Shake things up a little for your next feast and explore one of these great parks and outdoor areas.
Before you choose a spot, check out these 6 steps for a waste-free picnic.
Barangaroo Reserve, Barangaroo
Expect lookouts, idyllic coves, picnic spots and stunning harbour views.
The closest train stations are Circular Quay and Wynyard. There is also an underground car park on-site.
Public toilets are available.
Blackwattle Bay Park, Glebe
Work up an appetite by strolling the Glebe Foreshore Walk and ending up at this glorious park. There’s plenty of green areas for picnicking and at the foot of Leichhardt Street you’ll find a playground to keep the kids entertained.
Public toilets are in Bellevue Cottage.
Hyde Park, city centre
Australia’s oldest park in the heart of central Sydney is a great place to snack and relax. The park boasts 16 hectares of wide-open space and lots of trees to keep you shaded.
St James and Museum train stations are located right next to the park. Bus and light rail stops are also close by.
Public toilets are available.
Observatory Hill, Millers Point
Enjoy a picnic with panoramic views of Sydney harbour. It’s also a brilliant spot to catch the sunset.
The park is a short walk from train stations at Wynyard and Circular Quay.
Public toilets are available on Upper Fort Street.
Tumbalong Park, Darling Harbour
This picturesque park is home to a large playground with lots of water and adventure play equipment for children of all ages. Public ping pong tables mean grown-ups get to play too.
Bus, train and light rail stops are nearby and parking is available.
Public toilets are dotted around.
Victoria Park, Broadway
Relax and enjoy the outdoors at this brilliant park in Broadway. You’ll be surrounded by shady spots and have access to a new playground that’s great fun for kids of all ages.
The park is well serviced by Parramatta Road and City Road bus services. There’s also on-site parking.
Royal Botanic Gardens, city centre
These heritage-listed gardens are a city oasis that hug the harbour and offer fantastic Sydney views.
Public transport links are nearby, and car parking is available at The Domain.
Public toilets are available and there’s also cafes and restaurants on-site.
Prince Alfred Park, Surry Hills
Right next to Central station you’ll find this wonderful 7.5-hectare park. The park has plenty of green space, as well as barbecue and picnic areas built with custom-designed tables and seating.
Public toilets are near the entry to the pool.
Paddington Reservoir Gardens, Paddington
Stroll through the immaculate gardens and discover this award-winning park in Sydney’s east. There are open and enclosed grass lawns as well as shaded areas.
Bus stops are close by. No public toilets available.
Arthur McElhone Reserve, Elizabeth Bay
Located opposite Elizabeth Bay House, this reserve offers spectacular harbour views and lovely gardens.
No public toilets available.
Beare Park, Elizabeth Bay
This park has a large grassed area with harbour views and a playground for the little ones. There are shaded areas to keep you sun-safe and a cafe nearby at the marina for snacks and hot drinks.
Public toilets are available.
Centennial Park
One of Sydney’s biggest parks has nearly 200 hectares of open space. You’ll find gardens, wetlands and children’s play areas. There’s also a few cafes and restaurants.
Public toilets are available. You can park on-site too.
Sydney Park, Alexandria
You’ll find picnic and barbecue areas dotted throughout the park as well as a village green and café. Great if you’re a dog owner, this park is off-leash at all times and there’s also a puppy paddling pool.
Public toilets are available. St Peters train station is across the road and there are 4 on-site car parks.
Published 28 September 2021, updated 14 November 2022
