All You Need to Know for a Fun Day in Hawthorn, Melbourne
Having visited Hawthorne multiple times now, I’ve always loved the mix of old-school charm and modern buzz.
It’s a place where you can indulge in a top-notch cup of joe at Axil Coffee Roasters, peruse the quaint boutiques along Glenferrie Road, and unwind at Rocket Park.
Hawthorn has this way of making you slow down and appreciate the little things—a sunny spot under a tree, the perfect flat white, or a local shopkeeper who remembers your name.
If you’re thinking of exploring this suburb, then you’ve come to the right place. From the best activities to the best places to stay at, this guide has everything you need to make the most of your visit.
Where is Hawthorn?
Hawthorn is a vibrant inner suburb located just 6 kilometers east of Melbourne’s CBD. It’s part of the City of Boroondara and is bordered by Kew, Camberwell, and Richmond.
Known for its blend of historic charm and modern amenities, Hawthorn is easily accessible from the city and connects Melbourne’s urban center and its leafy eastern suburbs.
What is the main road in Hawthorn?
Glenferrie Road is the main road in Hawthorn. This lively road is lined with boutique shops, popular cafes, and various restaurants catering to every taste. It’s also home to cultural spots and essential services.
Glenferrie Road regularly hosts community events, further cementing its role as a central hub for activity and engagement in the area.
How to Get to Hawthorn
Closest train station: To get to Hawthorn, head to Flinders Street Station in Melbourne’s city center, the main hub for metropolitan train services.
From there, board a train on the Alamein, Belgrave, or Lilydale line. Trains to Hawthorn depart regularly, and the journey takes approximately 10 minutes.
Disembark at Hawthorn Train Station, which is located close to key attractions such as Glenferrie Road, Fairview Park, and Central Gardens. From the station, you can walk or take a short tram ride to explore the vibrant streets of Hawthorn.
What to Do and See in Hawthorn
Shop to your heart’s content at Glenferrie Road
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Address: Hawthorn Pier
Address: Glenferrie Road
Pricing: Free
Glenferrie Road is Hawthorn’s lively heartbeat that offers a unique range of shops.
Begin your day with a visit to Readings bookstore. It’s a haven for book enthusiasts, where you’ll find an eclectic mix of fiction, non-fiction, and locally authored works.
For fashion lovers, Coco & Chloe offers stylish pieces that you won’t find in chain stores. If homewares or gifts are your thing, pop into independent shops like The Woodsfolk. It stocks quirky, beautifully designed items.
Ride Through Tram History
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Address: 8 Wallen Road
Pricing: $
Transport enthusiasts will love the Melbourne Tram Museum at the Hawthorn Tram Depot on Wallen Road. This lesser-known gem showcases Melbourne’s rich tram heritage with a collection of vintage trams dating back to the early 20th century.
Visitors can step aboard these meticulously restored trams, learn about their engineering, and explore how trams have shaped the city’s growth.
The museum also features displays of old tram advertisements and maps, offering a nostalgic glimpse into Melbourne’s past. Open on select weekends, it’s worth planning ahead to catch this slice of history.
Catch a flick under the stars in Lido Cinemas
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Address: 675 Glenferrie Road
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours: Mon-Sun: 10 AM–10 PM
Lido Cinemas is a restored Art Deco theater that screens a mix of mainstream blockbusters, indie gems, and foreign films.
But the real magic happens on their rooftop, where you can watch a movie under the night sky while sipping on a glass of wine from their in-house bar. Inside, the candy bar serves locally made choc tops, a beloved treat among regulars.
Whether it’s a summer evening on the rooftop or a cozy winter film indoors, Lido is the perfect spot for cinema lovers.
Watch colorful exhibitions at Hawthorn Arts Centre
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Address: 360 Burwood Road
Pricing: Free
Operating Hours: Mon-Fri: 9 AM–5 PM (gallery hours vary for events)
The Hawthorn Arts Centre is a vibrant cultural hub and a symbol of Hawthorn’s rich artistic heritage.
The gallery spaces regularly feature exhibitions that span genres and mediums, from thought-provoking contemporary art to historical retrospectives celebrating local culture.
For those looking to get hands-on, the Arts Centre also offers workshops and classes in various creative disciplines. From painting and photography to ceramics and dance, these sessions are designed for participants of all skill levels.
Beyond its artistic offerings, the Hawthorn Arts Centre also serves as a venue for community gatherings and special events. Local markets, cultural celebrations, and public talks are just a few examples of activities that unite residents and visitors in this historic space.
Where to Eat and Drink in Hawthorn
Santoni Pizza
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Address: 634 Glenferrie Road
Phone: +61398193000
Pricing: $$$
Good to know: Rooftop dining area offers stunning sunset views
Operating Hours: Mon-Sun: 10 AM–11 PM
This three-level Italian eatery combines incredible food with a welcoming atmosphere. Its rooftop bar offers stunning views of Glenferrie Road and beyond, making it a favorite for casual dinners and special occasions.
Santoni’s menu is a celebration of Italian flavors. Their wood-fired pizzas are a must-try, with the Salsiccia Pizza topping the list. It features spicy nduja, fennel sausage, and perfectly melted mozzarella on a charred crust.
The pan-fried gnocchi is another highlight. It’s buttery and tossed with chestnut mushrooms and truffle, offering rich and indulgent flavors.
Don’t also miss out on the Nutella Calzone for dessert! It’s a warm, gooey treat perfect for sharing.
Axil Coffee Roasters
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Address: 322 Burwood Road
Phone: +61398192099
Pricing: $$
Good to know: Great house-roasted coffee beans and smashed avocado toast
Operating Hours:
- Mon-Fri: 7 AM–4 PM
- Sat-Sun: 8 AM–4 PM
You can’t mention Hawthorn without talking about Axil Coffee Roasters. A hotspot for coffee lovers, Axil is renowned for its house-roasted beans and barista-perfected brews.
Whether you’re a flat white devotee or prefer a rich pour-over, their coffee will impress even the pickiest caffeine connoisseur.
Their all-day brunch menu is a winner too. The corn fritters with poached eggs or the smashed avocado toast with beetroot hummus are perfect examples of Melbourne’s brunch culture done right.
Yo-Chi
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Address: 735 Glenferrie Road
Phone: +61398186888
Pricing: $
Good to know: Self-serve froyo with seasonal flavors and an extensive toppings bar
Operating Hours: Mon-Sun: 12 PM–10 PM
When it’s time to satisfy your sweet tooth, Yo-Chi Frozen Yogurt is an essential stop in Hawthorn. More than just a dessert spot, Yo-Chi offers a playful and creative experience where you’re the master of your froyo masterpiece.
The process starts with a choice of creamy, refreshing flavors—think natural tart for a zesty kick, chocolate for a rich indulgence, or coconut for a tropical twist. Seasonal flavors like mango sorbet or matcha green tea make repeat visits even more exciting.
The real fun begins at the toppings bar. Freshly sliced fruits like strawberries, kiwis, and blueberries offer a healthy boost, while crunchy granola and toasted coconut flakes add the perfect texture.
Viet Star
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Address: 376 Burwood Road
Phone: +61398183030
Pricing: $
Good to know: Serves great, authentic pho
Operating Hours: Mon-Sun: 11 AM–9:30 PM
For a taste of authentic and homestyle Vietnamese cuisine, Viet Star is one of Hawthorn’s best-kept secrets.
This cozy eatery doesn’t rely on flashy decor or gimmicks—it focuses on delivering simple, comforting food that warms your soul.
Their pho is the undeniable star of the menu. The rich and aromatic broth is simmered for hours to extract deep, complex flavors. It’s served steaming hot with tender slices of beef, silky rice noodles, and fresh herbs like Thai basil and coriander.
Equally impressive is their banh xeo (Vietnamese pancakes). These crispy and golden crepes are stuffed with juicy prawns, bean sprouts, and fresh herbs. They offer a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
Dip it in the accompanying nuoc cham (Vietnamese dipping sauce), and you’ll quickly understand why it’s a customer favorite.
The Resistance Bar and Burgers
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Address: 3/714 Glenferrie Road
Pricing: $$
Good to know: Famous for its spicy jalapeño burger and crispy loaded fries
Operating Hours: Mon-Sun: 12 PM–10 PM
The Resistance Bar and Burgers is the go-to spot for burger enthusiasts in Hawthorn. This laid-back joint takes the art of the burger seriously, serving up creative and classic options that cater to every craving.
Let’s start with their Spicy Jalapeño Burger, a fiery masterpiece that perfectly balances heat and flavor. It features a juicy beef patty topped with fresh jalapeños, melty cheese, and a zesty house-made sauce that’s packed into a toasted bun.
But the indulgence doesn’t stop there. The sides at The Resistance are just as noteworthy. Their loaded fries are a must-share (or not!)—think hand-cut fries piled high with gooey cheese, smoky bacon, and tangy sauces that elevate every bite.
For the best experience, pair your meal with one of their rotating craft beers. It ranges from crisp ales to hoppy IPAs.
Where to Shop in Hawthorn
The Woodsfolk
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Address: 112 Acland Street
Phone: +61395253852
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours: Mon-Sun: 9 AM–9 PM
Known as a homewares and gift store, The Woodsfolk is a delightful haven for unique and thoughtfully curated items.
One of the highlights is their collection of handmade ceramics. It features intricate designs that feel both modern and timeless.
Their scented candles, crafted by boutique brands, fill the store with inviting fragrances. Options range from fresh citrus and herbal blends to warm, woody aromas, making them perfect for creating a cozy ambiance at home or gifting to a friend.
For those with a playful side, The Woodsfolk offers a delightful selection of quirky decor items—think fun cushions with bold patterns, decorative wall art with uplifting messages, and handcrafted figurines that bring character to any space.
Muse Boutique Hawthorn
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Address: 140 Chapel St
Phone: +61395108817
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours: Mon-Sun: 10 AM–6 PM
Known as a stylish destination for women seeking contemporary and chic fashion, Muse Boutique is a haven for curated Australian and international designer labels.
From elegant dresses for special occasions to versatile wardrobe staples, this boutique is a go-to for anyone who values quality and sophistication in their fashion choices.
Muse Boutique is renowned for its carefully selected collections, featuring standout pieces that combine timeless design with modern trends. Think beautifully tailored blazers, flowing maxi dresses, and statement accessories that add the perfect finishing touch to any outfit.
Where to Stay in Hawthorn
The Glenferrie Hotel
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Address: 2 Acland Street
Phone: +61395361111
Pricing: $$$
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
Originally built in the 19th century, this pub-turned-hotel has been lovingly restored to preserve its heritage features while offering all the comforts and conveniences travelers expect today.
The hotel’s spacious and well-appointed rooms are designed with a nod to its historic roots. They feature elegant high ceilings and large windows that let in plenty of natural light.
Despite its heritage charm, the rooms boast modern amenities, including flat-screen TVs and complimentary Wi-Fi. They also have plush bedding and ensuite bathrooms to ensure a comfortable and relaxing stay.
Downstairs, there’s an on-site restaurant and bar. The menu offers a mix of classic pub favorites, like hearty parma and steak, alongside more refined dishes that showcase seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.