11 Urban Parks to Visit in Australia
Who doesn’t love a picnic? With the weather warming in Australia (and Covid-19 restrictions still in force), we’ve been spending more time than ever before hanging out in parks with our loved ones.
To make it easier for you to get outside with friends and family, we’ve rounded up some of our communities’ favourite parks nationwide. These parks are kid and/or dog friendly, accessible, and with toilets to make it easier to stay and play all afternoon! So grab your boots and your bestie, and get ready to relax!
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MELBOURNE
Don’t forget to check the Victoria Department of Health for the latest updates on Covid-19 restrictions.
Royal Park Nature Playground
One of Melbourne's most beautiful parks, Royal Park features an epic natural playground, created to blend and complement the local environment. Sure, it is fun for kids, but traversing its rope’s course is also a great way to connect to your inner child. As tested by our Wholesale Coordinator Katey, it's also definitely a great challenge of your muscles and agility! Once you are done with play, the parkland has picnic tables and BBQ space to relax and recharge.
Furthermore, lIke Fitzroy Gardens (below), Royal Park Nature Playground is the recipient of the Green Flag Award scheme, which rewards parks around the world for good governance and robust environmental management.
Fitzroy Gardens
Easily accessible by tram and train, Fitzroy Gardens is just east of the CBD and perfect for a socially-distant catch up with friends! There is ample shade, plenty of green space to rest on, and numerous toilets dotted throughout.
Yarra Bend Park
Nestled between Abbotsford and Kew, Yarra Bend is Melbourne’s largest Bushland park. It is a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, with paths suitable for prams and ample open space for families. Want to get a bit closer to the river? Check out Fairfield Boathouse to hire a rowing boat, canoe, or kayak. [Ed. note: as of 22/10/20, boating is closed under current restrictions, but bookmark for future easing]
Read More: Check our Tot | Hot or Not for some more Melbourne family-friendly parks.
SYDNEY
Centennial Parklands
In Sydney’s inner east, Centennial Parklands encompasses three parks (Moore Park, Queens Park, and Centennial Park) and is considered one of Australia’s benchmark green spaces. Spread over 189 hectares, there is the perfect picnic spot for everyone. Plus, if you are with a larger group and want security with your space, you can also reserve an area ahead. You can see all the picnic and BBQ facilities, here.
Sydney Park
(image via City of Sydney)
This multi-award-winning (Green Flag!) is dog and kid friendly. Located in inner-city Sydney, it is more than just grasslands; it features extensive off-leash areas, a large playground, a children's cycle track, skate park, wetlands, sports oval and outdoor fitness areas. If lounging with friends over a nice wine is more your vibe, find a spot near one of the many creeks to relax.
PERTH & FREMANTLE
Kings Park
Located on the edge of Perth’s CBD, Kings Park is an icon. Full of bushland and spectacular views, this is a great place for a walk and a picnic with the family. There are numerous playgrounds for the kids, bench seats to enjoy the view of the Swan River and city, and quiet shaded spots for friends to hang out.
South Beach Foreshore
(image via Buggy Buddys, Perth family guide)
More than a stunning beach, South Beach in Freo has a lovely foreshore that makes it the perfect spot for a sundowner with friends and family and listen to the frequent buskers jamming. There is a cafe, playground, and toilets onsite as well.
BRISBANE
Roma Street Parkland
Another Green Flag Award-winning park, Roma Street Parkland is a stunning respite just outside the CBD. Featuring world-renowned gardens, year-round events, free BBQs, and playgrounds, there is something for everyone!
South Bank Parklands
(image via Queensland.com)
Featuring multiple amazing playgrounds, an inner-city beach, and lined with pubs, there is something for everyone at this CBD park. It's a big park, so worth checking the map before heading down to organise the best spot to find your friends. And yes, you guessed it, South Bank is also a Green Flag Award park.
ADELAIDE
Himeji Garden
In Adelaide’s southern parklands, Himeji Garden is a traditional Japanese garden built to honour Adelaide’s sister city Himeji, Japan. Its has been thoughtfully designed to encourage mindfulness and relaxation and we can’t think of a better place to stroll with a good friend for an afternoon catchup, or to teach your kids a bit about our global community.
Bonython Park
On the western edge of the inner city, Bonython Park has BBQs, a grassy plaza, and olive grove and a play space specifically designed to be accessible for children with hearing, vision and mobility impairments.
Up for a longer adventure? Pencil in a stop at Bonython Park for a picnic and a refresh as you travel west on the Linear Park trail towards the Coast Park Path for a full day of walking and exploring.
Besides these two inner city options, Adelaide Park Lands are full of picnic and BBQ options throughout the city centre. See the full map here.
Read More: 15 Easy Walking Trails Around Australia
Stay Merry everyone! xx
