City of Villages - Route 86

Route 86: Bundoora to Waterfront City

Beginning life as two separate cable tram lines in the late 1800s, the lines were joined and began operating in 1925 by the Melbourne & Metropolitan Tramways Board as the longest line in the city. It became an electric tram line in 1955 (then known as Route 88), it was re-numbered as Route 86 in 1987 after various extensions. Finally extending out to its current terminus at Waterfront City in Docklands in 2008.

Running from Bundoora RMIT to Waterfront City, the route travels through some of the world's "official" coolest streets.

Bundoora Park Farm

A picturesque pocket of country life, just 15km from the CBD, is a perfect place for communities and families to get a taste of farm life. Meet friendly animals like alpacas, llamas, sheep, cows, Clydesdales and even miniature ponies! With play spaces, a café, picnic areas, community gardens and more it’s a truly great day out. The farm sits in the huge Bundoora Park which also includes Mount Cooper a true high point in many ways, offering amazing views across Melbourne.

All Nations Park

This 13-hectare park, on the site of the former Northcote brickworks has many unique features, including a spiral, rock-lined walkway up ‘The Hilltop’, an artificial hill in the centre of the park. Along with the Veterans Walk and ANZAC memorial, a lake and performance area, The Olive Grove, contemporary Indigenous gardens, playgrounds with disabled access, skate park, art projects and exercise areas for all abilities, this green suburban gem really does have something for everyone.

Northcote Plaza

Situated right beside All Nations Park is a shopping centre with a cult following. Northcote Plaza opened in 1981 and is a true testament to early 80’s architecture with a unique look that is both much maligned and much adored, known as ‘Le Plaz’ by its fans. The centre is open 7 days a week with a wide variety of retail options and both familiar and exotic food offerings. Visitors to Le Plaz may also be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of Frank, the local feathered celebrity.

High St, Northcote

Beating trendy strips in London, New York City, Tokyo, Buenos Aires and Barcelona to name but a few, the secret is out, this hip street was officially voted ‘The Coolest Street in the World’.

Discover the vibrant charm of High Street in Northcote, where eclectic boutiques, cozy cafes, diverse dining options and live music are a drawcard for locals and visitors alike. But it’s not just it’s physical features, it’s the people, and the true sense of community and welcoming spirit that earned it the top spot. And perhaps that then makes the 86 the coolest tram route in the world too?

Smith St, Fitzroy/Collingwood

Furthering the case for the 86 being the coolest tram route in the world is Smith St. Bordering Fitzroy and Collingwood - Smith Street was previously voted the coolest street in the world.

Once the stomping ground of many a street gang in the 1800s, this electric, eclectic and ever interesting street brings you everything from high-end Scandi furniture stores to long list of cool cafes and restaurants, independent shops, fashion, salons and more but it’s night when Smith St comes truly alive.

Any visit to Smith Street is sure to be exciting and interesting no matter what time of day and with frequent stops all the way along it, the 86 is the perfect way to enjoy everything it has to offer.

Marvel Stadium

Since opening at the start of the millennium, ‘Docklands Stadium’ has had a few names over the years – Colonial Stadium, Telstra Dome, Etihad Stadium and, since 2018, Marvel Stadium.

The 56,000-capacity stadium plays host to a variety of sports from AFL to Cricket, Soccer and Rugby – even Speedway. Many music acts have played to huge crowds too, laying claim to hosting Australia’s first K-Pop stadium gig. It also features an always popular Super-Store, full of AFL and Marvel comic and movie merch.

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