City Of Boroondara Map
If you’re planning to visit Melbourne, don’t miss out on the City of Boroondara, located just a few kilometers east of the CBD. This charming city is known for its leafy streets, heritage buildings, and vibrant community. It’s a perfect place to explore if you’re looking for a mix of history, culture, and nature. In this travel guide, we’ll take you through the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
The City of Boroondara has plenty of attractions that offer something for everyone. Here are some of the top places you shouldn’t miss:
1. Como House and Gardens
Como House is a National Trust property that dates back to 1847. The house is a perfect example of the Australian Regency style, and it’s surrounded by magnificent gardens. You can take a tour of the house and learn about the lives of the family who lived there, or simply stroll around the gardens and enjoy the views.
2. Hawthorn Arts Centre
The Hawthorn Arts Centre is a cultural hub that hosts a variety of events, including exhibitions, concerts, and theater productions. The center is housed in the former Hawthorn Town Hall, which was built in 1888 and has been beautifully restored.
3. Warrigal Park
Warrigal Park is a large park that offers plenty of activities for families. There’s a playground, a picnic area, and a lake where you can go fishing or boating. The park is also home to the Hawthorn Football Club, so you might catch a game if you visit during footy season.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, here are some hidden gems in the City of Boroondara:
1. Anderson Park
Anderson Park is a small park that’s tucked away in the suburb of Hawthorn East. The park has a beautiful rose garden, a pond, and a playground. It’s a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city.
2. Balwyn Cinema
The Balwyn Cinema is a historic movie theater that dates back to 1930. The cinema has been lovingly restored and still shows classic movies. It’s a great place to catch a movie and experience a piece of Melbourne’s history.
3. Harp of Erin Hotel
The Harp of Erin Hotel is a cozy pub that’s popular with locals. The pub has a great atmosphere, and they serve delicious pub food and craft beer. It’s a perfect place to relax after a day of exploring.
Food Scene
The City of Boroondara has a diverse food scene that caters to all tastes. Here are some of the best places to eat:
1. Axil Coffee Roasters
Axil Coffee Roasters is a popular cafe that serves some of the best coffee in Melbourne. They also have a great breakfast and lunch menu, with plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options.
2. Firechief Pizzeria
Firechief Pizzeria is a family-friendly restaurant that serves delicious wood-fired pizzas. They also have a great selection of salads and antipasto plates.
3. Oriental Teahouse
Oriental Teahouse is a Chinese restaurant that specializes in dumplings. They have a wide variety of dumplings, from traditional pork and chive to more unusual flavors like truffle and mushroom.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re traveling on a budget, here are some tips to help you save money in the City of Boroondara:
1. Take the bus
The bus is a cheap and convenient way to get around the city. You can buy a myki card at any train station or convenience store, and then use it to pay for your bus fare.
2. Visit the local markets
The City of Boroondara has several markets where you can find fresh produce, artisanal products, and unique souvenirs. The Camberwell Sunday Market is a must-visit, with over 400 stalls selling everything from vintage clothing to handmade jewelry.
3. Pack a picnic
There are plenty of parks and gardens in the City of Boroondara where you can have a picnic. Pack some sandwiches, fruit, and snacks, and enjoy a relaxing day in the great outdoors.
Outdoor Adventures
The City of Boroondara has plenty of outdoor activities for nature lovers. Here are some of the best:
1. Yarra River Trail
The Yarra River Trail is a scenic walking and cycling path that runs along the Yarra River. The trail is 38 kilometers long and takes you through some of Melbourne’s most beautiful parks and gardens.
2. Gardiners Creek Trail
The Gardiners Creek Trail is a 20-kilometer trail that runs from Burwood to Blackburn. The trail takes you through parks and wetlands, and there are plenty of picnic areas along the way.
3. Boroondara Park
Boroondara Park is a large park that offers plenty of activities for families. There’s a playground, a barbecue area, and a lake where you can go fishing or boating. The park is also home to the Boroondara Farmers Market, which is held on the third Saturday of every month.
Historical Landmarks
The City of Boroondara has a rich history, and there are plenty of landmarks that tell its story. Here are some of the most significant:
1. Kew Court House
The Kew Court House is a historic building that dates back to 1888. The building has been beautifully restored and now serves as a cultural center, hosting exhibitions, concerts, and other events.
2. St. Mark’s Church
St. Mark’s Church is a beautiful Gothic Revival church that was built in 1850. The church has a rich history and has been an important part of the local community for over 150 years.
3. Hawthorn Town Hall
The Hawthorn Town Hall is a grand building that was built in 1888. The building has been beautifully restored and now serves as the Hawthorn Arts Centre.
Family-Friendly Activities
The City of Boroondara is a great place to visit with kids. Here are some family-friendly activities that everyone will enjoy:
1. Outer Circle Rail Trail
The Outer Circle Rail Trail is a 13-kilometer walking and cycling path that follows the route of the former Outer Circle railway line. The trail takes you through parks and wetlands, and there are plenty of picnic areas along the way.
2. Bounce Inc.
Bounce Inc. is a trampoline park that’s great for kids of all ages. The park has trampolines, foam pits, and a ninja course, and there are plenty of activities for parents to enjoy as well.
3. Kew Traffic School
Kew Traffic School is a miniature road system where kids can learn about road safety. The school has a variety of vehicles, including bikes, trikes, and electric cars, and there are plenty of road signs and traffic lights to help kids learn the rules of the road.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little more unusual, here are some off-the-beaten-path experiences in the City of Boroondara:
1. Boroondara Cemetery
Boroondara Cemetery is a historic cemetery that dates back to 1858. The cemetery is the final resting place of many notable Australians, including artists, politicians, and war heroes.
2. Studley Park Boathouse
The Studley Park Boathouse is a beautiful boathouse that’s located on the Yarra River. You can rent a rowboat or a canoe and explore the river at your own pace.
3. Camberwell Fresh Food Market
The Camberwell Fresh Food Market is a bustling market that’s open every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. The market has a wide variety of fresh produce, artisanal products, and international cuisine.
Natural Wonders
The City of Boroondara has plenty of natural wonders that are worth exploring. Here are some of the best:
1. Yarra Bend Park