A guide to Carlton Gardens, Melbourne’s iconic heritage park
If you’re looking for a park in Melbourne that offers more than a massive patch of grass, I bet you’ll love Carlton Gardens. Aside from picnics and sightseeing, you’ll be surprised to know that a simple visit here can become a full day out.
Why? Because you’ve got a bunch of attractions you can explore, not just nearby but within the gardens themselves.
So if I were you, I would dedicate a whole day to spending time in this place. If you’d like a head start, you can use this guide!
Where is Carlton Gardens?
Carlton Gardens is a 64-acre park that’s located on the northeastern edge of Melbourne CBD. It’s a popular place among locals and tourists for its lush greenery and iconic attractions.
How to get to Carlton Gardens
Via bus: Bus routes 251, 304, 402, 905, and 907 stop at the Parliament Station. From there, it’ll only take a short walk to get to the gardens.
Via tram: Tram routes 86 and 96 pass near Carlton Gardens.
Via cab/ride-sharing platforms: Hail a cab or hire a ride via apps like Uber. Just let the operator know that you’re going to Carlton Gardens and they’ll take you there right away.
Via private car: Simply type “Carlton Gardens” in your Waze or Google Maps app, and it’ll show you the best routes to get there.
When you get there, you can use the street parking or the Melbourne Museum carpark.
What to do in Carlton Gardens
1. Visit cultural landmarks
Media credit: Evian
One of the best things about Carlton Gardens is that it’s more than just “a park” — it’s home to some of Melbourne’s iconic cultural spots.
Right in the middle of the gardens is the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Royal Exhibition Building. To this day, this building still hosts various exhibitions and fairs.
Even if you don’t go inside, its grand dome and overall architecture are worth admiring at any spot in the gardens.
And that’s not all, because the Melbourne Museum is just next door. It’s filled with interactive exhibits, historic displays, and even a living rainforest inside.
It’s perfect for a family outing and also a great option if ever you get caught in bad weather at the gardens.
2. Watch a movie at IMAX
Media credit: IMAX Melbourne
Website: http://www.imaxmelbourne.com.au/
Address: Melbourne Museum, Rathdowne St, Carlton
Phone: +61370473004
Being the home to the world’s largest screen, IMAX Melbourne is where you should plan your movie nights. They often screen documentaries and Hollywood classics that take on a new life because of the latest laser projection and sound technology.
It easily fits your schedule in the gardens—you could spend time exploring the museum and the park, then settle for a film to round things off.
Tickets are pricier than a regular cinema, but given the experience and the facilities, many people find it’s worth it. After all, it’s not every day you get to watch a movie that big.
3. Take a walk or run
Media credit: Valerie
If you prefer the simplest pleasures in Carlton Gardens, just walking through it is enough to keep you entertained. You’ll pass along ornamental lakes with ducks, fountains, and patches of seasonal flowers.
The gardens are laid out with tree-lined paths, providing shade and comfort while taking a stroll.
Many joggers also find it a great way to fit in a workout, especially on early mornings when it’s chillier and quieter.
4. Take your kids to the playground
Media credit: Deborah Alter-Rasche
Carlton Gardens isn’t just a place for grown-ups to enjoy. Just around the northern section of the park, there’s a large playground for kids to hang out at. You’ll find slides, climbing frames, and even a little maze-like layout.
The area is well-kept, and the facilities are designed to suit not just different age groups but varying abilities as well. Inclusive structures and ramps are added so children with mobility needs also get to play.
For the parents, the open lawns surrounding the playground can be used as a space to supervise the kids by laying down a blanket or using the benches spread around. You can turn a simple playground visit into a full day out by having a picnic there, too.
What’s nearby
1. Old Melbourne Gaol
Media credit: Old Melbourne Gaol
Website: http://www.oldmelbournegaol.com.au/
Address: 377 Russell St
Phone: +61396569889
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
For history lovers or those curious about Melbourne’s early days, the Old Melbourne Gaol is one of the most immersive places to learn, which is different from a traditional museum.
This museum will give you the chance to imagine what life might have been like while being imprisoned here.
There are themed tours that tell the story of famous inmates like the notorious Ned Kelly as well as ghost tours that lean more into the darker history of the building.
It’s not your typical museum visit, so some families wonder if it’s suitable for kids. While older children and teens often find the stories fascinating, the atmosphere can be a little intense for younger ones.
2. Parliament of Victoria
Media credit: Parliament of Victoria
Website: https://parliament.vic.gov.au/
Address: Spring St, East Melbourne
Phone: +61396518911
Operating hours: Monday to Friday 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
The Parliament offers free public tours on weekdays, and the guides will take you to have a look at the Legislative Chambers, Parliamentary Library, and other areas that most people only see on the news.
If the Parliament is sitting, visitors can watch the proceedings from the public galleries.
If you’re more interested in its architecture, guided tours on Fridays are dedicated to diving deeper into the building’s design and quirks of its “unfinished” look.
3. Chinatown Melbourne
Media credit: Melbourne Chinatown
Website: http://chinatownmelbourne.com.au/
Address: Little Bourke St, Melbourne
Phone: +61474043600
Operating hours: 24 hours
If you’ve got enough time (and money) to spare, adding a stop to Chinatown Melbourne in your itinerary is an option you won’t regret.
This bustling district offers a lively food scene where you’ll find everything from humble stores selling authentic dumplings to high-end dining spots offering regional Chinese flavors.
Chinatown is also home of the Chinese Museum, offering exhibitions that are dedicated to the history of Chinese-Australians.
If you happen to be in the area during Chinese New Year, then a visit to this district is a must.
Where to eat near Carlton Gardens
1. Famil-Lee & Kko-kko
Media credit: Famil-Lee Korean Restaurant Melbourne
Website: https://www.familee.com.au/
Address: 295 Exhibition St, Melbourne
Phone: +61405890899
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday 11:30 – 3:00 pm and 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm
- Saturday 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Famil-Lee is a popular Korean restaurant in Melbourne CBD, offering authentic Korean cuisine and creative soju cocktails. You’ll find tteokbokki, kimbap, and the famous Korean fried chicken in their menu.
It’s the kind of place where groups and families can share among a spread of fried dishes, rice bowls, and hot pots. However, solo diners are welcome to try the smaller portions, too!
Since it sits so close to the Carlton precinct, it’s a convenient option if you’ve been out in the gardens and you’re looking for something filling nearby.
2. Sparrow’s Philly Cheesesteaks
Media credit: Sparrow’s Philly Cheesesteaks
Website: http://www.sparrowsphillysteaks.com.au/
Address: The Catfish, 30 Gertrude St, Fitzroy
Phone: +61401078470
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday 12:00 pm – 11:30 pm
- Sunday 12:00 pm – 9:30 pm
If you’re craving something hearty and cheesy, Sparrow’s Philly Cheesesteaks is hard to beat, serving that classic Philadelphia goodness.
Their menu sticks to the basics: sliced steak, grilled onion, and melted cheese, though you’ll also find creative twists on some items.
Aside from the fact that it’s an overloaded sandwich, regulars point out that the portions are also big. A single order with loaded fries on the side can easily serve as a hearty brunch, a nice way to fuel up before you venture out on your day.
3. Leonardo’s Pizza Palace
Media credit: Leonardo’s Pizza Palace
Website: http://www.leonardospizzapalace.com.au/
Address: 29 Grattan St, Carlton
Phone: +61392420666
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
- Friday and Saturday 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm
- Sunday 12:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Of course, there’s something for those who crave a familiar taste. Leonardo’s Pizza Palace serves hand-stretched pizzas with a mix of traditional and inventive toppings.
They come out large, so it’s best for sharing with friends or family.
Pizza aside, the menu also includes other Italian-American classics such as pasta, antipasti, salads, and a drink list that’s heavy on natural wines and craft beers.
Where to stay near Carlton Gardens
1. Clocktower Apartment Hotel
Media credit: The Clocktower Hotel
Website: https://www.clocktower.com.au/
Address: Shop 27/255 Drummond St, Carlton
Phone: +61393499700
Clocktower Apartment Hotel offers one- and two-bedroom units that are furnished with kitchens, dining spaces, and living areas. It’s definitely a convenient choice for those (especially families) who are staying longer in the area.
It’s mostly self-catering, so being able to prepare your own meals can greatly save on food costs.
Aside from its close proximity to the gardens, the hotel’s location — Lygon Street, is coined as “Little Italy.” This means that you’ll be surrounded by restaurants, cafés, and gelato shops.
It’s also close to the trams, so if you’re planning to visit other attractions, the hotel is an efficient spot for accommodation.
2. Lanson Place Parliament Gardens
Media credit: Lanson Place Parliament Gardens
Website: http://lansonplace.com/parliamentgardens
Address: 502 Albert St, East Melbourne
Phone: +61386387800
Lanson Place is more of an upscale accommodation that’s located right across the eastern edge of the gardens.
Each room is furnished with a kitchen and furniture, making it an ideal place for a long-term stay. Hotel-like services are also provided, including concierge service, housekeeping, and a gym.
It’s also a prime location where you’re close to restaurants and markets.