With its incredible array of exotic (and local) flora and fauna, the zoo offers eager visitors a snapshot of global wildlife right by the heart of the CBD. In turn, Royal Park – the largest inner-city park in town – is a local favourite and houses numerous sporting facilities, prime picnic spots and boot camp sessions.
Parkville’s longstanding affluence can be seen in its multitude of heritage homes. Yet while the university and its surrounds offer up a brilliant array of cafés, the suburb is decidedly lacking in a central shopping village. But with the bright lights of the CBD right next door, not to mention the cultured spoils of Carlton and hip highlights of North Melbourne – it’s hardly an issue. And when the tree-lined streets are this pretty, who’s complaining?