Looking for a weekend that’s packed with flavour, creativity, and the kind of local energy you can only find in the inner west? Footscray is calling. Just a short train ride from Melbourne’s CBD, this vibrant suburb is where cultures collide, communities thrive, and every street corner has a story to tell.
Whether you’re a foodie, an art lover, or simply curious to explore somewhere new, Footscray is the perfect backdrop for a weekend of discovery.
🛍 Saturday: Flavourful Streets & Riverside Strolls
🌞 Morning – Markets & Morning Pho
Start your weekend early at the buzzing Footscray Market. Wander through aisles of fresh produce, seafood, and spices that reflect the suburb’s rich multicultural makeup. Once your senses are awake, grab a steaming bowl of pho at Pho Hung Vuong Saigon—it’s a local institution for a reason.
🎭 Midday – Hidden Art & Riverside Wandering
Next, head to the Footscray Community Arts Centre, perched on the banks of the Maribyrnong River. Explore contemporary works by First Nations and culturally diverse artists, then take a relaxing stroll along the Maribyrnong River Trail — perfect for a bit of greenery and river views.
☕ Afternoon – Ethiopian Coffee & Boutique Browsing
Time to recharge. Duck into Konjo Café & Restaurant for a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony or a quick snack. Then, immerse yourself in contemporary art at Five Walls, an independent gallery located on the first floor of a converted mid-century arcade in Footscray . With a focus on Abstraction, Non-Objective, and Reductive art, Five Walls presents a dynamic annual program featuring both emerging and established artists. The gallery is open Wednesday to Saturday from 12–5pm and is just a short walk from the Footscray train station.
🌆 Evening – Dinner & Dancing
Footscray’s food scene is legendary. For dinner, go for Vietnamese at Sapa Hills Restaurant, or keep it casual at Slice Shop Pizza with craft beers on tap. Cap off your night at Pride of Our Footscray Nightclub & Bar — a colourful community bar with live DJs, drag shows, and a welcoming dance floor that embraces everyone.
☀️ Sunday: Brunch, Art, and Global Stories
🍳 Morning – Brunch & Local Roasters
Start your Sunday with brunch at Rudimentary, a café set in a converted shipping container serving up inventive seasonal fare and great coffee. For a cozy atmosphere and a menu that delights, The 2 Men Cafe is a must-visit. Known for its hearty brunch options like bacon and eggs, salmon bagels, and matcha lattes, this spot has garnered a strong local following. With both indoor and outdoor seating, it’s perfect for a relaxed morning meal.
🎨 Late Morning – Street Art Safari
Take yourself on a self-guided street art walk. From vibrant murals to thought-provoking graffiti, Footscray’s walls speak loud. Don’t miss the epic piece by artist Adnate or the colourful laneways near Nicholson Street.
🧘 Afternoon – Wind Down with a View
End your weekend at Heavenly Queen Temple, a peaceful riverside spot featuring a majestic statue of Mazu, goddess of the sea. It’s a beautiful blend of culture, quiet, and reflection—an unexpected gem to close your adventure.
💡 Local Tips for Exploring Footscray Like a Pro
🗺 Getting There
Just 10 minutes by train from Melbourne CBD on the Werribee or Sunbury lines.
Plenty of free and paid parking near Footscray Market and Victoria University.
🥢 Foodie Favourites
Nhu Lan Bakery is a must for banh mi—get in early!
Try T Cavallaro & Sons for Sicilian cannoli (usually gone by early afternoon).
Explore African, Vietnamese, Burmese, and Indian street eats around Barkly Street.
🎨 Art & Culture
Check out Footscray Community Arts Centre for free exhibitions and workshops.
Wander the laneways for street art gems—look for works by Adnate and others.
Pop into Five Walls gallery for rotating exhibitions of contemporary art
🚶♀️ Insider Insight
Footscray is very walkable. Want to explore more? Take the 82 tram to Yarraville or Seddon.
Saturdays offer more energy, markets, and events—Sundays are perfect for slow strolling.
Don’t forget to check out the vibrant night life while you’re there.
Final Notes
Footscray is a suburb that never sits still—it’s always evolving, always surprising. Whether you come for the food, the stories, or the people, you’ll leave with a new favourite dish and a deeper connection to the creative pulse of Victoria.
Let’s Go Victoria Tip: Visit on a Saturday to catch one of the many pop-up markets, festivals, or performances that often take over the streets — Footscray loves a celebration.