These are the Best Parks & Gardens in Sydney

Sydney’s parks provide moments of tranquillity to escape and unwind from the busy pace of the city.

Whether you're after a shaded place to enjoy lunch, a scenic spot to picnic with friends, or somewhere for a morning walk or jog, Sydney's parks are essential stops that reveal the city’s more laid-back side.

In this guide you'll discover Sydney's most iconic parks and gardens with breathtaking harbour views as well as hidden gems tucked away in quiet neighbourhoods.

If you’re after peaceful retreats, scenic spots for outdoor activities, or secluded corners best known to locals, Sydney’s parks promise a fresh perspective on the harbour city.

A short walk from the city centre, Sydney's Royal Botanic Garden offers a peaceful retreat on the harbour's edge. Opened in 1816, it’s not only one of the oldest botanic gardens in Australia but also a vibrant part of Sydney’s landscape.

You can explore various themed gardens, including the succulent garden and the rose garden. The Royal Botanic Garden offers breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour, making it a popular spot for a relaxing afternoon or a gentle stroll.

One of the notable attractions here is the Calyx, an indoor horticultural display showcasing seasonal exhibits. You can also join guided tours or enjoy a meal at the on-site café.

If you’re keen on staying nearby, the Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour offers a convenient location to access both the Botanic Garden and the city’s main attractions.

Location: Mrs Macquaries Rd, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

Hyde Park, right in the heart of Sydney, is Australia’s oldest park and a cherished green space for both locals and tourists. Established in 1810, it spans over 16 hectares, offering an oasis amid the busy city streets.

The park is rich in history, with key landmarks like the Archibald Fountain and the ANZAC War Memorial, which are must-sees for any visitor.

Throughout the year, Hyde Park hosts various events, adding a lively atmosphere to the otherwise tranquil space. Popular annual events include the Sydney Festival and the Night Noodle Markets. For those wanting to stay nearby, Pullman Hyde Park is just a stone’s throw away, making it an ideal base for exploring both the park and the city centre.

Centennial Park at Moore Park is a massive 189-hectare expanse offering a mix of open fields, wetlands, and woodlands. It’s one of Sydney’s largest and most diverse green spaces, making it perfect for a wide range of activities.

When visiting Centennial Park you can enjoy various activities including horse riding, cycling, or just enjoy a leisurely walk through the vast landscapes.

The park is also home to diverse wildlife, including black swans, cockatoos, and other native species.

With dedicated picnic spots, BBQ areas, and playgrounds, it’s a favourite for families. The numerous walking tracks and wide-open spaces also make the park an ideal location for a morning jog or an outdoor workout.

Centennial Parklands offers something for everyone, making it one of the top spots in the city for outdoor recreation.

Barangaroo Reserve is a remarkable example of urban transformation. Once a concrete container terminal, this area has been reborn into a thriving public space with native plants, walking paths, and cultural significance.

Named after an influential Aboriginal woman, Barangaroo plays a key role in acknowledging and celebrating Sydney’s Indigenous heritage.

The reserve offers stunning views of Sydney Harbour and is perfect for a peaceful walk along the shoreline. When visiting Barangaroo you can also enjoy the cultural and artistic displays throughout the park.

Staying nearby at ibis Sydney Barangaroo gives you easy access to both the reserve and other attractions in the Barangaroo precinct.

Sydney Park, located in the city’s inner west, is a versatile green space with something for everyone. Known for its excellent sports and recreational facilities, it features sports fields, cycling tracks, and playgrounds that make it a popular spot for families, fitness enthusiasts, and cyclists alike.

The park’s wetlands are home to native birds and wildlife, offering a peaceful spot for nature lovers to explore. There are plenty of wide-open spaces for picnics, and the rolling hills provide scenic views of the city skyline. The park is also accessible, with nearby public transport options making it easy to reach from any part of the city.

Throughout the year, Sydney Park hosts various community events, from art installations to local festivals, adding a lively atmosphere to the park’s natural charm. Whether you’re after a relaxed day out or an active one, Sydney Park’s mix of facilities and green space makes it a go-to destination.

Sitting right beneath the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Dawes Point Reserve offers some of the best harbour views in the city. It’s an ideal picnic spot after visiting The Rocks markets, with its large open spaces and proximity to Sydney’s iconic landmarks. The central location makes it a convenient stop during a day of sightseeing around Circular Quay and The Rocks.

Whether you want to enjoy the panoramic views, take photos of the Harbour Bridge, or simply relax by the water, Dawes Point Reserve provides a break from the urban hustle. Its proximity to the city centre also means you’re never far from the next attraction.

Located in the eastern suburbs, Nielsen Park in Vaucluse is perfect for a harbourside day out. It’s known for its picturesque swimming spot, Shark Beach, which is ideal for families or anyone looking for a calm, safe swim.

The park also marks the starting point of the Hermitage Foreshore Track, a scenic walking path that hugs the coastline, offering stunning views of Sydney Harbour and the surrounding nature.

With picnic areas scattered throughout the park, it’s a popular spot for weekend getaways. The combination of bushland, beach, and harbour views makes Nielsen Park a standout location for both relaxation and exploration.

Beyond the largest and most popular parks and gardens, Sydney has many more spots that are well worth your time.
 

• Chinese Garden of Friendship in Darling Harbour is a peaceful retreat with traditional pavilions, ponds, and a tea house. It’s a calm space for reflection, right in the city centre.
  
  
• Dudley Page Reserve offers stunning panoramic views of Sydney Harbour and the city skyline, making it perfect for sunset picnics. The wide open space lets you enjoy the scenery in peace.
  
  
• Cremorne Reserve, accessible by ferry from Circular Quay, is home to the Maccallum Pool, a free harbourside swimming spot with breathtaking views. The reserve also offers shady paths and quiet picnic areas.
  
  
• Parramatta Park combines nature with history, offering walking paths and the Old Government House, a UNESCO World Heritage site, making it a great spot for those looking to mix culture with a day outdoors beyond Sydney's CBD.
  
  
• Wendy’s Secret Garden in Lavender Bay is a hidden, artistic haven with beautiful views of the harbour. Created by Wendy Whiteley, this garden is a peaceful escape from the city’s noise.

Sydney’s parks aren’t just about relaxing – they’re ideal for staying active, with plenty of outdoor activities to suit all interests.

Walking and jogging are popular across many parks, with scenic paths winding through open spaces and bushland. Centennial Parklands, for instance, offers wide trails perfect for a morning run or a leisurely walk, while the Royal Botanic Garden has scenic routes with harbour views.

For those who prefer two wheels, cycling routes are abundant. Centennial Parklands has designated cycling paths, ideal for both beginners and more experienced riders. Sydney Park also boasts great cycling tracks, making it a family-friendly spot for a casual ride.

If group activities are more your style, many parks host fitness classes. Boot camps, outdoor pilates, and yoga sessions regularly take place in larger parks like Centennial Parklands and Barangaroo Reserve. These open-air classes are perfect for those wanting to exercise with nature as their backdrop.

Outdoor sports are also popular activities, with many Sydney parks having sportsfields for football or cricket. Sydney Park, for instance, has ample space for informal sports, while the facilities at Centennial Parklands cater to organised games.

Whether you prefer solo workouts or group activities, Sydney’s parks and gardens provide the space and environment for staying fit and enjoying nature.

Sydney’s parks and gardens offer a peaceful retreat from the city’s fast-paced lifestyle, with green spaces to relax, explore, and get active.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these parks enrich the experience of being in Sydney and provide a unique way to connect with both nature and the city’s history.

From world-famous gardens and expansive parklands to hidden gems, Sydney’s parks deserve a place on your travel itinerary.