Just beyond Sydney Olympic Park, you will find a treasure trove of attractions of all types. Parramatta, which can be easily reached by train or RiverCat, is full of tales of discovery.

If you are intrigued by early days of the colony, whether it’s the hardships of the first freed convicts or the power of the early Governors, then Parramatta is a great place to start, for indeed this is where the success of modern day Australia started!



Back in the late 18th century when Sydney was still a hamlet, Parramatta supplied fresh produce to the Sydney Cove settlement and provided a comfortable retreat for the early governors.



Many of the old buildings have been lovingly restored, and have been opened to allow visitors to glimpse the life in the pioneering colony. Wander the Riverside Walk where Aboriginal artwork tells the ancient story of the Parramatta River and its people.

Sydney’s West also has plenty of family fun. A choice of wildlife parks, a theme park and a beautifully landscaped botanic garden can all be found here, making it an ideal destination for a day away from the city centre.