Straya Strides: Exploring the Enigmatic Corners of Australia
Author – Pooja Kumari
Robert Frost once wrote in his poem ‘The Road Not Taken’, that the indecision that comes while choosing which path to follow can be daunting. And especially when we are talking about the giant Australia, where every turn feels like a “roo-t” of adventures.
Every street ’round Oz is teeming with life that’s often overlooked in the hell of leather. So, let’s jump into it and find some of the most fun, bizarre and uncanny delights that you might have missed out on.
Hang tight, It won’t be a boring read– I’ve got you sorted!
Meet Blinkey, our true-blue cobber, who’s got the inside scoop on all the best hotspots down every street– she’s the real go-to sheila for the job!
Popular Streets: Let’s Go Walkabout, Mate!
Aussie streets are the most buzzin’ around the globe, with a vibe like no other that just pulses through the air.
That said, here’s a list of the top streets you gotta check out while you’re in Australia.
And if you’re among those who love some spooky shenanigans, stick with me, the last one will blow your mind.
High Street, Melbourne
Does your list consist of the following?
Cute cinemas? Check.
Cosy Cafes? Check.
Fun Food Trucks? Check.
Fancy Restaurants? Check.
Blah Blah? Check.
Yes, we’re totally obsessed with it!
High Street is now officially the coolest street in the world, and pride’s brewed strong in every Melburnian. Running through trendy areas like Northcote, Thornbury and Preston, the place is known for its cool and killer vibe, quirky shops and endless places to eat.
Hop on the 86-tram and you’ll be in the CBD in no time! This street is the perfect blend of cool and convenience with multiple vintage stores and boutiques, trendy cafés, a buzzing food truck park and wonder what– a quirky indie cinema.
Blinkey’s Adventure in High Street, Melbourne
Morning: Blinkey explored Melbourne’s rich cultural heritage, the Royal Exhibition Building and Fitzroy Gardens.
Lunch: She then enjoyed delicious street food from food trucks including Falastini Food Truck and Greek Street Food along High Street, trying juicy sandwiches, tacos and dim sum.
Afternoon: Later in the arvo, Blinkey visited Palace Westgarth Cinemas, which blends historic art deco charm with modern updates and enjoyed indie films, classic flicks and delicious snacks from Umberto.
Evening: She dined at Street Taste, had cocktails at Primo, and had a glass of wine at Estelle, overlooking Melbourne’s skyline. While going back, she ended the night with Smokin Joe’s Pizza & Grill in Pakenham.
Oxford Street, Sydney, NSW
If the traffic’s dragging you down, but drag queens are lifting you up in the middle of the road, you’re in one of the most fun avenues of Sydney.
Also called out as the “Noisy Neighbours”, Oxford Street is one of the oldest streets in Sydney, dating back to the 19th century. The street runs from the south-east border of the Sydney central business district to Bondi Junction in the Eastern Suburbs.
Its flashy history is a real gem, once being Sydney’s primary nightclub strip— starting with gay clubs in the 1980s and later shifting to straight nightclubs in the 2000s.
Blinkey’s Adventure in Oxford Street, Sydney
Morning: Blinkey kicked off her day by visiting the heritage buildings including Victoria Barracks, Paddington Town Hall, and the St Matthias Church Group, and soaked up some serious history.
Lunch: She grabbed a bite at Adda Oxford Soulful Indian Cuisine and then popped to Fred’s as she couldn’t resist the tempting aromas in spite of being full.
Arvo: Blinkey then hit up the Darlinghurst Theatre Company and Sydney Dance Company exploring the artsy side of the street.
Evening: Blinkey snaps a pic at the iconic Rainbow Crossing or the ‘pedestrian version of red carpet’ near Taylor Square, and how can she not? Later, chilled at Chubby Cheeks before winding down with a cold one at Santorini On Oxford, soaking in the lively vibe of Oxford Street.
George Street, Sydney
Love solving puzzles? George Street is the exact spot you want to be in. If you’re travelling here, you must carry both a map and a compass to find your train platform.
Being the oldest, busiest and most famous street in Australia, it is the home to iconic landmarks such as the Queen Victoria Building, St Andrew’s Cathedral, The Strand Arcade and Sydney’s Town Hall. The major highlights include shopping, historic buildings, transportation hubs, restaurants and cultural institutions.
The newly launched light rail runs effortlessly along George St, making travel quick and easy throughout the city. But also if you love walking, fret not. You can easily wander at your leisure, making little adventures of your own.
Blinkey’s Adventure in George Street, Sydney
Morning: Blinkey began her day with a rove through the historic Queen Victoria Building and The Galeries. After a bit of shopping and gawking at the architecture, she swung by The Dymocks Building and Regent Place for some extra goodies!
Lunch: She dug into delectable Cantonese dishes at Mr. Wong, later barging into The Baxter Inn, sipping some sassy cocktails.
Afternoon: In Arvo, she delves into Sydney’s best art, the Art Gallery of New South Wales and White Rabbit Gallery, followed by The Rocks Discovery Museum.
Evening: She then enjoyed the amazing panoramic views of the city from the tallest structure, Sydney Tower Eye, and chilled on some scrumptious drinks at Hochi Mama. She wrapped up her day by wandering through Chinatown, melting in the multicultural vibes and sampling some delicious street food.
Bourke Street Mall, Melbourne, VIC
From musicians to magicians, dancers and living statues, Bourke Street has got everything!
Want to shop like crazy? Or just looking for the best street performers?
This bustling pedestrian street brings a mix of high-end stores, department stores, boutiques, and chain retailers, making it Melbourne’s busiest shopping street.
Blinkey’s Adventure in Bourke Street, Melbourne
Morning: Blinkey started her day with a visit to the Royal Arcade and Block Arcade. These two are the historic gems that showcased Melbourne’s grand architecture, and then strolled through Centre Place, exploring the street art and café culture.
Lunch: Blinkey tucked into delicious pastries at the iconic Hopetoun Tea Rooms, followed by a coffee at a quirky café called Brother Baba Budan.
Afternoon: She spent the afternoon shopping at top department stores like H&M, Myer, and David Jones, and then took a detour to Beneath Driver Lane, an old-timey underground hangout with live music on weekends.
Evening: She ended the night at Osteria Ilaria for a fancy dinner, followed by drinks at Villas Restaurant & Bar.
Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley, Brisbane
If you have never gotten the chance to witness live music and performances at ‘The Tivoli’, what’s the point of existing? Well, yeah, I’m not exaggerating, but they are one of Brisbane’s most iconic live music venues.
Brunswick Street and surrounding lanes are filled with street art and graffiti, trendy bars, clubs and restaurants.
Blinkey’s Adventure in Brunswick Street
Morning: Blinkey began her day by exploring Fortitude Valley Mural Art and Judith Wright Centre of Contemporary Arts enjoying creativity.
Lunch: Later, craving the authentic flavours of Japan, she went to Kenjin Izakaya. She then spent some time browsing the quirky stalls at Valley Markets and discovered the street’s hidden jewels.
Afternoon: Blinkey strolled past the historic McWhirters Building and stopped to admire the classic charm of the Empire Hotel, and hooked on the lively and buzzing atmosphere of Brunswick Street Mall.
Evening: Blinkey enjoyed a classic dinner at New Farm Curry House, followed by drinks at Bisou Bisou. To cap off her day, she caught a live show at the legendary The Tivoli.
Hay Street (CBD), Perth
Hay Street is Haunted–
Not by ghosts, but by people who’ve literally died from the ‘wow’ fashion you’ll come across the street.
The street hosts Perth’s Fashion Festival, an annual fashion event that includes runway shows, pop-up shops and trendy fashion trends that shouldn’t stay buried.
So, dress your best, you never know, whose eyes are set on you, and your fashion becomes the latest fashion sensation! It’s worth a try.
Blinkey’s Adventure in Hay Street, Perth
Morning: Blinkey starts her day by visiting Hay Street Mall, hits up David Jones and Myer on the way to check out the recent collections, and then, finally, explores the Art Gallery of Western Australia.
Lunch: She grabs her lunch at Picada and catches a cuppa at Petition Kitchen.
Arvo: Blinkey explores The Perth Mint, His Majesty’s Theatre and St. George’s Cathedral, later in the afternoon.
Evening: Finally, she wrapped up with a quick stroll through King’s Park, and caught a show at Perth Arena (RAC Arena).
Elizabeth Quay (The Esplanade), Perth
Ever wished to hang out with your friends or that one ‘close friend’, who tides you over (wink, wink), exactly where the city meets the water?
Right from the movies, Elizabeth Quay does that for you!
The place transforms Perth’s underdeveloped area into a picturesque waterfront. This perfect spot is a mix of lush parks and beautiful water symbolises the city’s growth and connection to Swan River.
Blinkey’s Adventure in Elizabeth Quay, Perth
Morning: Blinkey began her day with breakfast at Community at Quay, then explored the Spanda Sculpture. She prowls like a cute cat along the Elizabeth Quay Walking Art Trail, scouting the street’s artistry.
Lunch: She went to The Island at Elizabeth Quay for lunch, and then visited The Perth Mint and St. George’s Cathedral.
Arvo: Later, Blinkey relaxed at The Reveley, soaking in the views and enjoying a drink at Public House.
Evening: Her day ended with a movie at The Riverside Theatre, a perfect adventure at Elizabeth Quay.
Rundle Street, Adelaide
If you’re like me, and looking for a spooky adventure, Rundle Street must be on your list.
And this time I’m serious, when I say it is haunted.
Adelaide Arcade Ghost Tour is one of the major highlights, filled with old buildings that carry eerie ghost stories from the past.
However, if you’d prefer to keep your feet away from such adventures, hop on to the vibrant malls, boutiques, cafes, restaurants, bars and cultural venues, where the only thing moving is the ghost of boredom.
Blinkey’s Adventure in Rundle Street, Adelaide
Morning: Blinkey started her day shopping at Rundle Mall, checking out Miss Gladys Sym Choon for the best pair of shoes and Rundle Place for some stylish finds.
Lunch: She had her lunch at Society Bar & Restaurant, and then, she wandered through the buzzing Lenox Avenue Rundle Street and the East End Dining Precinct.
Arvo: Blinkey took in the art and culture while visiting Adelaide’s Cultural Boulevard on North Terrace.
Evening: The day ended with Blinkey being amused walking through The National Wine Centre, Botanic Gardens and Rymill Park, uncovering Adelaide’s rich heritage.
Putting a Bow on It!
And there you have it, mates!
The sunburnt country has a whole lot to offer whether you want to experience a vibrant Mardi Gras Parade in Oxford Street or catch a ghost in Rundle Street of Adelaide.
So, get ready, follow a trail of unexpected adventures at every turn, and let Blinkey remind you of the best corners across the country. Dance off with drag queens and enjoy a journey that has twists and let your Aussie spirit get lost in these streets.
I am a creative writer, holding a postgraduate degree in English Literature and Language. My sentimentality while crafting beautiful narratives is reflected in my works and speaks of all the academic excellence I’ve achieved.
With years of hard work and patience, I’ve cultivated a sophisticated writing style that intricately weaves together eloquence and intellectual depth. I ensure that each piece of content I pour out leads my readers to explore the art of capturing the complexities of emotions, identity and introspection.
Driven by a desire to explore the nuances of human existence, my literary voice sparks maturity and insight. I always try to find the right balance between evocation and elegance which must leave a lasting mark on my readers.
