The Locals Guide to Sydney
Ok, so you aren’t a tourist. But Sydney is still an amazing place and you want to get out there and see your city! So how does a local explore Sydney without falling into the usual tourist routine? Here are some ideas for a perfect weekend of exploration!
Your first step is to organise your transportation. Those without their own transportation will follow the example of smart Sydney residents and purchase an Opal Card for public transportation throughout the city.
Next, start your morning exploring the Sydney Olympic Park grounds. This expansive park houses the facilities used during Sydney’s 2000 hosting of the International Olympic Games. Now that the games are over, there is still plenty to do. Explore nature habitat exhibits or take a behind-the-scenes stadium tour. Get more information about athletic classes or plan to return for a major sports event or concert.
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When you have seen the best of the Olympic Park, cross all the way to the other side of the city and make your way to Bondi Beach. Here, you can take in the best of Sydney’s panoramic water views by taking the Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk. This 3 km trail will have you falling even more deeply in love with your city as the stunning scenery spreads out before you.
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If you are a Sydney local, you naturally love cricket, right? So head inland once again and visit the Sydney Cricket Grounds. Immerse yourself in cricket with a quick tour before moving on to the Royal Botanical Gardens. Here you can spend some time admiring the orchids in the glasshouse and wondering at the bottle tree, our country’s oldest of these unique water storing trees.
From here, it is a quick hop over to The Rocks area. From museums to restaurants and art viewing to retail therapy, The Rocks has something for everyone. Having worked up quite an appetite with all of your exploration, here is a great place to grab a bite to eat. Peruse one of the area museums, like The Rocks Discovery Museum.
Finally, make your way over to Circular Quay. You’ve seen the best of the local hotspots on land. Now it is time to appreciate your city from the water. Sensational Sydney Cruises offers a variety of ways to see Sydney. For example, you can choose to Cruise Like a Local. In this four-hour cruise package, you can learn all about Sydney’s marvels and history while indulging in a deluxe, three-course BBQ lunch. After the meal, enjoy the Harbour with swimming, kayaking or even just sunbathing. And don’t forget the local wine! What a perfect way to end your Sydney exploration weekend like a proper local.