Attracting over 1.8 million visitors annually, the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne is a treasured part of Melbourne's cultural life and a valuable asset to the heritage-rich city. With its stunning vistas, tranquil lakes and diverse plant collections, the Gardens are a place of continual discovery and delight. The Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne is home to both amazing and diverse plant collections such as camellias, rainforest flora, succulents and cacti, roses, Californian species, herbs, perennials, cycads and plants from Southern China. The newly opened Guilfoyle's Volcano in the Gardens offers visitors a fabulous new precinct to explore. The Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne also provide a natural sanctuary for native wildlife such as the black swans, eels, bell birds, cockatoos and kookaburras. A popular attraction is The Ian Potter Foundation Children's Garden. The Children's Garden has everything that children could possibly want to help them discover the natural world: plant tunnels that they can crawl through, rocks that they can climb and a bamboo forest in which they can hide. The Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne holds a number of walks and tours which introduce visitors to the history, cultural significance and horticultural diversity of Melbourne's finest garden. Located at Observatory Gate, the Visitor Centre is the meeting place for all tours. Information Officers will inform visitors about special features, tours and activities to suit their needs. Visitors can enjoy the magnificent Gardens setting whilst feasting on delicious meals at the Terrace Tearooms and the Observatory Café. The award-winning Gardens Shop is the place to shop for botanical-inspired souvenirs and gifts including stationery, skincare, books and greeting cards. During the warmer months, the Royal Botanic Gardens becomes a vibrant cultural venue with outdoor cinema, theatre performances, and exhibitions regularly scheduled.
