The Great Melbourne Park Census: More Parks Than Snags on a Barbie?
Ah, Melbourne. City of laneways, trams, and that infectious "she'll be right" attitude. But there's another side to this fair city, a greener side bursting with parks and gardens. So many, in fact, that you might start to wonder: just how many parks does Melbourne have?
Hold onto your hats (or stubby holders, as the case may be), because this is where things get a little squirrelly.
Melbourne's park situation is like that relative who always brings a mystery dip to the family gathering. There's a lot there, it looks delightful, but exactly what it is can be a bit of a head-scratcher.
| How Many Parks Does Melbourne Have |
The Official Count: Parks a-Plenty
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The City of Melbourne itself manages a whopping nearly 480 hectares of parks and gardens. That's a lot of room to spread out a picnic blanket, kick a footy, or contemplate the meaning of life under a gum tree (because, let's face it, that's what deep thoughts in Melbourne often involve).
But Wait, There's More!
That impressive number only counts the parks under the City of Melbourne's direct control. Melbourne sprawls out further than your average kangaroo on a hot day, and each little pocket of suburb often has its own green haven. Parks Victoria, a state government body, also manages a bunch of parkland in and around the city.
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Then there are the hidden gems: those tiny squares tucked away in between towering buildings, or the grassy margins along the Yarra River. Trying to pin down an exact number is like trying to count sheep after a few too many vinos – it gets fuzzy fast.
The Verdict: More Parks Than You Can Shake a Shillelagh At
While we might not have a laser-focused figure, it's safe to say Melbourne has enough parks to make even the most nature-deprived city slicker happy. Whether you're looking for a sprawling botanic garden, a quirky neighbourhood green space, or a patch of grass to unleash your inner frisbee champion, Melbourne's got you covered.
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Park FAQ
How to find a park near me?
Easy! Most council websites have a park finder tool. Failing that, ask a friendly local – Melburnians are particularly proud of their green spaces.
How to choose the perfect park for my activity?
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Consider what you're after! Big open spaces for picnics and ball games? Head to a Royal Park or Botanic Gardens. Tranquil escape with rose gardens and fountains? Check out Fitzroy Gardens. Every park has its own personality.
How to be a good park user?
Simple: respect the space and your fellow park-goers. Clean up after yourself, keep an eye out for wildlife (seriously, those magpies can be right stinkers!), and maybe even plant a seed (figuratively or literally) to keep the park thriving.
How to avoid a sunburn at the park?
Slip, slop, slap! Melbourne might be known for its fickle weather, but the sun can still pack a punch. Sunscreen, hat, and maybe even a shady spot under a tree are your best friends.
How to impress your mates with your park knowledge?
Drop this fact: Melbourne is nicknamed the "Garden City" for a reason!