CALENDAR WESTERN SYDNEY
» Autumn in the West is set to impress with a huge selection of festivals, comedy shows, music events, holiday workshops, food markets, sporting matches and more.
APRIL 2026
Ireland: The Voyage Riverside Theatres
Base Entertainment presents Ireland: The Voyage from Friday, April 3. It’s an epic celebration of Ireland’s history, heart and heritage brought to life through authentic voices, live music and world-class Irish dance.
April 3, Corner Market & 353 Church St, Parramatta, (02) 8839 3399, riversideparramatta.com.au
School holiday workshops Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre
School holiday creative workshops, including art, theatre and digital media for kids will run throughout April. Diverse arts events in six galleries and a 320-seat theatre offer plenty of space to create, alongside a scenic riverside parkland and nearby playgrounds. There’s also easy access with free parking and Casula Station next door. Expect everything from resin making to silver jewellery making and theatre workshops.
Workshops run from April 4–24, 1 Powerhouse Rd, Casula, (02) 8711 7123, liverpoolpowerhouse.com.au
Anh Do: The Happiest Refugee
One of Australia’s favourite comedians, Anh Do takes to the stage with an adaptation of his life story. He delves deep into his personal life’s joys and sorrows, bringing the audience an unforgettable experience that results in ultimate happiness.
April 26, Penrith Panthers, 83 Mulgoa Rd, Penrith, (02)1800 061 991, alist.com.au
NRL Round 5 Panthers v Storm
In April, Commbank Stadium will host Parramatta Eels home games and Western Sydney Wanderers FC matches. April 3, will host the NRL Round 5: Panthers vs Storm match. April 3, 8pm, 11–13 O’Connell St, Parramatta, (02) 9360 6601, commbankstadium.com.au
< Liverpool Most Blessed Nights Market
Street food trucks, handmade goods, live music and family entertainment come to the city centre when Macquarie Mall hosts the markets in April. Lebanese drummers will bring the beats of the Middle East to Liverpool, while the weekend also
features Easter-themed activities including egg basket crafts, hat making, bunny making, a roving Easter Bunny and an Easter egg hunt. April 17–20. Macquarie Mall, Liverpool, liverpool.nsw.gov.au
MAY 2026
Meatstock
Think of everything meaty in terms of bands, food trucks, stalls and expos. It’s a whole smorgasbord of everything a carnivore could want and more over a weekend at the Sydney Showground. There are also special guests and a smattering of events, with everything meat themed.
May 1–2, Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park, meatstock.com.au
Blacktown City Festival
This month-long program features music by the lake, markets, cultural performances, comedy nights, family activities and the popular Festival of Lights. A highlight is Vibes by the Lake, showcasing top soul, funk, R&B and reggae acts from across Western Sydney. The Medieval Fayre is another favourite, when Nurragingy Reserve transforms into the Dark Ages for two full days from May 16.
May 3–31, Blacktown CBD, Main St, Blacktown, blacktown.nsw.gov.au
Bookmakers Celebration
Rosehill Gardens hosts a racing tradition on Bookmakers Celebration Day, honouring bookies past and present. The main event is the Lord Mayor’s Cup, a listed race steeped in history. Entry and parking are free, with easy access via public transport. May 30, James Ruse Dr, Rosehill, australianturfclub.com.au
Dave Hughes Sydney Comedy Festival
Dave Hughes is one of Australia’s bestknown comedians. In the final weeks of the festival, he takes to the stage at the Joan Theatre in Penrith with his show Cooked – because behind that cooked-looking facade is a mind that works like no other. Expect Hughesy’s trademark fast-paced humour, sharp observations and plenty of laughs. May 15, The Joan Theatre, 597 High St, Penrith, sydneycomedyfest.com.au
Jimmy Carr Sydney Coliseum Theatre
Jimmy Carr performs live on May 5 at the Coliseum Theatre. If you like fast-paced, edgy one-liners, brace yourself for his latest show, Jimmy Carr: Laughs Funny. Following early acclaim, he returns to the stage with this brand-new tour. You know it’s going to be a great night when the disclaimer reads: “Some people are repelled by Jimmy’s dark brand of comedy and this show is not for them. But if it’s the kind of thing you like, then this is the kind of thing you’ll like.” Don’t say you weren’t warned. Two shows on May 5. Show 1 is on at 7pm, Show 2 is on at 9.30pm, 33 Railway St, Rooty Hill, (02) 9625 5500, coliseumtheatre.com.au
Thirlmere Steam Festival
Get steamy at the Thirlmere Steam Festival on the weekend of May 16–17. Experience the magic of this annual event with authentic steam train rides, vintage machinery, interactive displays and live entertainment. It’s a great day out for families, steam fanatics and history buffs, just 10 minutes by train south of Picton. May 16 and 17, NSW Rail Museum, 10 Barbour Rd, Thirlmere, (02) 4677 1100, thirlmerefestivalofsteam.com.au
Sydney Symphony Orchestra
A handful of key events will follow at the Coliseum Theatre throughout the rest of May with the notable event being the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. The Orchestra will be playing Mozart in this event series. More concert series and tribute shows will also include performances from The Whitlams and James Reyne, with details available via the website. Sydney Symphony performs in Western Sydney on May 28.
May 28, 33 Railway St, Rooty Hill, (02) 9625 5500, coliseumtheatre.com.au
Ampol State of Origin
The 2026 Ampol State of Origin series kicks off at Accor Stadium. Australia’s famous clash between the Blues and Maroons promises an eventful night at this iconic venue – New South Wales’ home turf.
May 27, Edwin Flack Ave, Sydney Olympic Park, nrl.com
AFL: Giants v Essendon
The GWS Giants will play Essendon at the newly named Engie Stadium. This exciting AFL match between two big teams will be a great day out.
May 9, Engie Stadium, Grand Parade, Sydney Olympic Park.
JUNE 2026
Ten Years to Home
The Campbelltown Arts Centre hosts this beautiful stage production telling the true story of Ten Years to Home, about Rushikesh (Rushi) and Vasant Sheth, migrants who travelled from Mumbai to Melbourne in 1959.
June 4–6, 1 Art Gallery Rd, Campbelltown, (02) 4645 4100, campbelltownartscentre.com.au
Anisa Nandaula Riverside Theatres Live Nation & Jubilee Street
Management present Anisa Nandaula on Saturday, June 20 at Riverside Theatres. Her comedic show, No Small Talk, dives headfirst into the chaos of her life – nearly getting into a fight, feuding with her next-door neighbour and surviving workplace drama. Then, after a decade away, she returns to Africa with a suitcase full of hilarious, unforgettable stories. No filters, no small talk, just big laughs.
Saturday June 20, Corner Market &, 353 Church St, Parramatta, (02) 8839 3399, riversideparramatta.com.au.
Penrite ProMX Championship
The Penrite ProMX Championship returns to Appin for round five in 2026. After standout performances from Kyle Webster, Ryder Kingsford and Kayd Kingsford last year, Australia’s top riders return for a full day of practice, qualifying and racing. June 14, Macarthur Motorcycle Club, Brian Rd, Appin, auspromx.com.au
Interactive talks with Powerhouse Parramatta
Science and discovery programs
will come alive through Powerhouse Parramatta with a series of pop-up events and community programs. While the new Powerhouse building is still under construction, talks, tours and workshops will take place across Parramatta and Castle Hill in June, including including panel discussions, interactive workshops, science demonstrations and educational programs for schools and families. Solar & Storage Community Workshop, June 3, 6–8pm, Centenary Square, 34–47 Phillip St, Parramatta, powerhouse.com.au
A great family deal, just in time for the holidays
» Get up close and personal with Australia’s wildlife at Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park.
As autumn settles over Western Sydney, families begin searching for school holiday activities that tick all the boxes – meaningful, family-friendly, educational, engaging and fun. Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park has been ticking every one of those boxes since 1972.
With the autumn school holidays approaching, Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park is making your decision much easier with its limited-time Kids Go Free April o er, inviting families to experience Australia’s most iconic wildlife at exceptional value.
Running throughout April, including the NSW school holidays from April 7–17, the o er allows two children to visit for free with a paying adult. It transforms a popular family day out into an accessible Easter and holiday experience that blends fun, learning and genuine connection with Australia’s many unique wildlife species.
Children can come face-to-face with koalas, watch kangaroos laze in open enclosures, and learn about lesser-known native species like quolls and Tasmanian devils. For many city-based families and visitors to Sydney, it o ers a rare opportunity to see Australia’s unique fauna without venturing far from metropolitan comforts.
Keepers are on hand throughout the day to share insights about animal behaviour, habitats and conservation e orts. These talks shift from curiosity to understanding, helping young visitors connect what they see in books and classrooms with the real world in front of them.
With Kids Go Free April in place, families can allocate more of their holiday budget to experiences within the park, from optional encounters to refreshments, rather than focusing solely on admission costs.
Because the Kids Go Free April promotion runs across the entire month, including the long weekend period, it provides flexibility. Families can choose a quieter weekday during the school holidays or embrace the festive atmosphere of Easter itself.
As a limited-time promotion, Kids Go Free April is a great reason to plan ahead. School holiday dates are always popular, and o ers like this are unlikely to stay quiet for long.
WHAT TO DO
10 ways to experience Western Sydney
» Whether you’re a first-timer or a regular visitor, these one-of-a-kind experiences in Western Sydney will surprise and delight.
Western Sydney is where adventure meets culture. From surfing perfect waves without the ocean and floating over rolling farmlands in a hot-air balloon, to catching the latest Hollywood blockbuster at a retro drive-in, these are experiences you won’t find anywhere else in the city. You can hike through World Heritagelisted wilderness, hand-feed a quokka, or sample flavours from around the globe on a gourmet food safari. Between treetop ziplines, dazzling theatre nights and sprawling parklands, Western Sydney is bursting with fun things to do. Here are 10 of the very best.
1. WATCH A DRIVE-IN MOVIE
In the 1970s, there were more than 300 drive-in theatres in Australia. Today only a handful remain, including just two in New South Wales. Get a taste of nostalgia at Blacktown’s Skyline Drive-In, where you can watch Hollywood blockbusters under the stars paired with burgers and fries from the retro diner. eventcinemas.com.au
2. CATCH A WAVE AT URBNSURF
Consistent, world-class waves roll in seven days a week at Urbnsurf, a revolutionary inland surf park in Sydney Olympic Park catering for everyone from absolute beginners to experts. You can hire all the gear you’ll need and even take a lesson if you need some tips. urbnsurf.com
3. FLY THROUGH THE CANOPY ON A TREETOPS ADVENTURE
Tackle more than 100 aerial obstacles and Australia’s fastest zipline at Treetops Adventure Western Sydney. Wobbly bridges, tight ropes, balance beams and Tarzan swings hang up to 25 metres off the ground. Finish with the Zipcoaster, swooping through the trees at up to 50 kilometres per hour. treetopsadventure.com.au
4. TAKE A GOURMET TOUR OF GLOBAL CUISINE
Almost half the population of Western Sydney was born overseas, making it the most multicultural region in Australia. You can eat your way around the world on a hands-on food tour with Mia Cucina or Gourmet Safaris. miacucina.com.au; gourmetsafaris.com.au
TREETOPS ADVENTURE
URBNSURF
WHAT TO DO
5. FEATHERDALE
Disccover Australia’s diverse widlife at Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park. This special place is home to over 2000 Australian native animals including 60 threatened native species. Buddy up with a keeper to meet a quokka, visit the Koala Kindy Enclosure or even handfeed penguins. featherdale.com.au
6. FLOAT ABOVE CAMDEN IN A HOT-AIR BALLOON
Take in the beauty of Camden’s rural landscapes from above on a hot-air balloon flight with Balloon Aloft. Watch the sun rise over sprawling farms, historic homesteads and the foothills of the mountains from 2000 feet in the air. balloonaloft.com
7. HIKE THROUGH THE BLUE MOUNTAINS
The spectacular World Heritage-listed wilderness of the Blue Mountains is on the edge of Western Sydney. Follow the Glenbrook Gorge walking track,
FEATHERDALE WILDLIFE PARK
a challenging hike along a dry creek bed and past a historic rail tunnel; look for ancient Aboriginal art on the Red Hands Cave track; or have a wild swim at Jellybean Pool. nationalparks.nsw.gov.au
8. PADDLE ALONG THE NEPEAN RIVER
Sydney’s longest river, the Nepean, stretches for almost 200 kilometres along the western border of the city. Hire a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and explore the calm waters on your own, or join a guided tour to discover secret waterholes. horizonline.com.au; nepeanrivertours.com.au
9. WATCH A SHOW AT THE COLISEUM
International superstars, up-and-coming performers, local favourites and everyone in between perform every night at the state-of-theart Coliseum Theatre in Rooty Hill. The 2000-seat theatre is a work of art in itself, with sparkling chandeliers, VIP booths, seven bars and an outdoor cocktail area. coliseumtheatre.com.au
10. EXPLORE THE ENORMOUS WESTERN SYDNEY PARKLANDS
Covering more than 5000 hectares, Western Sydney Parklands is the largest urban park in Australia. Discover bushland walking paths, nature-based kids’ playgrounds, off-leash dog walking areas, lakes and ponds, mountain-bike trails and a farm-gate trail. greatersydneyparklands.nsw.gov.au
+ CABRAVALE CLUB RESORT
The new Cabravale Club Resort, located in the heart of Cabramatta, brings together the Novotel Sydney Cabramatta and dining venues like Magma by Dany Karam, Bistro 1925, District 8, Horizon Asian Dining and Caffè Vicini. There’s also a range of entertainment options for guests. 1 Bartley Street, Canley Vale, (02) 9727 3600, cabravale.com.au
HIKE IN THE BLUE MOUNTAINS
Luxury style for less
» Sydney Outlet Village has 80 stores offering a variety of Australian and international brands including Nike, Coach and Polo Ralph Lauren. With its lush gardens, the outdoor shopping precinct is like an oasis, just outside Liverpool CBD. And the best bit? You pay outlet prices for luxury brands with up to 70 per cent off. Here are our top picks.
NIKE
With its iconic Swoosh sign, Nike has shaped how the world trains. This sportswear behemoth has cleverly blended pure performance with streetcred style from cutting-edge trainers to everyday essentials, with the recognisable Just Do It slogan.
POLO RALPH LAUREN
If you want to add to your smart-casual wardrobe, start with Polo Ralph Lauren. The brand is renowned for its classic preppy aesthetic and sporty elegance. The iconic Polo shirt was introduced in 1972 featuring the polo player emblem, now its most recognisable logo.
TOMMY HILFIGER
One of the world’s leading designer lifestyle brands, Tommy Hilfiger captures the essence of classic American style featuring a preppy look with a twist. Founded in 1985, the brand delivers premium styling and value to customers. There’s a wide range catering to men’s, women’s and children’s apparel, denim, footwear and watches.
COACH
The global fashion house was founded in New York in 1941 with its signature C on handbags, backpacks, leather goods, footwear and accessories. Coach is the place to go for the must-have ‘IT’ bag.
OROTON
This Australian brand, established in 1938, is the oldest luxury fashion brand in the country. It was built on its mesh evening handbags in the 1950s, which became a staple for socialites. The brand has since evolved into a modern accessories, leather and ready-to-wear label.
BALLY
Synonymous with understated elegance, Bally is one of the world’s longstanding luxury brands. It was founded in Switzerland in 1851 by brothers Carl and Fritz Bally. The brand’s DNA is leather craftsmanship, specialising in sharp-looking shoes, leather goods and ready-to-wear for men and women. It is known for its iconic design featuring the red-and-white stripe.
HOW TO GET THERE
Public transport: Sydney Outlet Village is located at 5 Viscount Pl, Warwick Farm NSW 2170. The closest bus stop is outside Oporto on Orange Grove Rd (stop 2170223). It’s then a 100-metre walk to the main entrance. Liverpool Station is about 2.1 kilometres from the Village. Car: There are more than 2000 parking spaces available, and parking is free.
WHERE TO EAT
Where to eat in
Western Sydney
» The West’s dining scene is dynamic, diverse and delicious. This famously multicultural region brings together a wide range of flavours and culinary traditions spanning Asia, the Middle East, Europe and contemporary Australian cuisine. Here’s where to find some of the region’s best restaurants, whether you’re after fine dining or affordable premium eats.
SINCLAIR’S, PENRITH
In a few short years, hatted restaurant Sinclair’s has lifted Penrith’s culinary standards considerably. Sheer creativity and a commitment to hyperlocal produce has made this one of Western Sydney’s most essential stops. 1/20 Memorial Ave, Penrith, (02) 4711 3324, sinclairsrestaurant.com.au
NEW MARKET ROOM, LIVERPOOL
Overlooking Warwick Farm Racecourse from its five-star digs, New Market Room is The William Inglis Hotel’s scene-stealer where you can trot through elegant plates such as spaghettini with roasted prawn bisque. 155 Governor Macquarie Dr, Warwick Farm, (02) 8324 3460, williaminglis.com.au
LILYMU, PARRAMATTA
DARLEY’S RESTAURANT, KATOOMBA
Located in the historic Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort & Spa, Darley’s Restaurant is one of the standout examples of fine dining out west. Ever so elegant, the homely dining room frames luxurious dishes with a lived-in ambience. 5/19 Lilianfels Ave, Katoomba, (02) 4780 1200, lilianfels.com.au
CHU RESTAURANT BY CHINA DOLL, ROOTY HILL
Sitting adjacent to the impressive Sydney Coliseum Theatre, the award-winning Chu Restaurant shares DNA with the legendary China Doll. It’s a destination that translates classic Asian dishes taken from all over the continent, from China and Japan to Southeast Asia. 33 Railway St, Rooty Hill, (02) 9851 5850, churestaurant.com.au
LILYMU, PARRAMATTA
Modern Asian flavours and a constant flow of creativity has made Lilymu one of Western Sydney’s signature experiences. It’s constantly batting above its weight, lifting the local dining scene with dishes like whole snapper goreng with pomelo, green mango and sambal. 152 Macquarie St, Parramatta, (02) 7809 4952, lilymu.com
ARRANA’S, SPRINGWOOD
Arrana’s leads Springwood’s dining scene, and its dedication to Australian flavours is admirable. Think crocodile and prawn with zucchini and pepperberry; goats cheese with wattleseed, apple and prosciutto; or beetroot with mandarin, native basil and popcorn. 9/12 125 Macquarie Rd, Springwood, (02) 4751 5159, aranna.com.au
IFTAR, MERRYLANDS
All those wagyu kofta dumplings and shawarma tacos play into current, fusion-favouring trends, but Iftar’s family-style cooking is impressively authentic – like the essential Middle Eastern breakfast platter with fried eggs, foul, labneh, village cheeses and more. Main Ln, Merrylands, instagram.com/iftarmerrylands
CHU RESTAURANT, ROOTY HILL
SINCLAIR’S, PENRITH
DARLEY’S RESTAURANT, KATOOMBA
WHERE TO EAT
LE BISTROT DU COIN, CAMDEN
Fine but unpretentious, Le Bistrot Du Coin carves out its own identity in the historic village of Camden. Classic French flavours are kept simple here, lifted by local produce and a cleverly curated wine list. 190 Argyle St, Camden, 0404 983 766, lebistrotducoin.com.au
CHATKAZZ, HARRIS PARK
The streets of Mumbai come to life at Chatkazz, an institution for Indian street food and a bastion of unpretentious, casual dining. Everything
2170 RESTAURANT, LIVERPOOL
from chhole buatura to papri chaat is served to a consistent gold standard. 14-20 Station Street, Harris Park, (02) 8677 0033, chatkazz.com.au
WILLO, PARRAMATTA
Classic Mediterranean flair is elevated by Australian produce at Willo, a reliable show-stealer for Parramatta’s dynamic dining scene. With seasonality the focus, the kitchen knows how to cut through with strong, memorable flavours and large servings. 32 Smith St, Parramatta, 1300 441 261, willoparramatta.com.au
2170 RESTAURANT, LIVERPOOL
Affordable, family-friendly and greatly varied, 2170 Restaurant is a hidden gem in the sprawling Club Liverpool complex with a menu of diner classics that appeal to many tastes. Comfort foods such as lamb sausages and six different schnitzels are perennial favourites. 185 George St, Liverpool, (02) 9822 4555, clubliverpool.com.au
CJ’S CRAB SHACK & GRILL, PENRITH
No this ain’t New Orleans, but it’s close. CJ’s Crab Shack & Grill is a staple for the massive Penrith Panthers precinct, echoing the suburb’s riverside lifestyle with an extensive menu of cooked seafood. 123 Mulgoa Rd, Penrith, 0439 393 661, cjscrabshack.com.au
CHATKAZZ, HARRIS PARK
PRECINCTS
Get to know Western Sydney
» Discover the unique identity of these 10 suburbs across Western Sydney and beyond.
PARRAMATTA
The second-oldest city in Australia, Parramatta was founded in 1788 as a farming settlement for the new colony. Today, it’s Sydney’s second CBD, with glittering skyscrapers, excellent restaurants, busy shops and a thriving cultural scene. Within the modern cityscape, you’ll find pockets of lush parkland, the winding Parramatta River and
well-preserved historic buildings, including Old Government House, the oldest surviving public building in the country. Whether you’re here for food, shopping, culture or a riverside stroll, Parramatta has something to surprise you.
LIVERPOOL
The hub of southwest Sydney, Liverpool is set along the Georges River and is one of the city’s fastestgrowing suburbs. Colourful murals create an art trail through the busy centre and the Liverpool Powerhouse (formerly Casula Powerhouse) showcases the culture and creativity of the local people. The suburb’s rich multicultural mix means you can eat your way around the world, with
BANKSTOWN ARTS CENTRE
Balkan bakeries, Iraqi grocery stores, Indian street food and much more. Liverpool also has a busy events calendar, with regular festivals, markets and cultural celebrations.
BLACKTOWN
Blacktown is the largest suburb in Sydney, home to more than 400,000 people. Its residents come from at least 180 countries, with the highest numbers from India, the Philippines, China and Fiji. It’s home to some of Western Sydney’s top tourist attractions, from the native and exotic animals of Sydney Zoo and Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park to the thrills and spills of Raging Waters, high-speed racing at Sydney Motorsport Park and the retro charm of the Skyline Drive-In.
BANKSTOWN
This vibrant suburb in the southwest of Sydney is known for its food, community spirit and lovely streets of heritage houses. With large Lebanese
and Vietnamese populations, you can expect family-run restaurants and authentic grocery stores stocking hard-to-find ingredients. The Bankstown Bites festival (held annually in July) celebrates global flavours and the local food scene. Take in an exhibition at the Bankstown Arts Centre or watch a show at the Bryan Brown Theatre, dedicated to the great Australian actor who grew up in the area.
CAMPBELLTOWN
Flanked by the Nepean and Georges waterways, Campbelltown is known as the ‘city between two rivers.’ Residents and visitors alike are drawn to its vibrant arts community, colourful events and abundant green spaces. Catch an exhibition at the Campbelltown Arts Centre, learn about local history along the self-guided Heritage and Culture Walk, or explore Indigenous traditions
LIVERPOOL
BLACKTOWN DRIVE-IN
PARRAMATTA LANES FESTIVAL
in the surrounding national parks. The suburb is also next to the country’s largest botanic garden, the 400-hectare Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan, which has about 4000 plant species.
FAIRFIELD
Fairfield sits right in the heart of Western Sydney and is often referred to as ‘Little Iraq’ for its large Assyrian population. The streets are lined with authentic restaurants sharing traditional cuisine and hospitality, as well as bakeries, supermarkets, and craft and clothing stores. Visit on a Saturday for Fairfield Markets, the largest markets in Western Sydney, with more than 600 stalls. Neighbouring Cabramatta is the hub of Sydney’s Vietnamese community, so it’s well worth a visit for the city’s best pho and the annual Moon Festival, the largest of its kind in Australia.
PENRITH
The unofficial adventure capital of Sydney, Penrith is the place to go whitewater rafting, cable skiing, jetpack flying and indoor skydiving. Along the water, try kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and fishing. Set on the far western edge of the city, just across the Nepean River from the Blue Mountains, Penrith offers great restaurants, buzzy small bars, luxury hotels and world-class theatres. It’s also one
of the oldest suburbs in Sydney, dating back to 1815, and you can still visit colonial homesteads, pubs and cemeteries.
CAMDEN
Camden acts as the bridge between the suburbs of Western Sydney and the farms of the surrounding Macarthur region. In fact, the suburb began life as
THE PAPER MILL FOOD, LIVERPOOL
FRERE’S CROSSING RESERVE, CAMPBELLTOWN
PRECINCTS
a farm and was founded by the Macarthur family (of sheep-breeding fame) in the 1830s. The historic main street retains many of its beautiful heritage buildings, and its inviting pubs will give you a taste of days gone by. Camden is the closest place to the city where you can take a hot-air balloon flight, floating gently over the patchwork fields, rivers and national park.
HAWKESBURY
With its rolling farmland and neat orchards, it’s easy to see why the Hawkesbury is known as Sydney’s food bowl. Hugging the northwestern fringe of the city, the area is threaded with tranquil waterways and wild national parks, just made for houseboat holidays, off-grid camping and outdoor adventures. Follow a farm-gate trail to pick up fresh produce and tasty treats, visit a boutique winery or cider cellar door, and sit down to long lunches in sandstone pubs that date back more than 200 years.
BLUE MOUNTAINS
Though Western Sydney technically ends at the foothills of the Blue Mountains, this iconic World Heritage wilderness has long been the city’s playground. Follow hiking trails through spectacular mountain landscapes, discover hidden waterfalls, tackle challenging mountainbike trails and marvel at breathtaking lookouts. Or get a different perspective from the cable car and thrilling incline railway at Scenic World. The mountains are dotted with charming villages, such as Katoomba, Leura and Blackheath, known for their antique stores, tea houses and cosy pubs.
CAMPBELLTOWN ARTS CENTRE
BALLOON ALOFT, CAMDEN
Sydney: Rememory, a thought-provoking exhibition that explores how memory and history intersect.
If some downtime is in order, book in for an oxygen or float therapy session at Elements Float Wellness Centre – it’s a deeply restorative escape.
A 48-hour recharge in Penrith
» Don’t be surprised if Penrith becomes your next unexpected weekend fave.
To really make the most of all Penrith has to offer, arrive early and begin with a stroll along the Nepean River Walk, a flat 6km loop that winds through parkland along the water’s edge. Popular with walkers, cyclists and families, it’s an easy place to slow down and slip into a relaxed weekend rhythm. Plus, there are plenty of spots to grab a coffee. When you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Laughin’ Boy on the riverfront – its all-day breakfast menu and easygoing vibe have made it a local favourite. From there, take a 2-minute drive to Penrith Regional Gallery, home to a rotating program of contemporary exhibitions. From 14 March to 14 June, the gallery hosts Biennale of
Clockwise from top: Get back to nature on the river; the Log Cabin is one of many fabulous waterfront eateries; fine food awaits at Sinclair’s.
For accommodation, Astina Suites offers a boutique aparthotel experience within easy walking distance of some of Penrith’s best eateries and its rooftop pool makes for a perfect lazy afternoon. Or, if you’re staying at the five-star Pullman Sydney Penrith, reward a light gym workout with time in the cedar wood sauna.
When evening arrives, settle in for dinner at Sinclair’s at the Log Cabin, a hatted riverside restaurant where seasonal produce and elegant dishes make for a memorable first night out.
The next morning is all about the river and you’ll find there’s no place you’d rather be. This time, hire a kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard from Horizon Line and enjoy a peaceful paddle on the calm water reconnecting with nature. If you’re quiet you might just spot some wildlife, even platypus. Afterwards, refuel at Henri Marc, which serves hearty café fare in an industrial-chic setting.
With your energy restored, head to Scram Escape Rooms – Prison Island, a fast-paced indoor adventure for all ages. You’ll tackle up to 30 different challenge rooms within a 60-minute time limit; expect everything from lasers and puzzles to climbing, crawling and tactical thinking at speed.
After an active afternoon, wind down with drinks and dinner at Mr Watkins or head to Checho’s for lively cocktails and tacos. By the time the weekend ends, you’ll be planning your next visit.
Find your own way to unwind in Penrith at visitpenrith.com.au.