Big cities are best known for their main CBD’s, where you’ll find a constant hum of activity from office workers, restaurants, cafes, bars and retail. But for those fortunate enough to stay in the surrounding suburbs, there’s another side to discover: unique village-style neighbourhoods with their own personality, rhythm, and hidden gems.
One such area is Glen Waverley, located in South East Melbourne. For corporate travellers, relocators, and extended stay travellers coming into this area, you may be wondering about things to do in Glen Waverley during your stay. The good news is, it’s a place where you can enjoy all the convenience of an urban lifestyle, with space, greenery, and a diverse local dining scene right outside your door.
And when you’re here for weeks or even months at a time (which is typical for our clients), there’s plenty of opportunity to live like a local and explore everything that Glen Waverley has to offer.
A home base that feels like home
Most of Astra Apartments’ corporate apartments in Glen Waverley are located on Osullivan Road, which is central (and walkable) to everything you need in the area. The apartments are fully furnished and designed for extended stays, complete with full kitchens, laundry facilities, and spacious living areas, ideal for long-term guests who want to settle in, not just stay the night.
While it’s easy to prepare home-cooked meals in the apartments, we always encourage our visitors to step out and experience the area’s incredible restaurants. The trouble is, deciding where to start. To help, our local Astra Apartments owner has shared some insider favourites, all within minutes of the accommodation.
Eat Like a Local: Our Favourite Glen Waverley Cafes & Restaurants
Kingsway Hotspots
Piatella Café Bar – A Glen Waverley institution on Kingsway, perfect for breakfast meetings or relaxed dinners. Expect generous servings, great coffee, and a friendly, bustling atmosphere. Piatella is a short 5-minute walk from the apartments.
Mocha Jo’s – Another Kingsway favourite and a local go-to for casual breakfasts, lunches and people-watching.
On your doorstep
DooBoo Korean Tofu House – For those staying in the Sky Garden building, DooBoo is downstairs. This spot serves comforting Korean tofu stews that regulars swear by.
Chicky Pot – Also in Sky Garden, Chicky Pot is known for its vibrant Chinese flavours and hotpot favourites, the perfect winter meal.
Boiling Crab – For seafood lovers, this is a must-visit. Located on the ground floor of the Galleria Building, it’s super convenient (and delicious) if you’re staying in our Osullivan Road apartments.
Scusa Mi! Italiano – Located right on the corner of Osullivan Road, this cosy Italian eatery offers handmade pasta and friendly service.
Flavour favourites
Miss Ping’s – Stylish Thai dining meets Melbourne flair. Perfect for after-work dinners with colleagues.
Haidilao Hotpot – Famous for its interactive dining experience, great for groups or long-stay guests wanting something fun and social.
BBQ King Glen Waverley – A local favourite for authentic Cantonese BBQ and seafood.
Glenny Kebabs – A must-visit for late-night eats or casual weekend bites.
All of these are within a 500-metre radius of Astra Apartments Glen Waverley, so you’re never far from your next great meal.
Everyday Essentials
When it comes to essentials, Glen Waverley has you covered.
Just moments from our apartments, you’ll find The Glen Shopping Centre, a modern retail and dining hub. For groceries, you can choose from Coles, Woolworths, ALDI, and a wide range of Asian and Indian grocery stores. You’ll also find boutique shopping, beauty services, and everything you need for day-to-day living.
There’s also a Dan Murphy’s, Strike Bowling and Village Cinemas for relaxed evening or weekend entertainment.
Green escapes near Glen Waverley
When it’s time to unwind outdoors, there are some incredible green spaces just a short drive away.
Jells Park – A local favourite just ten minutes from Astra Apartments Glen Waverley. With open fields, lakeside walking tracks, and a great café, it’s perfect for morning runs, lazy Sunday picnics and if you’re travelling with family, a great place for the kids to run around.
The 1000 Steps (Kokoda Track Memorial Walk) – Located in the nearby Dandenong Ranges, this scenic trail offers a challenging yet rewarding hike through lush rainforest. It’s a popular weekend activity for those looking to stretch their legs and reset after a busy week.
Not too far from Glen Waverley Central, you can access the Dandenong Creek Trail, a beautiful 44km stretch that is perfect for walking, running or cycling.
Getting around Glen Waverley, and beyond
Staying in Glen Waverley means you’re well connected to the rest of Melbourne.
From our extended stay apartments on Osullivan Road, it’s just a short walk from Glen Waverley Station, giving you direct train access to the Melbourne CBD in around 45 minutes. Trams and buses also connect you easily to surrounding suburbs, shopping centres, and business hubs.
Prefer to drive? The Monash Freeway (M1) is only minutes away, offering easy access to both the city and regional Victoria. There’s also secure parking available for Astra Apartments corporate travellers, making it simple to explore further afield.
Whether you’re heading into the city for meetings or escaping to the Dandenong Ranges for the weekend, Glen Waverley is the perfect launch pad.
Many of our clients come for work and end up falling in love with the area. They tell me how convenient it is to have everything within walking distance, great food, shopping, parks, and the train station right there. It really makes it easy to live like a local.
Harry Juneja
director astra apartments glen waverley
Relocating to Glen Waverley
The Glen Waverley Area is very popular for relocating families because it is home to some of Melbourne’s Top Public and Private Schools. It’s also renowned for being a very family-friendly area.
Top schools within walking distance of Astra Apartments are Glen Waverley Primary, Glen Waverley Secondary, Wesley College, Glendel Primary, and Mount View Primary.
Live, work and explore – your Glen Waverley experience
For extended stays and corporate travellers, Glen Waverley offers the best of both worlds, the comfort and familiarity of home, combined with the unique vibe of a local community. When you stay at Astra Apartments accommodation Glen Waverley VIC, you’re not just booking accommodation, you’re setting yourself up for an experience. One where work and life blend seamlessly, and every convenience is just moments away.
