Arts Precinct and Gardens
Melbourne's major gallery and performing arts theatres are in this precinct, not far from the CBD. The area's lovely Victorian-era gardens have delightful flower plantings.
Fitzroy Gardens
Laid out in the form of a Union Jack flag, this formal Victorian-era park has hidden glades, waterfalls and shady avenues of elms.
Cooks' Cottage
This year is the 250th anniversary of Cooks' Cottage which is the oldest European building in Australia.
Known as Captain Cook's Cottage, it was owned and built by the discoverer's parents, James and Grace. It was constructed in 1755 in Yorkshire, England and later purchased and transported to Australia in 1933 by Russell Grimwade.
The cottage and grounds celebrate the achievements of Captain James Cook and show visitors what family life was like in an English village of the 18th century. The surrounding Fitzroy Gardens are an excellent setting for the cottage with English style parklands.
The cottage is located on Wellington Parade, East Melbourne.
Ph: 9419 4677
Latrobe's Cottage
Just near Domain Road, this pretty cottage was brought from England in 1839 to house the colony's first governor. It has been relocated from nearby Jolimont Street and restored by the National Trust. Tours are only possible when a tour of Government House is booked.
Kings Domain;
Ph: 9656 9800
Kings Domain
This impressive formal garden features a floral clock, fountains, monuments to famous Australians and shady pathways. The Myer Music Bowl is also located here.
Melbourne Cricket Ground
To understand the importance Melburnians attach to sport, take a tour of this huge sports ground. Try to take in a game: cricket in summer or AFL football in winter.
Jolimont Street;
Tours depart hourly from 10am-3pm
Ph: 9657 8879
www.mcg.org.au
Royal Botanic Gardens
These world-class botanic gardens contain over 12,000 species. At the Visitor Centre you can book an Aboriginal Heritage Walk or just browse in the excellent shop. The Observatory Cafe is a good place for breakfast or lunch.
Gardens open daily 7:30am-dusk
Ph: 9252 2364
Observatory Cafe open daily 7am-5pm
Ph: 9650 5600
www.rbg.vic.gov.au
Shrine of Remembrance
The Shrine of Remembrance was dedicated in 1934 as Victoria's memorial to the men and women who served in World War 1. It now commemorates service in all armed conflicts and peacekeeping operations throughout our Nation's history. Of ancient Greek architecture, the Shrine of Remembrance is a sacred place of solitude and reflection. Ray of Light Ceremonies of Remembrance are held every half hour in the Sanctuary. This is a re-enactment of the natural ray of light that shines onto the Stone of Remembrance at 11am every Remembrance Day. Other features include memorial statues throughout the 13 hectare Reserve, Gallery of Medals and changing exhibitions.
Birdwood Avenue;
Open daily 10am-5pm
Ph: 9654 8415
www.shrine.org.au
The Arts Centre
Look for the distinctive webbed spire of Melbourne's home of high culture at the beginning of St Kilda Road. The circular Melbourne Concert Hall, the George Adams Gallery and the Theatres Building are all part of the Arts Centre. The small Performing Arts Collection displays theatre memorabilia.
100 St. Kilda Road;
Open daily from 9am - late;
Bookings 1300 136 166
www.theartcentre.net.au
Treasury Gardens
A memorial to US President John F. Kennedy forms the centrepiece of this near-city park that has been planted with oaks and elms.
Enter from Spring Street;
Open daily
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