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Ultimate guide to visiting Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne
Whether you're interested in botany, photography or simply enjoying a walk or picnic, the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne offers a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.
When you’re amid bustling central Melbourne, it can be challenging to imagine peace and tranquillity close by. Yet the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne – spanning 38ha - is only 2km from the CBD.
On Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung and Bunurong Boon Wurrung land, the gardens offer gorgeous themed national and international flora, a scenic lake, and a rich cultural history. This serene urban sanctuary is open daily from 7.30am to 7.30pm in summer, closing at 5.30 pm from April to October. You can get a great view of the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne from Melbourne Skydeck, as well as experience the gardens on foot.
Here’s everything you need to know to maximise your visit to Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne.
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Everything you need to know about Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne
What is the history of the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne?
Established in 1846, the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne has long been a cherished part of the city’s natural heritage. Eminent landscaper William Guilfoyle not only designed the gardens but made it his mission to gather plant species from around the world that still thrive today. Known as ‘the plant hunter’, Guilfoyle collected thousands of botanic species, ensuring the gardens had significant standing from the get-go.
From Guilfoyle’s days to now, the gardens’ collection has grown to 8,500 plants, including several rare and threatened genera.
What can I see in the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne?
The Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne is split into immersive biodiversity areas. Stand-outs include the expansive city views and striking cacti and succulent landscape at Guilfoyle’s Volcano, and rare and exotic endangered species at the Tropical Glasshouse.
For Australian flora, head to the Arid Garden to discover our desert diversity or take the Australian Forest Walk for our more tropical species. On a hot summer’s day, the moss-covered, fern-lined paths of the Fern Gully provide the perfect spot for shade.
For the gardens’ best picnic spot, head to Oak Lawn or the grassy expanse around Ornamental Lake.
More: The best free botanic gardens and beautiful parks to visit in Melbourne
You can get a great view of the Royal Botanic Gardens from Melbourne Skydeck, an observation deck on the 88th floor of Eureka Tower (above centre). All images: Visit Victoria
Where are the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne and how do you get there?
The Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne are on the south bank of the Yarra River. Reach them on foot from the CBD on a pleasant 20-minute stroll, or rent an e-bike and cycle the Yarra River trail to the grounds in a few minutes. You’ll find dedicated bike parking near the Observatory Gate as it’s not permitted to ride bicycles (or electric scooters) around the grounds.
By tram, routes 3, 3a, 5, 6. 16. 64, 67, and 72 will take you to the Domain Road intersection, where it’s only a 650m walk to the entrance. Bus 605 gets you closer, stopping only 200m from the Observatory Gate.
By car, find metered parking around the gardens for up to four hours.
What can I do at the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne?
The Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne offers a range of tours and events – some free - including the free enriching Guided Walk and educational Australian Garden Walk.
For an introduction to native plants and the park’s Indigenous heritage, book the inspiring Aboriginal Heritage Walk. Another worthwhile paid tour is the Sunday-only Forest Therapy guided wellbeing experience, connecting you to nature and fostering deep inner peace.
In summer, the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne hosts exciting events, like outdoor cinema screenings, theatre performances, seasonal flower shows, educational workshops, and exhibitions.
For a little adventure during your visit, rent a boat to go punting on the lake.
More: Upcoming flower and garden show events in Melbourne and Victoria
The picturesque Ornamental Lake at the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne is a peaceful place for sitting, walking or punting.
How long do I need at the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne?
While expansive and diverse, for most visitors, 2-4 hours is ample time to enjoy the grounds. The main paths take a couple of hours to walk; allow more time to explore specific areas or picnic by the lake.
Is the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne suitable for children?
Absolutely. The Ian Potter Foundation Children’s Garden is specifically designed for young explorers. Focused on nature-based play, it’s a brilliant space to connect young children to our planet’s botanical gifts.
Kids can climb, clamour, run, touch, leap, and play from 10 am to 5:30 pm from Wednesdays to Sundays. From 15 July to 1 September, the garden closes for a winter rejuvenation break.
There’s also an accessible play space designed for inclusivity with wheel-chair-friendly paths and interactive elements.
Can I take my dog to the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne?
Dogs on a short leash are welcome across most of the gardens. However, they are not permitted in the children’s area or buildings. Be sure to clean up after your dog and be mindful of other visitors.
What wildlife will I see at the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne?
Waterbirds like black swans, ducks, and moorhens are easy to spot around Ornamental Lake. You also won’t be able to miss the distinct kookaburra, cockatoo, and rainbow lorikeet calls as they flit between the towering oak trees. On sunny days, look for eastern water dragons basking along the pathways and rocks. At dusk, bats and possums come out to forage.
The striking cacti and succulent landscape at Guilfoyle’s Volcano is among the garden's many attractions.
What facilities are at the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne?
The Visitor Centre at the Observatory Precinct is a great starting point for maps, guided tour information, and event details. It’s open from 9:30 am to 5 pm daily (except Christmas and New Year’s Day). For nature-inspired souvenirs, botanical books, or pretty plant-themed gifts, the Gardens Shop is next door.
Across the grounds, you’ll find ample toilets, including accessible options and change facilities.
For a drink, sweet treat or delectable meal, stop by the Terrace Café between 8 am and 4 pm. Their kiosk is great for grab-and-go coffee.
How accessible is the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne?
The Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne welcomes all, with accommodations made for a range of needs. Most paths are paved or have compacted gravel, making them suitable for walkers and wheelchairs. There are alternative routes if an area is steep or has steps.
Free manual wheelchair hire is available at the Visitor’s Centre between 9 am and 3 pm, along with accessible guided tours, including for those with vision or hearing impairments. The park’s informative plaques have braille or tactile elements, too.
New in 2024, book a Travellers Aid Companion Service volunteer if you have additional support needs.
The Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne offers a completely different experience, with its focus on the Australian landscape.
What else is near the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne?
The central location of the gardens makes it easy to pair your time here with other attractions. Like the Shrine of Remembrance, just outside the gardens, where you can join a tour to learn about Australia’s military history or soak up the spectacular views at your leisure.
For more elevated views, Melbourne Skydeck wows from its 88-story viewing deck. It’s a short walk from the iconic (and free) National Gallery of Victoria, Australia’s oldest public art museum.
Alternatively, take a scenic riverside walk at Southbank or board a relaxing Yarra River cruise.
The Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne
The Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria has two sites across the city. The Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne is not to be confused with the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne.
Cranbourne is 45 minutes from central Melbourne and solely celebrates Australian flora and our rich botanical heritage across a bushland garden experience. Explore the 10,000+ plants - including 450 indigenous species - on foot or an open-air bus.
