Albert Park

Best known as the home of Formula 1 Grand Prix in March each year, Melbourne’s Albert Park is also a leafy inner-city retreat with a swan-filled lake, sports venues, playgrounds and a skyline view.

Only three kilometers from the city center, Albert Park is crown land that stretches more than 188 hectares into the south of Melbourne, making it a popular place for runners, dog-walkers and those in need of some fresh, green space.

There are three main picnic areas to enjoy in Albert Park, all with picnic shelters, electric barbecues, shady trees, toilets and tables. From Aquatic Drive, you can take a stroll along the lakeside boardwalk, enjoy fine service and a steak at The Point restaurant, and watch sail boats tack across the lake.

Sports lovers can enjoy the public golf course within Albert Park, try their hand at sailing from the boat shed or take a dip at Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre. For those less energetic, perhaps try a coffee from the kiosk and relaxing to the sound of song birds in the parkland wilderness.

Practical Info:

Find Albert Park on Albert Road, stretching between South Melbourne and St Kilda. Pay-and-display parking is available at the park; just check the signs for prices and time limits. You can also use Melbourne’s much-loved tram system to get to Albert Park from the city in about 15 minutes. Tram number 1 leaves from Swanson Street. Tram number 112 leaves from Collins Street, and from Albert Park, continues down to Fitzroy and St Kilda. If you’re interested in window shopping and urban adventures after your park visit, try nearby Bridport Street and Victoria Avenue.