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Rodd Island

Natural Attractions

Rodd Island

Rodd Island, located in the sheltered waters of Iron Cove, just off Birkenhead Point, has a colourful history and boasts some of the best views west of the bridge. This perfect picnic spot is in the farthest west of the harbour islands within Sydney Harbour National Park. Pack the hamper for a family picnic once you've booked ahead and planned your route there. You can walk through the expansive gardens, gaze at the spectacular scenic harbour views, and explore the grounds of historic buildings, including a dance hall and 2 summer houses. In 1879, it became the first public recreation reserve in Sydney Harbour. It was also used as a biological laboratory and US army training ground during the Second World War. A unique venue with an impressive backdrop for weddings and special functions, Rodd Island is available for hire, so you can add your own special event to its history. Choose your own transport style and book ahead for this popular site.

Lilyfield NSW

1.5 km away

Cockatoo Island, Sydney Harbour

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Cockatoo Island

Known as Wareamah by the Wallumedegal, Wangal, Cammeraygal and Gadigal Peoples, Cockatoo Island is a former convict penal establishment and naval shipyard, located in the heart of Sydney Harbour. Cockatoo Island is a source of intrigue and inspiration for visitors owing to its heritage buildings, distinctive terrain and panoramic views. Popular attractions include heritage and campground accommodation, waterfront cafés and picnic spots, guided history and paranormal tours, and exciting seasonal events. Located at the junction of the Parramatta and Lane Cove Rivers, Cockatoo Island is just a ferry ride away.

Sydney Harbour NSW

2.0 km away

Woolwich Dock and Parklands

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Woolwich Dock and Parklands

Located opposite on the Sydney Harbour foreshore opposite Cockatoo Island, Woolwich Dock and Parklands is a precinct steeped in maritime history. Due to its placement at the junction of Parramatta and Lane Cove Rivers, the Traditional Owners – the Wallumedegal People – know the area as Moocooboola, which means 'the meeting of the rivers'. The centrepiece of this destination is Woolwich Dock, which dates to 1901. The tradespeople of Woolwich Dock continue to proudly uphold the site's maritime legacy, boat owners a full range of repair and maintenance services. The surrounding paddocks and parks, linked by scenic walking tracks, are the perfect place for a picnic. Relax and have lunch at the Deckhouse restaurant and function centre on the foreshore of Woolwich Dock.

Woolwich NSW

2.3 km away

New Gallery Wing - Kate Owen Gallery — Image credit: Kate Owen Gallery

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Kate Owen Gallery - Contemporary Aboriginal Art

Step into the world's oldest living culture at Kate Owen Gallery, Sydney's premier destination for Aboriginal art. Established in 2007, the gallery showcases over 2,000 works by more than 200 artists, from independent creatives to art centre collectives across Australia - from the Western Desert and Arnhem Land to the East Coast. Spread across three light-filled levels, the gallery presents major exhibitions of celebrated masters and emerging talent alike. Visitors can browse at their own pace, using our unique rack system to explore hundreds of works from the gallery's extensive stock. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned collector, our expert Aboriginal art consultants provide as much guidance as you need in a welcoming, relaxed environment. Kate Owen Gallery is committed to the highest ethical standards, proudly upholding the Aboriginal Art Code and holding membership with the Aboriginal Art Association of Australia (AAAA). Every artwork comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring artists are respected, fairly represented, and their cultural heritage safeguarded. Discover the stories, traditions, and vibrancy of Aboriginal culture, through art that connects past, present, and future at Kate Owen Gallery.

Rozelle NSW

2.4 km away

Kathleen Butler Blue Plaque — Image credit: Heritage NSW

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Kathleen Butler Blue Plaque

Visitors can discover the stories behind the people, places and events that have helped shape NSW - where the history happened. A Blue Plaque visit offers more than sightseeing. It creates a direct connection between place and story, turning everyday locations into places of discovery. Each plaque reveals a unique piece of history, encouraging visitors to explore local areas from a new perspective and uncover stories they may never have known. This blue plaque commemorates Kathleen Butler for her role in designing and developing the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Sydney NSW

2.8 km away

Darling St Balmain, Sydney — Image credit: James Horan; Destination NSW

Shopping and Markets

Darling Street

This harbourside suburb is one of Sydney's coolest shopping neighbourhoods with the highlights scattered along Darling Street. On Saturdays travel on foot from Balmain to Rozelle markets, passing Alfie's Store, fabulous fashion at duckeggBLUE, Leona Edmiston Vintage and stunning hand-made jewellery at Juel. Love shoes? Check out European imports at Shoes in the Attic or funky designs at Children of the Revolution. An eclectic mix of women's designer wear is at Strelitzia and Bella Emporio. At Balmain Markets hunt for great recycled fashion, pre-loved books and music, antiques and collectables.

Balmain NSW

2.9 km away

Sydney Bus Museum Entrance — Image credit: Steve Burrows

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Sydney Bus Museum

The Sydney Bus Museum is a not-for-profit organization first established in 1986 at Tempe and now permanently based within the Old Tramshed at Leichhardt in Sydney's inner-west. The Sydney Bus Museum is a working museum made up of over 250 members who help preserve a rare, invaluable collection of historic buses dating from the 1920s to the 1980s. Their organization has continued to exist for over 25 years thanks to our entirely voluntary workforce, who ensure their vehicles are regularly made available for various community and charitable events.

Leichhardt NSW

3.0 km away

Bayview Park Baths

Natural Attractions

Bayview Park Baths

Bayview Park Baths are an idyllic swimming beach located in Concord. The site is enclosed by a shark net and has an accessible pathway running from the car park to the beach. The baths are backed by a park with picnic facilities, a playground, outdoor fitness equipment and public bathrooms.

Concord NSW

3.0 km away

Front of Carisbrook Historic House

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Carisbrook Historic House

Carisbrook House provides an opportunity for people to be transported back to 1884. Find out what it was like to live in the Victorian Era at this unique Victorian house museum. Located in Lane Cove, Carisbrook is open the third weekend of each month to the general public and for group tours during the week by appointment. Be tempted by Devonshire Tea, coffee, and other delicacies during the open weekends. Take a tour of the Historic House museum and wander through the gardens and along the river. Access is via Waterview Drive with a free visitor parking area. Check the website for more information.

Lane Cove NSW

3.0 km away

Glebe Foreshore Walk — Image credit: Destination NSW

Parks and Gardens

Glebe Foreshore Walk

The Glebe Foreshore Walk from Bicentennial Park to the Sydney Fish Markets at Pyrmont links over 27 hectares of open space and gives visitors unimpeded public access to Rozelle Bay and Blackwattle Bay. The walk is accessible for pedestrians and cyclists, and includes high quality parkland with diverse settings, easy access to the water for passive recreational craft, protection of heritage sea walls and stone docks, and Indigenous native plants. There is off-leash access for dogs from Pope Paul Reserve to Ferry Road at all times.

Glebe NSW

3.6 km away

Tramsheds Growers & Artisan Market — Image credit: Tramsheds Growers Market

Shopping and Markets

Tramsheds Growers & Artisan Market

Tramsheds Growers Markets is a weekly market held each and every Saturday and Sunday. This thriving marketplace hosts many and varied local vendors including fresh produce, winemakers, cheesemakers, artisans and craft makers, bakers, food pop-ups and many more. Being indoors, this is a weather-friendly marketplace and is a perfect weekend activity in the Inner West for all age groups. Located just steps away are Harold Park as well as Jubilee Park, making it a great family weekend destination! Nestled inside the Tramshed famous dining precinct, it is the perfect place to stay for a delicious breakfast, lunch or dinner, with several quality restaurants and cafes to choose from while exploring. Access via public transport is easily done with the Jubilee Park light rail station located just outside the front doors, and plenty of onsite parking in the undercover and outdoor car park. Tramsheds Growers Markets is run by the community for the community!

Forest Lodge NSW

3.9 km away

Blackwattle Bay Park

Parks and Gardens

Blackwattle Bay Park

Nestled between Rozelle Bay and Blackwattle Bay, Blackwattle Bay Park is a quiet, dog-friendly park that stretches along the Glebe foreshore. With picnic areas, barbecue facilities, and a shared walking and cycling track, Blackwattle Bay Park makes an ideal day out for the whole family. Plus, with an off-leash dog policy all year round, your four-legged friends are welcome to join in the fun. Blackwattle Bay Park includes the beautiful Glebe Foreshore Walk, which meanders along Blackwattle Bay. The park also offers stunning views of ANZAC Bridge and the city skyline; put down a picnic blanket and watch the dogs play, the sun set, and the lights of the Sydney Central Business District come to life. Sydney’s famous fish market, where some of the city’s freshest seafood is bought and sold, lies just on the other side of Blackwattle Bay. There are also plenty of restaurants, bars, and a popular weekly market just a short stroll away on Glebe Point Road.

Glebe NSW

3.9 km away

William Morris (Billy) Hughes Blue Plaque — Image credit: Heritage NSW

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

William Morris (Billy) Hughes Blue Plaque

Visitors can discover the stories behind the people, places and events that have helped shape NSW - where the history happened. A Blue Plaque visit offers more than sightseeing. It creates a direct connection between place and story, turning everyday locations into places of discovery. Each plaque reveals a unique piece of history, encouraging visitors to explore local areas from a new perspective and uncover stories they may never have known. This blue plaque commemorates William Morris (Billy) Hughes who was Australia's seventh Prime Minister. He is remembered by many as "the Little Digger" and remains a controversial figure in Australia's political history. Visit the blue plaque at 'Kermadec', 6 Richardson Street East Lane Cove NSW 2066 and scan the QR code there to learn more.

Lane Cove NSW

3.9 km away

Albert (Tibby) Cotter Blue Plaque — Image credit: Heritage NSW

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Albert (Tibby) Cotter Blue Plaque

Visitors can discover the stories behind the people, places and events that have helped shape NSW - where the history happened. A Blue Plaque visit offers more than sightseeing. It creates a direct connection between place and story, turning everyday locations into places of discovery. Each plaque reveals a unique piece of history, encouraging visitors to explore local areas from a new perspective and uncover stories they may never have known. This blue plaque commemorates Albert (Tibby) Cotter who was an Australian test cricketer and one of Australia's earliest masters of the art of fast bowling. Visit the blue plaque at 'Monteith' 266 Glebe Point Road, Glebe, Sydney NSW 2037 and scan the QR code there to learn more.

Glebe NSW

3.9 km away

Boomalli Gallery — Image credit: Boomalli Gallery

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Boomalli Gallery

In the languages of the Bundjalung, Gamilaroi and Wiradjuri, Boomalli means to strike; to make a mark. Boomalli Gallery is the longest running Aboriginal owned and run arts organisation dedicated to supporting and promoting NSW language group artists. Boomalli provides a safe space for their artists to exhibit, work and tell their stories through their art. They operate within a lateral co-operative structure with senior artists supporting and mentoring new and emerging artists. Boomalli’s gallery, studio and retail space is located at 55-59 Flood Street, Leichhardt in Sydney’s Inner West. They host regular exhibitions and community events here and across other Sydney venues.  They are a welcoming and inclusive space for everyone.

Leichhardt NSW

3.9 km away

Goat Island

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Goat Island

Goat Island has long been a significant place in Port Jackson. The island, known as Me-mel by the local Cadigal people, was once inhabited by Bennelong and Barangaroo. Since European settlement, Goat Island played an important and fascinating role in the development of Sydney’s cityscape. In the 1800s, the island was used as a home for convict work gangs and as a gunpowder storage depot. The Queen's Magazine, which stands on Goat Island, was built in the 1830s by convicts using sandstone quarried from the eastern side of the island. It was used to store explosives, and beside it there's a barracks, cooperage and kitchen. Later, Goat Island was the site of the first water police station and harbour fire brigade. Following this, the island served as a shipyard, and in more recent years it has been a location for filming and concerts, including the television series Water Rats.

Balmain East NSW

4.0 km away

Australian Made Aboriginal Gifts at Bits of Australia — Image credit: Bits of Australia

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Bits of Australia Balmain East

Situated in beautiful Balmain East close to the ferry wharf and with a bus stop out the front direct from Queen Victoria Building, Bits of Australia has the largest selection of Australian made gifts and souvenirs in one place. The go-to place for authentic Australian gifts and souvenirs, they have over 1000 products Made in Australia and a wonderful gallery of Aboriginal artwork from Central Australia. Shop for novelty socks, gourmet bush tucker foods and merino wool blankets and scarves from Bendigo. These are just a few of the Australian homewares, jewellery, stationery, Aboriginal art, food and gifts that they stock for men, women and children. Perfect for taking home or sending overseas Bits of Australia's customers love the excellent product quality and their friendly and helpful approach. With all budgets catered for, there are Australian made gifts and souvenirs for everyone.

Balmain East NSW

4.0 km away

Pirrama Park (Pyrmont Point Park) — Image credit: James Horan; Destination NSW

Parks and Gardens

Pirrama Park (Pyrmont Point Park)

Pirrama Park, formerly known as Pyrmont Point Park, is situated right on the harbour and offers expansive water views. Looking over to the Harbour Bridge and North Sydney, it is the perfect spot for watching the fireworks exploding across Sydney on New Year's Eve. Along with a children's playground with water play features, there are barbecues, shade structures, grassed areas, a boardwalk and toilet facilities. This makes it a park perfect for a family or group of friends looking to relax and enjoy a picnic. In the morning and evening, the boardwalk comes alive with walkers and joggers as well as groups participating in boot camp and yoga. Pirrama Park's award-winning design incorporates elements of sustainable design including native plantings, solar panels and the use of recycled materials. Sandstone artefacts within the interactive playground reflect former quarries and the promenade marks the original shoreline.

Pyrmont NSW

4.1 km away

Dorothy Drain Blue Plaque — Image credit: Heritage NSW

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Dorothy Drain Blue Plaque

Visitors can discover the stories behind the people, places and events that have helped shape NSW - where the history happened. A Blue Plaque visit offers more than sightseeing. It creates a direct connection between place and story, turning everyday locations into places of discovery. Each plaque reveals a unique piece of history, encouraging visitors to explore local areas from a new perspective and uncover stories they may never have known. This blue plaque commemorates Dorothy Drain who was a trailblazer in Australian journalism, serving as one of the country's first female war correspondents. She worked with the Australian Women's Weekly for 38 years before retiring as editor in 1975.

Glebe NSW

4.2 km away

Balls Head Reserve

Parks and Gardens

Balls Head Reserve

Balls Head Reserve in Waverton, Sydney has a rich history and was frequently used by the local Aboriginal community prior to 1916 and still has historic art sites and rock engravings to this day. The reserve was named after Lieutenant Henry Lidgbird Ball, a commander of the First Fleet of 1788. In 1912, the Australian Army claimed the land and built a Quarantine Depot to service boats operating from Quarantine Station at North Head. The land has now become a public parkland offering stunning views over Sydney Harbour and Sydney central business district. With a cafe on-site and plenty of natural beauty, the parklands offer an interesting history and vantage point overlooking Sydney. Located at the southern end of Balls Head Drive, Waverton, Balls Head Reserve is an easy 10-minute walk from Waverton railway station. There is car parking in the reserve and on Balls Head Road.

Waverton NSW

4.2 km away

Street view of Gallery Lane Cove + Creative Studios. — Image credit: Gallery Lane Cove + Creative Studios

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Gallery Lane Cove and Creative Studios

Gallery Lane Cove and Creative Studios is a not-for-profit art centre located in the heart of Lane Cove. Funded partly by Lane Cove Council, their mission is to nurture artistic practice and innovative arts and cultural programs. The Gallery presents a diverse exhibition and public program of contemporary and modern art, featuring works by emerging and established, local, national and international artists. It promotes the development and presentation of progressive contemporary art practices while continuing to support established approaches and disciplines. The Creative Studios facility comprise Painting/Drawing, Textiles, Printmaking and Ceramics studio spaces as well as three artist studio spaces for hire and funded residency programs. The arts centre runs a rich variety of term classes, workshops and masterclasses across the disciplines of painting (mixed-media, acrylic and watercolour), drawing, life-drawing, textiles (printing, embroidery, sewing, knitting, stitching), printmaking and ceramics.

Lane Cove NSW

4.3 km away

BlocHaus Bouldering Leichhardt — Image credit: BlocHaus Bouldering

Sports and Recreation Facilities

BlocHaus Bouldering Leichhardt

BlocHaus Leichhardt is all about making bouldering social, accessible and fun so that anyone and everyone can be boulder and better. In the heart of Leichhardt, you’ll find 550 square metres of bouldering, a fun, challenging and rewarding activity that combines rock climbing with shorter walls and padded mats, so no need for ropes, partners, or other gear. Bouldering is for everybody regardless of your background or athletic experience! Their space is fully air-conditioned, making it the perfect place to keep climbing through the summer! Alongside their boulders, you’ll also find in haus: specialised training and functional fitness facilities, specialty coffee, and plenty of room to hang about.

Leichhardt NSW

4.3 km away

Nomad Bouldering — Image credit: Nomad Bouldering

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Nomad Bouldering

A large bouldering gym in Annandale, Nomad has 980sqm of innovative climbing walls, and an intricately set spray wall. There's a training gym with cutting-edge technology and innovative systems unlike some others: find Olympic bars, hangboards, ski-ergs and a three-cell rig. They also have an in-house physio to work out any aches and pains.

Annandale NSW

4.4 km away

Putney Beach — Image credit: City of Ryde

Natural Attractions

Putney Beach

Putney Beach is an idyllic reserve on the Parramatta River. Originally a swimming spot that fell into disrepair in the 1950s, the revitalised area was opened in January 2025. Fully netted with wide stone steps to access the cool waters of the river, Putney Beach is a lovely place to have a picnic. Find a shady spot along the grassy banks of the river and enjoy the large playground too.

Putney NSW

4.4 km away

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