The Parramatta River is one of Sydney’s most iconic waterways next to Sydney Harbour. It meanders all the way west from the city, deep into the suburbs. Along the banks and on the water of this picturesque river there are many things to see and do and that’s going to be the focus of this article.
Let’s take a look at just some of the things to keep you entertained on Sydney’s Parramatta River and surrounds.
Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddle Boarding
Not only is the Parramatta River an expansive and interesting waterway along its main stretch, but there are also many little tributaries that run off the river. The entire waterway offers a lot to be explored, either by kayak or a stand-up paddle board.
There are not many things more relaxing and serene than getting out onto calm water and exploring areas that are often hard to reach or be seen from land.
At the same time as chilling out and seeing the sights, you’re also getting some fresh air and exercise.
Restaurant Dining With Water Views
Dotted all along the Parramatta River from the east to the west, you’ll find some awesome restaurants, cafes and bars, where you can enjoy a casual meal and a drink. Having water views to gaze out upon while eating or drinking is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening on any day of the week.
Sydney’s Western Suburbs offers a large variety of different cuisines to suit everyone’s taste, so you’re sure to find something to your liking near the Parramatta River.
To locate restaurants and cafes along the river, you can simply do a search online, either for the Parramatta River or specific suburbs, such as the following examples:
- Best food in Silverwater
- Top restaurants in Silverwater
- best food and drinks in Silverwater
- Restaurants on the Parramatta River
- And so on…
Parks Along the Riverbanks
If you were to go on the internet, search the Parramatta River and view a map of this waterway, you’ll discover that there are quite a few really good parks located right on the water’s edge. These are fantastic places to have a relaxing picnic, take the dog for a walk, get some exercise, chill out in the shade or explore nature.
Just some of the parks include:
- George Kendall Riverside Park
- Blaxland Riverside Park
- Memorial Park
- Parramatta Park
- And more…
Some of the parks even have some sporting facilities, such as tennis courts, basketball, running tracks and bicycle pathways.
Parramatta Park is nearly 100 hectares of unspoilt beauty and has officially been a park for more than 150 years.
Take In the Sights With a River Cruise
Cruise boats and ferries snake up and down the length of the Parramatta River on a daily basis, with many locations along the river where you can hop on or get off as you please.
Taking a leisurely river cruise is one of the very best ways to see the riverbanks and suburbs of Sydney from a totally different perspective. Marvel at some of the incredible architecture that’s built right on the water’s edge and drink in the sights and sounds of nature all around. While there is a lot of development along the river, there are also many unspoilt nature areas as well.
It’s a good opportunity to take some awesome photos, as well as being a way to clear the mind and simply relax for a while.
Check Out An island In the Middle of the River
There are a number of major islands in the Parramatta River, particularly towards the CBD area. Cockatoo Island is popular with tourists. There is also Spectacle Island and Snapper Island nearby to Cockatoo Island. To get to one of these islands you could either take a guided tour or even venture out on your own boat.
Cockatoo Island was once used as a convict settlement many years ago. These days, it’s a UNESCO Heritage Listed site that attracts tens of thousands of tourists each year.
If you want to fully enjoy the Parramatta River, then the islands are worth a look.
In Conclusion
There is so much to see and do and near the Parramatta River. This article has only just scratched the surface.
