The Park stretches nearly two kilometres north-south but is only 350 metres at its widest between Royal Parade and Garton Street.

The southern part is notable for its large spaces and open vistas, including views south to the city skyline and across Melbourne General Cemetery. The northern part of the park is more enclosed because of the topography, the stadium, and the terrace houses lining surrounding streets.

Special features of Princes Park include:

• tennis courts;
• a large timber playground;
• barbecue and picnic facilities;
• cricket, soccer and football grounds;
• an ornamental pond where the resident ducks can usually be seen;
• a 3.2 kilometre running circuit around the perimeter which is extremely popular; 
• bowling greens, home to the Princes Park Bowling Club which dates back to 1886; and
• MC Labour Park, formerly known as Optus Oval and traditional home of the Carlton Football Club.