Sydney Olympic Park

Things to do

Sporting fans will get a thrill out of visiting the epic stadiums that hosted the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games, which are now open to the public. Stadium Australia (also known as Accor Stadium) hosts major sporting matches and concerts by the likes of U2 and The Rolling Stones but was first memorialised as the venue where Cathy Freeman won an Olympic gold medal.

Sydney Olympic Park - Credit: Ethan Rohloff

Aspiring freestyle swimming gold medallists can swim laps in the pool where Ian Thorpe won three Olympic gold medals. Check out the Dive into History exhibition at the Aquatic Centre, which celebrates the great stories and triumphs of Australia’s swimming legends, or take a tour of the centre, which is home to four indoor heated pools, a rapid river ride and giant water slide.

You can hire a bike to explore the 35km cycling pathways in Bicentennial Park, one of Australia’s largest urban parklands. There are free barbecue facilities in the park, as well as lakeside picnic areas, and splashing fountains and water spouts. Other activities in Sydney Olympic Park include Segway tours, circus classes, an archery centre and a smash room.

Sydney Olympic Park in Sydney West - Credit: Sydney Olympic Park

Markets & shows

The annual Sydney Royal Easter Show offers plenty of family fun. The kids will love the farm animals at this multi-day festival, which brings all things rural to the city, showcasing the finest fresh produce, livestock and wines. There are treat-filled showbags, amusement rides, show ring events and a nightly fireworks display.

Two popular markets call Sydney Olympic Park home. The Sydney Vegan Market runs on the third Sunday of every month and features live music, free yoga, a kids art space and, of course, heaps of amazing vegan goodies, from burgers, pasta and milkshakes to cosmetics, homewares and fashion. Meanwhile the Sydney Flower Market is Australia's largest flower market for fresh cut flowers and is open to the public from Monday to Saturday. Check out the busy events calendar to see what else is on.

Sydney Royal Easter Show, Sydney

Eat & drink

This well-designed entertainment precinct isn't short on food options. Before heading to an event in a nearby venue, stop by for a drink and some casual bites at Abattoir Blues, named because it's set in a 1900s abattoir. Other great food options include Khon Thai or Thai Palate for classic Thai dishes; Bacar Restaurant & Bar at the Pullman for modern Australian cuisine; LouLou's Cafe or Piccolo Roma for pizza and pasta; and Ribs & Rumps or The Brewery Bar and Kitchen for pub fare.

If you are in the area for breakfast, check the Armory Wharf Cafe for pretty water views alongside pancakes, eggs on toast and smashed avo. 

Bacar Restaurant & Bar Seafood, Sydney Olympic Park

Getting there

Getting to the world-class sporting and entertainment venues and Bicentennial Park is easy by train or ferry. The train from Central Station to Olympic Park Station is about 30min and a ferry ride from Circular Quay takes about an hour.