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Aerial view of grass area with many scattered green trees. There is a large playground with surrounding footpaths to the left.
Aerial view of small grass area with scattered green trees. There are footpaths to the right and bottom and a road with a pedestrian crossing to the left.
Curving concrete path with grass and large trees casting shadows on either side. There is a house-shaped building is in the distance.
Grass area with several large scattered trees. There is a small hedge to the left, a house-shaped building to the right and a multi-storey building is in the distance.
Aerial view of playground with rocket-shaped climbing feature and slide, and three other features with round tops. Grass and several large trees surround the area.
Suitable for children's play, weddings and social gatherings like picnics.

Central Gardens features sweeping lawns and an outstanding collection of majestic trees. This makes it ideal for capturing beautiful event photos. 

The iconic rocket tower in the playground is also a big draw for children.

Public facilities

  • Barbecue
  • Playground
  • Seating and tables
  • Toilets

Playground

The playground is known for its iconic 1960s rocket climbing feature, which was restored in 2022. It also has:

  • swings
  • monkey bars
  • a merry-go-round.

See the Central Gardens playground page for more details. 

Address

32 Henry Street, Hawthorn 3122

Street parking is available on the adjacent William Street and Henry Street. The gardens are within easy walking distance of Glenferrie and Auburn train stations.

Find other nearby services and facilities

About the gardens

Central Gardens opened in 1900 and was designed in a formal period style. Located in the heart of Hawthorn, the gardens are popular with residents, students and visitors to Hawthorn Community House. It is known to many as 'Rocket Park'.

Central Gardens has an outstanding collection of majestic, mature trees surrounded by sweeping lawns. These garden 'rooms' offer great photo opportunities for events. Meandering paths, lush foliage plants and a tropical-style border are also highlights.

The iconic 1960s rocket, which features in the Central Gardens playground, was restored in 2022 to improve its safety, structure and look for future generations.

Bookable spaces at Central Gardens

Central Gardens – garden area

Also known as 'Rocket Park', Central Gardens is home to the iconic rocket climbing feature in the playground and has sweeping lawns and majestic trees.
Playground with rocket-shaped climbing feature and slide, and small carousel and park bench. There are several trees in the playing area and the background.

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