Escape the city without leaving town in this large area of native bushland flanking the river, about 5km northeast of the city centre. It's an area cherished by runners, rowers, cyclists, picnickers and strollers. You can hire rowing boats, canoes and kayaks from the Studley Park Boathouse, which has a kiosk, cafe and restaurant, and BBQ facilities nearby.

From the boathouse, Kane's suspension footbridge takes you across the river, where it’s about a 20-minute walk to Dights Falls, at the meeting of the Yarra River and Merri Creek. You can also walk to the falls along the southern riverbank.

Transportation

  • train: Victoria Park

Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Melbourne attractions

1. Abbotsford Convent

0.3 MILES

This former convent, dating back to 1863, is a rambling collection of ecclesiastical architecture that's home to a thriving arts community of galleries,…

2. Collingwood Children's Farm

0.37 MILES

The inner city melts away at this rustic riverside retreat that’s much beloved, and not just by children. There are frolicking farm animals that kids can…

3. Collingwood Farmers Market

0.37 MILES

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4. Carlton Brewhouse

0.72 MILES

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5. Keith Haring Mural

0.84 MILES

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6. Backwoods Gallery

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7. Gertrude Glasshouse

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8. Centre for Contemporary Photography

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This not-for-profit centre exhibits contemporary photography across five gallery spaces. Shows traverse traditional techniques and the highly conceptual,…

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