Sydney Olympic Park Travel Guide

Explore the beauty of Sydney Olympic Park with this ultimate travel guide. Discover its cultural and natural attractions, hiking and biking trails, must-do activities and tours, food and drink scene, where to stay, and getting around options.


Introduction to Sydney Olympic Park

Sydney Olympic Park is a major sports complex and cultural center located in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. It was built for the 2000 Summer Olympics and was later converted into a multi-purpose venue that hosts major events, concerts, and exhibitions. The park covers an area of about 640 hectares and is home to world-class sporting facilities, museums, entertainment venues, restaurants, and recreational areas.

List of Places to Visit in Sydney Olympic Park

Sydney Olympic Park is filled with exciting places to see and things to do. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Australian Museum of Olympic Games: This museum is dedicated to the history and legacy of the Olympic Games. It showcases Olympic artifacts, memorabilia, and interactive displays that tell the story of past Olympic heroes and their achievements.
  • Bicentennial Park: This park is a peaceful oasis with wide expanses of greenery, waterways, and bike paths. It is the largest park in the area and has plenty of picnic spots and children’s playgrounds.
  • Sydney Olympic Park Archery Centre: This is the perfect place for archery lovers. You can practice your aim with a bow and arrow or join a group session with expert coaches.

Natural Attractions of Sydney Olympic Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Brickpit Ring Walk: This walk is a beautiful loop track around the Brickpit, the site of a former brickworks that was transformed into a natural wetland. It offers stunning views of the park and the city skyline.
  • Wentworth Common: This is a serene bushland area that is home to a variety of native wildlife like wallabies, birds, and lizards. You can go hiking or cycling on the trails and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
  • Newington Nature Reserve: Located on the western side of Sydney Olympic Park, this reserve is a natural sanctuary with a wide range of flora and fauna. It has several walking tracks, bird hides, and picnic shelters.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sydney Olympic Park

Sydney Olympic Park is a paradise for hikers and cyclists with its vast network of trails and paths that connect various parts of the park. Some of the best ones are:

  • The Olympic Circuit Walk: This is a 5 km walk that takes you past some of the key Olympic sites like the main stadium, the aquatic center, and the tennis center. It offers great views of the park and its surroundings.
  • The Bicentennial Park Circuit: This is an 8 km bike ride that takes you around the vast expanse of Bicentennial Park. It has several rest points, water fountains, and picnic areas.
  • The Badu Mangroves Boardwalk: This is a 2 km boardwalk that takes you through the heart of the mangrove ecosystem in the park. It is a unique experience that allows you to see the rich biodiversity of the area up close.

Best Things to Do in Sydney Olympic Park: Activities and Tours

Sydney Olympic Park has a plethora of activities and tours that cater to different interests and age groups. Here are some of the best ones:

  • Jetpack Adventures: This is an adrenaline-fueled water sport that will give you a unique flying experience. You can soar through the air with the help of a water-propelled jetpack and see the park from a whole new perspective.
  • Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre: This is a state-of-the-art swimming and fitness facility that offers a range of programs and classes for all levels.
  • Skyline Drive-In Cinema: This is a retro cinema experience where you can watch the latest blockbusters from the comfort of your own car. It has a vintage feel with its classic speakers, screen, and food trucks.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sydney Olympic Park

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for exploring Sydney Olympic Park:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Australian Museum of Olympic Games and Bicentennial Park
2 Go hiking on the Brickpit Ring Walk and explore Wentworth Common
3 Take a bike ride on the Bicentennial Park Circuit and visit the Archery Centre
4 Explore the Newington Nature Reserve and take a jetpack adventure
5 Go swimming at the Aquatic Centre and watch a movie at the Skyline Drive-In
6 Take a tour of the Sydney Olympic Park and visit the Badu Mangroves
7 Relax and enjoy the food and drink scene of the park

Food and Drink Scene of Sydney Olympic Park

Sydney Olympic Park has a wide range of dining options that cater to different palates and budgets. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pork belly sliders: These are succulent mini-burgers stuffed with tender pork belly, coleslaw, and BBQ sauce. You can find them at Ribs and Burgers in the park.
  • Fish and chips: This classic Aussie dish is perfect for a casual lunch or snack. You can get it at the Pasticceria Caruso or Legends Cafe.
  • BBQ platter: This is a meat lover’s dream come true. It includes a selection of grilled meats like beef ribs, lamb chops, and sausages. You can find it at Outback Jacks Bar and Grill.

Local Beverages

  • Vittoria Coffee: This is a premium Italian coffee brand that is popular in Australia. You can get a steaming cup of coffee or cappuccino at most cafes in the park.
  • The Hills Cider Company: This cider company specializes in crafting unique and refreshing ciders using local and international apples. You can try their ciders at The Brewery or the Locker Room.
  • Australian craft beer: There are several microbreweries in Sydney Olympic Park that offer a variety of beers with different flavors and aromas. You can try them at the Locker Room or the Brewery.

Where to Stay in Sydney Olympic Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sydney Olympic Park has a range of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best ones:

  • Novotel Sydney Olympic Park: This is a 4-star hotel that offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities like free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and a swimming pool. It is located in the heart of the park and is within walking distance of major attractions.
  • Ibis Budget Sydney Olympic Park: This is a budget-friendly hotel that offers clean and cozy rooms with basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and breakfast. It is a good option for travelers on a tight budget.
  • Wyndel Apartments: This is a luxury apartment complex that offers spacious and fully furnished apartments with stunning views of the park and the city. It is a good option for families or groups who want privacy and comfort.

What to Buy in Sydney Olympic Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Sydney Olympic Park has several souvenir shops and gift stores where you can buy unique and locally made products. Here are some of the best ones:

  • Olympic Boulevard Souvenirs: This shop offers a range of Olympic-themed souvenirs like t-shirts, mugs, keychains, and pins.
  • Aussie Lifestyle Gifts: This store offers a range of unique and locally made products like artisanal chocolates, Aboriginal art, and handcrafted jewelry.
  • Pop-up markets: There are several pop-up markets that are held in the park throughout the year. They offer a range of products like vintage clothes, handmade crafts, and organic produce.

Local Culture and Customs of Sydney Olympic Park

Sydney Olympic Park is a diverse and multicultural community with a rich history and heritage. Some of the customs and traditions that you might encounter include:

  • Aboriginal culture: The park is located on the traditional lands of the Wangal and Cadigal people. You can learn about their culture and history at the Aboriginal Heritage Walk.
  • Sports culture: The park has a strong sports culture and is home to several elite athletes, teams, and coaches. You can attend a game or training session to experience the thrill of sports.
  • Culinary culture: The park has a vibrant food and drink scene with a mix of international and local cuisines. You can try different dishes and drinks and learn about the local culinary culture.

Best Time to Visit Sydney Olympic Park

Sydney Olympic Park can be visited throughout the year, but the best time to go is from September to November and from March to May. During these months, the weather is pleasant and mild, and there are plenty of events and festivals happening in the park. If you want to avoid the crowds, it’s best to go on weekdays or during off-peak seasons.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sydney Olympic Park

Here are some do’s and don’ts that you should keep in mind when visiting Sydney Olympic Park:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and traditions: Be mindful of the Aboriginal culture and history of the park and show respect to the locals.
  • Stay hydrated and bring sunscreen: The park can get hot and dry, so make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Take public transportation: The park has a good public transportation system with several buses and trains that connect it to the city.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment: The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, so make sure to keep it clean and preserve its natural beauty.
  • Smoke or drink alcohol in public: Smoking and drinking are not allowed in public areas of the park.

Safety and Health

Sydney Olympic Park is generally safe and secure, but it’s always best to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Here are some safety and health tips:

Safety in Sydney Olympic Park

  • Be aware of your belongings: Keep an eye on your valuables and don’t leave them unattended.
  • Stay in well-lit areas at night: If you’re out and about at night, make sure to stick to well-lit areas and avoid dark alleys or empty streets.
  • Follow safety regulations: If you’re participating in any sports activities or tours, make sure to follow the safety regulations and wear appropriate gear.

Health in Sydney Olympic Park

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially during hot and dry days.
  • Use sunscreen: Apply sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
  • Seek medical help if needed: If you experience any health issues, seek medical help from the park’s medical center or nearby hospitals.

Getting to Sydney Olympic Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Sydney Olympic Park is about 17 km west of Sydney CBD and can be reached by several modes of transportation. Here are some options:

Airports Near Sydney Olympic Park

  • Sydney Kingsford-Smith International Airport: This is the main airport in Sydney and is located about 25 km from the park. You can take a train or bus to the park from the airport.

Bus Stations Near Sydney Olympic Park

  • Sydney Olympic Park bus station: This bus station is located in the heart of the park and is serviced by several bus routes that connect it to the city and nearby areas.

Other Options

  • Train: The park has two train stations, Olympic Park and Concord West, that are serviced by several trains that connect it to the city and other areas.
  • Car: You can drive to the park and park in one of the several parking areas available.

How to Get Around in Sydney Olympic Park

Sydney Olympic Park has a good public transportation system that includes trains, buses, and ferries. You can also get around the park by walking or cycling on the vast network of trails and paths. There are also several car rental and bike rental services available.

Where to Go Next from Sydney Olympic Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you want to explore nearby areas and attractions, here are some options:

  • The Parramatta River: This river offers a picturesque view of the city and has several docks and parks along its banks. You can take a ferry ride or go kayaking on the river.
  • The Blue Mountains: This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is about 50 km west of Sydney Olympic Park. It has stunning natural beauty, with rugged mountains, waterfalls, and forests.
  • The Sydney CBD: This is the bustling heart of the city and is home to several tourist attractions like the Opera House, the Harbor Bridge, and the Botanic Gardens.

Conclusion

Sydney Olympic Park is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves sports, culture, and nature. With its world-class facilities, exciting attractions, and beautiful surroundings, it offers a unique experience that is sure to satisfy your wanderlust. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family, or a group of friends, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant and dynamic park.

The spectacular Olympic Park Railway Station The spectacular Olympic Park Railway Station The exterior of Accor Stadium (Stadium Australia) in 2022. It has a capacity of over 115,000, making it the largest Olympic stadium The exterior of Accor Stadium (Stadium Australia) in 2022. It has a capacity of over 115,000, making it the largest Olympic stadium The Brickpit walk The Brickpit walk Bicentennial Park's Treillage Tower Bicentennial Park's Treillage Tower