Royal Park's vast open spaces are perfect for a run or power walk, and there are sports fields, netball and hockey stadiums, a golf course and tennis courts. In the northwestern section of the park, Trin Warren Tam-boore is a recently established wetlands area, with boardwalks and interpretive signs for spotting native plants and animals. There's also a great playground near the Royal Children's Hospital.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Melbourne attractions

1. Melbourne Zoo

0.46 MILES

Established in 1862, this compact zoo remains one of the city’s most popular attractions and continues to innovate, having become the world's first carbon…

2. Grainger Museum

0.5 MILES

A tribute to one of Australia's great musical exports, this museum housed in an art deco building lays bare the fascinating life of Percy Grainger…

3. University of Melbourne

0.65 MILES

The esteemed University of Melbourne was established in 1853 and remains one of Australia’s most prestigious universities. Its blend of Victorian Gothic…

4. Melbourne General Cemetery

0.67 MILES

Melbourne has been burying its dead here since 1852. It's worth a stroll to see the final resting place of three Australian prime ministers, the memorial…

5. Ian Potter Museum of Art

0.73 MILES

This museum manages Melbourne University’s extensive art collection – the largest university collection in the country – over three levels. The collection…

6. Museo Italiano

0.96 MILES

Telling the story of Melbourne's Italian community, this small but information-packed museum puts an important part of Australia's history, and the…

7. Queen Victoria Market

1.18 MILES

With more than 600 traders, 'Vic Market' is a large open-air market brimming with food, shopping and cultural experiences. Early mornings are best for…

8. Blender Lane

1.24 MILES

This unsigned laneway off Franklin St features some of Melbourne's best street art, showcasing the work of underground artists. It's named after the…