With all the beautiful parks, gardens, and scenic paths that Victoria has to offer, it’s no wonder that it is considered one of the best cities in Australia for family-friendly activities. If you are looking for a day out for the whole family, here are ten places you can try in Victoria!
From family-friendly walks to artsy sites, there are plenty of great ideas for day trips that will keep everyone happy!
Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne
The Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne is an amazing place to start
this family-friendly list. This expansive garden features winding
paths, open areas for picnics, and lots of opportunities for
exploration. With an emphasis on conservation along with
horticulture, it’s the perfect combination of nature and culture.
There are plenty of interactive activities for kids, including
puzzles, games, and scavenger hunts that will keep them
entertained for hours.
Established in 1970, the gardens are home to a diverse range of
plant species, including native and exotic plants, as well as a
number of endangered species.
One of the standout features of the Royal Botanic Gardens
Cranbourne is the Australian Garden, which covers over 40 hectares
and showcases the stunning flora of Australia. The garden is
divided into a number of different regions, each of which
represents a different type of Australian habitat, such as the
Wetlands, the Woodlands, and the Coastal Walk. Visitors can
explore these areas and learn about the unique plants and animals
that call them home.
In addition to the Australian Garden, the Royal Botanic Gardens
Cranbourne also features a number of other attractions. These
include the Lakeside Precinct, which is home to a number of
beautiful water features and native aquatic plants; the Sensory
Garden, which is designed to engage the senses through the use of
scented plants and other sensory elements; and the Wildflower
Walk, which showcases the stunning array of wildflowers found in
Victoria.
The Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne is a popular destination for
both locals and tourists alike, with a range of activities and
events held throughout the year. These include guided tours,
educational workshops, and live music performances.
The Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Melbourne. With its stunning natural beauty and wide range of plant and animal life, it is the perfect place to relax and unwind, and to learn about the rich natural history of Victoria.
Alfred Nicholas Gardens, Sherbrooke, Dandenongs
If you are looking for a short walk that is filled with
beautiful, colorful spaces and interesting sculptures, then this
garden is the one for you.
The Alfred Nicholas Gardens, located in Sherbrooke, Victoria, are
a picturesque and peaceful oasis in the Dandenong Ranges. Named
after Alfred Nicholas, a prominent businessman and philanthropist,
these gardens are a popular destination for locals and tourists
alike, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of
city life.
Spanning over 10 hectares, the Alfred Nicholas Gardens are home to
a wide variety of plant species, including exotic and native
plants, as well as a number of rare and endangered species. The
gardens are divided into a number of different areas, each with
its own unique character and appeal. These include the formal rose
garden, the rock garden, and the rainforest walk, which offers a
chance to experience the serene beauty of a native rainforest.
In addition to the stunning plant life, the Alfred Nicholas
Gardens also feature a number of other attractions. These include
the historic Sherbrooke Forest Chalet, which offers a glimpse into
the history of the gardens, and the Sherbrooke Falls, which is a
popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities. The gardens also
offer a range of dining options, including the Tea House, which
serves light meals and refreshments.
The Alfred Nicholas Gardens are a popular destination for a range
of activities, including guided tours, educational workshops, and
live music performances. The gardens are also a popular spot for
weddings and other special events, with a range of beautiful
outdoor venues to choose from.
Make sure to also visit the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden a
short drive 10 minute drive from the Alfred Nicholas Gardens.
Royal Melbourne Botanic Gardens
The Royal Melbourne Botanic Gardens is a large and beautiful site
in the city. With hiking trails, lakes, and native Australian
plants, it will be a great day out for the whole family. Make sure
to also stop by the magical Ian Potter Foundation Children's
garden which has sculptures, sand play and a water play area.
Established in 1846, the gardens cover an area of 38 hectares and
are home to over 10,000 different plant species from around the
world.
One of the most popular attractions at the Royal Melbourne Botanic
Gardens is the National Rose Garden, which features over 3,000
rose bushes of 400 different varieties. Visitors can also explore
the Australian Rainforest Walk, which features a variety of native
Australian plants and trees, as well as the Rock Garden, which
showcases a variety of rock plants from around the world.
In addition to the stunning plant life, the Royal Melbourne
Botanic Gardens also offers a range of educational programs and
events for visitors of all ages. The gardens host regular guided
tours, as well as workshops and lectures on topics such as
horticulture and botany.
The Royal Melbourne Botanic Gardens is also home to a number of
beautiful sculptures and artworks, including the iconic "Yellow
Peril" sculpture by John Robinson. Visitors can also enjoy a
leisurely picnic or BBQ in one of the gardens' many grassy areas,
or grab a bite to eat at the on-site café.
Redwood Forest, Warburton
Next up is Redwood Forest, Warburton. With its scenic forest
walks, this place is perfect for a family-friendly day out! The
tall californian redwood trees offer a great spot for family
photos and just a little further you will find the cool waters of
Cement Creek.
The redwoods, which are native to California, were brought to
Warburton as seedlings and have been carefully cultivated and
protected by the local community over the years. Today, the forest
is a popular spot for picnics, nature walks, and photography, as
the towering trees provide a stunning backdrop for any activity.
In addition to the redwood trees, the forest is also home to a
wide variety of other plant and animal life. The dense canopy of
the redwoods provides a habitat for a range of bird species,
including parrots, rosellas, and lyrebirds. The understory of the
forest is home to ferns, mosses, and other plants that thrive in
the moist, cool environment.
Visitors to the Redwood Forest can take a self-guided tour of the
area, or join a guided tour led by local experts who can provide
information about the history of the forest and the ecological
importance of the redwoods. There are also several walking trails
through the forest, allowing visitors to explore the area at their
own pace.
The Redwood Forest is a must-see destination for anyone visiting
the Yarra Valley. Its towering trees, beautiful surroundings, and
rich biodiversity make it a truly special place that is sure to
leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
Organ Pipes National Park, Keilor North
Located in the north of Melbourne is Organ Pipes National Park, a
place that will leave you feeling like you’ve been shrunk and
dropped in a Jurassic park. Organ Pipes National Park is the
perfect spot for an adventure for your family. It’s also got some
spectacular views, which you can enjoy from the lookout platform.
Organ Pipes National Park, located in Keilor North, Victoria,
Australia, is a beautiful and unique natural attraction that is
home to a range of geological and ecological features. The park is
named after the towering basalt columns that dominate the
landscape, known as "organ pipes" due to their similarity in
appearance to the musical instrument.
These striking columns were formed by volcanic activity over 20
million years ago, and are now a popular spot for rock climbing
and sightseeing. The park is also home to a variety of other
geological features, including ancient lava flows and deep
fissures, which provide a fascinating glimpse into the earth's
past.
In addition to its geological wonders, Organ Pipes National Park
is also home to a wide variety of plant and animal life. The park
is home to over 140 species of native plants, many of which are
rare or endangered. The park is also home to a range of animal
species, including wallabies, echidnas, and several species of
birds.
Visit the Parks
Victoria website to learn more about the formation of these
incredible basalt columns.
Forest Glade Gardens and Gardens of Tieve Tara, Mount Macedon
These two beautiful private gardens are well maintained and have
a wide variety of plants, sculptures and landscaping styles for
you explore.
The Forest Glade Gardens, located in Mount Macedon, is a
privately owned garden that spans over 10 acres. The garden was
created in the 1960s by the current owners and has been lovingly
maintained and developed over the years. The garden features a
wide variety of plants and flowers, including rhododendrons,
azaleas, camellias, and magnolias. The garden also has a small
lake, a fernery, and a rockery, which provide a tranquil and
serene atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.
The Gardens of Tieve Tara, also located in Mount Macedon, is a
stunning botanical garden that spans over 5 acres. The garden was
created in the 1930s and has been carefully maintained and
developed by the current owners. The garden features a wide
variety of plants, including rhododendrons, azaleas, and
camellias, as well as a beautiful rose garden. The garden also has
a small lake and a charming tearoom, where visitors can enjoy
refreshments and take in the stunning views.
Bring a picnic and enjoy a memorable day out.
Lilydale Lake
The lake, which spans over 100 acres, is a popular spot for a
variety of recreational activities, including walking, cycling,
picnicking, and birdwatching.
The lake is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including
over 100 species of birds. Some of the birds that can be found at
the lake include pelicans, swans, ducks, and geese. The lake is
also home to a number of native plants, including eucalyptus
trees, grasses, and wildflowers.
In addition to its natural beauty, Lilydale Lake also has a number
of amenities for visitors to enjoy. There are several walking and
cycling paths around the lake, as well as several picnic areas and
BBQ facilities. The lake also has a children's playground and a
skate park, making it a popular destination for families.
Lilydale Lake is a beautiful and peaceful place to spend a day,
surrounded by nature and away from the hustle and bustle of the
city. Whether you are looking to take a leisurely walk, go for a
bike ride, or just relax and enjoy the scenery, Lilydale Lake has
something for everyone.
Your family can take a leisurely stroll along the lake’s edge, stopping every now and then to enjoy the scenery or take in the wildlife.
Nobbies
Boardwalk,
Phillip Island
The Nobbies Boardwalk is an easy, wheelchair-friendly walk that takes visitors on a journey through some of the most beautiful and rugged terrain on Phillip Island. Along the way, visitors will encounter a variety of plant and animal life, including seabirds, seals, and even the occasional whale or dolphin.
One of the highlights of the Nobbies Boardwalk is the Seal Rocks viewing platform. From this vantage point, visitors can get an up-close look at the colony of seals that make their home on the rocky outcrops below. It's an unforgettable experience to see these playful creatures swimming and sunning themselves in their natural habitat.
In addition to the wildlife, the Nobbies Boardwalk also offers visitors the chance to learn about the rich history of Phillip Island. There are interpretive signs along the boardwalk that provide information about the island's indigenous culture, as well as the European settlement and development of the area.
Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or just looking for a beautiful place to relax and take in the views, the Nobbies Boardwalk on Phillip Island is not to be missed. It's a truly unique and unforgettable destination that should be on every visitor's list.
The Nobbies Boardwalk is suitable for people of all fitness levels and can be completed in about 1-2 hours. It's a popular tourist attraction on Phillip Island and a great way to experience the island's natural beauty and wildlife.
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