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Yayoi Kusama Flowers that Bloom in the Cosmos 2022 — Image credit: © Yayoi Kusama, photo © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Zan Wimberley

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Art Gallery of New South Wales

Located on Gadigal Country, just 15 minutes' walk from Sydney's city centre and hotels, the Art Gallery of New South Wales stands as one of Australia's premier cultural destinations and Sydney's must-see art museum. Their unique art campus features two stunning buildings and an art garden with breathtaking Sydney Harbour views, in which you can discover historical and contemporary art from Australia and around the world, including the Yiribana Gallery, dedicated to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art. Be immersed in Australian culture and stories through inspiring exhibitions, unique tours, and dining experiences from renowned Australian chefs, within one of the world's most beautiful cultural precincts. There's always something on for families, especially during school holidays. The Art Gallery of New South Wales is a must-visit for anyone exploring Sydney.

Sydney NSW

0.0 km away

Child in the Children's Art Library — Image credit: Art Gallery of New South Wales

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Children's Art Library

Colourful, light-filled and welcoming, the children’s art library has ‘cubby houses’ for reading, tables for engaged learning, and a big comfortable lounge for adults to read with kids, and older children to become absorbed in a book. This is a place for young people and their families to drop by any time we are open, to relax and enjoy a collection especially for them, including books about art and artists, books by artists, and books about making art. Their growing collections include books in languages other than English and books by First Nations authors and illustrators, as well as books for children living with disability or who have access requirements. A hearing loop is active in these spaces. There’s also a regular program of engaging events and activities. Note: They’re not a lending library, so books and other materials cannot be borrowed. Children under 12 must be supervised by an adult at all times.

Sydney NSW

0.1 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

0.1 km away

Domain — Image credit: Destination NSW

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Domain

The Phillip Precinct commonly referred to as the Domain, is the largest open space in the central business district. This historic site is the venue for large-scale events such as Opera in the Park during the Festival of Sydney in January and Carols by Candlelight in December each year. The picturesque, harbourside venue offers a unique, inspiring and iconic space to deliver events on the beautiful open green spaces surrounded by the harbour and city landscape. The main part of the parkland takes in the peninsula on the eastern flank of the Royal Botanic Gardens, just next to Mrs Macquarie's Point. Other features of the peninsula include the Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool and the Fleet Steps that lead down to the Farm Cove shoreline. The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney and the Domain are managed by the Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust (RBG).

Sydney NSW

0.2 km away

The Domain, Sydney

Landmarks and Buildings

The Domain

Located in the city's heart and offering iconic backdrops, The Domain in Sydney remains unrivalled as a major events host, a cultural landmark, and the CBD's go-to destination to walk the dog or enjoy a run with friends. It is one of the oldest, and most extensive public and cultural landscapes in Australia.

Woolloomooloo NSW

0.2 km away

Walter Liberty Vernon Blue Plaque edit — Image credit: Heritage NSW

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Walter Liberty Vernon 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 Walter Liberty Vernon who is one of Australia's most important architects, responsible for numerous iconic Sydney buildings. Visit the blue plaque at Registrar General's Building, 1 Prince Albert Road, Sydney NSW 2000 and scan the QR code there to learn more.

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

College Street Crosswalk

Landmarks and Buildings

College Street Crosswalk

Stand in the spot where Alexander's adventure begins in Pamela Allen's classic children's book 'Alexander's Outing'. The corner of College Street and Prince Albert Road is a busy intersection, teeming with traffic and pedestrians, so make sure you don't get lost like Alexander as you continue on your family adventure inspired by the State Library's 'The Curious World of Pamela Allen' exhibition. To the northeast is the Registrar General's Building, and on the southeast corner is the beautiful Saint Mary's Cathedral. To the west lies Hyde Park, Australia's oldest parkland, where you will find the Archibald Memorial Fountain.

Sydney NSW

0.3 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

0.3 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

0.4 km away

St Marys Catholic Cathedral and Chapter House

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

St Mary's Cathedral

St Mary's Cathedral is the spiritual home of Sydney's Catholic community. It is the seat of the Archbishop of Sydney and stands on the site of the first Catholic Chapel in Australia. Constructed in local sandstone, the Gothic Revival style of its architecture pays respect to the great medieval cathedrals of Europe. Architect William Wardell, a convert to Catholicism, was born in 1823, and as an architect in England had become an accomplished practitioner of the Gothic Revival style of architecture. The first stage of the cathedral, the northern section, was built between 1866 and 1900. Stage two, the southern section, was completed between 1912 and 1928. Entry to St Mary's Cathedral is free and open to the public. However, a donation towards the upkeep and cleaning of the Cathedral is greatly appreciated. St Mary's Cathedral offers free guided tours every Sunday at 2 p.m. This tour meets at the cathedral shop. It is important to remember St Mary's Cathedral is a place of worship. Please remember to treat the place with respect while you are here.

Sydney NSW

0.4 km away

She Runs — Image credit: She Runs

Sports and Recreation Facilities

She Runs

She Runs is a supportive community of women in Sydney and across Australia of a wide diversity of ages, backgrounds and walks of life seeking female friendship and connection. She Runs is a women-only run club offering weekly 5-kilometre waterfront morning runs around the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney and the harbour, with runs ending for pastries at AP Bakery in Surry Hills. The group also offer walk clubs on Sundays and pilates sessions on Saturdays.

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

Art Leven New Gallery Woolloomooloo

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Art Leven

Art Leven (formerly Cooee Art) was established in 1981 and runs a hybrid art model to represent and support artists ethically and sustainably. The gallery and auction space in Woolloomooloo offers a unique and informative insight into the world of Australian First Nations art. The auctions established in 2017 is a market leader with specialist knowledge and they work with artists, galleries, museums and private collections bi-annually to curate and consign the finest Indigenous Art. With more than 3000 works of art by over 150 individual artists, the extensive stockroom encompasses a wide range of regional and individual styles. The collection includes rare bark paintings and artefacts, early desert boards and acrylic paintings, and an exciting range of contemporary Aboriginal paintings, sculptures, limited edition fine art prints, and hand-crafted traditional artefacts and books. As well as sourcing historically significant pieces, Gallery Director and Owner Mirri Leven, along with her experienced team, consigns contemporary artworks from Indigenous communities across the continent for their diverse range of projects. Tours for groups can be arranged so please contact the gallery if you would like to take advantage of this option. Art Leven is a must visit destination gallery in Sydney.

Woolloomooloo NSW

0.4 km away

Royal Botanic Garden Wollemi Tree

Natural Attractions

Royal Botanic Garden Wollemi Tree

In 1994 unusual trees were found in the rugged Wollemi National Park, northwest of Sydney. Named the Wollemi Pine (Wollemia nobilis) it is a conifer whose location in the wild remains a secret to ensure its survival. This tree, from the time of the dinosaurs, is one of the world's rarest plants with only three stands of adult trees known to be growing in New South Wales. This one was planted in the Gardens in 1996.

Sydney NSW

0.4 km away

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

0.4 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

0.4 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

0.4 km away

Experience weird and wonderful plants from half a world away, survivors of some of the earth’s most — Image credit: Botanic Gardens of Sydney

Parks and Gardens

The Succulent Garden

Step into the Succulent Garden and explore a dazzling world of plants shaped by some of the Earth's driest places. Wander through vibrant zones featuring Africa's colourful Aloes and spiny Euphorbias, then journey to the Americas to see striking Agaves, towering Joshua trees and giant Furcraeas—once called "century plants" as they were so slow to bloom. You'll also spot true cacti here, including iconic Golden Barrel cactus. Bathed in warming sun, the garden glows with bold colours and sculptural forms. You're invited to slow down, soak up the beauty and marvel at how these plants thrive in extreme conditions.

Sydney NSW

0.4 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

0.4 km away

A stunning collection of flowering perennials, shrubs and trees that showcase joyful colours. — Image credit: Botanic Garden of Sydney

Parks and Gardens

Spring Walk

Spring Walk, just inside Macquarie's Wall, is the oldest continuous horticultural display in Australia. First planted with spring-flowering shrubs under Director Charles Moore in the mid-19th century, this walk has been delighting visitors for over 170 years. Here you'll be surrounded by flowers and fragrance. In spring see the blooms of snapdragons, wisteria, ornamental peach trees, fluffball-like flowers of the Purple Mist, as well as unusual rhododendrons and other plants you might not typically see in a Sydney garden. No matter what the season, this walk is always worth exploring as its collection changes throughout the year in beautiful ways.

Sydney NSW

0.5 km away

St James King St Church Sydney — Image credit: St James King St Church Sydney

Landmarks and Buildings

St James’ Church King Street Sydney

The Anglican Parish Church of St James' is the oldest church building in Sydney. Designed by the convict architect Frances Greenway, it stands directly opposite the Hyde Park Barracks, also designed by Greenway. In the precinct of buildings along Macquarie Street, St James' is a significant historic and cultural landmark in the city of Sydney and is open every day of the year to visitors. In addition to the daily round of church services, St James' also regularly hosts concerts and special events, including talks, tours, and seminars. Areas of particular interest to visitors include the brand new Bicentennial Pipe Organ (2024) designed and built by Dobson Pipe Organ Builders of Lake City, Iowa - their first Australian instrument, and also the third largest pipe organ in Sydney. Visitors are encouraged to see the stunning Chapel of the Holy Spirit with its striking walls of stained glass by Melbourne artist David Wright and installed for Australia's Bicentenary in 1988. The crypt downstairs contains the unique Children's Chapel (1929) painted in vibrant colours and highlighted in gold like an illuminated manuscript and painted by the Turramurra Wall Painters. The walls of the church are lined with monuments and memorials to many significant figures in the life of New South Wales and the nation.

Sydney NSW

0.5 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

0.5 km away

St James' King Street

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

St James' King Street

The Anglican Parish Church of St James' is the oldest church building in Sydney. Designed by the convict architect Frances Greenway, it stands directly opposite the Hyde Park Barracks, also designed by Greenway. In the precinct of buildings along Macquarie Street, St James' is a significant historic and cultural landmark in the city of Sydney and is open every day of the year to visitors. In addition to the daily round of church services, St James' also regularly hosts concerts and special events, including talks, tours, and seminars. Areas of particular interest to visitors include the brand new Bicentennial Pipe Organ (2024) designed and built by Dobson Pipe Organ Builders of Lake City, Iowa - their first Australian instrument, and also the third largest pipe organ in Sydney. Visitors are encouraged to see the stunning Chapel of the Holy Spirit with its striking walls of stained glass by Melbourne artist David Wright and installed for Australia's Bicentenary in 1988. The crypt downstairs contains the unique Children's Chapel (1929) painted in vibrant colours and highlighted in gold like an illuminated manuscript and painted by the Turramurra Wall Painters. The walls of the church are lined with monuments and memorials to many significant figures in the life of New South Wales and the nation.

Sydney NSW

0.5 km away

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