The Aranga reserve dog activity centre is essentially a gated off leash dog park. There are 2…read moreseparate agility training set up that you and your dog can run around and use. Inside the park there is another fenced off area for individual training sessions, or if your dog needs some time away from the other pooch If someone is waiting there is courtesy sign to advise how long you can use it for. If no one else is waiting to use this area you can use it as long as you want. The grounds in this park was muddy when I came in on a winter day, I imagine it's a lot more pleasant in the drier months but at the moment it's quite a messy ground. There is water station with a few water bowls scattered around and people seems to be quite friendly and relaxed. The park sits right next to a playground so lots of families flock here, run the dogs then let the kids play, win win. Great facility to use and the plus is that it's fully fenced.

It's a great place for an afternoon out especially if you are visiting around and a lovely place to…read moreexperience with kids. Viewing platforms along the Yarra River afford good views of the river and rapids. In most weather conditions, the city can be seen from the Manor House hill when looking south-west. It is a popular spot for picnics, and family gatherings on the weekend and public holidays it does get rather busy. Other recreational activities include walking, cycling, rollerblading, walking the family dog, canoeing, horse riding and bird watching.

Westerfolds park is a maze of made paths and dirt trails. you can walk or ride your way around. The…read morepark is bordered on one side by the Yarra river. There is many BBQ and seating areas, loads of car parks and play areas for the kids. Dogs are allowed on leash A great place to go and check out the native animals and amazing park surrounds

The Yarra River Reserve extends along the Yarra River from the township of Warrandyte to Warrandyte…read moreState Park. It is conveniently adjacent to the wonderfully eclectic assortment of cafes, antique and gift shops in Warrandyte township and is a great place for bushwalking, cycling, horse riding, paddling and swimming. The Reserve is very child and dog friendly. Dogs are allowed off the lead there and can often be seen chasing sticks into the river. (N.B. Dogs are prohibited in Federation Playground.)

Heaven to dogs and dog walkers; the Koonung Creek Reserve is one enormous canine playground…read more An off-leash park, there are trails and ovals where dogs of every breed imaginable disport themselves and owners chat. The Reserve also features a little lake, playground and exercise equipment set up periodically along the main trail. The trail is ideal for beginner runners as the hills aren't very steep, and there are a few benches and drinking fountains set up along the way. The track that I normally take stretches from Bulleen Road along the Eastern Freeway to Doncaster Road. Its only short but makes a nice loop, and you aren't too exposed to the freeway sound. Keep your eyes pealed for Eastern Rosellas, Rainbow Lorikeets and other native wildlife around the lake, and if you've got kids with you the playground is great and includes a barbeque area and toilets. The only downside is certain cyclists who speed along the track. Aggressive and not inclined to stop or let you know if they're approaching make sure you keep an eye on your pets and kids. This doesn't occur every day, but I have witnessed poor behavior on the cyclist's part from time to time.

I believe that at one stage this used to be a factory. Well, not anymore because they have turned…read moreit into a park. Honestly, this is a pretty good use of old factory space, turning it into a park, and it is a pretty massive park as well, with quite a few facilities as well. The other great thing about it is that it is off the main roads, so it is also very quite. Lovely place for a wander.

Grass? Check! BBQ…read morefacilities? Check! Playing fields with nets and hoops? Check! Gravel running tracks? Check! Dog friendly? Check! Next to a skate park for hipsters in training? Check!