This article is written by Olivia Inwood
Needing a picturesque location for your next social outing? Enjoy all the comforts of a packed outdoor feast with friends, at one of these superb picnic locations in Sydney!
Royal Botanic Gardens
Mrs Macquaries Rd, Sydney CBD
The Royal Botanic Gardens is a great location for a picnic, with many peaceful spots right in the heart of the city. Mrs Macquaries Point provides panoramic views of the Opera House to the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The gardens themselves feature many exotic flowers and trees, so make sure you also have a walk around and immerse yourself in nature!
Fun Fact: Opened in 1816, The Royal Botanic Gardens is the oldest scientific institution in Australia and has over 8000 different plant species!
Wendy’s Secret Garden
Lavender Bay
Wendy’s Secret Garden is a unique place with a fascinating story. The garden was created by Wendy Whiteley, the wife of the famous Australian artist Brett Whiteley. After the death of her husband, Wendy purchased wasteland from the NSW Rail Corporation and channelling her creativity and grief, transformed the area into a beautiful, secluded garden. With a gorgeous harbour view, this garden is the perfect secret picnic place.
Fun Fact: Wendy’s Secret Garden has a multi-layered landscape, with zigzag paths leading you through an array of sculptures, plants and overarching Moreton Bay Fig trees.
Barangaroo Reserve
Hickson Rd
Barangaroo Reserve is Sydney’s newest Harbour foreshore park with many great lookouts and activities. There are quiet spots for a picnic, as well as extensive cycling and walking trails. If you don’t feel like bringing your own picnic food, Barangaroo also has a food and drink precinct, with many options to choose from.
Fun Fact: Using innovative technology, Barangaroo Reserve was created by transforming a concrete container terminal into a naturalistic rocky landscape and planting over 75,000 native plants!
Centennial Park
Centennial Parklands, Eastern Suburbs
Centennial Park is one of Australia’s most famous parks and is a heritage listed site. Spread across 189 hectares, there are many spacious picnic spots to choose from! Centennial Park also has bookable picnic sites, if you want to have access to BBQ amenities and uninterrupted views.
Fun Fact: On 1st January 1901, Centennial Park was the site where the Federal Constitution was proclaimed, officially establishing the Commonwealth of Australia.
Cockatoo Island
Sydney Harbour
Cockatoo Island is the largest island in Sydney’s Harbour and is a nice place for a short getaway. There are many scenic picnic spots and opportunities to explore the island’s historical artefacts. If you want some entertainment, Cockatoo Island also hosts the Sydney Biennale and Haunted History Night Tours.
Fun Fact: Cockatoo Island is a UNESCO World Heritage listed island and was a convict penal establishment in the 19th century.
