Flagstaff Gardens (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Flagstaff Gardens?
What makes it 80% Kids-Friendly: Kids can climb slides and swings at the playground, chase birds on wide lawns, join a cheap tennis hit, and eat barbecue lunches, while parents benefit from toilets and easy sight-lines.
Positives:
- Free entry: No admission fee, so families can stay as long as they like.
- Easy access: Flat, sealed paths make strollers and scooters simple to push.
Challenges:
- Limited shelter: There is little cover in the playground—bring a sunhat and sunscreen.
- No on-site café: You must bring your own snacks or walk to the nearby market for food.
What is Flagstaff Gardens?
- A 7.2-hectare public garden in Melbourne’s central business district, originally laid out in 1862 on the site of the city’s first burial ground
- Landscaped with Moreton Bay fig trees, elm avenues and heritage rose beds
- Set with historic monuments and sculptures, including the Pioneer Memorial and the Separation Monument
What is so special about Flagstaff Gardens for with kids?
- Free play at a shaded playground
- Easy family picnic with electric BBQs
- Nature walk to spot possums and birds
- Fun photo hunt of historic monuments
- Flat paths ideal for strollers and scooters
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for playground fun, a picnic, a nature walk and a photo hunt without tiring young children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Flagstaff Gardens
Playground adventures:
Enjoy slides, swings and climbing frames.
Tip: Go early to beat crowds and grab shade near big elm trees.
BBQ picnic on the lawns:
Use free electric barbecues and picnic tables.
Tip: Bring simple foods like sausages and sliced fruit so kids can eat on the grass.
Possum and bird nature walk:
Spot ringtail possums and local birds in shaded areas.
Tip: Bring a small pair of binoculars and count each species you see for a mini safari.
Historic sculpture photo hunt:
Find the old sundial, Separation Monument and elm avenue.
Tip: Give kids a photo list and reward each find with a sticker or small prize.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Flagstaff Gardens
- Combine with Queen Victoria Market: Stop at the market for fresh snacks then return for a bench picnic.
- Pack a light picnic: Use a small cooler bag so you can move from lawn to playground easily.
- Bring simple games: A frisbee or ball keeps kids entertained on the open grass.
Reviews of Flagstaff Gardens
Leon Hill
A great place to sit or lie down. It's my favourite place in the CBD to relax and bask in the sun while reading a book or eating lunch. It's big, green, and beautiful. Plus, it's by a underground train station (Flagstaff) and the 30, 35 and 58 trams are very close - also a nice place watch the city circle go past. If you're looking for a spot outside in the city where you can hang out with friends...
Sujinda Jarubhat (CuteCuteChannel)
Flagstaff Gardens is my son’s and my absolute favorite park in the city! Even though it’s right in the heart of Melbourne, it feels lively and calm at the same time. The park is perfect for everyone—whether you’re a couple, a group of friends, or a family looking to enjoy a picnic. On weekends, you’ll often see groups having picnic parties, which makes the atmosphere feel so vibrant and full of l...
Ruth Smethurst
Melbourne has quite a few beautiful green spaces dotted through the CBD. Flagstaff has multiple amenities and beautiful trees with well kept grassy spaces to just sit and breath, in the busy city
Valerie Biteng
This park is such a lovely spot for families! The grass is beautifully maintained, lush, green, and perfect for picnics or just lounging in the sun. The playground is a definite highlight, clean, safe, and packed with fun activities that kept the kids entertained for hours. There’s a great variety of equipment for different ages, and the layout makes it easy to keep an eye on everyone. A perfect p...
L Dilley
A lovely park (no bikes allowed) with a tennis court, lawn bowling facility and playground. Plenty of places to sit in the shade or sun. If you visit in the evening you will be sure to find some cheeky possums. Dog friendly!
When is the best time to visit Flagstaff Gardens (Melbourne, Australia)?
In spring the rose beds bloom—pack extra water. In summer arrive before 10 am for cooler shade. In autumn watch leaves turn gold. In winter dress in layers for windy days.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Picnic supplies | AUD 20 |
| Coffee & pastries at Queen Victoria Market | AUD 15 |
| Tennis court hire (optional) | AUD 23.4 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 58.4 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Flagstaff Gardens
Address: 309-311 William St, West Melbourne VIC 3003, Australia
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About Flagstaff Gardens
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
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