A bit about the area: Parramatta’s grounds were once a farm run by convicts and are home to the oldest public building in Australia. Old Government House (built in 1799), the Governor’s Dairy Cottage (built between 1796-1800), and the Elizabeth Farm (which contains the oldest surviving European building in Australia, constructed around 1793) all exist in suburban Parramatta.
After exploring the historical significance of this suburb in Sydney’s inner west, you won’t be short of outdoor excursions, a profusion of mouth-watering cuisine, and events that proudly celebrate various cultures. Be sure to check out the annual multicultural Parramasala Festival for eclectic performances, parades, food stalls, and markets.
To get a taste of international gastronomic masterpieces, take a stroll along the north end of Church Street. Some of the best eateries scattered throughout the downtown include cuisines from all over the world. A few good eats include Temasek (Malalysian), Husk & Vine (Mediterranean), El-Phoenician (Lebanese), Itihaas (Indian) and PappaRich (Malaysian).
After taking a dive into a few of Parramatta’s delectable dishes, be sure to check out the Rosehill Gardens or Lake Parramatta for a bit of fresh air. The lake offers three different walking trails of different lengths and levels of difficulty. Many locals have a swim or go canoeing on the lake to enjoy the Sydney sunshine. There are picnic and BBQ facilities available.
Take a walk along the Parramatta River for a leisurely stroll or to get a bit more into nature. The land was occupied for thousands of years by the Wallumattagal, Wangal and Burramattagal Aboriginal clans.
If you have a shopping itch to scratch, head to the massive Westfield in Parramatta where you’ll find a plethora of shops and activities to keep the young ones occupied. Other worthy activities include visiting St Patrick’s Cathedral, Harris Park, the Lancer Barracks and Museum or the Female Orphan School and Margaret Whitlam Galleries.
If you’re looking for a unique way into Parramatta without facing the traffic on Sydney’s roads, consider taking a ferry from Circular Quay. Not only is it more relaxing, but it’s also a great chance to enjoy views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House and the rest of the harbour along the way.
Parramatta is not only close to the city, but is a major hub of public transport to head to attractions such as the Blue Mountains, Sydney’s Olympic Park, Prospect Nature Reserve, and Featherdale Wildlife Park.
