Fitzroy Gardens

Fitzroy Gardens, on the eastern edge of the CBD in East Melbourne, is Melbourne's most established gay beat, the Australian term for an outdoor cruising spot. Activity has long centred on the denser plantings and paths away from the main lawns, mostly after dark. It is a public park used by families and tourists by day, so discretion is expected. Same-sex activity is legal in Victoria, decriminalised in 1981, and Melbourne is a safe city, but as with any beat, use common sense, respect other park users and stay aware of your surroundings.