Bayside In 5: Parks and Gardens by the Bay

We’re all in need of some vitamin D after hibernating from the cold climate and brief daylight hours of Winter. If you’re ready to bask in the sunlight and enjoy the warmer weather that Spring brings, here are the best parks and gardens in beautiful bayside Melbourne.

Catani Gardens

Named after the illustrious landscape designer Carlo Catani, the Catani Gardens is a heritage site that combines the scenic outdoors with historical memorials and monuments. From the St. Kilda Cenotaph dedicated to fallen servicemen and women, to outdoor playgrounds equipped with a rock climbing wall and bordered by some of St. Kilda’s attractions, the Catani Gardens are perfect for everyone!

Location: Beaconsfield Parade, St Kilda West

Times + Dates: Open 24 hours

More Information: https://bit.ly/464KrMT

Albert Park

Can’t decide how best to enjoy a lovely Spring day? At Albert Park, you don’t have to limit yourself! Have a picnic on the verdant lawns with family and friends. Take advantage of Albert Park Lake by canoeing, kayaking, sailing or fishing. Join a community sport, regardless of your age or ability. At Albert Park, the possibilities are endless!

Location: 23 Aughtie Drive, Albert Park

Times + Dates: Open 24 hours

More Information: https://bit.ly/3qZHE97

Gasworks Arts Park

A healthy lifestyle isn’t just about the body! At Gasworks Arts Park, you’ll be able to stimulate yourself both physically and mentally! After taking a stroll through the Bush Trail Park where you can learn about the medicinal and edible plants used by the Wurundjeri and Boonwurrong peoples, you can admire the collection of public art or visit the artist studios supporting sixteen resident visual artists. And bonus points if you catch the Farmer’s Market every third Saturday of the month!

Location: 21 Graham St, Albert Park

Times + Dates: Monday - Sunday, 9.30AM - 4.30PM

More Information: www.gasworks.org.au/

St. Kilda Botanical Gardens

Established in the 1800s and registered as a heritage site, St. Kilda’s Botanical Gardens boasts a cornucopia of exotic and local plant species. Whether you’re looking to smell the roses at Alister Clarke Rose Garden, study the valuable collection of indigenous plants, or immerse yourself in the wildlife of Rainbow Lorikeets - among a wide variety of animal life - this parcel of nature in bustling St Kilda will provide you that much-needed respite from urban life!

Location: 1 Herbert St, St Kilda

Times + Dates: Monday - Sunday, 10AM - 4PM

More Information: https://bit.ly/3PxE7rH

Rippon Lea Estate

Take a walk around the perimeter of the lake and peruse the orchard with its historically significant fruit varieties. Besides the garden estate, you can also take a guided tour through the mansion and engage in the plethora of events held at the Rippon Lea Estate from outdoor cinema nights to theatre and outdoor picnics!

Location: 192 Hotham St, Elsternwick

Times + Dates: Monday - Sunday, 10AM - 5PM

More Information: www.ripponleaestate.com.au/