revitalisation, 120 Collins Street not only retains its architectural grandeur but has evolved into a vibrant public space, accessible and inviting to all. This comprehensive guide covers the building’s history, architectural highlights, practical visitor information, nearby attractions, and essential travel tips for making the most of your visit (Wikipedia, Investa, Storey of Melbourne).

Introduction
Historical Overview
Architectural Significance and Design
Visitor Information
Nearby Attractions
Events and Seasonal Highlights
Practical Travel Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Key Travel Tips
References

Historical Overview

Collins Street: Origins and Evolution

Collins Street, established in 1837 as part of Melbourne’s original Hoddle Grid, quickly became the city’s most desirable address. Named after Lieutenant-Governor David Collins, its eastern “Paris End” has long been synonymous with elegance, leafy boulevards, and high-end retail. Victorian-era clubs, churches, and commercial palaces defined its early character, cementing its reputation as Melbourne’s social and financial heart (Wikipedia).

The 1850s gold rush brought prosperity, funding grand buildings and cultural institutions. Despite economic downturns, Collins Street maintained its allure—its architectural tapestry now a blend of preserved heritage and contemporary innovation.

The Rise of 120 Collins Street

Completed in 1991, 120 Collins Street was designed by Hassell in partnership with Daryl Jackson, taking inspiration from New York’s Empire State and Chrysler Buildings. Standing at 265 meters (869 ft) with 50 floors, it is one of Melbourne’s tallest buildings and a defining feature of the city’s skyline. The recent revitalisation (2021–2024) has modernised public spaces while carefully preserving the original 1908 Professional Chambers façade, ensuring the building’s ongoing relevance and community value (Storey of Melbourne).

Architectural Significance and Design

120 Collins Street exemplifies postmodern skyscraper design with clear Art Deco influences—tiered setbacks, a slender spire, and dramatic vertical lines. The building’s exterior features reflective glass and granite, while the lobby showcases luxurious marble, wood paneling, and metalwork. The integration of the Professional Chambers façade pays homage to Melbourne’s architectural legacy, creating a striking blend of old and new. The recent upgrade, led by Kane Constructions and Facadex, introduced a soaring glass atrium, stainless steel canopies, and landscaped courtyards, maximising both light and public engagement (Investa).

Visitor Information

Hours and Entry

Lobby and Public Spaces: Open Monday to Friday, 7:00 am to 7:00 pm.
Dining (Norissong): 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, weekdays.
Office Floors: Restricted to tenants and authorised personnel.

There are no tickets or entry fees for public areas.

Accessibility

120 Collins Street is fully wheelchair accessible, with step-free entry at both Collins Street and Little Collins Street entrances. Facilities include accessible restrooms, elevators, and ramps. Secure bicycle parking and end-of-trip facilities (showers and bike storage) are available for eco-conscious commuters.

Dining and Amenities

Norissong Japanese Eatery: Accessible from Little Collins Street, Norissong offers a creative range of onigiri, sushi, donburi, and desserts—ideal for both a quick lunch and a sit-down meal (The City Lane).
Lobby Café: Serving coffee and snacks to both tenants and visitors.
Visitor Services: Free Wi-Fi, digital directories, and spacious seating areas create a welcoming environment. Security personnel ensure a safe and comfortable visit.

Tickets and Tours

Entry: Free to all public areas; no tickets required.
Guided Tours: Not regularly available. Special tours may be offered during architectural festivals or city events—check the Investa website or local tourism channels for updates.

Nearby Attractions

120 Collins Street’s central location makes it a convenient starting point for exploring Melbourne’s most celebrated sites:

The Block Arcade: Ornate Victorian-era shopping arcade.
Federation Square: Hub for museums, galleries, and events.
Athenaeum and Regent Theatres: Historic venues for live performances.
Royal Botanic Gardens: Expansive gardens perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Melbourne’s Laneways: Vibrant alleyways known for street art, boutique shops, and cafes.
State Library Victoria: Iconic 19th-century library with exhibitions and reading rooms (PlanetWare).

Events and Seasonal Highlights

While 120 Collins Street does not host guided tours or boast an observation deck, its proximity to major Melbourne events makes it a popular base:

Lightscape Festival (Royal Botanic Gardens): Dazzling light installations in July.
Winter Night Market (Queen Victoria Market): Seasonal food, crafts, and entertainment.
Open House Melbourne Weekend: Access to landmark buildings, including occasional tours of 120 Collins Street’s lobby and architectural features (What’s On Melbourne, Secret Melbourne).

Practical Travel Tips

Transport: Easily accessed by tram (Collins Street stops) and train (near Flinders Street Station). The free City Circle Tram passes nearby.
Dress Code: Business casual is typical, but there is no formal requirement.
Photography: Permitted in public spaces; please respect privacy and security requests.
Amenities: Restrooms, free Wi-Fi, digital directories, and comfortable seating are available in the lobby.
Sustainability: Secure bike parking and showers encourage sustainable commuting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for 120 Collins Street?
A: Lobby and public spaces are open Monday to Friday, 7:00 am to 7:00 pm. Weekend access is limited.

Q: Is there an entry fee or tickets required?
A: No, all public areas are free to enter.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: No regular tours, but check for special events or city-wide festivals.

Q: Is 120 Collins Street wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with ramps, lifts, and accessible restrooms.

Q: Can I dine inside the building?
A: Yes, at Norissong and the lobby café.

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Yes, in public areas; be mindful of privacy and security.

Summary and Key Travel Tips

120 Collins Street embodies Melbourne’s blend of heritage and innovation, offering a unique visitor experience within a working office tower. Enjoy the striking glass atrium, preserved historical features, and vibrant lobby atmosphere. Take advantage of free entry, accessible facilities, and excellent dining, while using the building as a springboard to nearby attractions and city events. For the latest updates on hours and special events, consult the Investa website or download the Audiala app for curated guides and insider tips (Storey of Melbourne, Touristlink).

References and Useful Links

Images and media recommendations: Include high-quality photos of 120 Collins Street’s facade, lobby, outdoor spaces, and Norissong eatery, with descriptive alt tags such as “120 Collins Street glass atrium,” “Historic Professional Chambers lobby,” and “Norissong Japanese eatery at 120 Collins Street.”