The Clifton Hill zone and its surrounding suburbs is a bustling hub of glorious attractions, drool-worthy eateries and outdoor wonders that is easy to underestimate for Melbourne locals. We’ve done the research and collected a small handful of things to do on a free day with your family or friends!
Darling Gardens & surrounding parks
Strong with a distinctive heritage touch, Darling Gardens is a peaceful oasis from the concrete jungle nearby. It includes expansive lawns, vast shady trees, plus a children’s playground that’s very popular amongst family and friend gatherings.
That’s not the end of the greenery either – close to the Clifton Hill area you’ll also find the popular Edinburgh Gardens, Yarra Bend Park and the neighbouring Dights Falls, plus the Flying Fox viewing area where you can see an unreal colony of bats hanging off the tree branches.
Melbourne Museum
This stop might need a day set aside. Set amongst the Historic Victorian-era park, Carlton Gardens, Melbourne Museum is an iconic attraction with cyclical exhibitions such as the recent one on Dinosaurs. There’s an area for babies to pre-school aged kids filled with wonders that any little (or big) kid would enjoy soaking up.
Wurundjeri Spur Lookout
Though it lacks pizazz, the Wurundjeri Spur Lookout is worth a stop with spectacular views of the Melbourne skyline. It’s especially crowded on lovely sunset days or firework nights.
Red Sparrow Pizza
Not just for vegans, Red Sparrow Pizza is well-known for its delectable, crowd-pleasing woodfired pizzas among groups of friends, including carnivores alike! They use 48-hour fermented dough unlike any you’ve ever tried.
Gelato Messina
Gelato Messina is the perfect stop for all your ice creamery needs from midday to late at night (perhaps after a delicious pizza). Be warned though, you’ll often find snaking lines out the door – and for good reason. You’ll find a creative and delicious array of gelato and sorbet flavours for any season.
