Is your New Year’s resolution to tighten the purse strings? Well, there’s plenty of things to do for free and under $15 in Werribee and Surrounds.
Explore a thriving arts scene on Watton Street
Located in the heart of Werribee, the Wyndham Art Gallery is the region’s hub for contemporary art.
Explore a broad range of contemporary art from paintings, sculpture and ceramics to photography and video works by top local talent, emerging and established Australian artists - all for free! The gallery is also just a short stroll from Werribee’s buzzing café scene, restaurants, accommodation, and Wyndham Park.
Experience a slice of the Bridgerton lifestyle at The Refectory Parlour
You had me at afternoon tea! The Refectory Parlour is a delightful garden-style cafe located in the west wing of Werribee Park Mansion. Enjoy delicious scones with raspberry jam and double cream under the Mansion eaves for only $9.50. There’s also a range of delectable cakes and treats including rocky road, carrot cake, brownies, cookies and friands for under $10!
Roll into Wyncity Bowl & Entertainment and Werribee Bowls Club
Is ten pin bowling right up your alley? Wyncity Bowl & Entertainment offers indoor fun for everyone! There are 24 lanes of Tenpin Bowling, a Laser Tag Arena, Bumper Cars, over 70 arcade machines with prizes, and a fully licensed Bar and Restaurant.
Prices: $7 per person for Dodgem cars | $12 pp for laser tag.
If outdoor bowls is more your thing, Werribee Bowls Club is a hidden gem in Chirnside Park that has been operating for over 100 years. Barefoot bowls is a bargain at just $10 per adult and $5 a child – call the club on 03 9741 3229 to make a booking.
Enjoy a breathtaking view at K Road Cliffs
Mother Nature doesn't have to cost the earth and the K Road Cliffs in Werribee South offers a quick getaway with space to breathe. The view from the cliff top takes in the Werribee River and the wetlands on the flood plain, with the peaked outline of the You Yangs forming an impressive backdrop!
Marvel at Werribee Park Mansion
Take time to explore Werribee Park Mansion and experience a living, breathing postcard of the 19th century. The gardens surrounding the Mansion are equally impressive, featuring 10 hectares of manicured lawns offering the ideal spot for a leisurely picnic with friends. Entry to the gardens is free, with Mansion entry from just $8 - $11.10.
Check out a family-run little deli and panini bar
A contemporary delicatessen, The Little Deli & Panini Bar offers the most delectable and freshly made panini, sweet treats and of course, coffee. Get your cannoli and coffee fix for $8- holy cannoli! Flavours include pistachio ricotta, lemon, chocolate custard and more!
If savoury is more your thing, head there on a Monday for a delicious Meatball Monday panini for $13.
Tee off at The Elements Coastal Activity Park
Enjoy sunshine, salty spray, and green spaces at The Elements Coastal Activity Park! This day-cation destination is a walkable neighbourhood encompassing a mini – yet mighty – 18-hole course that embraces the natural surrounds including beautiful Wyndham Harbour. The coffee shop is stocked with locally sourced bites like pies and rolls and barista-made coffee, and the timber playground is where little ones can work off steam.
Prices: $15 adults | $10 kids
Smell over 5,000 roses at Victoria State Rose Garden
Located in the prestigious grounds of Werribee Park and spreading over six acres, lies the internationally acclaimed Victoria State Rose Garden. With over 5,000 roses on display in a feature design set in the shape of the Tudor Rose, the rose garden is a magnificent sight when in bloom between November-April!
Entry is free and a gold coin donation is encouraged to support the work of the Victoria State Rose Garden Volunteers who maintain the garden.
Delight in late night bites at Casa Cantina
Looking for a place where the food is spicy and the cocktails icy? Head to Werribee’s late-night Mexican venue, Casa Cantina! Enjoy a frozen margarita for $15 overlooking the glorious Werribee River and gum tree surrounds. Flavours range from mango to watermelon and rotate weekly. Hungry? The Baja fish tacos for $7.50 pack a punch!
Enjoy an old-school cool off at Werribee Outdoor Pool
Located on the banks of the river, the Werribee Outdoor Pool has lots of established trees to provide shade when relaxing on the grass or seating area. There are two pools to cool off in: a 50-metre lap pool including ramp access and a family pool that’s ideal for toddlers and older children.
Prices: $5.80 general admission | $4.50 concession | 2 years and under free
Say cheese at Jock and Mack
Who doesn’t love a toastie? Jock and Mack is a bright and breezy neighbourhood café buzzing with energy and they don’t serve ordinary toasties! You’ll melt over “The Jock” consisting of oozy vintage cheddar, French comte, Swiss gruyère and garlic and sprinkled parmesan for $14.
Breathe in sea air on a coastal walk at Cheetham Wetlands
Cheetham Wetlands consist of stunning lagoons and saltmarsh that provide a haven for birds, flora and fauna and you can see it by foot! Enter Point Cook Coastal Park via Homestead Entrance Road and then turn left to reach the car park. From here you can enjoy a remarkable view of the city skyline and enjoy the incredible colours of the coastal environment from the Observation Tower-entry is free.
If you’re thirsty afterwards, hop over for a post-walk and well-deserved craft beer at Hopheads Point Cook!
Get some fusion on your fork
Craving dishes that are full of flavour and spices that dance on the palate? Fusion Ceylon is nestled in the heart of Werribee and offers authentic take away Sri Lankan cuisine. Try the aromatic Chicken Biryani for $11.50 or the succulent Beef Koththu which is a satisfying dish of shredded naan mixed with vegetables, beef, and eggs for $11.50 takeaway.
Have a Sunday Funday at Bridge Hotel Werribee
Sunday is a day of rest but if getting out and about is more your thing, head to the Bridge Hotel Werribee on a Sunday! Enjoy live tunes and a pint in the outdoor dining space as part of Sunday Sessions featuring a line-up of local talent.
