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Ida Leeson Blue Plaque — Image credit: Heritage NSW

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Ida Leeson 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 Ida Leeson who was the first female Mitchell Librarian. She was a pioneering librarian whose work helped transform access to knowledge and library services. She also served as a Major in the Australian Army. Visit the blue plaque on the Mitchell Building, State Library of NSW, 1 Shakespeare Place, Sydney NSW 2000 and scan the QR code there to learn more.

Sydney NSW

0.0 km away

The Family Room

Galleries, Museums and Collections

The Family Room

This special part of the State Library of NSW is designed especially for young visitors and their carers. Here you'll be able to enjoy free books, games and activities for under-5s, look out for the beautiful budgies and see if you can find the secret home of the Library mouse.

Sydney NSW

0.0 km away

State Library of NSW, Shakespeare Place Sydney — Image credit: State Library of NSW

Galleries, Museums and Collections

State Library of New South Wales

The State Library of NSW is a unique cultural institution with an amazing history and internationally renowned collection. Visit the Library and experience the beautiful architecture of the Mitchell Library Reading Room and Shakespeare Room, or enjoy the vibrant public events and changing exhibitions program. There is free internet and wi-fi access, and the Library Cafe is open seven days a week. The Library Shop is Sydney's premier Australiana bookshop, and fine art prints from the collection are available for purchase. You'll be surprised by this haven in the middle of the city. The Library runs school holiday activities for children and parents and has a Family History and newspaper service (including regional and international press).

Sydney NSW

0.1 km away

Former site of the Sydney Free Public Library

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Former site of the Sydney Free Public Library

The former site of the Sydney Free Public Library is located on the corner of Bent Street, Sydney. The NSW Government purchased the collection of the Australian Subscription Library (established in 1826) in 1869 and abolished the subscription fee, creating the first publicly accessible library in New South Wales. This collection is now the foundation of the State Library of NSW, located on the corner of Shakespeare Place and Macquarie Street.

Sydney NSW

0.1 km away

Matthew Flinders statue, Macquarie Street forecourt

Landmarks and Buildings

Matthew Flinders statue

Matthew Flinders was a naval navigator, chart maker and explorer who was the first European to circumnavigate the Australian Continent (New Holland) in the ship 'Investigator', in 1802. His colleague, Bungaree, is often overlooked in the retelling of this story. Bungaree, who was born around 1775 and died in 1830, is notable as the first Aboriginal Australian to circumnavigate the continent with Flinders during their voyages of 1802 to 1803.

Sydney NSW

0.1 km away

Experience the Palace Rose Garden between September and May for a stunning, colourful display. — Image credit: Botanic Gardens of Sydney

Parks and Gardens

Palace Rose Garden

The Palace Rose Garden, easily accessible from Sydney's CBD, is a romantic symphony of colour and scents. This area is a delight year-round, with green lawns and benches to rest upon. It's a lovely spot to literally stop and smell the roses, which are in bloom from September to May. It's a popular spot for weddings as well. The rose bushes are interspersed with plants that complement their colours and attract beneficial insects such as lacewings and ladybirds. Thanks to the Garden's horticulturalists and scientists working together, the Rose Garden is alive with vibrant colour and buzzing bees.

Sydney NSW

0.2 km away

Garden Palace gates

Landmarks and Buildings

Garden Palace Gates

As you walk up Macquarie Street, see one of the last remaining reminders of the Garden Palace which once stood in the Botanic Gardens. The enchanting Garden Palace was purpose-built to house the Sydney International Exhibition but after the fair it continued to be used for government offices, the occasional event, and a government repository for records and a cultural store. The Garden Palace burnt down on 22nd September 1882.

Sydney NSW

0.2 km away

NSW Parliament House from Macquarie St

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Parliament House

Parliament House is where Australia's first parliament would meet for political and governing purposes. Within its existing network of buildings that stands in Macquarie Street – where the Parliament of NSW still meets – is the oldest surviving building in the Sydney CBD.  The historic buildings date back to the days of Governor Lachlan Macquarie (Governor of NSW from 1810-1821). When he arrived in the colony, he discovered there were no permanent hospital facilities. With no funds from the British Government, he managed to oversee the development of Sydney's first permanent hospital in 1816. To fund its construction, he allowed contractors to import and sell 60,000 gallons of rum. As a result, the hospital became known as the Rum Hospital. Two of the Rum Hospital's original buildings survive today – the southern wing which was The Mint building, and the northern wing, now part of the Parliament of NSW. The Legislature has occupied the building since 1829. In the mid-1970s, a major rebuilding and restoration program began, creating the present mix of heritage and modern buildings. On select days, take the 1 hour guided tour through the Legislative Chambers and view the historic Parkes, Wentworth and Jubilee rooms. Observe the colonial architecture while learning more about the role, history and work of the NSW Parliament. On site, you can dine at the café or restaurant.

Sydney NSW

0.2 km away

The Calyx is home to a café, gift shop & one of the southern hemisphere’s largest green walls. — Image credit: Botanic Gardens of Sydney.

Galleries, Museums and Collections

The Calyx

Relax and unwind at The Calyx, where you can sip a coffee or enjoy al fresco dining before stepping into a vibrant, sensory exhibition filled with spectacular plants. Exhibition entry is by donation. The moment you walk in you'll feel wrapped in nature, as if transported deep into the forest. Inside, more than 18,000 plants are on display, including one of the southern hemisphere's largest living green walls. The Calyx is a public exhibition space, but it's also available for private hire, so it may occasionally close for events. Check the Botanic Gardens of Sydney website for closure dates.

Sydney NSW

0.2 km away

St Stephens Uniting Church

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

St Stephens Uniting Church

St Stephen's Uniting Church is located within Sydney's political, financial, business and medical district on Macquarie Street. The church is open during the week. St Stephen's offers a monthly lunchtime concert program. You are invited to bring your lunch and relax in the gorgeous surroundings while listening to a range of classical musical treats. The Friday Music series includes an organ recital on the last Friday of the month.

Sydney NSW

0.2 km away

History House, the location of the Royal Australian Historical Society

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Royal Australian Historical Society

The Royal Australian Historical Society (RAHS) is the nation's oldest historical organisation. It was founded in Sydney in 1901 and its first patron was David Scott Mitchell, the Australiana collector and Mitchell Library benefactor. Initially with a strong focus on Sydney's European history, the Society's membership has excelled in promoting local and community history. History House has been the home of the Royal Australian Historical Society since 1970. RAHS host diverse events throughout the year delving into Australian history with a focus on making this knowledge accessible to all. You can find the calendar at their website. There is also a library available inside where you can delve into key resources. There is a small fee for the general public to access the library.

Sydney NSW

0.2 km away

Government House Sydney

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Government House Sydney

Government House is one of the finest examples of Gothic revival architecture in New South Wales. Sydney's first Government House was located in Bridge Street (on the site of the Museum of Sydney) at Sydney Cove, occupied by the first Governor of NSW, Governor Arthur Phillip. The original house served for nearly 50 years as the colony's political, ceremonial and social centre, but it became worn down. The current-day Government House, completed in 1845, was designed by Edward Blore, architect to William IV and Queen Victoria who worked on Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle. The Gothic revival style design was influenced by the Governor's Stables, completed in 1821 (now the Conservatorium of Music located at the main entry gates to Government House). Today, the House holds a significant collection of portraits, furniture, decorative arts and historic memorabilia. Visitors should undertake the tour to see Government House's magnificent State Rooms, the historic works of art that adorn the walls and to experience the opulence of Vice-Regal furniture. Located inside the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, the House is the official residence of the Governor of NSW. It was home to 28 Governors from 1845 to 1996, and Australia's first five Governors-General from 1901 to 1914.

Sydney NSW

0.2 km away

History House — Image credit: History House

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

History House

The beautiful History House is the home of the Royal Australian Historical Society. The Society holds regular seminars and events, which are open to non-members, as is the library. The Library holds the only comprehensive computerised index to the Journal of the Royal Australian Historical Society, which has been publishing scholarly articles on Australian history since 1906. Computer databases also list over 12,000 items held in the library, and extensive press clippings and photographic holdings. The friendly staff will be able to assist you in your research.

Sydney NSW

0.2 km away

Qantas House

Landmarks and Buildings

Qantas House

Standing on the corner of Hunter and Elizabeth Street is the imposing Qantas House building. The much-loved city landmark is an architectural icon of its time. Designed for Qantas Empire Airways by Felix Tavener of Rudder Littlemore & Rudder Architects in 1957, it was entirely constructed using locally sourced materials, a visible symbol of Australian enterprise. Historically significant as the first world headquarters for Qantas which at the time was Government-owned and Australia's only international airline. A quintessential Sydney building that represents a brave future and a strong sense of history and of place.

Sydney NSW

0.2 km away

New cultivars are tested in the Trial Garden to see which are best suited to Sydney's conditions. — Image credit: Botanic Gardens of Sydney.

Parks and Gardens

Trial Garden

Royal Botanic Garden Sydney's Trial Garden tests new cultivars from plant breeders across the globe to discover which will thrive in Sydney's unique growing conditions. The Gardens horticulturists run annual experiments here. Over 12 months, each plant here is assessed for resilience, beauty and performance in response to real-world conditions. Come and see this fascinating array of plants yourself near the Conservatorium Gate. From this work, Botanic Gardens of Sydney produce a guide to the year's top performing annuals, perennials and natives that have flower power, vigour and pest resistance best suited to the local climate—helpful information for Sydney's plant-growers.

Sydney NSW

0.2 km away

Indulge your senses with a visit to the Herb Garden and relax in its peaceful sandstone pavilion. — Image credit: Botanic Gardens of Sydney

Parks and Gardens

Herb Garden and Pavilion

Discover the sensory delights of the Herb Garden, where stories, scents and colour celebrate the many cultures that have shaped Australia. Wander the paths to learn how different communities have used and continue to use herbs for food, medicine and dyeing, or simply relax in the sandstone pavilion and enjoy the fragrant air. Kids of all ages will love the playful Sensory Fountain, while the Armillary Sphere Sundial offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the telling of time. This vibrant garden is both a place to explore and a peaceful spot to unwind.

Sydney NSW

0.3 km away

The Conservatorium of Music

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Conservatorium of Music

Music is a vibrant part of any society. The Sydney Conservatorium of Music, also known as 'The Con', was established in 1915 and is the music school of The University of Sydney. For over a century, the conservatorium has led music education and supported outstanding musical performances, from classical to contemporary.

Sydney NSW

0.3 km away

Governor Phillip and Macquarie Towers

Landmarks and Buildings

Governor Phillip and Macquarie Towers

One Farrer Place is arguably Australia’s finest premium grade office complex, comprising the landmark Governor Phillip Tower and Governor Macquarie Tower. With over 80,000 square metres of office space, One Farrer Place is the ideal corporate location with its unmatched position in the heart of Sydney’s financial district, unparalleled harbour views, a rich history and sophisticated design.

Sydney NSW

0.3 km away

Photo © James Horan for Museums of History NSW — Image credit: Photo © James Horan for Museums of History NSW

Galleries, Museums and Collections

School Holiday Activities - Museums of History NSW

Explore Museums of History NSW sites these school holidays with creative workshops at Vaucluse House, Rouse Hill Estate and Elizabeth Farm. Plus enjoy free family friendly drop-in activities throughout the school holidays. You can also enjoy free drop-in activities across their museums including Hyde Park Barracks, the Museum of Sydney, Elizabeth Farm, Vaucluse House and the Justice and Police Museum. Visit the website for more information.

Sydney NSW

0.3 km away

Commonwealth Bank

Landmarks and Buildings

Commonwealth Bank (Government Savings Bank of NSW)

This imposing Beaux-Arts neoclassical bank designed by Ross & Rowe was originally the headquarters of the Government Savings Bank of NSW. Construction began in 1925 and the building opened in 1928. The Wunderlich firm was responsible for much of the exterior and interior decoration, and when it opened it was claimed to be the world's largest banking chamber. The Wunderlich company was one of Australia's most significant building companies.

Sydney NSW

0.3 km away

Museum of Sydney

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Museum of Sydney

A modern museum built over and around the remains of Australia's first Government House, the Museum of Sydney celebrates the people and events that have shaped the character and soul of this city. In 1788, Governor Phillip chose this site for his official residence. It quickly became the centre of the colony's administrative and social life, and an important focus of the first contact between the Gadigal people and the colonisers. The physical remains of the colony's first government house and archaeological relics from the colony's first year of existence can be glimpsed through glass openings in the museum forecourt and foyer. This is the oldest evidence of its kind in Australia. On the Museum forecourt, there is also Edge of the Trees, a site-specific installation created by artists Fiona Foley and Janet Laurence. This award-winning public art installation evokes the cultural and physical history of the site, before and after 1788: a pivotal turning point in Australian history when contact and invasion/colonisation took place. Today, through a diverse and changing program of exhibitions and events, this museum interprets the history of this symbolic place and tells the city's story. Explore the museum's creative activity space! It's the perfect spot for children, and families to join in hands-on activities, workshops, and self-guided experiences inspired by our current exhibitions and displays.

Sydney NSW

0.3 km away

The Mint

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

The Mint

The Mint consists of two structures – the Mint offices and the coining factory – located in the most important civic precinct of Sydney. The Mint offices building on Macquarie Street has been a major element in the streetscape of Sydney for almost 200 years: the coining factory, hidden from view, is less well known. Both these buildings are associated with major events in the history of New South Wales and are of exceptional heritage significance. The Mint offices were constructed between 1811 and 1816 as the south wing of the General Hospital and are one of the oldest surviving buildings in central Sydney. It is also the earliest example of classical architectural detailing in Australia and contains much evidence of colonial building techniques from the convict period. The coining factory represents a major event in the social, economic and political history of New South Wales – the discovery of gold. Built in 1854–1855 in response to the gold rush, the buildings were constructed using imported prefabricated components and are rich in evidence of minting processes and machinery. Explore the rooms and hallways where colonial surgeons and apothecaries once lived and examine the archaeological remains of the Mint in the courtyard and rear buildings, reminders of the busy industrial complex that operated here for many decades.

Sydney NSW

0.3 km away

Sydney Sculpture Walk — Image credit: City of Sydney

Parks and Gardens

Sydney Sculpture Walk

The Sydney Sculpture Walk provides a uniquely artistic experience of the city to Sydneysiders and visitors alike. Ten artworks by leading Australian and international artists form a circuit through the heart of the city. The Sculpture Walk showcases the exciting and innovative work of our contemporary artists and at the same time invites you to explore the city`s busy streets, plazas, beautiful parks and harbourside promenades. Artists include Debra Philips, Janet Laurence & Jisuk Han, Brenda L. Croft, Fiona Hall, Kimio Tsuchiya and Lynne Roberts.

Sydney NSW

0.4 km away

Cadi Jam Ora shares stories from Gadigal Traditional Descendents, Elders and knowledge holders. — Image credit: Botanic Gardens of Sydney

Parks and Gardens

Cadi Jam Ora

Cadi Jam Ora shares stories led by Country, culture and 65,000 years of knowing the plants and place of Gadigal Country, where land meets sea. The stories shared arose from a deeply collaborative creative process between Gadigal Traditional Descendants, Elders and knowledge holders, and the Botanic Gardens Team, including First Nations Educators. Across 75 metres of signage, there are many renewed stories coming from a place of responsibility for caring for Country and the reciprocal and intimate relationships with land, sky, and sea.

Sydney NSW

0.4 km away

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