Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) is a large event venue at 1 Convention Centre Pl in South Wharf, beside the Yarra River. Its halls host conferences, concerts, trade shows and ticketed exhibitions, so what you can see depends on the event schedule. Past exhibitions have included Balloon Story, with balloon-built scenes such as an Eiffel Tower and an underwater room, and an exhibition on Formula 1 cars, drivers and racing history. Check the current programme before you go; the venue itself is not a fixed museum.
A venue for changing events
MCEC brings together the Melbourne Convention Centre and Melbourne Exhibition Centre. The complex has hosted a wide range of events since opening in the 1990s, from conferences and trade shows to concerts and public exhibitions. Rather than a permanent museum collection, its programme changes, so check what is on before making it part of your day.
The Exhibition Centre has 30,000 square metres of pillarless floor space. That open layout can accommodate large exhibitions and events, while the wider complex includes conference and meeting spaces. One design account describes the Exhibition Centre’s main roof as a broad, curved steel surface and its entrance canopy as a prominent feature from across the Yarra.
Exhibitions to look out for
Past ticketed exhibitions have given the halls a very different feel from a conference venue. Balloon Story used colourful balloon constructions to create themed rooms, including scenes inspired by Paris and ancient Egypt, as well as an underwater setting and a ball-pool room. It was designed as an activity for adults and children, though prams were not permitted inside the exhibits. Some areas could involve waiting.
A Formula 1 exhibition took visitors through the sport’s history with cars, car parts, helmets and race suits, alongside material about drivers and racing careers. These are examples of past events, not permanent displays. Check the current programme for dates and access details for any exhibition you want to see.
Häufige Fragen
Where is Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre?
It is at 1 Convention Centre Pl, South Wharf, beside the Yarra River.
What can you see at MCEC?
The venue hosts changing events, including exhibitions, trade shows, conferences and concerts. Check the programme to see what is on during your visit.
Are prams allowed inside MCEC exhibitions?
Prams are not allowed inside some exhibits, including Balloon Story. Check the rules for the specific event before you go.
