The Rocks and Circular Quay
These harbourside precincts offer the chance to compare the old parts of the city with the new, as you explore the attractions stretching from The Rocks to the Opera House.
The Rocks
The district known as The Rocks, Sydney's first village, has a fascinating history as a colonial port area. Many of the restored old buildings retain their heritage status and now house interesting shops and galleries, quaint pubs and good restaurants. Take a walk along the backstreets and check out the Argyle Stores and nearby Playfair Street. The Rocks Markets, which take over a section of George Street, is a weekend market specialising in Australian homewares, antiques, collectables, gifts and arts and crafts.
Circular Quay
Since first European settlement, the Quay has been at the centre of Sydney's maritime life and its transportation hub. Today, Circular Quay is a busy pedestrian precinct with ferry, bus and rail terminals. Watch for the street entertainers and follow the Writer's Walk. Be sure to have a look at the galleries, shops and restaurants in nearby Customs House.
Cadman's Cottage
This 1816 cottage is Sydney's oldest surviving residence, home to Sydney Harbour National Park Information Centre where tours can be booked to the harbour islands.
110 George Street, The Rocks
Open daily 9am & 5pm
Ph: 9247 5033
Customs House
This old government building, dating from 1840, has been refurbished into an exhibition centre with a design gallery, an annex of the Australian Museum featuring Aboriginal art, and shops and cafes.
31 Alfred street, Circular Quay
Open daily 9:30am & 5pm
Ph: 9247 2285
Justice & Police Museum
Built in 1856, these old sandstone buildings now contain a museum of legal and police history.
Cnr Albert & Phillip Street
Open weekends 10am-5pm
Ph: 9252 1144
http://www.hht.net.au
Lower Fort Street
The dramatic underview of the Harbour Bridge from the northern end of Lower Fort Street, at delightful Dawes Point Park, makes the extra walk worthwhile.
Museum of Contemporary Art
Housed in the former Maritime Services Board building, the MCA is a gallery featuring modern art from recent decades with stunning installations, audacious photography and fine Aboriginal art. It has a good shop and cafe.
140 George treet, The Rocks
Open daily 10am & 5pm
Ph: 9245 2400
Opera Quays
Sydney's newest location for great restaurants, exquisite shops and entertainment, Opera Quays includes two art galleries and a three-screen cinema.
East Circular Quay
Ph: 9247 9788
The Rocks Toy and Doll Museum
This fascinating collection of more than 3,000 toys and dolls, housed in an old coach house, spans two centuries. The exhibits come from around the world: musical instruments, Matchbox cars, wind-ups, games, robots and much more.
2 - 6 Kendall Lane, The Rocks
Open daily 10am & 5:30pm
Ph: 9251 9793
S.H.Ervin Gallery
This small exhibition gallery, belonging to the National Trust, has a reputation for holding some of the city's most interesting historical art exhibitions. The quaint tea rooms are an attraction.
Observatory Hill, The Rocks.
Open Tuesday - Sunday 11am - 5pm
Ph: 9258 0173
General Information: http://www.nationaltrust.org.au
Susannah Place Museum
Build in 1844 this row of four terrace houses incorporates a turn-of-the-century corner shop. It has a rare history of continuous occupancy by working class families as the modest interiors show.
58-64 Gloucester Street, The Rocks
Open weekends 10am-5pm
Ph: 9241 1893
http://www.hht.net.au
Sydney Observatory
The building, dating from 1858, was a centre for timekeeping and astronomical study. Now a museum of astronomy, it offers a program of exhibitions, films, talks and night viewings. Free admission except for night shows.
Observatory Hill, The Rocks
Open daily 10am - 5 pm
Ph: 9217 0481
Sydney Opera House
No matter how often you may have seen it in photos, this architectural master-piece is even more breathtaking in the flesh. Enjoy the view with a drink from the Opera Bar on the walkway below, and discover its inner workings with one of the regular tours.
Bennelong Point, Tours and Information: 9250 7111
Box Office: 9250 7777
Guided Tours Bookings Office: 9250 7250
• 1 –hour tour Daily English tours depart every 30 minutes from 9am–5pm. Daily Japanese, Korean and Mandarin tours also available. Bookings recommended.
• Backstage tour The 2-hour tour grants you access to areas behind-the-scenes. Departs daily at 7am from Stage Door. Costs apply. Bookings are essential.
• Performance packages Package a performance, a 1-hour tour and either dinner at one of Sydney’s finest restaurants, or a sunset cruise on the harbour for a great Sunday night out. Costs apply. Bookings are essential.
Sydney Visitor Centre
Find our what's on, book accommodation, tours, activities and much more!
106 George Street
Open daily 9.30am-5.30pm
Ph: 9255 1788 or 1800 067 676
http://www.sydneyvisitorcentre.com
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