Darling Harbour
Click Map for a larger view
Sydney’s early settlers knew Darling Harbour as Cockle Bay, due to the abundance of shellfish, long before this previously tranquil inlet became the city’s main industrial region, with docks, a railway yard and an international shipping terminal. The area later fell into a decline, but was revamped by the State Government and opened in 1988 in time for the bicentenary celebrations.
There is something for everyone here – from museums, major attractions and parks to shopping, dining at modern complexes such as Cockle Bay Wharf, cruises and a great range of entertainment.
Leisure
Parks & Open Spaces
Tumbalong Park
This beautifully landscaped park features fountains, a lake, a children’s playground, picnic areas and an outdoor amphitheatre.
Walking
Darling Harbour to Circular Quay
Discover something of Sydney's heritage as you walk from the Sydney Aquarium and along Sussex Street to Walsh Bay. Then follow the waterfront under the Harbour Bridge and make your way to Circular Quay.
Historical Walking Tour
The City’s self-guided historical walking tour – Port – commences at Pyrmont Bridge and will introduce you to neighbouring Pyrmont and Ultimo, including key sites in Sydney’s industrial and maritime history.
Download a brochure or pick one up from any Council Location for this fascinating tour around the peninsula.
Cycling
Over 200 bicycle parking rings have been installed on to the City's ‘Smartpole’ street lighting system. Locations include Druitt and Bathurst Streets.
Swimming Pools
The closest City of Sydney pools are:
Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre
Phone: 1800 192 191
Email: admin.itac@ymca.org.au
Web: www.itac.org.au
438 - 484 Harris Street, Cnr of William Henry Street
Ultimo NSW 2007
Monday to Friday: 6am to 9pm
Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays: 6am to 8pm
The centre is closed on Good Friday and Christmas Day.
More
Info >>
Victoria Park Pool, Camperdown
Tel: 02 9298 3090
Fax: 02 9298 3092
City Road, Corner of Parramatta Road
Camperdown NSW 2050
(Limited free 2 hour parking is available, located off City Road)
Non Daylight Saving
Commences Monday 2 April 2007
Monday to Friday: 6am to 7.15pm
Saturday, Sunday: 7am to 5.45pm
Daylight Saving
Monday to Friday: 5.45am to 7.45pm
Saturday, Sunday:
7am to 5.45pm
(Including Public Holidays)
The centre is closed on Good Friday and Christmas Day.
More Info >>
Tennis
The closest tennis courts are:
Prince Alfred Park Tennis Courts, Surry Hills
Jensen’s Tennis Centre
Tel: 02 9698 9451
Chalmers Street
Surry Hills NSW 2010
More Info>>
Entertainment
Museums, Galleries & Attractions
- Australian National Maritime Museum
- Chinese Garden of Friendship
- Maritime Heritage Centre
- Sydney Aquarium
Movies
Theatres & Performance Venues
Shopping
Darling Harbour’s main shopping complex is Harbourside, which caters for Pyrmont and Ultimo locals as well as tourists. There are some great fashion, accessory, gift and homewares outlets here, plus a newsagency, pharmacy, bottle shop, bookshop, hairdresser and other essential services.
If you are looking for quality gifts, ‘Australiana’ and unusual books, try the Maritime Museum, Sydney Aquarium and Darling Walk’s Outback Centre, which specialises in Aboriginal products.
Web: www.sydney-shopping.com.au
Dining
With over 100 restaurants, cafes and takeaway outlets, Darling Harbour offers something for all tastes and budgets.
The area’s main ‘Eat Streets’ are the architecturally splendid Cockle Bay Wharf, with eleven restaurants and cafes; King Street Wharf, where fourteen establishments with a view are set beside a waterfront marina; and the beautifully renovated Harbourside centre.
The cuisines here vary from seafood to Italian, Indian and Malaysian and many restaurants are open until late.
Web: www.eatstreetsatnight.com.au
Did You Know?
Pyrmont Bridge, opened in 1902 to replace the original 1857 wooden structure, is the world’s oldest surviving electrically operated swingspan bridge.
The Chinese Garden contains a delightful traditional Tea House, the perfect spot for lunch or afternoon tea.
Last Updated: Tuesday 6 November, 2007
