Ever since the colony's earliest days, Melbourne has produced an unusually colorful cast of criminal characters that have both terrified and fascinated the general public. Many of them did time within the bluestone walls of Old Melbourne Gaol (oldmelbournegaol.com.au; adult/child $38/22). Between 1841 and its closure in 1924, it was the site of 133 hangings – including, in 1880, that of Ned Kelly, Australia's most infamous bushranger.
Exploring the main three-level block is more than a little creepy. Displays within the tiny cells tell engrossing and often disturbing stories about the inmates, prison life and the dire social conditions of the times. You'll need at least 90 minutes to explore it thoroughly, if you can stomach it. There's an option to download a free audio-guide to your phone, but there's plenty to read on the signs, regardless.
Guided tours include the City Watch House Experience, where you'll be "arrested" and thrown in the slammer (more fun than it sounds). If you're after an even scarier time, take the Hangman's Night Tour or an after-dark ghost tour. If you're on a budget, pick up the free Outdoor Walking Tour pamphlet from the ticket desk and explore just the old prison grounds, most of which are now part of RMIT University.
