Ascot Vale is located 6 km north-west of the CBD. Ascot Vale is a primarily a residential suburb with a significant commercial strip shopping centres on Union Street. Tram lines traverse the suburb with the Ascot Vale Railway Station located in the heart of the suburb. The Maribyrnong River defines the western boundary of the suburb. Ascot Vale also features the Essendon Golf Course, Fairbairn Park and Walter Reserve.