One of the most quintessential neighborhoods of Melbourne, Northcote has plenty of charming surprises for sightseers. There is a bountiful of enthralling activities to indulge in and the places to explore are highly intriguing for travelers of all ages. With a population of just over 24,000, Northcote’s earthy vibe transports you to a different era. This dynamic area is home to an incredible selection of trails, gardens, bars, restaurants, theaters, shopping spots, and more to keep you engaged for that long holiday. The public transport system is fantastic here, so you can move around conveniently. Even wandering through the quaint streets of Northcote takes your excitement to the next level. Learn more about the top things to do in Northcote, Australia, in this article.
1. Enjoy an evening full of magic at Laneway Theatre
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by The Laneway Theatre on Saturday, February 3, 2018
It is said magic lives here and it’s true. Welcome to Australia’s sole customized magic theatre, hidden within the house of a world-renowned and award-winning magician, Tim Ellis. With almost 30 years of a magical journey behind him, what Tim Ellis has built here is nothing less than genius. Be it the spooky entrance, which is a coffin-shaped door leading you to a graveyard, or the two-way mirror through which you cannot see the performers, but they can, the magician takes you on an exhilarating ride full of mind-bending tricks. From cards’ tricks to vanishing things to vanishing himself, Tim Ellis has amazed millions of admirers. In light of COVID-19, you can enjoy the Social Distancing Magic Show.
Laneway Theatre
Address: Bent St, Northcote VIC 3070, Australia
Website: Laneway Theatre
Opening hours: 7pm - 8:30pm (daily)
Price: Starting at 10 USD
2. Take a refreshing break at Oldis Gardens
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Right from the attractive gates, you will love everything about this aesthetically pleasing garden. Located beside Oldis Gardens are Merri Creek and Northcote football ground, and both of these are a quick walk from here. There are a basketball half-court and a well-maintained playground, perfect for young visitors. An attractive feature of this garden is the memorial drinking fountain. It is a pleasure to walk among the palm trees and, when tired, there are shaded areas with benches where you can rest. You can even plan barbecue picnics with your loved ones. Bring along your pets too. The community center building is a recent addition and the garden is wheelchair friendly.
Oldis Gardens
Address: East St, Northcote VIC 3070, Australia
Website: Oldis Gardens
3. Plan a fun escape to All Nations Park
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
A heaven for nature lovers and explorers, All Nations Park offers spectacular views of Northcote and great sunsets, particularly from the hilltop. Sprawled over an area of 13-hectare (32-acre), being amidst the wonderfully preserved green expanse feels so soothing. The park is located behind Northcote Shopping Plaza and it is home to a bevy of fascinations like two playgrounds suitable for the little ones and older kids, an olive grove, a skate park, a duck pond, barbecue set-ups, shaded picnic spots, the veterans walk, a basketball half-court, a well-stocked open gym and much more. There is a playground specifically for kids coming in wheelchairs.
All Nations Park
Address: Separation St, Northcote VIC 3070, Australia
Website: All Nations Park
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
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4. View stunning art exhibits at Arts Project Australia Inc.
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Arts Project Australia presents 'Spring Back,' a collection of five APA artists for Spring1883. Initially at Collingwood...
Posted by Arts Project Australia on Sunday, August 8, 2021
At Arts Project Australia, you will witness a spectacular array of art forms. However, what makes this fantastic and distinctive is that it offers a platform and promotes the creative talent of artists with intellectual incapacities. With the exhibits changing at regular intervals, it’s refreshing every time you visit. There is a studio that is visited by more than 130 artists, who are mentored by experts in drawing, ceramics, 3D sculpture, painting, digital media, and more. Not just in Australia, but the extraordinary work done by these artists has been showcased in exhibitions across the globe.
ARTS Project Australia Inc.
Address: 24 High St, Northcote VIC 3070, Australia
Website: ARTS Project Australia Inc.
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm; Sat: 10am - 3:30pm (closed on Sun)
Price: Free
5. Explore Merri Creek Trail
A stretch of about 21-km (13-mile), this a not-so-difficult trail that goes on from Dights Falls up to a point where the creek and Yarra River connect. Walking or cycling through the well-landscaped green spaces and watching native wildlife feels so adventurous and rejuvenating. Known to be rich in flora and fauna, this is a site for those with archaeological interests too. It is amazing to find this hidden gem so close to the city yet offering so much serenity to its visitors.
Merri Creek Trail
Address: 1 Sumner Ave, Northcote VIC 3070, Australia
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
6. Capture scenic views of Melbourne from Ruckers Hill
If you wish to capture the best shot of the Melbourne skyline, then Ruckers Hill is the place to be. Grab your camera and head to this picturesque location, which welcomes you with fresh air and tranquility. The breathtaking views of the sunset are incomparable. Furthermore, if you visit Ruckers Hill at night, the marvelous sights of Melbourne and some of the historic houses make it worth it. Placed right in the heart of Northcote, Ruckers Hill was previously referred to as Bayview Street. It is also popular as being one of the most developed locations here, particularly near William Rucker’s mansion.
Ruckers Hill
Address: 14-24 Pearl St, Northcote VIC 3070, Australia
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
7. Enjoy drinks and music at Northcote Social Club
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Mondays are for..
Posted by Northcote Social Club on Monday, August 2, 2021
Featuring a perfect amalgamation of classic music, good food, and unlimited fun is this iconic spot in Northcote. Bubbling with contagious positivity, Northcote Social Club guaranteed a fantastic time. Started in late 1800, it offers an impressive line-up of international artists, bands, special events, gigs, DJs and so much more, coupled with exceptional food and drinks. If you are looking for an appropriate space for hosting a birthday, anniversary, or a corporate party, then Northcote Social Club has the ideal location for you. Be it indoors or outdoors, the charismatic décor, fantastic acoustics, and lively ambiance will certainly be at par with your expectations. You can even buy gift cards for loved ones from the store.
Northcote Social Club
Address: 301 High St, Northcote VIC 3070, Australia
Website: Northcote Social Club
Opening hours: Wed - Thu: 4pm - 12am; Fri - Sun: 12pm - 12am (closed on Mon & Tue)
Price: Starting at 15 USD
8. Shop till you drop at Northcote Plaza Shopping Centre
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Northcote Plaza on Wednesday, March 14, 2018
Placed adjacent to the scenic All Nations Park, Northcote Plaza Shopping Centre witnesses almost 100,000 footfalls each week and houses more than 60 specialty stores such as K-mart, Telstra Northcote, Jenney Craig, OPSM, Liquorland, Bank of Melbourne, Pro Barber, massage parlors, gift shops, and more. Even the list of restaurants and cafes is very appealing, like Baker’s Delight, Donut King, La Gustosa Pizza, and so on. Not only is it fun to browse through the eclectic range of shops, but the affordability also makes this place a favorite point of attraction.
Northcote Plaza Shopping Centre
Address: 3 Separation St, Northcote VIC 3070, Australia
Website: Northcote Plaza Shopping Centre
Opening hours: Mon - Wed: 9am - 5:30pm; Thu: 9am - 7pm; Fri: 9am - 8pm; Sat: 9am - 5pm; Sun: 10am - 5pm
9. Watch a movie at Palace Westgarth Cinemas
Head to Palace Westgarth Cinemas if you are a movie lover and enjoy the latest releases, be it art films, international and local films, movie festivals, and a lot more. Listed by the National Trust of Australia as a heritage property, its appearance is so imposing and is unquestionably an architectural beauty. Catering to movie buffs since 1921, everything is so vintage about this theater; at the same time, it is studded with the latest amenities. Extremely scrumptious refreshments and an appealing selection of beverages are available that you can take inside and relish while watching a movie.
Palace Westgarth Cinemas
Address: 89 High St, Northcote VIC 3070, Australia
Website: Palace Westgarth Cinemas
Opening hours: 10am - 10pm (daily)
Price: From 11 USD
10. Get Zumba training at 24 Moons
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by 24 Moons on Thursday, January 14, 2021
As one of the most sought-after late-night bars of Northcote, 24 Moons is specifically loved for its incredible cocktails. With its attractive décor, vivacious ambiance, and modular design, this venue is tailored to handle any kind of occasion. 24 Moons hosts a multitude of comedy shows, live bands, dance parties, and so much more. If you are looking for some privacy, then there are three private rooms. The VIP room is very elegant and has a bar of its own. A unique feature of 24 Moons is that here, you can get trained for Zumba. Yes, that’s correct! Every Thursday, you can learn this energetic fitness style with Julia Basa, a certified Zumba instructor.
24 Moons
Address: 2 Arthurton Rd, Northcote VIC 3070, Australia
Website: 24 Moons
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 7pm - 3am; Fri - Sat: 10pm - 5am
Northcote, a vacationer’s haven
Blessed with timeless architecture, Northcote is a visual treat for the eyes. The laid-back atmosphere is another attractive feature of this captivating holiday destination, which is a must when you are looking to escape from the daily monotony and hustle-bustle. So, whether you are a solo traveler or you’re with friends or family, the diversity of things to do in Northcote will undeniably mesmerize you.
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