It’s an A+ for schools

Buy a house in McKinnon, and you’ll be within the catchment zone of some of the most sought-after schools in the state.

The suburb is home to the highly regarded McKinnon Primary School, known for its strong academic focus and supportive community environment. McKinnon Secondary College, consistently ranked among the top public schools in Victoria, is renowned for its outstanding academic results.

If you’re seeking a top-notch education for your child, you couldn’t do better.

 

 

Quick bites and sweet delights

There are plenty of culinary hotspots that contribute to McKinnon’s mouthwatering appeal. But none more than these gems.

Lumos Bakery

A trendy artisan bakery is the hallmark of any sought-after suburb, and you’d be lucky to count Lumos Bakery as your local.

Wander in on a lazy morning, and you’ll find counters piled high with Instagram-worthy bakes, from crunchy golden baguettes to mounds of delectable pastries.

The signature brownie bomb is a firm favourite with customers. And the nutty sourdough loaves – naturally fermented over 48 hours – will have you coming back for more (and more).

Our personal favourite? It’s got to be the hazelnut croissant.

 

 

Little Sister

If you're looking for something different from your standard bakery fair, head over to Little Sister for a snack with a Middle Eastern twist.

From bagels to babka, there’s something to satisfy every craving. And while much of the menu draws on flavours from the Middle East, it has a few Australian classics, too. Did someone say Vegemite cheese twists?

The semi-open kitchen gives you a sneak peek at where the magic happens, and the warm, friendly service is the cherry on the cake (or the pickle on the pita).

 

 

Dolce House

At Gary Peer, we always save room for dessert.

So if you’re searching for a sweet treat on a sunny day, look no further than Dolce House – McKinnon’s resident gelato spot.

But it’s the dessert bar that makes Dolce House extra special. Enjoy a sumptuous waffle loaded with your favourite flavour and all the trimmings. Or sample one of the weekly dessert specials whipped up by their talented pastry chefs.

Living la dolce vita? Absolutely.

 

 

Dining, drinking and in between

Still hungry? Not a problem. These exquisite eateries are sure to satisfy any appetite.

Willim

You may have already spotted Willim on McKinnon Road – that trendy, sepia-toned frontage with the retro font is hard to miss.

Converted from an old milk bar into a bustling café, there are tons of reasons you might slide into its chic leather banquettes.

We go for the top-notch coffee and creative brunch menu (which, incidentally, caters to a range of dietary requirements).

 

 

McKinnon Hotel

The McKinnon Hotel is your classic neighbourhood pub and sports bar. Think sleek, modern interiors, plenty of outdoor seating, and a solid selection of local brews on tap. What more could you want?

If you’re feeling peckish, you’ll find a range of pub classics on offer – from burgers and schnitzel to fish and chips – all made with locally sourced, seasonal produce (obviously).

Pop down to watch the footy or enjoy a spot of live music or comedy if that’s more your thing. The friendly staff will make you feel right at home.

 

 

Mr Burch

If you’re on the hunt for a cosy neighbourhood coffee shop, look no further than Mr Burch.

Step through the vintage shopfront, and you’ll be welcomed by the eponymous Mr Burch himself. Or rather, a mannequin version of the dapper old gentleman, complete with a rose in his pocket and a pipe in his hand.

If you’re feeling fancy, you might enjoy a spot of high tea, complete with finger sandwiches, scones and a selection of sweet treats.

 

 

 

Our top recreational retreats

With a full belly, you’ll be ready to explore the rest of this delightful suburb. And McKinnon will be ready to deliver.

Elster Creek Trail

An attractive linear park connecting McKinnon with Brighton East, the Elster Creek Trail is popular with walkers, runners and cyclists alike.

Start at the Elwood Canal, pop on a podcast and meander past lush green borders for the perfect leisurely stroll.

This route is great for dog walkers, too. The track itself is on-leash only, but there’s an off-leash area at Alnutt Park, where the trail ends. It’ll be your furry friend’s favourite new jaunt!

 

 

Bumblebee Arts Centre

Looking for a space for the kids to get creative?

Then head down to the Bumblebee Arts Centre, the vibrant music and arts centre where imagination takes flight.

Choose from a range of lively art, music and craft classes. With expert instructors and a focus on fostering creativity, it's the perfect place for kids to build confidence and explore their artistic side.

 

 

McKinnon Reserve

McKinnon Reserve is a great local facility for dog walkers and sports enthusiasts. But it’s the fabulous playground that makes it a hit with kids across the suburb.

Featuring a multi-storey wooden climbing tower, rock climbing walls and an enormous tunnel slide, it’s a dream come true for kids who love to scramble, slide and explore.

What’s more, there’s not one but two zip lines (one with a safety strap so younger children can join in on the fun) – and even a wooden petrol pump for kids to ‘fill’ their make-believe cars!

 

 

Wattle Grove Reserve

Tucked just off Wheatley Road, you’ll find Wattle Grove Reserve – a charming neighbourhood park that’s perfect for a peaceful walk (especially in spring, when the rose garden is in bloom).

There’s plenty here for family fun, too.

With picnic shelters, BBQ facilities, a covered playground and an off-leash area for the dogs to run free, you’ve got the ideal location for a big ol’ family get-together.

 

 

In search of more local hotspots and insider tips? Check out the rest in our Suburb Spy series on The Peer Blog.