Federation Square is the main civic center and public space of Melbourne. Known affectionately as “Fed Square,” it’s located in the heart of Melbourne and is flanked by Flinders Street Station, St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Yarra River. Federation Square is best known for its controversial architecture, which stands in stark contrast to the stately Victorian and neo-Gothic buildings that surround it. The bold, angular structures alone make Federation Square a great place to visit.

Begin your Fed Square visit at the underground Melbourne Visitor Centre to pick up maps, join a free guided tour of the square and shop for quality souvenirs. Ask the friendly volunteers about upcoming events in the square. Federation Square plays host to an extensive and eclectic program of events, avant-garde public artworks, and activities, such as early morning tai chi classes.

Back at ground level, explore the deconstructionist zinc, glass and sandstone architecture of The Atrium, The Edge theater and the Zinc function and event center. Catch a movie and discover the latest in gaming technology at the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI), then immerse yourself in Australian art at the National Gallery of Victoria’s Ian Potter Centre.

In the main open-air plaza, snap a photograph of yourself on the enormous television screen. This screen televises major sporting events such as the FIFA World Cup and the grand final of the Australian Football League (AFL), drawing thousands of sports fans to the square.

Fed Square has numerous bars, cafés and restaurants, and offers the biggest free Wi-Fi site in Melbourne. The square is located on the corner of Swanson and Flinders streets in downtown Melbourne, just across the road from the city’s busiest railway hub, Flinders Street Station. The square is easily accessible by tram, bus and boat, and offers user-pay car parking and secure bicycle racks and rentals.