Nestled amongst the towering rainforests, cool fern gullies and native flowers of the Emerald Lake Park precinct, the Lakeside Visitor Centre combines its natural surroundings with the authentic sights, smells and sounds of Puffing Billy Railway to offer guests a cultural hub with world-class facilities.

Dine in at the modern café, hire a bike, explore the walking trails, or jump on a paddleboat in the cool waters of Lake Treganowan. Discover steam artefacts in the Lakeside Hall before jumping onboard your steam train, or host an event in a private function room.

Whether you’re after outdoor adventure or total relaxation, the Lakeside Visitor Centre is the perfect destination to meet, eat, drink, and spend your day whiling time away with family and friends. Open daily year-round (except Christmas Day). Entry is free.

Located 40 kilometres east of Melbourne, Lakeside Visitor Centre is an easy one hour drive from the CBD and a picture perfect rest stop for walkers or cyclists on the Eastern Dandenong Ranges Rail Trail. The centre sits at the heart of Puffing Billy Railway, adjoining Lakeside Station in Emerald, the highest station on our mountain track. Travel by steam train from Belgrave for an idyllic lunch stop by Emerald Lake, or start your adventure at Lakeside and travel east towards Gembrook.