Located just north west of Melbourne CBD, the Moonee Valley area has become its own mini metropolis, with a relaxed style and a multicultural vibe that you won’t find anywhere else. Consisting of the Moonee Ponds, Essendon, Strathmore and Ascot Vale suburbs, there are plenty of open parks, nature walks, local boutiques and restaurants to keep your busy during your visit to Moonee Valley.
To help you plan your next staycation, weekend getaway, or day trip to Moonee Valley, we’ve put together just a couple of our favourites activities and things to do.
Head to the Races
From later October – November Melbourne comes to life with events, fashions on the fields, and race days. The sun is shining, the champagne is flowing, and it’s the perfect time to be a social butterfly and catch up with friends. Really it’s not surprise that it’s one of our favourite times of year here at The Sebel Moonee Ponds, Moonee Valley Racecourse and Flemington Racecourse are just quick trot away. Check out our guide to planning the perfect Spring racing getaway here.
Image source: vrc.com.au
Go Skydiving… Indoors.
Have you always wanted to go skydiving, but the actual thought of jumping out of a plane and plummeting towards earth makes your heart skip a few beats? Well thankfully the team at iFly have come up with a way you to experience the feeling of flying, without jumping out of a plane.
The iFly facility is built with a centralised 14ft (3.65m) diameter-wide vertical glass wind tunnel that creates a freefall sensation very similar to skydiving. It’s open to all ages from 3 yrs and up, each session starts with a comprehensive introduction by the iFly team
Image source: iflyworld.com.au
Join in the Moonee Valley Festival Celebrations
Held once a year, the Moonee Valley Festival is one of the most popular and beloved dates in our community calendar. Having first started in 1977, the festival has grown from a single-day event to a series of events taking place across the Moonee Valley neighbourhoods. There are a range of events for the whole family including the Twilight Concert, Food Fair Festival, Neighbour Day Community Picnic, and the Illuminate the River event.
Image source: mvcc.vic.gov.au
Head for Dinner
Moonee Ponds is brimming with restaurants that celebrate the diversity, fresh produce, and amazing artisans of the wider Melbourne area. From the freshest Japenese at Chiba, authentic Lebanese at Bekka, or the classic take away fish n chips at Hunky Dory to European tapas in our very own New York styled Saros Bar + Dining, you will have no trouble finding a menu to suit your tastes.
Location: Ground floor, 41 Homer St, Moonee Ponds VIC 3039, Australia
Image source: sarosbardining.com.au
The Escape Room (Moonee Ponds)
Put your problem-solving skills to the ultimate test. Whether you’re looking for a unique date night or a team-building exercise, these immersive rooms require wit, speed, and teamwork to break free before the clock runs out.
Location: 9 Lee St, Flemington VIC 3031, Australia
Image source: escaperoom.com.au
Essendon Historical Society
The Essendon Historical Society is a community-focused organisation dedicated to preserving, studying, and promoting the history and heritage of Essendon and its surrounding districts. Through activities such as monthly talks, heritage walks, exhibitions, and the maintenance of historical records and collections, the Society engages the public in exploring local stories, artefacts, and places of significance.
Location: 770 Mt Alexander Rd, Moonee Ponds VIC 3039, Australia
Image source: esshissoc.org.au
Jack’s Magazine
Hidden behind earth-covered blast mounds on the banks of the Maribyrnong River, Jack’s Magazine is one of Victoria’s most atmospheric industrial heritage sites. Once used for the storage of gunpowder and explosives, this extraordinary 19th-century precinct now provides a unique backdrop for events, festivals, design markets and, from 2026, public open days and mid-week group tours.
Image source: workingheritage.com.au
De Bretts Antiques Market
De Bretts Antique Market is a well-known antique and collectables destination located on Mt Alexander Road in Moonee Ponds, Victoria, Australia. The market offers a diverse and ever-changing selection of vintage treasures
Location: 646 Mt Alexander Rd, Moonee Ponds VIC 3039, Australia
Image source: facebook.com/DeBrettsAntiqueMarket
The Clocktower Centre
The cultural heart of Moonee Ponds. Originally the Essendon Town Hall, this stunning clock tower now hosts a diverse program of live theatre, comedy, and music. Check their seasonal calendar to see what’s playing during your stay.
Location: 750 Mt Alexander Rd, Moonee Ponds VIC 3039, Australia
Image source: clocktowercentre.com.au
Melbourne Zoo
Just a few minutes from Moonee Ponds, Australia’s oldest zoo is home to over 320 animal species. From the majestic elephants to the playful lemurs, it is a world-class wildlife experience right on our doorstep.
Image source: zoo.org.au
Heavenly Queen Temple
A short drive to Footscray brings you to this magnificent Taoist temple dedicated to Mazu, the Goddess of the Sea. Featuring a soaring 15-meter bronze statue and intricate traditional architecture, it is a place of profound peace and beauty.
Image source: heavenlyqueentemple.com.au
Maribyrnong River Cruises
A short drive to Footscray brings you to this magnificent Taoist temple dedicated to Mazu, the Goddess of the Sea. Featuring a soaring 15-meter bronze statue and intricate traditional architecture, it is a place of profound peace and beauty.
Image source: blackbirdcruises.com.au
Queens Park Swimming Pool
Cool off during the summer months at this beloved outdoor pool. Surrounded by the greenery of Queens Park, it features a 50-meter heated pool and a dedicated toddler area, making it a staple for local families.
Location: Pascoe Vale Rd &, The Strand, Moonee Ponds VIC 3039, Australia
Image source: movemv.com.au
Fizz Kidz Moonee Ponds
The perfect destination for a creative day out with the little ones. Fizz Kidz offers hands-on science and craft workshops where children can make everything from glittery slime to fizzy bath bombs in a bright, energetic environment.
Image source: fizzkidz.com.au
Discover, Dine & Stay: Your Perfect Moonee Ponds Escape
Moonee Ponds isn’t just a stopove, it’s a vibe. From buzzing cafés and boutique shopping to leafy park strolls and riverside walks, there’s plenty to explore right at your doorstep.
Start your morning with brunch at a local favourite, wander through charming streets filled with hidden gems, or enjoy a scenic walk along the Maribyrnong River.
Feeling active? Hit the trails, explore nearby parks, or indulge in a little retail therapy at Moonee Ponds Central.
After a day of discovering the best of the neighbourhood, retreat to The Sebel Melbourne Moonee Ponds, where modern comfort meets effortless convenience. Spacious suites, elevated interiors, and everything you need to recharge in style.
Because the best weekends aren’t rushed, they’re experienced.