Sydney Archives - Page 5 of 80

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney.

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

Explore the best Sydney gardens and parks.

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

Glebe Foreshore Walk, Sydney

October 14, 2020 / Outdoor Play, Sydney, Sydney Life / 0 comment

Glebe Foreshore Walk, Sydney

The 2km Glebe Foreshore Walk stretches from Pyrmont’s Sydney Fish Market around Blackwattle Bay to Bicentennial and Jubilee parks. The trail is perfect for running, cycling or walking.

The Foreshore Walk is a fave local haunt of ours, and we often enjoy weekends grabbing food or a gelato at the Tramsheds before taking this walk.

The walk can be started at the Tramsheds (where there is free parking available) or at the Pyrmont Fish Market. I suggest starting the walk with the intention to enjoy breakfast or lunch at the destination.

The path is fully paved, making it ideal for scooters, bikes, wheelchairs and strollers. There is a section with large stones however which make for a bumpy ride.

Along the walk you will enjoy stunning views of the ANZAC Bridge as well as open grasslands, playgrounds at both Jubilee Park and Bicentennial Park, off-leash dog walking areas and a cafe with public restrooms around the halfway point. There are also public restrooms located in Jubilee Park near the sports oval.

Read about Jubilee Park & Playground Glebe.

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids.

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney.

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/america-bay-walking-track

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

Exploring the America Bay Track Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Sydney Australia

September 27, 2020 / Bush, Outdoor Play, Sydney, Sydney Life / 0 comment

Exploring the America Bay Track Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

America Bay track in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is a short, moderate walk with waterfalls, Aboriginal engravings and a stunning picnic spot at the end of the track.

The track is 1km return, starting from West Head Road off McCarrs Creek Road. Look for the large sign on the side of the road. There is parking on the roadside available.

There are no bathrooms nearby, so make sure you go before you start the trail.

While the walk is quite short, it’s a winding walk with plenty to look at along the way, over uneven surfaces. There are plenty of rocks to climb and little water cascades to explore. Right near the entrance there is a a detour to see the Aboriginal rock engravings. The detour is not sign posted so we actually missed it, even though we were looking for it.

Walking quite slowly, the trail took us 45 minutes to reach the rock platform overlooking America Bay, which is located near the mouth of the Hawksburry River. It used to extend further, however the next park is closed due to hazards.

There is a little waterfall at the rock platform and plenty of shady wide rocks to sit on. We brought a picnic blanket and lunch to enjoy at the lookout.

Be sure to bring good walking shoes, a hat and sunscreen when doing this walk.

The walking track is one of many on offer in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, so you could very easily do this short walk in conjunction with others.

Entry to the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is $12, so I would definitely advise making a day of it.

Along the walking trail you’ll encounter woodlands of scribbly gum and bloodwood, and a little creek with crystal clear water. In August and September the wildflowers bloom bright yellow and pink throughout the bush.

Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is open sunrise to sunset.

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids.

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney.

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

Explore the best Sydney gardens and parks.

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

Explore the most beautiful Sydney gardens

September 24, 2020 / Outdoor Play, Sydney, Sydney Life / 0 comment

Explore the most beautiful Sydney gardens

Sydney gardens are stunning to visit in any season, particular so in spring and autumn. With a huge variety of gardens and parks across the city and extending into day trips, it’s the perfect time to get outside and enjoy beautiful blooms and stunning foliage.

Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, was established in 1816, making it the oldest botanic garden and scientific institution in Australia. The garden is home to a collection of plants from around the world, with a focus on Australian plants and also a collection from the South Pacific.

The gardens have so many areas to explore, our favourites being The Calyx, which is home to one of the largest green walls in the southern hemisphere and cafe, the lion sculptures, the Palace Rose Garden and the Spring Walk. The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, are particularly stunning in spring when the Spring Walk and Rose Garden are in full bloom, and in November when the jacarandas carpet the garden in a stunning shade of purple.

Read more about visiting the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney.

Wendy Whitely’s Secret Garden, Lavender Bay

Sydney’s Lavender Bay is the perfect spot to enjoy the spectacular Sydney scenery and let time pass by. If you turn your back to the gorgeous view and walk a up a stealthy flight of stairs, you’ll find yourself somewhere a bit magical – Wendy’s Secret Garden.

The garden was created in 1992 by Wendy Whiteley, wife and muse to artist Brett Whiteley, following her by then ex-husband’s death. Before Wendy turned the patch of land into the whimsical retreat it is today, it was a dumping ground, overgrown with weeds. The lot is officially owned by NSW State Railways, but after Wendy’s incredible efforts to turn it into a treasure to be enjoyed by the general public, the government has agreed lease the land to North Sydney Council on a 30-year renewable lease, securing it for hopefully generations to come.

Read more about visiting Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden.

Paddington Reservoir Garden

Paddington Reservoir Gardens is an award-winning location in Sydney’s east. It was completed in 1864, created as part of Sydney’s third water supply to contain water pumped from Lords Dam at Botany Bay.

The garden contains wide boardwalks and green spaces free for the public to use. Pull up a deck chair or lie on the grass with a book. It’s a quiet spot in an otherwise very busy part of Sydney.

Read more about visiting the Paddington Reservoir Garden.

Auburn Botanic Garden

The delightfully zen Auburn Botanic Gardens are located in Auburn, in South-West Sydney. Established in 1977, the gardens are surprisingly tucked away in a suburban pocket between rows of houses. Spread over 9.7 hectares, the gardens are a serene place to enjoy nature.

This Sydney garden is particularly well known for it’s stunning Japanese Garden and native animal enclosures. Auburn Botanic Garden is particularly beautiful in the spring, where the cherry blossoms are in bloom, and in autumn where the fall colours are spectacular.

Read more about visiting the Auburn Botanic Garden.

Fagan Park, Galston

Fagan Park in Sydney’s Hornsby shire is a 55 hectare park with themed gardens, playgrounds, historic Netherby Cottage and an Eco Garden to explore.

Fagan Park is particularly beautiful in spring, with a stunning selection of cherry blossoms in bloom, and in autumn where the deciduous trees around the lake are in full colourful glory. One of our favourite Sydney gardens, Fagan Park is a special spot that the locals have kept hidden for way too long.

E.G. Waterhouse National Camellia Gardens, Caringbah South

The beautiful Camellia Gardens in Southerland Shire are filled with hundreds of types of camellias which flower from the start of autumn till early springtime and are at their best between April and August each year. The Rose Garden blooms from the end of September until the end of summer, so there is always something beautiful in bloom to see.

Enjoy high tea or a coffee in the Teahouse or take kids to one of two playgrounds located inside the garden grounds.

Read more about The Teahouse and visiting the E.G. Waterhouse National Camellia Gardens.

Ku-Ring-Gai Wildflower Garden

The Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden is a 123-hectare garden on Sydney’s north shore. Established in 1968, the garden is dedicated to preserving and showcasing Australian plants.

The Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden is a beautiful spot to picnic, bushwalk and learn about Australian flora and fauna.

While some areas of the garden have been cleared from bush such as Lambert’s Clearing, which has a large grassed area with picnic tables and a children’s playground, most of the garden is in a natural bush state.

Read more about visiting Ku-Ring-Gai Wildflower Garden.

Chinese Garden of Friendship, Darling Harbour

The gardens were built in 1988 as a symbol of friendship between Sydney and the southern Chinese city of Guandong. It was designed and built by Chinese landscape architects and gardeners to reflect the “yin-yang” Taoist principles and the elements of earth, fire, water, metal and wood.

Read more about visiting the Chinese Garden of Friendship.

Gardens to Day Trip To

Wollongong Botanic Garden

The Wollongong Botanic Garden is a 30-hectare garden in the suburb of Keiraville featuring a large collection of native and exotic plants from around the world.

During winter, the succulent garden is in full bloom, and spring sees many blooms around the Azalea Bank and Middle Creek. The Japanese Drum Bridge is a popular spot for a photo.

Read more about visiting the Wollongong Botanic Garden.

Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan

The Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan is a 416-hectare garden set in a hilly area of the southwestern Sydney suburb of Mount Annan. During September, the gardens have a stunning display of paper daisies.

The Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan are free to enter. They are popular place for families in Sydney’s west and south-west to visit for picnic lunches, due to their large grassed areas, huge playground, and excellent facilities including a great cafe.

Read more about visiting The Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan.

Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah

The Blue Mountains Botanic Garden is the only botanic garden in the world located in a World Heritage area. Home to 21,000 plants of 900 species, the 69-acre garden is located 100km west of Sydney at Mount Tomah, in the Blue Mountains, NSW, Australia.

Established in 1972, the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden is heritage-listed and focusses on the conservation of cool climate plants that do not grow in the warmer climate of Sydney.

During September, the gardens have a stunning display of daffodils.

Read more about visiting Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah.

Wildwood Garden, Bilpin

Enjoy seasonal colours in the fresh mountain at at Wildwood Garden, a privately-owned cool climate garden in the Blue Mountains, 90 minutes drive west of Sydney.

Wildwood Garden was created over 38 years by Wayne and Sue Tapping. Located in Blipin, on the fringe of the Blue Mountains and deep in apple country, the garden has a glorious collection of plants which are stunning to behold throughout the year.

The gardens are particularly stunning in autumn and spring with cherry blossoms, however in summer the rose garden is also in full bloom.

Read more about visiting Wildwood Garden.

Everglades Historic House and Gardens Leura

We love a beautiful garden and the Everglades Historic House & Gardens certainly ticks all the boxes. A beautiful 1930s, Art Deco home set amongst 5.2 hectares of stunning gardens, the Everglades is destination that will transport you to a bygone era of grace and charm.

This private garden is stunning to wander around in any season, particularly so in autumn and spring. Be sure to enjoy a scone from the cafe.

Read more about visiting Everglades Historic House and Gardens.

Norman Lindsey Gallery, Museum & Sculpture Garden, Faulconbridge

Norman Lindsey (1879-1969) was an Australian artist, cartoonist, and writer. His former home and studio have been turned into a gallery and museum run by the National Trust, showcasing his work and life.

We love to wander around the landscaped gardens and admire his sculptures, or wander through the gallery to see his beautiful paintings and etchings. You can read more about Norman Lindsey and his work here.

Norman Lindsey is also the creator of the Magic Pudding. Visiting the gallery is a great introduction for kids to this Aussie masterpiece.

Read more about visiting Norman Lindsey Gallery, Museum & Sculpture Garden.

Mayfield Garden, Oberon

Nestled on the outskirts of the Blue Mountains, in the central tablelands area of NSW, lies a hidden gem called Mayfield Garden.

Created by the Hawkins family in the mid 1990s, Mayfield is now one of the world’s largest privately-owned cool climate gardens. Set on a working farm spanning thousands of acres, the European-inspired garden is at once both intimate and immense.

Mayfield is open year-round. I would strongly advise visiting in different seasons; waterlilies in summer, colourful foliage in autumn, raw structure of plants in winter and fragrant blooms in spring.

Read more about visiting Mayfield Garden.

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids.

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney.

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

A Purriffic Time at the Catmosphere Cat Cafe Sydney

September 23, 2020 / Inner West, Surry Hills, Sydney / 0 comment

A Purriffic Time at the Catmosphere Cat Cafe Sydney

Enjoy a coffee with a side of cat at the Catmosphere Cat Cafe Sydney. Catmosphere is Sydney’s original cat cafe, and while it offers several kitty experiences, it is first and foremost a cat rescue.

About the Catmosphere Cat Cafe

Catmosphere’s owners are passionate cat rescuers, who have been rescuing and rehoming cats for over a decade. Catmosphere partners with two rescue groups; the World League for Protection of Animals and Kitten University. “The former works to find homes for all displaced cats and the latter specialises in nursing young, orphaned kittens, and rehoming them when they are healthy and old enough.”

Catmosphere fosters these displaced cats and kittens and cares for them financially as well as ensuring all of their welfare needs are met. It’s the dream of the Catmosphere team to “provide a sustainable, safe space for rescue cats and kittens until they find their forever homes, and provide people with all the information and resources they need about rescue cats”.

Where do the cats come from?

All of the cats at Catmosphere Cat Cafe Sydney are rescues. The majority are permanent residents who have been adopted by the Catmosphere owners after having been observed for one to two years to ensure their suitability for cat cafe life. According to the Catmosphere website, “most of these cats were either surrendered to their rescue group or found on the streets, unowned, and unable to survive on their own in the outside world”.

There are also cats at the cafe who are adoptable and looking for a new home. Living at the cat cafe helps the cats socialisation skills, as well as giving them added exposure to the public and making the adoption process easier for those looking to add a kitty to their family.

The majority of the kittens who come to Catmosphere have been orphaned at an early age and raised in foster care by Kitten University volunteers.

What are the rules for interacting with the cats

Don’t pick up the cats. This ensures the cats interact with visitors only on their terms.

Let the cats com to you. If the cats are up high on shelves or inside their boxes, let them rest.

Talk at a normal sound level.

Keep mobile phones on silent and turn flashes off.

No food is allowed inside.

All bags must be checked into lockers on arrival.

Visitors must stay seated at all times due to physical distance regulations.

Tips for interacting with the cats

Stay low on the floor, be calm and gentle, and let the cats come to you. We sat quietly on the chairs and floors and had plenty of the cats approach us to play with them or for a pat. Some jumped onto our laps.

Sometimes the cats will not want to interact with visitors. They might stay in hidey holes or up on shelves.

“The cats of Catmosphere, and cats in general, tend to be more active in the morning (10am – 12pm) and later in the evening (5pm onwards).”

Cat Experiences

Cat Lounge

The Cat Lounge is for people aged 8+ who enjoy a more peaceful experience. The adult cats here are generally calm and chill, so the Cat Lounge experience is perfect for those looking for a zen experience.

Visitors to the Cat Lounge must be aged 8-years-old and over as the noise and energy levels of younger children and babies is often too much for the cats.

This experience takes place in a shared space, unless you have booked it privately.

A Cat Lounge experience includes:
50 minutes with adorable rescue cats in the Cat Lounge
A complimentary drink from our standard menu (you can choose to upgrade to our optional Premium Menu when making a booking)
A briefing from one of our dedicated hosts who will help you better interact with the cats in their space

The Cat Lounge is located on the first floor and is unfortunately not wheelchair accessible.

The Treehouse

The Treehouse experience is for people aged 5+ who are looking to hang out with an energetic group of adoptable juniors/kittens.

The ages of the kittens/juniors varies. When we visited The treehouse, the youngest cat was 8 months old and the oldest in the room was a year and a half.

Visitors to the Treehouse must be aged 5-years-old and over as the noise and energy levels of younger children and babies is often too much for the cats.

A Treehouse experience includes:
50 minutes with adoptable juniors/kittens in the Treehouse
A complimentary drink from our standard menu (you can choose to upgrade to our optional Premium Menu when making a booking)
A briefing from one of our dedicated hosts who will help you better interact with the cats in their space

The Treehouse is located on the second floor and is unfortunately not wheelchair accessible

Catflix Cat Cinema

Watch a movie in comfy reclining floor lounge seating accompanied by some fellow film-loving cats.

A Catflix Cat Cinema experience includes:
Comfortable reclining floor lounge seating (standard seating available upon request, though the cats don’t respond as well to this)
A movie on our big screen
Wireless headphones so you can control your own volume and the cats hear nothing but sweet, sweet silence
A complimentary drink from a curated menu including milkshakes and mocktails
A blanket and very small portion of treats to help attract and woo a cat when your natural charm just isn’t working

Children and babies under 5-years-old are not permitted into the Catflix Cat Cinema experience and children 12 years old and under must be supervised at all times by a paying parent/guardian.

Individual screenings will have different age limits.

Catflix Cat Cinema is located on the first floor and is unfortunately not wheelchair accessible.

Cat Yoga

Enjoy, yep, a yoga class with cats! Kids aged 8+ are welcome.

A Cat Yoga experience includes:
45 minutes of yoga amongst the cats
15 minutes of pure cat interaction
An experienced yoga instructor
Inner peace, probably
Should you forget your yoga mat, we do have some spare.

Cat Yoga is located on the first floor and is unfortunately not wheelchair accessible.

Catmosphere Cat Cafe
66 Foveaux St, Surry Hills
catmospherecafe.com.au

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids.

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney.

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

Van Gogh Alive: A Digital Art Experience

September 18, 2020 / Indoor Play, Museums, Sydney, Sydney Life / 0 comment

Van Gogh Alive: The Digital Art Experience

Immerse yourself in Van Gogh’s paintings at Van Gogh Alive, a multimedia art experience with digital surround sound in Sydney’s The Royal Hall of Industries.

Van Gogh Alive is a multi-sensory art exhibition celebrating the life of Vincent Van Gogh. Over 3,000 images, including Van Gogh’s works, imagery and animations are projected by forty high-definition projectors onto large screens, accompanied by digital surround, to create a completely multi-sensory experience unlike any other.

The exhibition is housed inside the historic Hall of Industries at Moore Park, in a custom-built facility that is visually spectacular as well as Covid-safe. While Van Gogh Alive has been experienced in 50 cities across the world, including Roe, Berlin, Milan, Shanghai and Moscow, the Sydney exhibition is the largest yet.

Van Gogh Alive is the brainchild of Bruce Peterson, the owner/director of Melbourne based company Melbourne-based Grande Exhibitions. The company has developed SENSORY4TM™ system, using the the state-of-the-art technology to bring Van Gogh’s most famous works to life. SENSORY4™ is a unique technological system that combines multi-channel motion graphics, cinema quality surround sound and up to forty high-definition projectors to create an exciting multi-screen environments.

The exhibition is a wonderful way for art-lovers to experience beloved works in a new, immersive way, or for those who aren’t a fan of quiet galleries to enjoy art in a more interactive fashion. It’s also a great way for kids to enjoy art as an entertaining and enchanting experience that gives the sensation of walking straight into a painting rather than looking at a flat object hanging on a white wall.

Inside the venue, the experience begins with a simple gallery with examples of Van Gogh’s paintings and informative signs on his works and life.

There is a charming set up that brings his famous painting of his own bedroom to life in a life-size model. Visitors are free to roam this section prior to the start of the main exhibition.

Through another door way lies the full multi-sensory experience, where guests are welcomed at the designated time, and encouraged to fill out the entire space. The exhibition is a 45 minute show that stops for 10 minutes then resets for each session.

The show is projected onto large screens throughout the room. Visitors can experience it from the one spot or roam around while it is in process.

Van Gogh’s masterpieces come to life in a symphony of colour, light and sound. They are displayed in the timeline of Van Gogh’s life, broken into sections that represent the different stages of his art-making. The art works are animated, paired with photographs, video and music, and give a whole new perspective to the life of one of the world’s most revered artists.

Important information for experiencing Van Gogh Alive

Entrance to the exhibition is by ticketed, timed entry.

Please arrive about 15 minutes prior to the time printed on your ticket for access control and health and security checks.

Masks will be required by all guests aged 12+ prior to entry and throughout the experience. If you have forgotten your mask, a disposable mask will be available for purchase.

Visitors will have their temperatures checked on arrival. Guests with a temperature reading of 37.5 degrees celsius or above will be asked to wait for 10 minutes and rechecked. Should their temperature read above 37.5 on the second check, they will not be permitted entry.

The exhibition is suitable for children of all ages. Children under the age of four are free.

The venue is wheelchair and stroller accessible.

Photos and video are allowed, however please don’t use a flash.

Get more information on what the venue is doing to ensure Van Gogh Alive is a Covid-safe experience here.

There is a cafe and gift shop at the exit. Please bring cards not cash.

Two hour free parking is available in the Wilson ‘EQ Carpark’.

If taking public transport, get information here.

The Royal Hall of Industries, Entertainment Quarter, 1 Driver
Avenue, Moore Park.
Dates: Van Gogh Alive is on display for a limited season, starting September 18, 2020.
Prices: Tickets start at: $30 for Adults. $85 Family Four pack, $22 for youth ages 13-17, $15 for children ages 5-12. Free for children under 4 years old when accompanied by an adult. Special pricing is available for seniors, students and groups of 8+.
Buy tickets here.
vangoghalive.com.au

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids.

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney.

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

Fagan Park & Playground Galston Sydney

September 15, 2020 / Bush, Outdoor Play, Playgrounds, Sydney, Sydney Life / 0 comment

Fagan Park & Playground Galston Sydney

Fagan Park in Sydney’s Hornsby shire is a 55 hectare park with themed gardens, playgrounds, historic Netherby Cottage and an Eco Garden to explore.

Fagan Park history

The Darug people hunted and fished in the region for thousands of years, and were the original inhabitants of the land where Fagan Park sits. The Darug people were forced to leave the land by white settlers as detail above.

Fagan Park is located on a piece of land originally granted to George Hall. After being purchased by the Fagan family it was developed as a citrus orchard and later a cattle property. The land was donated by the Fagan family for use as a recreational and culture centre. Hornsby Shire Council was appointed as sole trustee for the park, which officially opened in November 1988.

Things to do in Fagan Park

Picnics & Barbecues

Enjoy a picnic or barbecue, with a number of shelters and electric barbecues that accept $1 coins scattered throughout the grounds. (Remember to bring change!)

Gardens of Many Nations

Take an ambling stroll around the Gardens of Many Nations, which covers 10 hectares and has 11 themed gardens.

The gardens include Japanese, Dutch, Chinese, Australian, African and Mediterranean. The Chinese and Japanese gardens are particularly beautiful in spring with cherry blossom trees blooming.

Netherby Homestead and Rural Museum

The original Fagan home, Netherby Cottage, was donated to the Crown under Hornsby Shire Council’s care, control and management in 1979. The cottage and adjoining Rural Museum are a great place to learn about colonial life and local history.

The cottage and museum are open evert Tuesday and second Sunday of each month.

Playgrounds

There are two large playgrounds in Fagan Park, one at the Arcadia Road entrance and one at the Carrs Road entrance.

Arcadia Road playground

The Arcadia Road playground is a modern space with small and large climbing frames, flying fox, swings, including a Liberty Swing, water play, sand play, slides and turning disc.

There are picnic shelters and barbecues surrounding the playground, as well as a large toilet block featuring a disabled toilet.

The proximity to the car park, playground, toilets and play equipment makes this a popular spot for children’s parties. The picnic shelters are often booked out on weekends for parties.

Carrs Bush playground

The Carr Bush playground is located in the Carrs Bush area of Fagan Park. The nature-themed playground blends into the surrounding bush landscape.

Features include climbing logs, a water play feature, swings including a basket swing and disabled swing, an all-abilities carousel and a climbing frame.

There are picnic tables and toilets nearby.

Eco Garden

The Eco Garden is an educational, sustainable garden. The Council-driven community initiative features over 36 different types of fruit and vegetables, as well as showcasing environmentally friendly gardening techniques.

The Eco Garden is a great spot for kids, too, with fun features to explore including a scarecrow, sandpit and fairy garden.

Get active

Fagan Park is the perfect place to get some exercise. There are long, sealed paths perfect for riding bikes or scooters, large graded areas for ball sports, frisbees or kite-flying and bushland with short bushwalking trails.

Dogs are welcome, however must remain on a lead at all times.

Carrs Bush

A beautiful 8.5 hectare area of bushland within Fagan Park, Carrs Bush features several short trails with interpretive signage, picnic areas, barbecues and a playground.

There are over 120 species of native plants in Carrs Bush, including the endangered Sydney Turpentine – Ironbark. Birds, marsupials, amphibians, mammals and invertebrates take refuge here.

Important info about Fagan Park

There are two accessible / disabled toilets inside Fagan Park. One is located at the Arcadia Road main amenities block; and the other is located at the Carrs Road amenities block.

Small portable barbeques including charcoal are permitted under strict conditions.

There is a privately run kiosk selling light refreshments (open weekends and selected weekdays only). I would highly recommend that you bring your own food and water. The park is perfect for a long, luxurious picnic.

All barbeques within the park require $1 coins to operate.

There are two car parks, one off Arcadia Road at the main park entrance, and another off Carrs Road. Parking costs $6 per vehicle.

Dogs are permitted but must stay on a leash at all times.

There are many water birds living in Fagan Park. Please don’t feed them.

Fagan Park
38-48 Arcadia Rd, Galston
Hours: Daily, 7am-6:30pm
hornsby.nsw.gov.au

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids.

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney.

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

Enjoy Contemporary Chinese Art at the White Rabbit Art Gallery Sydney

September 10, 2020 / Indoor Play, Museums, Sydney, Sydney Life / 0 comment

White Rabbit Art Gallery Sydney

Enjoy a showcase of contemporary Chinese art at the White Rabbit Gallery in Sydney. The collection includes 2000 works by almost 700 artists and is dedicated to works made in the 21st century.

The White Rabbit Gallery is a privately owned gallery in Chippendale. It was opened in 2009 by Judith Neilson, who has built one of the world’s most significant collections of Chinese contemporary art through her regular aquisition trips to China and Taiwan.

The gallery is housed inside what was once a Rolls-Royce service depot in the 1940s. After a complete refit to suit its new purpose as an exhibition space, the gallery has four floors of exhibition space as well as a theatrette, a library and a teahouse. As only a fraction of the collection is able to be displayed at any one time, the entire contents of the gallery are rehung twice a year.

The White Rabbit Collection documents social and artistic change in twenty-first century China. The majority of art works in the collection are by young, emerging artists.

Children are welcome to visit the gallery, however those under the age of 10 are required to hold an adults hand at all times while exploring the art works. While there are no family-specific materials or trails, we found the collection to be highly engaging for our family, with plenty of art works leading to discussions.

There is stair and elevator access to all four levels of the gallery, and a bathroom with changing table available.

Before leaving the White Rabbit Gallery, stop by the gift shop and tea house on the ground floor, right near the entry/exit. The tea house serves the most beautiful teas including flowering teas in glass pots, freshly handmade dumplings from 11:30am, and a sweet or savoury snack plate with dried fruit, nuts and homemade biscuits.

Admission is free.

If driving to the gallery, you may be able to score on-street parking. The gallery is a short walk from Central Station.

White Rabbit Art Gallery Sydney
30 Balfour St, Chippendale
Hours: Wed-Sun 10am-5pm
https://www.whiterabbitgallery.org

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Historical Sydney: Visiting Newington Armory, Sydney Olympic Park

September 8, 2020 / Historical Sydney, Sydney / 0 comment

Newington Armory, Sydney Olympic Park

Visit the world heritage-listed Newington Armory in Sydney Olympic Park. The former Royal Australian Navy armament depot is now a place to enjoy cycling, art, picnics, wildlife and history.

The Newington Armory was built from 1897 by the Royal Australian Navy. It was designated as a world heritage site on 14 January 2011. What was once an industrial military site is now an arts precinct with a theatre, outdoor amphitheatre, artist studios and an exhibition space, as well as a place to cycle/scoot, picnic and play.

There are over 100 heritage buildings at the Armory, across 52 hectares of riverside hills and woodlands. You can learn more about the heritage buildings at the Armory through a heritage interpretation program at the original 1897 gate house.

The Armory usually free exhibitions throughout the year (not in 2020 sadly), plus film festivals, public art, cultural activities and kids activities.

Riverside walking and cycling

Enjoy the Parramatta River by foot, bike or scooter. There are sculptures dotted along the path to enjoy.

You can hire a bike from Bike Hire @ Sydney Olympic Park (open 9am-5pm, last hire 4pm, weekends, public holidays and school holidays.

Armory Wharf Cafe

The Armory Wharf Café in Sydney Olympic Park is a family-friendly, waterfront cafe with a casual vibe and al fresco seating.

Armory Gallery

The Armory Gallery is housed in Building 18, one of the largest armament storehouses constructed prior to World War Two. The gallery is a flexible exhibition space which features the longest continuous gallery wall in Australia. While the gallery usually hosts large-scale exhibitions like ArtExpress as well as kids activities and other events, it is currently closed.

The Amory Gallery is accessed by walking through a tunnel along the railway tracks.

Heritage Railway Discovery Tour

While the tour was closed when we visited, the guided Heritage Railway Discovery Tour, “Riding the Rails”, usually runs every Sunday from 9.30am to 10.45am, on the historic railway that was once used to move missiles and torpedoes around the Armament Depot. The tour usually runs every Sunday 11am to 1pm, every half hour. If you have kids, be aware that the tour is suitable for kids aged 10+. There is a tour during the school holidays suitable for younger children. On the first Sunday of every month is the Heritage Railway Discovery Tour.

BirdLife Discovery Centre

Also sadly closed at the moment is the BirdLife Discovery Centre, a great place to learn about birds living in the area. Watch the centre’s resident pair of White-bellied Sea-Eagles on their nest using EagleCAM or take a free guided bird walk around the Newington Armory (they run on the last Sunday of the month at 10am for one hour).

Call (02) 9647 1033 or email southernnsw@birdlife.org.au with queries.

Get more information on the BirdLife Discovery Centre.

Segway Tours

Take an exhilarating Segway tour of the Newington Armory. The tours give historical commentary on the site and include a stop at the Building 39 armament exhibition. Segway tours run 10am-3.30pm weekends and school holidays.
Get more information on Segway tours.

Must-know information about visiting the Newington Amory

Opening hours: Daily, 9am-5pm

Free 3 hour parking is available. Parking is limited to arrive early on weekends and during holidays.

There is a kiosk offering basic snacks, drinks and ice blocks open Mon-Sun.

Picnic and barbecue facilities are available next to the Armory Wharf Cafe.

Public restrooms are also located near the cafe.

Newington Armory
Jamieson St, Sydney Olympic Park NSW
https://www.sydneyolympicpark.com.au/parks/newington-armory

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Armory Wharf Cafe: Waterfront & Family-Friendly Cafe in Sydney

September 8, 2020 / Newington, South West, Sydney, Sydney Food / 0 comment

Armory Wharf Café

The Armory Wharf Café in Sydney Olympic Park is a family-friendly, waterfront cafe with a casual vibe and al fresco seating.

Located on the edge of the Parramatta River in the Newington Nature Reserve, the Armory Wharf Café is a licensed venue that has stunning 270-degree water views of mangroves and the industrial Armory wharf.

The Armory Wharf Café has a mix of shaded outdoor and indoor seating, and a menu that offers fresh, seasonal cuisine.

There are daily specials and a decent amount of options for kids.

The cafe is an extremely popular spot for families in particular, with its close proximity to Blaxland Riverside Playground. There is a section of the playground close enough for older kids to enjoy while their parents are waiting for meals to arrive in the cafe.

Our group ordered the Beer-battered Fish n Chips (served with mushy peas and tartar sauce, $24), Grilled Salmon (served with a spinach, nut and grain salad and beetroot hummus, $28), Berry Good Smoothie (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries and skim milk, $8), Loaded Focaccia (housemate focaccia topped with scrambled eggs, haloumi, spinach, tomato relish and avocado, $20), Kids’ Mini Pizza Pocket (cheese and tomato pizza pocket, $12).

The fish and chips, salmon and loaded focaccia meals were all excellent. Great sized services, bright, fresh produce and excellently cooked. All meals arrived quickly and were very well made.

The only dish that was a let down was the pizza pockets. They were a bit sweet and weird tasting, and not a hit with any of us unfortunately.

I would highly advise making reservations to secure a spot. Parking is available nearby however is limited and is also used for the playground, so arrive early enough to wait for a spot to become available if you are visiting on a weekend.

Afterwards, take kids to Blaxland Riverside Playground or to explore the Newington Armory.

Armory Wharf Cafe
Blaxland Riverside Park, Jamieson Street, off Holker St, Newington NSW
Hours: Wed-Sun 9am–2pm
http://www.armorywharfcafe.com

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