Eureka Skydeck 88

If early explorers could have had this view it would have made their jobs a lot easier. Situated high above Melbourne’s bustling streets, the Eureka Skydeck 88 is a 360-degree viewing platform towards the top of the Eureka Tower. From this elevated vantage point on the 88th floor, the Victorian countryside literally stretches from the mountains down towards the sea. Gaze east toward the 2,000-foot Mount Dandenong which can be coated with snow in winter, and south to the waters of Port Phillip and beachgoers lounging at St. Kilda. More than simply the view, however, it’s the Eureka Skydeck’s remarkable height that will leave you weak in the knees.
Even the elevators to reach the platform are an adventure unto themselves, and the 40 seconds to cover 88 stories make them the fastest in the Southern Hemisphere. Once you’ve taken a lap of the 88th floor, step outside onto the open-air terrace to feel the wind rushing through your hair from nearly 1,000 feet off the ground. Back inside, over 30 viewfinders and high-powered binoculars allow you gaze at famous Melbourne landmarks from a view once reserved for the birds. Before making the journey down to street level, test your courage by stepping out on “The Edge” and feeling the floor drop out from beneath you. This 10-foot-long cube extends from the side of the building and is entirely enclosed in glass, and pedestrians walking on the streets below appear as ants beneath you feet. 

Practical Info

The Eureka Tower is in Melbourne’s Southbank district on the south side of the Yarra River. Tickets for The Edge are an additional $12 and must be purchased separately on the 88th floor of the building. Opening hours are from 10am-10pm daily, and evening visitors can pay a nominal fee to return again during daylight.