Finding a giant, protected place for teenagers to run round in Melbourne’s CBD might be difficult. That’s why certainly one of our favorite CBD fringe locations is Fitzroy Gardens in East Melbourne.
Fitzroy Gardens is certainly one of Melbourne’s most historic and exquisite gardens. The magnificent tree-lined avenues and in depth lawns present ample alternative for operating and are a beautiful backdrop for kids’s pictures.


Free Highlights of Fitzroy Gardens
The English-style gardens comprise just a few sights that are good for teenagers – a small playground, a mannequin Tudor village, the Fairies tree, Cook’s Cottage and The Conservatory.
Note that there are water options and fountains within the gardens so hold a watch of younger kids.
The playground is small however amusing as a result of the climbing construction/slide consists of a sleeping dragon and the swings dangle from a giraffe’s neck. The playground isn’t shaded.


Cook’s Cottage
Cook’s Cottage is the oldest constructing in Australia and was constructed by the dad and mom of Captain James Cook. The cottage was delivered to Melbourne in 1934, with every brick individually numbered, packed into barrels, shipped and reconstructed.
For a small price you possibly can enter the cottage and study extra about days of that period.


A burst of color and scent, The Conservatory is full of seasonal floral shows. Kids might be captivated by the colourful crops and the prospect to step inside a dwelling storybook of blooms.
Ola Cohn’s Fairies Tree has been carved into the stump of one of many authentic Red Gum timber within the Fitzroy Gardens which is over 300 years previous. Next to it’s the cute mannequin Tudor village. Unfortunately it’s absolutely fenced so you possibly can’t stroll by means of it and might solely admire from behind the gates.


School Holiday Fun at Fitzroy Gardens Visitor Centre
Each faculty holidays, the Fitzroy Gardens Visitor Centre runs themed actions designed particularly for teenagers. These applications are interactive quests that encourage little explorers to comply with a map, reply questions, and uncover fascinating tales in regards to the gardens alongside the way in which. It’s a hands-on journey that blends studying with enjoyable, and the youngsters will love the sense of feat after they end their quest.
There’s a small value to participate, nevertheless it contains entry to the historic Cooks’ Cottage plus a prize for finishing the exercise. With new themes every vacation interval, children won’t ever tire of returning to see what’s subsequent.
The actions are aimed toward higher main aged kids – however with mum or dad help, youthful kids can fortunately have interaction.


Year-Round Family Activities
Families may take pleasure in two free actions supplied year-round, accessible to gather from the Visitor Centre:
- Outdoor Adventure – A self-guided path that will get children open air and lively whereas exploring the gardens (appropriate for main aged kids).
- Seek & Find – A discovery sport that turns the gardens right into a puzzle-filled playground, good for curious minds (appropriate for youthful children).


Where to Eat and Drink Nearby
After Fitzroy Gardens enjoyable we wish to go to Square and Compass for a kid-friendly cafe cease.
There can be the KereKere café on the customer centre the place you should buy entry tickets to Cook’s Cottage. KereKere is of specific be aware as a result of it invitations prospects to assist in the distribution of month-to-month $500 donations by choosing to assist certainly one of 4 Cause Categories – Environmental, Cultural, Social or Health. They have gentle meals and a few books and toys for teenagers to play with.
Then there’s Yiaga Restaurant (opening quickly) – For dad and mom wanting to show the day into one thing particular, this high-end eating possibility will carry an elevated culinary expertise proper to the center of Fitzroy Gardens.


Make a Day of It
Pack a picnic, carry a ball or frisbee, and benefit from the open lawns earlier than or after your adventures. Fitzroy Gardens is stroller-friendly, has loads of shaded areas, and gives a protected area for teenagers to run and play. With its mixture of organised actions, free sights, and close by eating choices, it’s a simple and reasonably priced option to hold kids entertained in Melbourne.
Tip for folks: Check in with the Fitzroy Gardens Visitor Centre earlier than your go to to see what faculty vacation theme is operating, and ensure to permit time to discover the gardens’ free highlights.


- Playground is unshaded;
- Suitable for toddlers;
- Toilets inside The Visitor Centre/KereKere Cafe and close to Clarendon Street;
- Captain Cook’s cottage has a daily faculty vacation program;
- Food is obtainable at KereKere café on the customer centre, and Yiaga Restaurant (opening quickly), or head to Square and Compass on the north-east nook;
- Check in with the Fitzroy Gardens Visitor Centre earlier than your go to to see what faculty vacation theme is operating, and ensure to permit time to discover the gardens’ free highlights.


Read extra:
21 Best Gardens in Melbourne for a Picturesque Stroll
22 Best Cafes with Playgrounds in Melbourne
Ultimate Family Day Out On The City Circle Tram Melbourne
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