Top Rated Parks to Visit in Sydney

"Southeast of the Opera House, this garden was established in 1816 and features plant life from around the world. Within the gardens are hothouses with palms and ferns, as well as the Calyx, a striking exhibition space featuring a curving glasshouse gallery with a wall of greenery and temporary plant-themed exhibitions. Grab a park map at any main entrance."

"I recommend joining an Aboriginal Heritage Walk to learn about the Cadigal people who were the original owners of this area. (every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday 10am to 11.30am). Alternatively you could join a free guided tour to learn more about the plants at the Gardens."

"The park is full of art and hidden treasures, the sunken Sandringham gardens are a great place to spend a shady afternoon with the kids splashing about in the cool water of the central fountain feature. Explore the whole park before heading back into the bustle of the city."

"1 km from city center 9 out of 18 places to visit in Sydney. Near the city centre, the Hyde Park is a vast spread of green land. The beautiful park is full of green lawns, pretty flowers and rich trees, and also has the Archibald Fountain and Anzac War Memorial."

"A serene spot in Lavender Bay, the garden was created in 1992 by Wendy Whiteley, wife and muse to artist Brett Whiteley, following her by then ex-husband’s death. We love Wendy’s Secret garden. It’s a really special space for kids to follow the weaving pathways through lush foliage and discover little secrets hidden in nooks and crannies."

"Near Luna Park via Clark Park, Lavender St, North Sydney, New South Wales 2060 N.S.W. Australia+61 2 9936 8100[email protected]http://www.wendyssecretgarden.org.au"

"Built over an abandoned train yard, this hidden gem is full of winding paths and offers gorgeous views of Sydney Harbour."

"Fairfield Adventure Park is our absolute favourite kids playground in Sydney, perhaps because we have tweens and teens amongst our little crew. This incredible park has a range of activities from a super tall climbing net which will take the kids up to a viewing compound a good 11 metres up in the air. Then there’s the ninja warrior course, a tug of war area and even a water mist shower to cool you off without drenching you wet."

"Especially designed to provide a play space for kids of a variety of ages, the Fairfield Adventure Playground brings the “wow” factor in spades. The park opened in 2015 after a $1.4 million council investment. With the star attractions designed specifically for teens, this is a unique playground that provides a much-needed recreational space for older kids."

"Located in Windsor by the Hawkesbury River, this fun playground is a good one for a party or a family gathering. Fully fenced, this park includes a climbing fort, slide, web swing, roundabout, rope tunnel, in-ground trampolines, musical instruments, and a water play area. There’s plenty of shady tables outside the play area for a picnic or just bring your own blanket and enjoy the grassy area overlooking the river."

"A 40 hectare green space near St Peter’s, Sydney Park was built in the space once occupied by Bedford Brickworks – the chimneys of which have been left and are a feature of the park that can be seen from some distance away. Features of the park include a large playground on its western side, the Sydney Park Cycling Centre on its northern side, winding pathways over hills for walking and cycling, wetlands, a kiosk and bathrooms. Get more info on Sydney Park."

"Located in St. Peters, bordered by Alexandria and Erskineville, Sydney Park is a 40ha large recreational area characterised by open recreation spaces, rolling hills, wetlands and historic chimneys. What you may not know is that Sydney Park used to be a large landfill and an industrial brick making site, and as such the park is actually declared a contaminated site. But don’t let that deter you, because the park is considered safe."

"Sydney Park offers 40-hectares of greenery a stone’s throw from the city centre. The main drawcard for kids is the adventure playground that will occupy them for hours. There’s also a large sand pit."

"A landmark building near Circular Quay, this is the location of the library. It used to be the headquarters of the Customs service and is an impressive building to walk through. One of the best features to check out is a small scale model of Sydney under the glass floor."

"If you’re vegan, stop and drop everything - we’ve just found a cafe that has graciously made life a little sweeter with playful desserts, donuts and a full brekkie and lunch menu that are all prepared with the best naturally gluten-free ingredients!. At Nutie, they are all about ‘having your cake and eating it too!. Find them at: 44 Holt St,Surry Hills | 13 Beattie St, Balmain"

"Sweet toothed folks with dietary requirements haven’t been left behind either, thanks to good folks at Nutie. The crew is currently keeping both the Balmain and Surry Hills spots open for takeaway so Sydneysiders can continue to get their sugar fix. If you’ve never had the opportunity to try one of Nutie’s extravagant doughnuts, here’s the lowdown: they’re all 100-percent gluten-free, resulting in a slightly denser, cake-like treat (and this is not a bad thing)."

"Get your favourite donuts delivered to your doorsteps by Donut Papi. 📍 Donut Papi, 34A Redfern St, Redfern NSW 2016"