Melbourne - Royal Botanic Gardens 

Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne extends over 38 hectares and displays more than 52,000 individual plants, representing approximately 10,000 different species from every part of the globe. Gardens open at 7.30am daily. A variety of walks and tours are available. Take a piece of the Gardens home with you – visit the tourism award winning Gardens Shop and view the beautiful range of botanic inspired gifts and homewares. Founded in 1846, the Gardens owes its botanic heritage and landscape beauty to the first two Directors, Baron Ferdinand von Mueller and William Guilfoyle. Royal Botanic Gardens have a rich array of plant collections, including their world-renowned Camellias, water conservation garden, Southern Hemisphere conifers, indigenous flora of the Lower Yarra River, Australian fores flora, succulents and cacti, species roses, Californian species, herbs, perennials, cycads, palms and plants from Southern China. The Ian Potter Foundation Children's Garden is a captivating place for children to explore and learn about the wonderful world of plants. Founded in 1853, the National Herbarium of Victoria is one of Victoria's oldest scientific institutions. The Plant Craft Cottage displays and sells handicrafts made from plant materials. Craft classes are available, as well as public workshops for adults and children.