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Fun things to do in Footscray, VIC

May 7, 2023
Reading Time: 9 mins

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Footscray is a vibrant and multicultural suburb located just 5 kilometers from Melbourne’s CBD. It is known for its bustling markets, delicious food, and diverse community. Visitors can explore the Footscray Market, which offers fresh produce, meat, seafood, and international cuisine. The area also boasts a range of cafes and restaurants serving up everything from classic brunch fare to traditional Ethiopian and Vietnamese dishes. For those interested in the arts, Footscray has a thriving arts scene with galleries, performance spaces, and community events. The Footscray Community Arts Centre offers a range of classes and workshops, while the Footscray Library hosts regular events and exhibitions. Sports fans can catch a game at the Whitten Oval, home of the Western Bulldogs AFL team, or head to the Victoria University Whitten Oval Stadium for basketball and other events. With its lively atmosphere, delicious food, and cultural diversity, Footscray is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Melbourne.

 

Heavenly Queen Temple

Discover Peace and Tranquility at the Heavenly Queen Temple

Located at 20 Joseph Rd, Footscray VIC 3011, Australia, the Heavenly Queen Temple is a serene and peaceful place that offers a refreshing change from the hustle and bustle of city life. The temple is accessible on foot, with a 30-minute walk from Footscray station.

Lunar New Year Celebration

The temple is a hub of activity during the Lunar New Year celebration, with a lively dragon dance and firecrackers adding to the festive atmosphere. Visitors can witness the celebration and get a taste of the local culture.

Statue of the Goddess

The temple is dedicated to the Goddess of Sea, Mazu, and boasts a magnificent 50-feet statue of the goddess next to the Maribyrnong River. Visitors can admire the statue’s grandeur and appreciate its intricate details.

Tranquil and Peaceful Place

The Heavenly Queen Temple is a great place to seek wisdom and self-development, with its tranquil and peaceful environment providing the perfect backdrop for meditation and introspection. The temple offers a great learning opportunity for visitors of all ages, with piles of fruit and other offerings creating an intriguing and educational experience.

Ample Parking

Visitors can easily reach the temple by car and enjoy the ample parking available at the front of the temple. The Heavenly Queen Temple is definitely worth a visit for those looking for a unique cultural experience and a chance to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.

 

Footscray Community Arts

Arts and Culture Hub in Footscray

Located in the heart of Footscray, the Footscray Community Arts is a must-visit destination for all art lovers. Spread across multiple buildings, the center is an exciting space dedicated to promoting local and emerging artists from underrepresented groups. It offers a range of spaces and facilities for artists, including artist studios, exhibition spaces, and performing arts venues. The center also hosts various community events and workshops.

A Haven for Creatives

The Footscray Community Arts center provides a haven for creatives, featuring an amphitheater in the gardens for performances, and multiple public art installations. The open public spaces are wheelchair accessible, with plenty of seating, grass areas by the river, and a cafe with both indoor and outdoor seating. The bluestone building houses a cafe that serves strong coffee, baked goods, and local products. Families with children will find plenty to do, with toys, beanbags, and a welcoming environment.

Visit and Experience the Beauty

The gardens at the Footscray Community Arts center are breathtaking, offering stunning panoramic views of the city. Take a walk along the riverside or enjoy a picnic in the well-maintained gardens. The center is just a few minutes away from the Footscray station, making it a perfect spot to relax and unwind after a busy day. Don’t miss the fantastic exhibits and classes on offer – this is a place to discover and explore the best of the local arts and culture scene.

 

Footscray Market

Explore Footscray Market

Located at 18 Irving St, Footscray VIC 3011, Australia, Footscray Market is one of the liveliest indoor markets in Melbourne. This market offers a wide range of fresh produce and general goods. It is located opposite Footscray Railway Station, on the corner of Hopkins Street and Leeds Street, with easy access from Tram 82 or Buses 216, 223, 402, 404, 406.

Food Lover’s Paradise

Footscray Market is a food lover’s paradise with a great variety of food and fresh seafood and meat. You can also find exotic wares like lotus flowers, pigs’ ears, and cassava root and other Asian produces. The market is always buzzing with activity, and you’ll be able to find produce and products ranging from fresh fruit and vegetable to meats, poultry, fish, and seafood.

Vietnamese Cuisine

Most of the stall keepers here are from Asia, of which Vietnamese count for the majority. Pho shop in the market is said to be the best in Footscray, so don’t forget to try it out. The restaurants here are quite good value, if you like Asian foods.

Bargain Hunting

Prices here usually seem to have less logic, and the attitude of sellers is that you can take it or just leave it. So, if you come here to buy things, expect to find some bargains. If you don’t like the price, suggest another one lower.

Easily Accessible

Footscray Market is easily accessible by tram and bus, making it a great spot to visit for tourists and locals alike.

 

Maribyrnong River Cruises

Discover the Maribyrnong River with Maribyrnong River Cruises

Located at 1 Maribyrnong St, Footscray VIC 3011, Australia, Maribyrnong River Cruises offers a unique and intimate way to experience the Maribyrnong River, known as the cleanest river in Melbourne. The company has been operating for 38 years, with father-and-son team Captain Warwick and First Mate Peter Somerville sharing their intimate knowledge of the area and its rich history.

Take a Relaxing and Informative Tour

With a focus on small-scale, personalized tours, Maribyrnong River Cruises offers a refreshing alternative to the commercial tour operators on the Yarra River. On the cruise, you’ll be treated to a running commentary from First Mate Peter Somerville, who shares fascinating insights into the river’s ecology and history.

Upstream and Downstream Cruises Available

The company offers both upstream and downstream cruises along the Maribyrnong River, with today’s special “Downstream” cruise all the way to Docklands. The weather was kind, and guests were treated to stunning views of Melbourne’s cityscape and waterfront.

Unforgettable and Affordable Experience

The Maribyrnong River is a hidden gem in Melbourne, and Maribyrnong River Cruises offers a chance to discover it in a unique and unforgettable way. The tour is also an affordable experience, making it perfect for families and budget-conscious travelers. Don’t miss the chance to explore this beautiful river with Maribyrnong River Cruises!

 

Saigon Welcome Arch

Saigon Welcome Arch: A Charming Tribute to Vietnamese Immigrants

The Saigon Welcome Arch, located on Leeds St in Footscray, is a must-see for visitors to the area. This impressive structure serves as a touching tribute to the Vietnamese immigrants and refugees who have made significant contributions to the Footscray community over the years.

A Beautiful and Memorable Attraction

The arch is a stunning example of Vietnamese architecture and is a memorable attraction for visitors to Footscray. It adds a unique charm to the area and is a refreshing break from the generic buildings that dominate many cityscapes.

A Friendly Gesture of Warm Regards

The Saigon Welcome Arch is a symbol of friendship and warmth, extending a warm welcome to both the Vietnamese and Australian communities. It is a reminder of the importance of diversity and cultural exchange in our society.

A Cool and Historic Feature

Many people are surprised to learn that the Saigon Welcome Arch has a rich history behind it. It is a fascinating piece of Footscray’s past and present, and a great place to visit to gain a deeper appreciation for the area’s cultural heritage.

Easily the Best Giant Elephant Arch in Footscray

Visitors to Footscray won’t want to miss the Saigon Welcome Arch, which is easily one of the most impressive structures in the area. With its unique design and rich history, it is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

 

Henry Lawson statue

Discover the Legacy of Henry Lawson in Footscray

Located at 69 Princes Hwy, Footscray VIC 3011, Australia, The Henry Lawson statue in Footscray commemorates the life and work of Australian poet, Henry Lawson. Commissioned by the Henry Lawson Memorial And Literary Society, the statue was erected in February 1960. The monument consists of a bronze bust of Lawson on a pedestal, set on two Harcourt grey granite steps. Lawson was one of the most renowned Australian poets and fiction writers of the colonial period and is often called Australia’s “greatest writer”. He was the son of the poet, publisher, and feminist Louisa Lawson.

The Henry Lawson Memorial & Literary Society

Founded by Steve Ford JP in 1923, The Henry Lawson Memorial & Literary Society is an organization that celebrates the life and works of Henry Lawson. Every year, in February, the society hosts a gathering near the statue, which is a celebration of Henry Lawson’s life with renditions of his works, performances by singers, and other poetry and prose. The event is a testament to Lawson’s enduring legacy.

Visit the Statue

The Henry Lawson statue is a significant historical landmark and is well worth a visit for those interested in literature and Australian history. The statue is located in a public area, making it easily accessible to everyone. Take a moment to appreciate the legacy of one of Australia’s most celebrated writers, and gain a greater appreciation for the cultural significance of Footscray.

 

Five Walls

Discover Five Walls

Five Walls is a contemporary art gallery located in Footscray, Melbourne. The gallery is dedicated to exhibiting innovative and challenging works of art by both emerging and established artists.

A Progressive Art Space

The gallery is well known for its commitment to promoting non-objective and abstract art. It is an independent run gallery that has achieved professional standards both in management and art curation. Five Walls is one of the most important galleries in Melbourne and is a hub for creativity and innovation.

A Must-Visit Gallery

If you’re an art lover, Five Walls is a must-visit gallery in Melbourne. The atmosphere is great, with friendly staff and well-curated exhibitions. The gallery is a favorite among visitors and is regarded as one of the best galleries in the region. The artworks on display are always of high quality, and the gallery has gained a reputation for showcasing up and coming young artists worth keeping an eye on.

Experience the Best of Footscray

Five Walls is a significant part of the vibrant arts community in Footscray. The gallery is committed to promoting the work of local artists and contributing to the cultural richness of the area. A visit to Five Walls will give you the opportunity to experience the best of Footscray’s artistic and creative scene.

 

Australian Living Peace Museum

Location and Contact Information

The museum is located at Suite 43 Metro West, 25-27 Albert St, Footscray VIC 3011, Australia. Visitors can contact the museum through their website if interested in contributing to the collection or joining the Museum.

About the Museum

The Australian Living Peace Museum is a volunteer-led, community-based organization that aims to foster a culture of peace reflecting the multidisciplinary nature of peace efforts made personally by individuals and by organizations past and present. The museum does so in accord with a range of local, national, and international contexts relating to disarmament, human rights, ecology, reconciliation (including Indigenous responses to colonization), education, and the growth of international humanitarian law.

Virtual Museum

The Australian Living Peace Museum is a virtual museum that uses collection items held in Australia’s public museums, libraries, and art galleries or in private collections to tell stories of peace and non-violence. The museum is committed to sound scholarship, a participatory framework, and community-oriented perspectives.

Join the Museum

If you share the museum’s aims, you can consider joining the museum. By joining the museum, you can contribute to the museum’s ongoing work of fostering a culture of peace and social justice.

 

VU Aquatic & Fitness Centre

Dive into Fitness: VU Aquatic & Fitness Centre

The VU Aquatic & Fitness Centre is a fantastic facility located on the Victoria University Footscray Park Campus. This center has everything you need to stay in shape, including a lap pool, a fitness center, and a variety of fitness classes.

Lap Pool

The lap pool at VU Aquatic & Fitness Centre is perfect for those who want to swim laps or work on their swimming technique. The staff are always friendly and helpful, and the pool is kept clean and presentable at all times.

Fitness Center and Classes

The fitness center at VU Aquatic & Fitness Centre has a wide range of equipment to suit all fitness levels, and there are always staff on hand to help you with any questions you may have. In addition, the center offers a variety of fitness classes to help you reach your fitness goals.

Views and Facilities

Located on the banks of the Maribyrnong River, the VU Aquatic & Fitness Centre boasts stunning views of the water. The facility could use a bit of an upgrade, but it is always clean and presentable.

Community Swimming

The VU Aquatic & Fitness Centre is a popular spot for swimming lessons and other activities, so it can get busy at times. While there are some complaints about the limited lanes available for community swimmers, the staff are always friendly and welcoming.

Membership

If you are a local, the VU Aquatic & Fitness Centre offers great facilities and is worth checking out. However, visitors have suggested that the center invest in a system to scan membership passes using a phone app for added convenience.

 

Rocket Climbing

Reach New Heights at Rocket Climbing Gym

Rocket Climbing Gym is a premier climbing gym located in Footscray, Melbourne. The gym boasts of its super clean and well-lit facility, with air conditioning and easy-to-find parking. It has a great mixture of problems, including shorty-friendly sets, perfect for climbers of all skill levels.

An Excellent Climbing Experience

Rocket Climbing Gym is not only an amazing climbing gym, but also a friendly and welcoming community. The density of climbs and the degree of thought put into them are unmatched, making it the best bouldering gym in Melbourne. The staff is always friendly and helpful, and the gym is equipped with all three boards, a Spray wall, and fully equipped gym.

Fun, Bright and Great Atmosphere

Rocket Climbing Gym offers a great atmosphere for climbers, with frequent climb changes and plenty of training equipment upstairs. The gym takes safety seriously, and proper safety fall is always shown to climbers. With a fun and bright ambiance, it is a great place to spend your day and reach new heights.

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