Albert Park - Home of the Foster's Australian Grand Prix
 Once a swampy lagoon, Albert Park was established in 1864 as 'South Park' then renamed Albert Park after Prince Albert, the Consort of Queen Victoria. During the 1870's the 'lagoon' was transformed into a lake for yachting & sailing to cater to the interests of the "Successful Citizens" of the time.
Today, Albert Park is a leafy residential area, characterised by wide streets, renovated Victorian Terraces, a 5 km lake circuit walk, surrounded by parklands, sports ovals, a golf course and other recreational areas, all conveniently located about 3 km south of Melbourne's city centre.
The suburb of Albert Park extends from the St. Vincent Gardens to Beaconsfield Parade and Kerford Road, with property in St. Vincent Gardens and the surrounding streets housing some of the most sought after real estate in Melbourne.
 Albert Park has developed a strong shopping strip along Bridport Street and Victoria Avenue, with lots of clothing and food shops, and excellent stylish cafes and delicatessens.
The suburb has also been home to the Australian Formula One Grand since 1996. Notwithstanding the protests by the Save Albert Park Group, the race circuit required trees to be cut down and facilities demolished, but funds were injected for replacement facilities. Today, the lake circuit is popular with strollers, runners and cyclists. Dozens of small yachts sail around the lake on sunny days.
Getting There
- No 12 Tram from Collins St
- No 1 From Swanston St
- Takes about 10 minutes
Highlights
- Foster's Formula 1 Grand Prix in March
- The Million Paws Day in May
- Classic Car Displays throughout the year.
Activities
- Shopping hubs in the area include Bridport St, Victoria Ave, Clarendon St and Bay St in Port Melbourne, where you will find a variety of stores offering a range of fashion, leisure, deli and grocery items.
- Albert Park Golf Course provides an undulating course with a series of fairways, bunkers and a 270m driving range offering 60 tee positions.
- 11 Picnic Areas equipped with shelters, close to playgrounds and toilets.
- Melbourne Sports & Aquatic Centre is the largest leisure and sporting complex in Australia, boasting swimming centre, health & recreational facilities inc; Gym, Squash, Basketball, table tennis, crèche and cafe.
- Walking Tracks snake their way throughout the scenic park, with the main feature being the 5km walk circuit that follows the lakes perimeter - A popular spot with locals keeping fit by jogging, walking, roller-blading and cycling around the lake.
Eating & Drinking
- Albert Park Lake try The Point Restaurant, Keg & Swan Restaurant for lakeside dining. The Powerhouse is definitely worth considering for Functions, and the Seven Nightclub for party people.
- Middle Park is the home of the Gunn Island Brew bar & Brewery that boasts at having the Duck's Nuts and Beez Neez of beer. A Micro Brewpub serving up some great beer, food and entertainment.
- Clarendon St, Vic Ave & Armstrong St for a great range of restaurants, cafe's, traditional pubs & takeaways
- Bay St, Port Melbourne offers a huge array of traditional pubs, Bay Hotel, Rose & Crown & Molly Blooms, longstanding favourite with locals and travellers sharing a few yarns over a pint of Guinness.
- Montague St, a popular leafy back street, hides O'Connell's Centenary Hotel, winning numerous awards as Melbourne's best food pub and the Montague Hotel offering traditional pub fare.
Related Links | |
|
If we missed something or if there is something that you would like to see then take a moment and send us your comments, suggestions & questions... We'd like to hear from you!
Order your favourite drink and take in the sweeping views from the open air deck while enjoying a selection of tasty tapas. The lounges are a perfect place to relax with friends and on Friday & Saturday nights)
)
