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                    Carlton Gardens

                    The Rpyal Exhibition Building in Carlton Gardens
                    Carlton Gardens lies directly north of the CBD and is a key part of Melbourne's inner-urban open space network. It contains the Royal Exhibition Building, the Melbourne Museum, an abundance of natural and landscaped features, as well as a few permanent attractions and cultural events.

                    ​​​​​​Designed for the Melbourne International Exhibition of 1880, the Royal Exhibition Building and surrounding Carlton Gardens were recognised as a World Heritage Site in 2004. The gardens also surround the Melbourne Museum

                    The southern section of the gardens form the setting for the Royal Exhibition Building and significant tree avenues, parterre beds, ornamental lakes, elaborate fountains and mature European trees that reflect the changing seasons. In particular, look out for the Victorian-era Hochgurtel Fountain and the two ornamental lakes created for the 1880 exhibition. The Moreton Bay fig tree near Gertrude Street is of significance to the Victorian Aboriginal community as an enduring meeting place. 

                    The northern section of the gardens are home to the Carlton Gardens Tennis Club, a children's playground, basketball court and picnic area and a lodge.

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                    Photo gallery

                    People walking on a path in Carlton Gardens, along a row of large elm trees with autumn colour, casting long shadows on the grassPeople using the basketball courts in Carlton Gardens. There are many trees surrounding the court, and seats nearby.Children's playground in Carlton Gardens with a slide, climbing walls and various structures for play.Children's playground in Carlton Gardens with swings, several seats and large elm trees nearbyA section of the Melbourne Museum building resembling a tilted cube tiled in rainbow colours.Rows of mature elm trees with yellow autumn leaves on either side of a footpath in Carlton Gardens.The Royal Exhibition Building in Carlton Gardens with a decorative water fountain in front, and framed by large trees in the foreground.

                    Things to do

                    Facilities

                    Designations, policies and plans

                    How to get there

                    Carlton Gardens in a short walk from Parliament Station, or use tram routes 86/96 or numerous bus lines. See PTV journey planner for more public transport information.

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                    Map of Carlton Gardens
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