City of Villages - Route 57
Route 57: West Maribyrnong to the City
Starting at Cordite Avenue and passing close by to Highpoint Shopping Centre, the 57 then crosses the beautiful Maribyrnong River where many of the highlights of this route begin.
Here are a few of our Route 57 picks:
Maribyrnong River Walk
Stops 41 or 42 are ideal to hop off and head down to the river walk and enjoy a stroll by the water, as well as a bit of birdwatching with a large population of native birds to be spotted. Or if you’re up for a fitness challenge, you could aim to complete the full 22.27km point to point trail - but set aside about 5 hours or so!
Many historic footbridges allow you to cross either side as you follow the trail and soak in the beautiful views and many picturesque parks along the way.
Melbourne Showgrounds
On the corner of Union Street and along Epsom Rd, the 57 passes by the Melbourne Showgrounds. Billed as Victoria’s largest and most flexible indoor/outdoor venue space, it is most famously the home of the annual Melbourne Royal Show where many, many, many a show bag has put a huge grin on a child’s face.
As well as many major exhibitions, concerts, and tradeshows, the showgrounds are also famous for the iconic ‘Pie in the Sky’ structure next to the grand pavilion built in 1977, which is well worth checking out even when there’s no event happening!
Flemington Racecourse
Just a couple of stops down from the Showgrounds is neighbouring Flemington Racecourse, which hosts the race that stops the nation – The Melbourne Cup. At 125 hectares, it’s one of Australia's largest racecourses and the track itself it one of the longest at a whopping 2,312 metres.
Flemington was added to the Australian National Heritage list in 2006 and boasts a beautiful bronze statue of, perhaps one of the world’s most famous racehorses – Phar Lap. The history of racing is also artistically traced in the seven-panel mural by Harold Freedman which can be seen at The Hill Stand.
Errol Street
The main strip in North Melbourne and its surrounds are home to a plethora of brilliant dining options and with such a multicultural local population, the options are wide and varied with amazing Mexican, Vietnamese, Italian, Japanese, and many more cuisines are yours to enjoy.
North Melbourne may give suburban vibes but its position on the edge of the city gives it a uniquely metropolitan air with an easy relaxed feel. It’s well worth getting off the tram here and giving yourself the day to explore, hang out, enjoy the town hall’s architecture, and grab a city style bite without entering the hustle and bustle of the CBD.
Queen Victoria Market
The Vic Market officially opened in 1878 and is the only remaining major market in Melbourne’s CBD. While its age is obvious and its place on both the Victorian Heritage Register as well as the National Heritage List makes perfect sense, it’s a place that also embraces modernity and culture and fun in every way possible.
Just as famous for its melting pot of cultures and cuisines, quality food and produce as it is for regular events like the night markets, a fantastic festival of food and live music that never disappoints.
It’s no wonder it’s one of Melbourne’s most popular resident and tourist destinations with over 10 million visitors every year.
With more than 600 shops and stalls and ever-changing extras throughout the year, there’s plenty to go round.
You haven’t really experienced Melbourne if you haven’t whiled away at least half a day at the QVM.
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