Carlton Gardens is a public garden close to central Melbourne, founded in 1856 and listed on the Australian National Heritage List. It is a place to walk and picnic among flower beds, ornamental lakes, fountains and European trees, with picnic tables, seats and drinking fountains to make a meal out of it.
For children, the draw is Carlton Gardens North. The playground there is a large maze-themed structure with a cubby and slide, a track glide, a sandpit, a climbing frame and musical elements, and a basketball court sits close by for older kids.
The trade-off is facilities: this is a big park with only two public toilets, so it’s worth knowing where they are before settling down for a picnic far from the playground.
In autumn the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show is held at the Royal Exhibition Building and the surrounding gardens.
Family FAQ
Can you bring your own food to Carlton Gardens?
Bring your own food - there are picnic tables, seats and drinking fountains.
Where are the toilets at Carlton Gardens?
There are 2 public toilets in the gardens.
