Top Things to do in Coburg

Coburg is a treasure trove of heritage, arts and culture waiting to be explored. The Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people and their Ancestors have lived on the lands and waterways surrounding what is today known as Coburg for millennia and continue to contribute significantly to the life of the area.

This now vibrant suburb has evolved over the years, embracing its diverse community, and weaving it into the fabric of its streets and offerings to create a thriving cultural scene. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, nature lover, or craft beer enthusiast, Coburg has something special for everyone.

Here are the top things to add to your list to make you feel like a local.

To dive into the history of this significant suburb, a Pentridge Prison Tour is a must. Led by National Trust Guides, these tours allow visitors to experience the complex history and untold stories of Pentridge Prison, once Australia’s most infamous prison. Tours are available for all ages and interests, so everyone is catered for.

The Indigenous history of the site takes centre stage in the Pentridge Prison Tour experience. The National Trust’s expert guides provide insight into the impact of having a prison on Wurundjeri Country, both for the community and the individuals incarcerated at Pentridge Prison.

Explore the many Pentridge Prison Tours available and book online here.

Every Saturday morning, the Coburg Farmers Market transforms the suburb into a vibrant hub of fresh produce and local delights. Experience the hustle and bustle as people from all over Victoria gather to sell their seasonal vegetables, fruits, meat, eggs, bread, cheese, and more.

There are activities for children and well-behaved dogs (on a leash) are permitted. Remember to bring your own bag and coffee cup, as the market is plastic bag-free.

Entry is by a $2 donation. Check out upcoming market dates here.

Established in 1851, Pentridge is a state-significant, heritage-listed former prison site that has been transformed into a vibrant and one-of-a-kind urban village, breathing new life into its historic location.

Once the site of Australia’s longest-running and harshest prison, the precinct now offers bespoke lively restaurants, bars, cafés, boutique fashion retailers and a cinema, providing a unique shopping and entertainment precinct that you won’t find anywhere else.

Discover more about this historic site here. Or use our itinerary to plan a day out with family, a unique date night or staycation with a special someone.

When a suburb embraces diversity, a walk down any street makes you feel like a globetrotter — especially in Coburg where you’ll find almost any cuisine your heart desires. People flock from across Melbourne for the famed falafel at Half Moon Cafe, Coburg’s Egyptian snack shack.

Dotted throughout the suburb are artfully crafted Italian cuisines, Middle Eastern gastronomy, quintessential Melbourne brunch spots that offer fusion food, American BBQ and more!

Visit the Central Coburg website to start planning your food odyssey.

For nature enthusiasts, Coburg offers a gateway to the picturesque Merri Creek Trail, a 21km walking trail passing through Coburg Lake Reserve, Brunswick Velodrome, and CERES Community Environment Park.

The trail follows Merri Creek for most of the walk, and there is plenty of green space and an abundance of birdlife to take in. Rated as easy, the trail provides a customizable experience for every walker. Make Coburg Lake Reserve, overlooking Coburg Lake, your final destination to relax, picnic, barbecue, or simply unwind in nature.

For a more detailed trail of the walk, see here.

Coburg offers a variety of eclectic and charming pubs to kick back and enjoy a beverage after a day of wandering. Pub hopping is a must for the locals, with favourites like BrewDog, The Woodlands, and The Post Office Hotel.

Each pub offers its own take on Coburg’s local craft beer scene, beer gardens, live music and menus to cater for diverse tastes, from good ol’ classic to something new, ensuring you leave satisfied.

Whether you want to cool off on a hot day, hone your diving skills, enjoy a BBQ by the pool with family and friends, or simply swim laps – a visit Coburg Olympic Swimming Pool is a must. There are four pools – one for toddlers, a learners pool, 50m Olympic pool and a diving pool with 1m diving board, so there is no shortage of options to make a splash!

Although a haven for Coburg locals, the pool is open for casual visitors too. It has a canteen with hot and cold food options, and you can bring your own food in too.

Coburg Olympic Swimming Pool is open 1 December to 31 March.