Yarra Park Dog Off Leash Area

Yarra Park's off-leash area sits east of the MCG, running from Wellington Parade South down to Brunton Avenue and Punt Road. It is a 24-hour off-leash space, open, grassy and shaded by mature trees, and it doubles as a green break for East Melbourne locals and city commuters alike.

The rules. Dogs need to be under effective voice or hand control at all times, and you must carry a leash (no longer than 3 metres) even while off-leash, in case you need it. Within 20 metres of children's playgrounds or permanent barbecue and picnic areas, dogs must go back on-leash. Pick up after your dog; bins are scattered through the park for this.

What's there. Water taps and bowls are positioned near the Wellington Parade South parking area and near where Vale Street becomes Vale Street South, so it is worth carrying your own bowl for anywhere else in the park. Paths are paved and easy underfoot, and street lighting around the park's edges keeps evening visibility reasonable.

Getting there. Parking is available along Wellington Parade South, including some free one-hour bays between 7.30am and 11pm, though these fill quickly on event days. Jolimont Station sits right on the park's edge, and tram routes 48 and 75 run along Wellington Parade, with Stop 11 close by. It is an easy walk in from Richmond or East Melbourne, or over the MCG pedestrian bridge.

Nearby with the dogs. Dog-friendly cafes with outdoor seating line Flinders Street and the Richmond side of Punt Road. A handful of East Melbourne and CBD hotels list themselves as pet-friendly, but confirm the policy directly before booking, as terms vary property to property.

Weekday mid-mornings and early afternoons are the quietest times, while weekend mornings bring the biggest crowd of other dogs if that is what you are after. Whatever the day, check the MCG events calendar first, it decides everything about whether this is a good idea.

Sources

• Walking your dog | City of Melbourne · melbourne.vic.gov.au
• Pet Friendly Hotels Melbourne · hanrob.com.au

Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.