Brief history of Luna Park Melbourne

Luna Park Melbourne officially opened on 13 December 1912, inspired by the famous Luna Parks that had become popular in the United States. Since then, it has entertained generations of Melburnians and visitors while preserving many of its original attractions.

The park's most famous ride, the Scenic Railway, opened alongside the park and is now recognised as one of the world's oldest operating wooden roller coasters. Over the decades, Luna Park has carefully balanced heritage preservation with the addition of modern rides, ensuring it remains one of Australia's most treasured amusement parks.

Today, Luna Park is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register, recognising its cultural and historical significance.

Architecture & design

Luna Park Melbourne is best known for its iconic Mr Moon entrance, featuring an enormous smiling face that visitors pass through before entering the park. This whimsical façade has become one of Melbourne's most enduring symbols.

Inside, the park retains much of its early 20th-century carnival atmosphere, with colourful Art Deco-inspired buildings, heritage rides, vintage signage, landscaped pathways, and traditional midway games. Many attractions have been sympathetically restored to preserve their historic character while meeting modern safety standards.