Did you know that Sydney has over 400 parks? Yes, really. There are pocket parks scattered in neighbourhoods stretching from the CBD to Western Sydney and expansive green paddocks like Centennial Park.
Whether you need a dose of vitamin D, are meeting friends for a picnic, or are taking the dog for a stroll, here are Sydney’s best parks.
Centennial Park, CBD
Centennial Parklands is Sydney’s Central Park, sans squirrels. Spanning 360 hectares, this park is a lush tapestry of Australian fig, eucalyptus, paperbark, exotic pine, and evergreen oak trees. Grab a picnic blanket and set up by a serene pond and vibrant flower bed, or grab a coffee from a nearby cafe and stroll the trail.
Royal Botanic Gardens, Circular Quay
Is there anything more iconic than a view of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House from the Royal Botanic Gardens? The heritage-listed grounds have plenty of lush green patches to claim and trails for runners. Be sure to stop by the rose garden or Japanese garden to appreciate the setting. When you start getting hungry, head to Botanic House for bites from celebrity chef Luke Nguyen.
Blackwattle Bay Park, Glebe
Nestled between Glebe and Rozelle is the scenic Glebe Foreshore Walk. With off-leash areas for your furry companions, it offers a tranquil setting to spread your blanket, enjoy a BYO picnic with panoramic views of the ANZAC Bridge and city skyline, and catch a breathtaking sunset. The park also boasts convenient picnic facilities and playgrounds for added enjoyment.
Cremorne Reserve, Cremorne Point
Another park with panoramic views of Sydney is Cremorne Reserve. It’s popular with picnickers thanks to its landscape of verdant lawns, diverse tree plantings, enchanting exotic gardens, and native bushland.
Hyde Park, CBD
If you need to stretch your legs after sitting at a desk, Hyde Park is the closest patch of green you’ll find in the CBD. There are plenty of park benches to sit on, or grab a spot on the lawn and soak up some vitamin D.
Barangaroo Reserve, Barangaroo
Even with 400-plus parks, Sydney decided it needed more green. Enter Barangaroo Reserve, a picturesque foreshore playground with plenty of lush green grass to nab. Walk along the foreshore walk or climb to the top of the reserve for an expansive lawn area.
Wendy’s Secret Garden, Lavender Bay
Escape to Wendy’s Secret Garden, conceived by Wendy Whiteley, wife of renowned artist Brett Whiteley. This enchanting space features winding paths, native flora, diverse birdlife, antiques, and curiosities, all framed by the iconic backdrop of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. While it serves as the final resting place for Brett and their daughter Arkie, the park welcomes the public. You can access it between Clark Park and the Lavender Bay rail shunting yard.
Related: 10 of the Best Greater Sydney Walks You Can Do in a Day
Related: 10 of the Most Surreal Walks in Australia, Handpicked by a Longtime Trekker
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