Grandpa’s Guide to Driving in Ascot Vale

Sitting in one of the vacant picnic tables in the park, the afternoon is really wonderful for a nap. But I’ll get back to napping when I return home. The truth is that, I want to spend some time alone where I can enjoy the fresh air. And the park is the most ideal place close to home (it’s a 5 minute drive from home). Ah, this is what I call relaxing. Even though I’m relaxing, I still like being productive. So; for me to be productive in this state of mind, let me tell you the time when I visited Ascot Vale in Melbourne.

The suburb of Ascot Vale is 7 kilometers northwest of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. It has a population of about 12,398 and its Local Government Area is the City of Moonee Valley.

Ascot Vale is surrounded by the Maribyrnong River in the west, by the Maribyrnong and Ormond Roads in the north, by the Moonee Ponds Creek in the east, and by the Lyons Road in the south.

Ascot Vale has landmarks such as the Royal Melbourne Showgrounds, and the Flemington Racecourse. And also in Ascot Vale, you’ll see Australia’s largest bridal and wedding dress dry cleaner! Doesn’t sound that interesting? Well, delicate textiles are usually used in making bridal gowns and wedding dresses therefore, handling them well is a challenge. And the shop is highly recommended by Australia’s top bridal stores and couture designers.

OK! Now that you know something about Ascot Vale, let’s proceed about my trip.

1. Melbourne Zoo

One of the highlights when visiting Ascot Vale is the Melbourne Zoo. Commonly known as the Melbourne Zoo, the Royal Melbourne Zoological Gardens has more than 320 different species of animals —from Australia and around the world. It is also a full institutional member of the Zoo and Aquarium Association or the ZAA, and the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums or the WAZA.

The Zoo is about 5 kilometers southeast of Ascot Vale and about 4 kilometers north of the center of Melbourne. The Zoo is accessible through the Royal Park station located on the Upfield railway line, as well as by car via tram routes 55 and 19. But if you’re into less gas, you can access the Zoo by bicycle through the Capital City Trail (but bicycles are not allowed inside the zoo itself).

And here’s what: the animals in the zoo are organized based on bioclimatic zones! You’ll see African rainforest that features gorillas, mandrills, pigmy hippos, and parrots; Asian rainforest with tigers and otters, and many more “classified” animals! (A cool way of organizing animals)

The Zoo is set among flowers gardens and picnic areas thus; you can enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the midst of amazing animals. Yes, Melbourne Zoo was a thrilling experience.

2. Royal Melbourne Showground

The Royal Melbourne Showground is one of Ascot Vale’s landmarks. The Showground, inspired by the famous Sydney Showground, is the home of the Royal Melbourne Show!

3. The Royal Melbourne Show (during September)

What’s showground without a show?! (I made sure that the date of my trip will allow me to attend the Royal Melbourne Show!)

The Royal Melbourne Show is truly an (annual) event that any tourist or local should no miss! Animals, livestock, award-winning food and wine, arts and crafts, amusement rides, free live entertainment, show bags, impressive pyro-techniques, and many more! Royal Melbourne Show is spectacular!

Ah yes. The experience in Ascot Vale is unforgettable!

By the way, if you plan to visit Ascot Vale, you’ll need a car! (especially if you’ll attend the Royal Melbourne Show) The place will be really crowded and getting a cab will be… well, you know, a race. So, for a cool rented car, visit Ascot Vale Car Rental and book for an awesome car that will surely make your travel really convenient!

Well, that’s about Ascot Vale. I hope you’ll have fun and enjoy every minute of your trip! Because I did! =)

-Grandpa Benjamin