Best Nature and Parks (RV, National, Dog, etc) in Docklands

"This fenced garden is within the Royal Botanic Gardens and provides opportunities for water play and nature play in a popular picnic spot. You can also take your under 5s on a Punt Tour for free!. Ian Potter Foundation Children’s Garden, Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne, Birdwood Avenue, South Yarra"

"Right in the centre of the city, Fitzroy Gardens is perfect for a leisurely family stroll. Tell the kids that they can visit the Fairy Tree and I am sure they will not mind the miles. Not far from there, they can then explore the mini Tudor Village which is simply adorable."

"Visit the Royal Exhibition Building in Carlton Gardens for somewhere unique in Melbourne – it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest existing exhibition buildings in the world. The building hosts various exhibitions and events in all areas of interest, of which price for each will vary so check out what’s on before visiting. Regardless, a simple walk around the outside provides a moment to admire the restoration work on this wonderful building!"

"A popular spot for very good reason – again no permit required and lots of open space in the manicured gardens and sweeping paths. There’s also the picturesque Royal Exhibition building, modern Melbourne Museum and the Rubix Cube wall, so you could easily spend an entire shoot here and make it look like you traveled to three different locations. Great for San Remo Ballroom."

"If you are planning a visit to the Melbourne Museum which is located in the historic Royal Exhibition Building then you can’t walk past the wonderful Carlton Gardens. These gardens are world heritage listed and are well worth a visit in any season. Make sure you check out the ornamental lakes and the fountains (kids love water in action)."

"Firstly you don’t need a permit (yay!) and even if there are lots of visitors in the gardens, there is still lots of space. Our fave spots are the hedge wall and gazebo near the rose garden. Even the public toilets have a great stone wall!"

"The area around St Kilda Pier has to be one of the top places to be in city on a warm and still evening. It’s certainly one of the nicest sunset photography spots in inner-city Melbourne. Tip: Watch the sunset over Port Phillip Bay on a clear evening then head further down the pier to the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron Marina to watch the skyline light up."

"Part of the Saltwater Coast residential development, Crocodile Park is open to everyone with a playground, boardwalk and barbecue area. The playground includes a play structure, and a water play area with a large crocodile at the centre, and a stream running into a wading pool and water jets. Crocodile Park, Saltwater Promenade, Point Cook"

"The Conservatory restaurant offers an array of international cuisine, with a series of different culinary stations, each offering a unique dining experience."

"All you need is a love of carbs to join this particular club, where the rewards are awe-inspiring breads, pastries and pies. The two Frenchmen behind the venture have worked e at Vue de Monde, Woodfrog Bakery, Tivoli Road Bakery and Baker D. Chirico. Classic sourdough and baguettes are a given, while creative turns results in delights like Banana Split croissants, toffee custard doughnuts and saffron buns."

"And who wouldn't line up for baklava escargot and 'Tirami-choux'?. Follow Bread Club's Instagram for the daily drop of menu items. Think brie pumpkin sourdough sando, pepperoni pizza, chewy choc chip cookies and loaded doughnuts."

"For when life demands the exceptional" is their tagline and they don't disappoint!. From the tranquil sorrounds to the ultimate in private pampering suites, Australia's most exclusive and sophisticated day spa delivers you an indulgent experience that's hard to beat. Treatments are performed by a team of expert professional spa therapists using La Prairie treatments designed to soothe and revitalise body, mind and soul."

"Melbourne’s iconic monument was built as a memorial to honour all those who served during World War I and all Australians who have since served in military conflict and peacekeeping operations. Open daily, visitors can wander through reflective exhibition spaces including Galleries of Remembrance, The Victoria Cross and Gallery of Medals and see over 800 objects including photos, uniforms and historical artefacts."

"The Shrine of Remembrance (commonly referred to as The Shrine) is a war memorial built in honour of the men that fought in World War I. It now functions as a memorial for all Australians who have been sent to war. The Shrine was built during the great depression and construction relied heavily on public contributions."

"Lookout north-westerly down the Ceremonial Avenue back toward the CBD as the light fades and the sun drops to the west and the twilight colours briefly fill the sky. Can you see someone staring back at you?. It’s the face of William Barak on the ‘Portrait Building’."

"Rippon Lea, cared for by the National Trust, is a beautiful historic mansion with gardens that are just wonderful to explore. The mansion was built in 1868 by a businessman who made his fortune selling soft-goods on the goldfields. Take a guided tour of the house, enjoy the lovely garden and finish up with tea and cake at the Gatehouse cafe."

"Perhaps the most notable council building is Melbourne Town Hall. This heritage listed building was the prototype for numerous suburban town halls. While the building’s architectural significance is clear with its impressive Tasmanian freestone façade (built in 1867), the Prince Alfred Tower (added in 1869) and temple-like portico (1887), it’s also notable for its role in many historical moments."