Australia’s 4 Most Beautiful Parks

For most visitors, the word ‘Australia’ inspires visions of expansive desert, beautiful beaches, and some of the world’s most stunning marine life. Alongside the country’s exciting cities and historic countryside is an oasis of beauty, with some of the world’s most celebrated natural attractions. But that’s not all that’s beautiful about Australia – there’s immense beauty to be found in the cities, too.

These four parks aren’t tucked into corners of the wilderness, nor are they expertly cultivated miles away from civilization. All four can easily be found in just twenty minutes, whether you live right in the centre of Sydney or several miles outside Perth. If you’re looking for serene beauty that’s not a length drive away, let these four beautiful inner-city Australian parks satisfy your cravings.

1.    Hyde Park, Sydney

No, not that Hyde Park. While Sydney’s central park may share a name with one across the world, it certainly doesn’t need to borrow any beauty or character from overseas. Located in the centre of two central streets – Elizabeth and College – this central city oasis offers a welcome rest from the hustle and bustle of central Sydney.

Hyde Park hasn’t always been an oasis of natural beauty and greenery, however. Just over a hundred years ago it was used as a racecourse, and following that, Sydney’s first premier cricket stadium. Its current form is significantly more beautiful, and the park’s history makes a quick walk during in the middle of the day all the more relaxing and tranquil.

2.    Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne

Just three kilometres from central Melbourne, the Royal Botanic Gardens offer a pleasant escape from the city’s mile-high skyline and interesting colonial charm. Entry to the park is free, with an extensive selection of short walks and bird watching activities on offer. Tearooms and other small facilities are available in the park, although it’s worth bringing a small meal with you in the day.

Melbourne’s Botanic Gardens is one of the best in Australia, boasting a significant population of small animals and native birds. While it’s easily accessible from the city itself, the park feels very unlike ultra-busy central Melbourne. Bring a book and relax in the piece and quiet, before heading back to the noise, eventfulness, and excitement of the central city.

3.    Adelaide Himeji Garden, Adelaide

Adelaide Himeji Garden is a unique park, and certainly not what visitors would expect in the centre of an Australian city. Built as a cooperative effort between Australia and Japan, the park symbolizes the unique cultural, economic, and social bond between the two nations. A variety of Japanese-style plants are included, along with beautiful ponds and other water features.

The Himeji Garden is accessible from central Adelaide, and is an ideal picnic spot for residents and visitors to the city. Both native Japanese and international plants are on display, with guide services for visitors and those interested in learning more about the park’s history.

4.    Kings Park and Botanic Garden, Perth

Located just 1.5 kilometres from Perth’s exciting central districts, Kings Park is one of the biggest public city parks in Western Australia. Visitors can look out over the city’s beautiful harbour and shorefront districts, or enjoy the parks extensive selection of flowers, native trees, and open space.

A variety of events are held in Kings Park each year, with thousands of Perth residents flocking to the park’s wide open spaces on summer nights. Whether you’re looking for relaxation of a thrilling evening, be sure to check out Kings Park next time you’re in Australia’s western city.