Spring has sprung. Step outside and take in a breath of fresh air among our local natural wonders.

Two people walking in front of a river. Punter's are floating down the river.

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

Royal Botanic Gardens is at its peak in spring. In spring, the diverse flora ranges from stunning magnolias and peony varieties. In the heat, the dramatic succulents and cacti by Guilfoyle’s Volcano really thrive. Right across from the volcano, the Arid Gardens are in full bloom with striking aloes. Watch the punters float by on the lake while you stroll through the botanic bliss.

Wide shot of the Royal Exhibition Building in Carlton Gardens in front of a blue sky.

Carlton Gardens

Want to tick off a few World Heritage–listed sites? Stroll outside the Royal Exhibition Building in Carlton Gardens. Don’t miss the Victorian-era Hochgurtel Fountain and circular French Fountain. The formal flowerbeds change with the seasons, from daffodils in spring to lush aloes in summer.

Two people walking down path with trees either side and city skyline in the background.

Fitzroy Gardens

The Fitzroy Gardens are awash with colour in spring. Visit this classic Victorian garden and stop to admire the stream running through the southern section. It’s surrounded by semi-wilderness – like ferns and rainforest plantings – and forms an ornamental pond. Don't skip the stunning Conservatory. Spring installations include hydrangea and nightshade displays.

Two people sitting at a park bench in a garden

Queen Victoria Gardens

Up for an urban hike? The Queen Victoria Gardens is home to striking Lake Waterfall. Mere minutes from the main road, water cascades over this serene stone waterfall. Find it on the south side of the ornamental lake. And don’t miss the iconic floral clock – it begins to bloom bright again from spring.

A park beside and a river in the city

Birrarung Marr

The diverse culture of Victoria’s Indigenous peoples is celebrated through a series of artworks at Birrarung Marr. A winding pathway represents the eel (a traditional food source) and five shields represent the five groups of the Kulin Nation. Further along the river, you’ll discover Deborah Halpern’s two-headed ‘Angel’ sculpture.

A large painted mural on the side of a wall

Take a street art stroll

Get your art fix outside while galleries are closed. Head on a solo stroll following the City of Melbourne’s street art walking guide. Take in the ever-changing gallery walls of Hosier Lane and beyond.

More outdoor adventures

Iconic laneways and arcades walk

Iconic laneways and arcades walk

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Southbank and Docklands by bike

Southbank and Docklands by bike

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Secret gardens and majestic parks

Secret gardens and majestic parks

Take a walk through Melbourne’s lush parks and gardens.

Classic icons and architecture walk

Classic icons and architecture walk

Take a walk through Melbourne's classic icons and architecture.

Last updated on Thu 29 Aug 2024

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