10 Gardens in Victoria That You Shouldn't Miss

Journey through a world of wildlife in the heart of Melbourne. Over 250 species from around the world can be found in the beautiful setting of Melbourne Zoo, just five minutes from the city centre. Stroll through the lush Asian and African rainforests, Australian bushland and even underwater! Walk where tigers roam and monkeys swing from tree to tree. See eye-to-eye with the Orang-utans in their special elevated exhibit, explore the Trail of Elephants and then head down the bush track to see unique Australian wildlife including koalas, kangaroos, wombats and emus. Submerge yourself in our underwater world to see Victoria's iconic Little Penguins, Australian Fur Seals and more! Meet the Keeper: Hear our expert keepers give daily talks about the animals in their care. Close-up Encounters: Book a close-up encounter with one of our animals for a great photo opportunity. Melbourne Zoo is also the proud winner of the Victoria Tourism Awards RACV People’s Choice category, voted by Victorians as their Favourite Metro Attraction in both 2015 and 2016!

Visit Melbourne's inner-city oasis. Over 10,000 plant species from around the world are presented in a kaleidoscope of colour and texture. Sweeping lawns, tranquil lakes and majestic trees are home to an amazing range of wildlife.

Fitzroy Gardens is one of Melbourne’s most historic and beautiful Gardens. Originally set aside as a reserve in 1848, the layout follows a classic Victorian–era design, featuring pathways lined with magnificent Elm trees, and a variety of flowers, ornamental shrubs and trees which together with extensive lawns create a diverse and layered landscape. Points of interest include the magnificent floral displays in the Spanish mission style Conservatory. Cooks Cottage, a scarred tree, the Fairies’ Tree and model tudor village, sculptures, fountains and a stormwater cleaning and re-use system. The Fitzroy Gardens visitor centre provides tourism information and entry tickets to Cooks Cottage. A free guided walking tour departs from the visitor centre every Saturday at 10am. Refreshments are available from KereKere cafe at the visitor centre.

The Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden is Victoria's premier cool-climate garden. With breathtaking views over the Yarra Valley, the garden features important collections of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias and more, in a setting of native and exotic trees. Seasonal changes ensure the garden is a year-round delight. Meander down to Serenity Point where the sculpted landscape opens to stunning views. A network of paths criss-cross the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden and highlight the ever-changing seasonal landscape. Bring a picnic basket and set up on one of the lawns within the gardens for a scenic day out. Ride the 'Garden Explorer' - a fee-for-service people mover which provides a 25-minute guided tour of the garden.

Cranbourne Gardens is one of Victoria's most precious areas of native bushland and home to an amazing range of plant and wildlife. More than 400 plant species provide food and habitat for over 150 bird species and more than 20 mammals, including koalas, wallabies and the nationally endangered southern brown bandicoots. In the heart of the bushland, discover the stunning Australian Garden and soak in the beauty and diversity of Australian flora that reflect the true essence of the Australian landscape. Hop aboard The Explorer or discover the stunning landscapes with a walking tour.

The Enchanted Adventure Garden is an award-winning attraction, just one hour from Melbourne at Arthurs Seat. Featuring three hedge mazes, 5 giant tube slides, 20 themed gardens, an outdoor sculpture park and an indoor 3D maze, this impressive adventure park has something for everyone. Right from the moment you enter, you will be transported into a world of enchantment and fun on a grand scale. The stunning gardens feature excellent examples of relief topiary and contemporary garden design. The Enchanted Adventure Garden is also the home of Australia's famous Tube Slide Rides with their giant twisting slopes, adventurers sit on inflatable tubes and slide down the slope like an artificial ski run. For a thrilling tree top adventure you should also try Tree Surfing. It involves over 50 aerial obstacles and offers 2 hours of climbing, balancing and zip-lines through the trees. This is a safe and exhilarating activity for all ages. Pre-book online to avoid disappointment.

Nestled by the sea, complete with rare trees, a formal palm avenue and a charming Edwardian ornamental lake amongst its many attractions, the Williamstown Botanic Gardens, opened in 1860, is a peaceful place to enjoy a picnic, stroll the intricate pathways or relax and daydream on the green lawns. A few minutes from the Williamstown Beach Railway Station, the gardens have gravel paths providing good accessibility. Open all year. Beach and facilities nearby. Free.