The Block Arcade is a late-19th-century shopping arcade on Collins Street in Melbourne’s CBD, linking Collins and Little Collins streets with connections to Elizabeth Street and Block Place. Its mosaic floor, carved stone, ironwork and glass canopy make the passage as rewarding to explore as its boutiques. Browse specialist shops, stop at Haigh’s Chocolates or take tea and cake at The Tea Rooms 1892, which has been part of the arcade since it opened. It is a compact heritage stop that fits easily into a walk around central Melbourne.
A shopping arcade from 1892
The Block Arcade opened in 1892, during Melbourne’s late-19th-century boom. Its design drew inspiration from Milan’s Galleria Vittorio Emanuele and uses French Renaissance Revival details. The arcade was built between 1891 and 1893, and remains a retail destination in the city’s CBD.
Its passage connects Collins Street with Little Collins Street and Elizabeth Street, with access to Block Place. The Collins Street address is 282 Collins Street. The arcade is also part of Melbourne’s Golden Mile heritage walk, so it can be combined with other stops through the central city.
Look closely at the interior
The patterned mosaic floor is one of the arcade’s defining details. Take time to look up at the glass canopy and domed roof, then notice the carved stone, tall arches, decorative cornices and ironwork along the walkways. Stained glass and carefully detailed shopfronts add to the Victorian-era character.
The interior was designed to make shopping part of the visit. Its historic architecture sits alongside active boutiques and specialty retailers, from jewellery and tailoring to art and gourmet goods. The result is a place to browse at a slower pace, even if you are not shopping for anything in particular.
Shops, chocolate and tea
Haigh’s Chocolates is one of the arcade’s established stops for sweets. Other specialist shops include Gewürzhaus, where spices are sold by weight, and the Art of Dr. Seuss gallery. The changing mix of retailers also includes fashion, jewellery, gifts and other specialty goods.
The Tea Rooms 1892 is named for the year the arcade opened and is known for tea, cakes and high tea. It can be busy, with a wait to get in, so build in extra time if you want to sit down. Cafés and shops along Block Place provide another option for a pause nearby.
FAQ
Where is The Block Arcade?
It is at 282 Collins Street in Melbourne’s CBD, with connections to Collins, Little Collins and Elizabeth streets and Block Place.
What is The Block Arcade known for?
The late-19th-century arcade is known for its mosaic floor, glass canopy, carved stone and detailed ironwork, as well as its specialist shops.
Can you get tea or cake at The Block Arcade?
Yes. The Tea Rooms 1892 serves tea and cakes and is known for high tea. It can be busy, so allow time for a possible wait.
When is a good time to visit The Block Arcade?
Weekdays are a good choice if you want to avoid the busier weekend crowds.
