Melbourne has a long tradition of beautifully designed public parks and gardens. Take a break from your conference for a breath of fresh air and explore the green spaces that encircle the city. Wander among the trees, playgrounds and public art at Fitzroy, Treasury and Flagstaff Gardens. North of the city centre, Carlton Gardens encircles the majestic Royal Exhibition Building, which was erected for the Great Exhibition of 1880.
Melbourne’s Parks and Gardens
Cycle or stroll around the lake in Albert Park, or along the Yarra River at Birrarung Marr, situated between Federation Square and Melbourne’s sports precinct. Explore Melbourne Zoo, located within Royal Park in Parkville, or wander through the Royal Botanic Gardens (RBC), a cool green oasis on the edge of Melbourne’s Central Business District (CBD) that boasts an impressive array of plants. The majestic gardens feature everything from rainforest blooms and rare herbs, to majestic trees and exotic shrubs, as well as plenty of lawns to picnic upon.
Melbourne on the Waterfront
Docklands’ AUD$15 million Urban Art Program provides a fascinating setting for an ‘Art Journey’ on foot. More than 25 works representing a broad range of art techniques and experiences can be found throughout Melbourne’s new waterfront district. The artists have used a variety of materials and media inspired by themes of history and the future, land and sea, humanity and technology.
Discover Melbourne’s Secrets
For a walk with a culinary twist, take the Chocoholics Tour. Sample handmade Belgian chocolates, French pastries, and delicious hot chocolate as you learn the secrets of making chocolate delights from some of Melbourne's finest purveyors. Self-confessed chocoholic Suzie Wharton leads this walk around Melbourne’s Central Business District on Fridays and Saturdays.
Or try Hidden Secrets Walking Tours, ranging from art and design and fashion tours, to wine tasting with the city’s leading sommeliers.