Sydney's Parks and Gardens

Although Sydney is known as a bustling metropolitan city and is famous for its harbour, there are also some exceptionally beautiful natural areas and open spaces situated within the city. Much of the natural heritage that remains in Sydney has a colourful past dating back to the first settlers. Other gardens and open spaces are more recent additions to the cityscape, providing sanctuary from the day to day city traffic and hustle and bustle. Open to the public every day of the week, much of Sydney's parks and gardens are free to enjoy.

Royal Botanic Gardens

One of the finest natural assets in Sydney, the Royal Botanic Gardens were established in 1816 and offer some of the best views of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. There are over 1 million specimens spread across 30 hectares of gardens including plantings from the first European colonists more than 200 years ago. You can visit the site where Governor Phillip first planted European vegetables over two centuries ago as well as the first vegetable patch in Australia.

Hyde Park

Although named after London's Hyde Park, this central open green space in Sydney has rather different origins. In fact, the park was originally a sporting ground and racecourse which played host to all manner of competitions. Today, the only reminder of the peaceful park's early 19th century heritage is a huge playable chess set that is located on the park's western side.

Centennial Park

One of Australia's best known, most loved and historic parklands, Centennial Park is comprised of three major urban parks and covers a total of 360 hectares. Aesthetically beautiful, the park is home to more than 15,000 trees, formal gardens, flower beds, ponds, statues, cafes and restaurants. The park also houses a variety of Australian wildlife and the historically significant Federation monument in the Federation Pavilion.

Cook & Phillip Park

Located on the corner of College and William streets, Cook & Phillip Park provides approximately 4 hectares of public space. Opened in 1999, the park features an open lawn, grassed terraces and water features which lend it a modern oriental feel. The park features seating areas and a cafe which is open for lunch as well as a variety of recreational facilities including multi-use indoor and outdoor courts, an indoor recreation centre, children's play area, a gym, leisure pool, hydrotherapy pool and an 8 lane 50m lap pool.

The Domain

Governor Phillip set aside his private domain which, in 1788 extended to Circular Quay. In the 1830s it was opened to the public and in the 1850s it was used for ceremonial, military and sporting events. Since then it has been a gathering place for soap box oratories, political meetings and more. These days it is known as a community gathering place, particularly in summer when its large grassy expanse is used for outdoor performances and concerts as well as the famous Carols by Candlelight spectacular at Christmas time.

The Chinese Garden of Friendship

Designed by sister city Guangzhou in China, the Chinese Garden of Friendship was developed in Darling Harbour to complement nearby Chinatown. The area is rich in Chinese culture and heritage and in 1988, the gardens were officially opened to celebrate Sydney's bicentennial. To symbolise the bond between Australia and China, the gardens were named the Garden of Friendship.

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