Embrace the vibrant colors and fragrances of Melbourne’s floral wonders with our guide to the best places to see flowers in the city. From the heart of Melbourne to picturesque day trips, the city offers a myriad of locations to witness the captivating beauty of flowers. Explore the enchanting Royal Botanic Gardens, marvel at the unique Floral Clock, or venture out to the breathtaking Gorge Scenic Drive in Beechworth Historic Park. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Melbourne’s floral splendor is sure to leave you in awe. So, grab your camera and get ready to be mesmerized by the dazzling display of flowers in Melbourne.
1. Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne
Discover the beauty and diversity of over 10,000 plant species at the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne. This inner-city oasis offers a variety of attractions, such as Guilfoyle’s Volcano, a traditional punt cruise on the Ornamental Lake, and a dedicated Children’s Garden. The gardens are a treasured part of Melbourne’s cultural life and a must-visit for nature lovers.
Source: Tourism Australia
Source: Tourism Australia
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Tourism Australia
Take a guided Aboriginal Heritage Walk to learn about the local indigenous culture, or immerse yourself in the therapeutic practice of forest therapy. The gardens are also home to a diverse range of birdlife, making it a haven for birdwatchers.
- Address: Birdwood Avenue, Melbourne
- Fare: Free entry
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/SzG9FZ3RBJ6wbmQs9
2. Floral Clock, Queen Victoria Gardens
The Floral Clock is a unique and stunning attraction in Melbourne, featuring a beautiful arrangement of flowers in the form of a clock. The clock face measures 40 feet in diameter and is filled with up to 16,000 carpet plants and colorful annuals. The grounds surrounding the clock feature bedding displays and a tower that houses Westminster chimes, which chime each quarter hour.
Source: Mark Bayes
Source: Mark Bayes
Source: John Gollings/ Visit Victoria
Source: John Gollings/ Visit Victoria
Source: Allan Wilkinson/Visit Victoria
This well-loved feature of Melbourne is a popular spot for photography and is located just across the road from the National Art Gallery. The gardens are most colorful during the warmer months, making it an ideal location for a leisurely stroll or a picturesque picnic.
- Address: St Kilda Road, Queen Victoria Gardens, Melbourne
- Fare: Free entry
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/TdmANwFpBxVzpHA96
3. Carlton Gardens
Carlton Gardens is a World Heritage-listed site that offers a stunning array of gardens and floral displays. The Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show is held here, showcasing breathtaking floral displays and spectacular gardens.
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
In addition to the beautiful flowers, the gardens are home to the Royal Exhibition Building, a historic landmark that hosts various events and exhibitions throughout the year. Carlton Gardens is a perfect destination for a relaxing day out, surrounded by nature and history.
- Address: Carlton Gardens, Melbourne
- Fare: Free entry
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/74HbpHC7axqoXHfWA
4. Fitzroy Gardens
Fitzroy Gardens is known for its colorful spring display of flowers, including tulips4. The gardens also feature the Conservatory, Elm tree avenues, and the Fairies’ Tree, making it a magical destination for visitors of all ages.
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens, enjoy a picnic on the lush lawns, or explore the various attractions within the park. Fitzroy Gardens is a beautiful and tranquil spot to enjoy the beauty of Melbourne’s flora.
- Address: Fitzroy Gardens, Melbourne
- Fare: Free entry
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/huFBuwwqAhk5Z8GF8
5. St Kilda Botanical Gardens
St Kilda Botanical Gardens is a peaceful public park with a variety of plants, including a rose garden and rainforest conservatory. Established in 1859, the gardens have evolved throughout the decades to include extensive seasonal flowerbeds, lush exotic forests, and a range of native Australian plant species. The ornamental pond crowned by the Rain Man, a solar-powered fountain, is a popular attraction within the gardens.
The gardens also host an eco-center that promotes sustainable living practices through classes and workshops. With picturesque views and a diverse range of flora, St Kilda Botanical Gardens is a perfect destination for a relaxing day out in nature.
- Address: 11 Herbert Street, St Kilda, Melbourne
- Fare: Free entry
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/YeawiKjqSbA5dKps6
6. Gorge Scenic Drive, Beechworth Historic Park
Gorge Scenic Drive in Beechworth Historic Park offers walking tracks where visitors can enjoy wildflowers and the natural beauty of the area. The park is located near the town of Beechworth in north-east Victoria, approximately 3.5 hours from Melbourne. The scenic five-kilometer drive was first constructed in 1926 to provide access to the beautiful countryside near Beechworth.
The park is rich in gold mining history, and visitors can explore the landscape on foot or by car, taking in the stunning views and points of interest along the way.
- Address: Beechworth Historic Park, Beechworth, Victoria
- Fare: Free entry
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/BMTY4tvX1Qv5vVCAA
7. Lerderderg Campground Area, Lerderderg State Park
Lerderderg State Park is a scenic area where visitors can enjoy nature and flowers, with opportunities for picnics and barbecues. The park is located in Victoria, Australia, and offers a variety of walking tracks and trails for visitors to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
The Lerderderg campground area is a popular spot for camping, providing a peaceful and natural setting for visitors to relax and enjoy the beauty of the park.
- Address: Lerderderg State Park, Victoria, Australia
- Fare: Free entry
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/6pRv8YmvmJpAEU4P7
8. Victoria State Rose Garden, Werribee Mansion
The internationally acclaimed Victoria State Rose Garden is located in the prestigious grounds of Werribee Park and is a winner of the World Federation of Rose Societies Award for Garden Excellence. The garden features over 5,000 roses across five hectares, making it a must-visit for rose enthusiasts.
The garden offers picturesque views of the Werribee Mansion and is a perfect gathering spot for family and friends. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the garden, take in the beautiful sights, and immerse yourself in the world of roses.
- Address: Gate 2, K Road, Werribee South, Victoria
- Fare: Free entry to the garden, but there may be fees for other attractions within the Werribee Park precinct
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/3ig9HHVk2xbFmLvS6
9. Tesselaar Tulip Festival
The Tesselaar Tulip Festival is a vibrant event that takes place in the Dandenong Ranges, showcasing over a million spring flowering bulbs, including more than 900,000 tulips. The festival offers a range of food, drinks, and entertainment, ensuring a fun-filled day for visitors of all ages.
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Located just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, the festival is held at Tesselaar Flower Farm in Silvan. The event runs from mid-September to mid-October, with discounted ticket prices available during off-peak times.
- Address: Tesselaar Flower Farm, 357 Monbulk Road, Silvan, Victoria
- Fare: Entry fees apply. Children 16 and under are free
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/UzkQcpntUsQYXQVm6
10. Alowyn Gardens
Alowyn Gardens is a beautiful seven-acre display garden in the heart of the Yarra Valley. The garden features seven distinct garden areas, with seasonal displays and an extensive plant nursery. Explore the dedicated Australian Garden section, which showcases a diverse range of native flora.
The gardens also host various workshops and events, such as botanical illustration classes and bulb-themed events. With its picturesque setting and diverse range of flora, Alowyn Gardens is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.
- Address: 1210 Melba Highway, Yarra Glen, Victoria
- Fare: Entry fees apply. Adults: $15.00, Concession: $12.50, Children 12 and under: Free, Group bookings (15 or more people): $11.00 per head
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/rkAQNzCvTyX22e73A
11. Bendigo Annual Tulip Display
The Bendigo Annual Tulip Display is a free event that takes place from mid-September to mid-October, featuring over 53,000 tulips in various colors, sizes, and blooming times. The display is located along Pall Mall and Conservatory Garden in the City of Greater Bendigo.
Visitors can enjoy the beautiful tulip display during the day and return after sunset for Bloom After Dark, an event featuring illuminated tulip beds and interactive blooming flower displays.
- Address: Pall Mall and Conservatory Garden, Bendigo, Victoria
- Fare: Free entry
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/2bmxoEmj4kHfKwzw8
12. The Heights Spring Garden Fair
The Heights Spring Garden Fair is an annual event held at The Heights Heritage House and Garden in Geelong, Victoria. The fair showcases a variety of flowers and plants, with opportunities to purchase plants and gardening accessories from local nurseries and suppliers.
Visitors can also enjoy guided tours of the heritage-listed house and garden, as well as workshops and demonstrations on various gardening topics. The fair is a perfect destination for garden enthusiasts and families looking for a fun day out in a beautiful setting.
- Address: The Heights Heritage House and Garden, 140 Aphrasia Street, Newtown, Geelong, Victoria
- Fare: Entry fees apply. Please check their website for the latest pricing information
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/7syy8j6FjwosUDBaA
13. Garden Lovers’ Fair
The Garden Lovers’ Fair is a popular event for garden enthusiasts, offering a wide range of flowers, plants, and gardening products. The fair is held at the historic Bolobek Estate in Macedon, Victoria, and features workshops, expert advice, and a variety of gardening-related stalls.
Visitors can explore the beautiful grounds of the estate, enjoy delicious food and drinks, and discover new and exciting plants to add to their gardens. The fair is a perfect destination for those looking to expand their gardening knowledge and connect with fellow garden lovers.
- Address: Bolobek Estate, 370 Mount Macedon Road, Macedon, Victoria
- Fare: Entry fees apply. Please check their website for the latest pricing information
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/NTHqsS1Q2Eigfqz78
Best Places to See Flowers in Melbourne at a Glance
Our list of best places to see flowers in Melbourne goes like this:
- The most peaceful public park: St Kilda Botanical Gardens
- The best scenic drive with wildflowers: Gorge Scenic Drive, Beechworth Historic Park
- The best campground area with nature and flowers: Lerderderg campground area, Lerderderg State Park
- The most acclaimed rose garden: Victoria State Rose Garden, Werribee Mansion
- The most diverse display garden: Alowyn Gardens
- The most vibrant flower festival: Tesselaar Tulip Festival
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to see flowers in Melbourne?
The best time to see flowers in Melbourne varies depending on the type of flowers you want to see. Spring (September to November) is generally the most popular time for flower displays, with many gardens and parks showcasing colorful blooms. However, some flowers and gardens have unique displays throughout the year.
Can I access these locations using public transport?
Many of the locations within Melbourne, such as the Royal Botanic Gardens and Fitzroy Gardens, are easily accessible by public transport. For some destinations outside the city, like Gorge Scenic Drive in Beechworth Historic Park or Tesselaar Tulip Festival, it may be more convenient to rent a car or join a guided tour.
Are there any flower festivals or events in Melbourne?
Yes, there are several flower festivals and events in Melbourne, such as the Tesselaar Tulip Festival, Bendigo Annual Tulip Display, The Heights Spring Garden Fair, and the Garden Lovers’ Fair. These events showcase stunning flower displays and offer various activities for visitors to enjoy.
