Parramatta Park is an 85-hectare World Heritage-listed park beside the Parramatta River, in Parramatta west of central Sydney. Its open lawns, gardens and walking and cycling routes sit alongside landmarks including Old Government House, the Boer War Memorial and Dairy Cottage. You can picnic, follow the river, visit the playgrounds or look for the park’s flying fox colony. The grounds also hold important Dharug cultural heritage, with archaeological sites and a trail connected to Dharug plants and food. Allow time to explore beyond the main lawns.
A park with deep Dharug history
Parramatta Park is part of a cultural landscape with tens of thousands of years of Indigenous history. More than 100 archaeological sites in the park relate to Aboriginal and early colonial history, and evidence of Aboriginal occupation dating back over 200,000 years has been found here. The area is deeply important to the local Dharug people.
The Burramatta Landscape Trail connects visitors with Dharug knowledge and plants. Dharug community members planted yams and other vegetables important to Dharug culture along the trail. An Aboriginal cultural tour is another way to learn about the park and the river; check what tours are available before your visit.
Old Government House and the Domain
Old Government House sits within the park’s historic Domain. Built in 1799, it is Australia’s oldest surviving public building and forms part of the Australian Convict Sites World Heritage property. The building served as the home of Australia’s first ten governors. Guided tours, self-guided visits and a virtual reality experience are among the ways to explore the site; check the house’s visitor information for current access details.
Other heritage stops include the Boer War Memorial, Dairy Cottage and the Dairy Precinct. The park also contains the Governor’s Bathhouse. Together, these places offer a closer look at the area’s colonial history and its effects on Aboriginal communities.
Walking, cycling and family stops
The park’s lawns, gardens, waterways and bushland give you room to choose a short stroll or a longer outing. Walking tracks and cycling paths run through the grounds, and a bike loop circles the park. Separate routes for walkers and cyclists help keep different activities distinct.
Families can choose between two playgrounds. Domain Creek playground is on the western side; Pavilion Flat playground is on the eastern side. Pavilion Flat has swings, slides, a rope climbing web, spring rockers and a playhouse. There are also picnic areas, sports grounds and facilities for outdoor gatherings. Picnic shelters can be booked for celebrations.
Picnics, gardens and events
The park’s historic lawns and shaded areas suit a picnic, with cafes and an on-site restaurant available if you prefer to buy food. The formal rose garden contains a collection of heritage roses. In November, jacarandas add bright purple colour to the grounds.
Parramatta Park became a public park in 1858 and continues to host events, including concerts and Australia Day festivities. Event programming changes, so check the park’s official website for details before planning your visit. The grounds are open around the clock, but an event may affect where you can walk or spend time.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is Parramatta Park free to visit?
The park is listed as free to visit. Some events or activities may have separate arrangements.
How long should you spend at Parramatta Park?
Allow 2 to 3 hours to walk, see a landmark and take a break. The park is large, so you can spend longer if you add a cycle or picnic.
What can you see at Parramatta Park?
Highlights include Old Government House, the Boer War Memorial, Dairy Cottage, the formal rose garden and the Burramatta Landscape Trail.
Are there playgrounds at Parramatta Park?
Yes. Domain Creek playground is on the western side, and Pavilion Flat playground is on the eastern side.
