Best things to do in Parramatta – Discover one of Sydney’s most historic and charming cities.

This famous performance theatre hosts over 1000 events annually. Parramatta has a rich cultural diversity and has equally interesting art and cultural scene. It is situated close to the Parramatta River and has something for everyone. Shakespeare, contemporary dance, ballet, comedy and musicals are all part of Riverside Theatre on most given days of the year.

The Parramasala is a multi-cultural parade and festival that takes place in March. The festival celebrates the multi-cultural communities living in Sydney vibrantly and spectacularly. There is live music, traditional dancing, a colourful parade, costumes; rhythmic drums are few of the many features one can expect to see. A food precinct will feature an array of tasty treats and drinks from all across the globe.

This special park is listed as a World Heritage Site. The earliest convicts and settlers finally succeeded in growing crops to feed themselves on these premises. This beautiful park has been a place of relaxation for many of the governors who oversaw convict settlements. There are two playgrounds and a free rose garden with a collection of rare roses. History lovers can opt for the curator's tour of the earliest buildings built by the first convicts to the country. Visit the official website for more information on special events and festivals held at the park.

Paramatta Lake is a popular swimming spot and is open to the public from October onwards. This area is also a popular picnic point. The lake has lifeguards and a special area designated for young children to play. If swimming is not up to your alley, hire a boat to explore the lake and its surroundings. There are several choices to hire, kayaks, paddleboats, rowboats, and canoes. Lake Paramatta Reserve has over 70 hectares of bushland to discover, you can pick from three walking tracks. She-oak track is a 1.5 km walk, Banksia track takes around 2.4 km inclusive of the return journey, and Lake Circuit is 4.2 km that takes you around the lake. You might see interesting birds and flora, such as sulphur-crested cockatoos, blue tongue lizards, sugar gliders, and perhaps even an echidna.

Visit yet another World Heritage Site, built-in 1799 and the oldest convict-built public building in Australia. The house has been the home of the governors of NSW for many years as they preferred Parramatta over Sydney. This well-preserved building is open for visitors to experience the earliest epoch in Australia's history. Staying in a hotel in Paramatta Sydney might be a better option than the city limits, as the laid back atmosphere in Parramatta is sure to charm you. For instance, PARKROYAL Paramatta has quite a range of suites and rooms in the heart of the city, to get to your destinations with ease.