Balwyn is an absolutely lovely little suburb filled with fantastic things to do. Situated between the bustling shopping district of Box Hill and the markets, cafes, and more of Camberwell, Balwyn has a lot to offer as an underappreciated area that can make for a great day trip.
At Yi’s DIY, we provide people with the chance to explore their creativity with Fluid Bear workshops, crafts, and more. So, if you’re coming to Balwyn and you’ve booked a session with us, we thought it’d be fun to put together a little guide on how to make the absolute most of your visit.
Catch a Movie at the Palace Balwyn Cinema
Sometimes, an area’s history is just there, hiding in plain sight, and no spot on the Balwyn checklist showcases that more than the Palace Balwyn Cinema. Opening as a single-screen cinema in the 1930s, the cinema has changed quite a bit through its almost 100-year history. However, one thing that hasn’t changed is its feeling of classic style. Compared to Hoyts and Village, if you’re looking for a cosy cinema experience that isn’t too crowded, Palace Balwyn Cinema is a must-visit for anyone who is in the area.
Get Your Fill At One Plus Piece Cafe
Balwyn as a suburb is filled to the brim with great cafes and restaurants, but if you want to have an experience that you’re unlikely to get in any other area of Melbourne, then the One Plus Piece Cafe is for you. As the name suggests, the cafe is themed around the long-running anime and manga series One Piece and is filled with art, themed meals, full-sized statues, and more. Even if you aren’t a fan of the Shonen Jump series itself, One Plus Piece Cafe has, in my humble opinion, the best coffee on this side of Degraves Street, and it definitely should not be missed.
As an added recommendation, if you’ve gotten your creativity sparked by your day at Yi’s DIY and you want to go a little maximalist with your order, try one of One Plus Piece Cafe’s milkshakes. You won’t be disappointed, but you may be overwhelmed.
Embrace Nature With a Dog Park Trip
One of Balwyn’s best features is its lush greenery and beautiful parks. So, if it’s nice outside, why not get some much-needed vitamin D by exploring one of Balwyn’s many dog parks? These beautiful little areas are great for kids, dogs, and dog lovers alike, and they can make for a refreshing way to really experience the suburb in all of its homely magic. With a new park around every corner, it can also be a great excuse to explore the suburb on foot and get in some exercise while you soak in the vibes.
Take a Trip to the Camberwell Market
If you happen to be out on a Sunday Morning, why not take the 109 tram down and take a look at the Camberwell Market? As one of Melbourne’s most beloved and long-standing second-hand markets, you can never be sure what you’ll find while exploring the many independently owned and stocked stalls there. From antiques to streetwear, toys, records, comics and more, the Camberwell Market is a varied collection of items from all over the place. So, go out, support the local community, and bring home some excellent, unique finds while you’re at it!
Book a Session With Yi’s DIY!
Naturally, no weekend in Balwyn would be complete without booking a session with your friends or family to bring out your creativity with a fun workshop from Yi’s DIY. Whether you’re a lover of POP MART, want to create your next favourite phone case with coworkers, or want to give your partner a truly unique date, Yi’s DIY is here to give you a fantastic experience each and every time you visit.
Ready to play? Make a booking today!