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Fun Things To Do in Abbotsford, VIC

March 7, 2023
Reading Time: 11 mins

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Abbotsford is a vibrant and exciting area, filled with fun things to do. Visitors can enjoy a traditional pub experience at one of the many local pubs, with great food and drink options available. For those looking for a night out, there is a male-friendly venue that offers a lively atmosphere, karaoke, pool, and great drinks. The area is also home to some fantastic cafes that serve up delicious and seasonal menus. Visitors can relax in the sun-drenched beer gardens or soak up the atmosphere indoors. For families and pet-lovers, the area has cafes that are kid and pet-friendly. Culture vultures will find plenty to keep them busy in Abbotsford, with a variety of galleries, museums and other cultural institutions to explore. From contemporary art to historical exhibits, there is always something new and exciting to discover. Nature lovers will appreciate the beautiful parks and green spaces in Abbotsford, which offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Take a stroll along the Yarra River or relax in one of the many parks and gardens.

 

Dights Falls

Dights Falls

Dights Falls is a beautiful and natural landmark located in Melbourne, Victoria. It’s a rapid and weir on the Yarra River that’s easily accessible by car or public transportation. The falls are a nice little attraction on the Yarra River, where the river narrows and is constricted between a volcanic, basaltic lava flow and a much older steep, silurian, sedimentary spur.

Activities at Dights Falls

Dights Falls is a great place for nature lovers to explore, offering comfortable trails for walking, hiking, and cycling. Visitors can also take in the beautiful natural scenery, have a picnic, and relax in the peaceful atmosphere. The area is easily accessible by car or public transportation, making it a convenient destination for a day trip.

Getting There

Access to Dights Falls is easy and convenient. Visitors can walk here from Victoria Park Railway Station, or take bus 200 or 207. There’s a small car park at Dights Falls offering 4 hours of parking, but street parking is available within walking distance.

 

Abbotsford Convent

Abbotsford Convent Location

1 St Heliers St, Abbotsford VIC 3067.

Overview

Abbotsford Convent is Australia’s largest multi-arts precinct, just four kilometers from Melbourne’s CBD, spread over 16 acres. It is a place of art, culture, and learning, renowned for its rich history, striking built and natural landscapes, and the remarkable community-led campaign to preserve it from commercial development.

Managed by the Abbotsford Convent Foundation, a not-for-profit, social enterprise, this nationally and internationally unique precinct is home to a vibrant creative community, wellbeing practitioners, a gallery, cafes, a radio station, two schools, and an abundance of green open space.

Activities

The Convent is passionate about working collaboratively with artists and partnering with arts and cultural organizations to present contemporary, thought-provoking, and enriching experiences for all to enjoy. Every year, the Convent curates and welcomes over 2,000 art projects, rehearsals, workshops, exhibitions, private and corporate events, markets, and festivals.

Features

At the Convent, they celebrate creativity, inclusivity, well-being, and community enrichment—both on-site and online. Abbotsford Convent is a former Catholic convent turned place of art, culture, and learning precinct. It has a farmers’ market and food markets on the weekends (Saturday), which are worth a visit. Don’t miss to have a pie from the convent bakery. The convent building has some great architecture, which is worth a visit in itself.

Reviews

Visitors have noted that it is a beautiful venue with easy and inexpensive parking. The bakery visit is a must, and the Saturday markets are not to be missed. Many have mentioned that they will return to spend some downtime in this wonderful place.

 

Collingwood Children’s Farm

Location

Collingwood Children’s Farm is located at 18 St Heliers St, Abbotsford VIC 3067.

Overview

Collingwood Children’s Farm is a much-loved non-profit organization that has been supporting and engaging local children experiencing adversity since its founding in 1979. Located only four kilometers from Melbourne’s CBD, this farm is a haven for both children and adults alike.

Community Programs

The farm supports social inclusion through a range of community programs that develop self-esteem, self-worth, and connectedness, particularly for children and those experiencing adversity. These programs provide educational opportunities around urban agriculture for students and the community, and offer pathways to further employment in the industry.

Things to Do

At the farm, visitors can cuddle a goat, enjoy workshops with a farmer, or sit back with a coffee and observe the goings-on of a thriving community farm. Children can roam around at their own pace, brushing the cows, patting the Guinea pigs, feeding the horses, chasing the goats, and dodging the geese. There are also acres of paddocks and gardens to explore, making it a great place for families to spend a day together.

Amenities

Collingwood Children’s Farm offers plenty of seating around the farm, and most of the amenities are centralized around the café. There is paid parking nearby, and it can get very busy on fine weather days on the weekend.

Visitors Reviews

Visitors have raved about the farm, with one describing it as a “marvellous” place that is a “special Melbournian treasure.” Another visitor loved the cafe and the community atmosphere. They noted that it’s a great place to take children, with plenty of animals to see and interact with.

Come and experience the charm of Collingwood Children’s Farm and get in touch with nature, green space, and animals.

 

Gahan Reserve

Gahan Reserve

Gahan Reserve is a local park located at 118 Park St, Abbotsford VIC 3067, in close proximity to Collingwood train station and Collingwood Town Hall. This park is a popular spot for families, friends and neighbours to gather and enjoy outdoor activities.

Activities

Gahan Reserve has a half basketball court for those who love to shoot hoops, and a playground that will keep kids entertained for hours. Visitors can also make use of the barbeque and picnic area to enjoy a meal or catch up with loved ones.

Dog-Friendly

The southern half of the park is designated as an off-leash area for dogs. Visitors can bring their furry friends and let them roam free while keeping their dogs on a leash in the north, near the playground and barbeque/picnic area.

Visitor Reviews

Visitors rave about the park’s cleanliness and the quality of the facilities. There is a great sense of community in this park, and visitors often get to know their neighbours while enjoying the space. Some have even reported meeting friendly cats that visit the park. The park is easily accessible by public transport and is a great spot for a picnic, a play, or a walk with the dog. One thing to note is that there are no toilets in the park, but the Collingwood library nearby has public toilets.

 

MANIAX Axe Throwing – ABBOTSFORD

Location and History

“19-21 Russell St, Abbotsford VIC 3067. From what started off as just mates having a laugh, it wasn’t long until we knew we had to find a warehouse. We went searching in the inner west of Sydney and luckily found a landlord that shared the passion for taking risks and having a go. We put in a DA to the local council and then the reality hit. Some of the locals were up in arms. They hustled the media, the council, which made our debut extremely difficult. There were certainly times when I thought Axe Throwing may be too un-PC for Australia but we persevered and fought hard.

Unique Experience

It turned out the battle was all a blessing in disguise – the media loved it! We ended up all over the news, in the local newspapers, national TV, Radio, social media. All this attention pushed us in the face of the public, which drastically helped our little start-up business idea gain traction. The rest is history with our Sydney venue becoming very successful and most of the naysayers even stopping by to throw axes and have the time of their life. As we got busier it was time to expand around Australia. Five years, four venues and close to 300,000 people later, our Australian venues operate at capacity most weekends for groups of all backgrounds – bucks, hens, family get-togethers, birthdays or just those wanting something different than the same old, same old.

Safe and Thrilling Environment

Our weekday sessions are busy with many large companies wanting to give their team members something edgy to do to set themselves above the old boardroom games. I never get bored of seeing people throwing an axe for the first time and hitting that bullseye, the cheers, yelling of excitement, pure primal noises that bellow from deep in their stomach. It truly is rewarding to know that all the battles that were fought to bring axe throwing down under were worth it. We run MANIAX as a relaxed, thrilling, but above all safe environment.

Professional and Fun Staff

What makes us excited? Seeing this thing grow from a bare warehouse and a crazy idea to a pumping number of venues with a fabulous team of Axe Throwing legends leading the way with every type of Aussie who wants to learn how to throw an axe. Our staff really make your experience what it is – they are a bunch of champions. MANIAX is not MANIAX without them and I feel very lucky to have them. Each has their own spin on how to do it best, and they give their all to make sure that every person walks out with a big smile on their dial and a story to tell their mates about how they learned a crazy new skill of axe throwing.

 

BalloonMan

BalloonMan – The Best Hot Air Balloon Ride Operator in Melbourne

Located at10 Bond St, Abbotsford VIC 3067.

BalloonMan is the most experienced hot air balloon ride operator in Melbourne. Chris, the founder and pilot, has vast experience operating passenger hot air balloon rides over Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. With over 3000 hours as a pilot in command of a passenger hot air balloon, you can rely on his expertise to ensure you receive the best Melbourne has to offer.

Experience Counts in Hot Air Ballooning

Experience counts for a great deal in hot air ballooning. Chris chooses to fly only when the weather conditions are best and selects the best launch site each day to provide you with the best views over Melbourne. When you fly with Balloon Flights Over Melbourne, you always fly with Chris and his team, and you can rely on their experience and professionalism to ensure you have the most memorable flight.

Amazing Experience with BalloonMan

Many customers have raved about their amazing experience with BalloonMan. Chris, the pilot, is knowledgeable in all aspects of ballooning and makes all passengers feel comfortable throughout the flight. He captures amazing video and photos, which he promptly sends to passengers after the flight.

The BalloonMan team ensures that every passenger has an unforgettable experience. They provide a complimentary breakfast experience that wraps up the magical flight perfectly.

Highly Recommended Hot Air Balloon Ride in Melbourne

With BalloonMan, you can experience the most exhilarating hot air balloon ride over Melbourne. The whole experience from booking to flying to finishing is excellent. The team is responsive and professional, ensuring passengers feel safe and secure throughout the flight. Highly recommended for a unique and memorable experience in Melbourne.

 

The Altar Electric

The Altar Electric

Located 299 Johnston St, Abbotsford VIC 3067. Operating since 2017, The Altar Electric has quickly established a reputation for being Melbourne’s most rocking way to get hitched.

A Revolutionary Concept

This revolutionary concept is the brainchild of three Melbourne celebrants (Dee Brinsmead, Anthony Cribbes and Sarah Dobson) who realised there was a gap in the market for lovers who just didn’t want a big white wedding.

Low Fuss Nuptials

They wanted something small and simple but with a bit more heart and soul than what was on offer at the registry office. So Dee, Anthony and Sarah had a lightbulb moment and thought, ‘Let’s do registry style weddings that really rock’. And we’ll do them in an amazing space that reflects the vibe and energy of our generation.’ And so, The Altar Electric was born.

Heartfelt Moments

These low fuss nuptials are truly some of the most heartfelt moments they’ve ever experienced as celebrants. There is something so real and romantic about small weddings. The rawness of it all, kinda takes your breath away. It’s a privilege to be a part of such an incredible moment. Disneyland might have a run for its money – because The Altar Electric may just be the Happiest Place on Earth!

 

Carlton Brewhouse

Experience the Carlton Brewhouse

Located at 24 Thompson St, Abbotsford VIC 3067

Trivia Night and Burgers

The Carlton Brewhouse is not just about beers, but also offers great food and fun activities. Head down on a Wednesday night and enjoy a trivia night while enjoying $15 burgers and jugs of beer all day long. The atmosphere is buzzing, and the venue is kept exceptionally clean.

Brewery Tours

If you’re a beer enthusiast, then the Carlton Brewhouse is a must-visit destination. Join one of their popular factory tours and witness how your favorite local beers are made. The tour guides are knowledgeable and passionate, offering an unforgettable experience. You’ll get to ask questions and learn more about the brewing process. At the end of the tour, you’ll also get to taste different types of beers and understand the difference between each one.

Charming Hospitality

The Carlton Brewhouse may be the biggest brewery in Australia, but it still maintains that old-fashioned charm and hospitality. The staff makes sure that visitors feel incredibly welcome and valued, and the facilities are kept exceptionally clean. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends or as a solo traveler, the Carlton Brewhouse has something for everyone.

Unforgettable Experience

Visitors rave about the Carlton Brewhouse, with many saying that they’ve returned multiple times. The tour guides are equipped with history, knowledge, and charisma, making each visit unique and memorable. Whether you’re a beer lover or not, the Carlton Brewhouse is a great day out with family and friends. Experience their amazing tours, enjoy great food, and immerse yourself in their fantastic hospitality.

 

Good Shepherd Chapel

Good Shepherd Chapel

The Good Shepherd Chapel is a small but beautifully restored old church located at 1 St Heliers St, Abbotsford VIC 3067. It is steeped in history and has a story to tell about the plight of displaced and deserted girls and women from 1863 who were given refuge and purpose by the Sisters of the Good Shepherd.

Sisters of the Good Shepherd

The Congregation of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd is an international religious Congregation within the Catholic tradition, known as the Sisters of the Good Shepherd. The vision and mission of the Congregation is based on the Gospel message of Jesus, the Good Shepherd, and the foundations of social justice. The Sisters of the Good Shepherd were founded in France in 1835 by Saint Mary Euphrasia Pelletier to assist women and children most in need, and have continued expanding the vision of St John Eudes from 1641. Across the world for almost 200 years (and within a broader timeline of 400 years), Good Shepherd Sisters have been providing courageous and compassionate services to women, girls, and families to help them overcome disadvantage.

Place of refuge

The Good Shepherd Chapel is a good place for quiet meditation and to seek God’s presence. It is very peaceful and lovely. The chapel is a beautifully restored building with a rich history of being a place of refuge, hope, and belonging for disadvantaged girls and women during the Gold Rush era. Visitors are encouraged to allow plenty of time to soak in the architecture and to understand the history of the chapel.

Masses and events

The Good Shepherd Chapel continues to conduct daily masses, and the venue is also available for weddings and funerals. The chapel has an enthusiastic guide on site who is available to answer any questions about the history of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd and the chapel itself. Whether you are a religious pilgrim, a history buff, or simply seeking a moment of peace, the Good Shepherd Chapel is a must-see destination in Abbotsford.

 

Abbotsford Northside Boulders

Abbotsford Northside Boulders

Abbotsford Northside Boulders, located at 1 Studley St, Abbotsford VIC 3067, is a cozy and intimate climbing gym that provides a challenging and fun bouldering experience. The gym has a friendly and supportive community of climbers, who love the variety of routes and styles offered.

Hard Routes for Intermediate Climbers and Above

The gym is known for its hard routes, making it a perfect choice for intermediate and above climbers who want to push their limits. The route setting at Abbotsford Northside Boulders exceeds other comparable gyms in the area, providing climbers with a diverse range of challenges, including traverse, crimps, overhangs, long, and short routes.

Fantastic Climbing Experience

The gym has a modern and inviting atmosphere, with great lighting and a chill area with coffee, a microwave, and yoga mats. Climbers love the fantastic climbing experience, and many recommend the gym as their favourite place to train. The staff at Abbotsford Northside Boulders are super friendly and helpful, with many customers highlighting their positive experience with Liam and Charlie.

Lo-fi Alternative to Bigger Siblings

Abbotsford Northside Boulders is a lo-fi, cosy alternative to its bigger siblings and other alternatives in the area. It is perfect for those who prefer a smaller, more intimate climbing experience. Although it may be small, it packs a punch with its challenging routes, great atmosphere, and friendly community of climbers.

Highly Recommended by Climbers

Overall, Abbotsford Northside Boulders is a highly recommended gym for those looking for a challenging and fun bouldering experience. Climbers love the diverse range of routes and styles, the friendly staff and community, and the cozy atmosphere. So if you’re in the area, make sure to check it out!

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