Sydney Olympic Park, Sydney - diagram
1 / 10

Sydney Olympic Park

A sprawling precinct offering sports, entertainment, and recreation, with vast parklands and unique attractions.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Sydney Olympic Park, Sydney - diagram

Sydney Olympic Park

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A sprawling precinct offering sports, entertainment, and recreation, with vast parklands and unique attractions.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Great for families and events, but plan your parking and transport carefully!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Pre-book Parking

Parking can sell out, especially for events. Pre-booking is highly recommended to secure a spot.

🚆 Public Transport is Key

Consider trains or buses to avoid parking hassles and traffic jams.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bubble Planet Experience

Bubble Planet Experience

Paddington Pavilion

An immersive world of bubbles, lights, and interactive rooms. Kid-friendly fun for all ages!

Bicentennial Park

Bicentennial Park

Northern end of Sydney Olympic Park

Vast parklands perfect for cycling, picnics, and exploring nature trails. Great for families!

Aquatic Centre

Aquatic Centre

Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre

Features water slides and a fun water playground, ideal for a refreshing family day out.

Abattoir Blues Cafe

Abattoir Blues Cafe

Historic 1900s abattoir building

A unique cafe experience in a historic setting, offering a cozy atmosphere and good coffee.

Planning Your Visit

Navigating Sydney Olympic Park

Getting around Sydney Olympic Park can be tricky, especially during major events. Consider public transport or pre-booking parking well in advance to avoid long queues. Many Redditors suggest parking further out and taking a train or bus to save time and hassle.

Event-Driven Crowds

Sydney Olympic Park is a hub for major sporting events and concerts, which significantly impacts crowd levels and accessibility. Check the event schedule before your visit to gauge potential crowds and plan your activities accordingly. Some TikTok creators highlight the immersive experiences available, which can also draw significant crowds.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons (non-event days)
Why
Good for family activities
Crowd
Medium
When
During major events
Why
Experience the buzz
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

@Bubble Planet Experience just opened at the Paddington Pavilion at Sydney Olympic Park! This is a a cool fully immersive experience, it’s kid-friendly and kids under 2 can enter for free. Tickets can...
@anniesbucketlist
34.3K likes • 880.5K views

🚗 Pre-book Parking

Parking can sell out, especially for events. Pre-booking is highly recommended to secure a spot. Reddit+1

🚆 Public Transport is Key

Consider trains or buses to avoid parking hassles and traffic jams. Reddit+1

13/50 FREE things to do in Sydney 🚊 nearest train station: Gadigal or Town Hall Entry is FREE for adults and children, year round. Only some limited edition exhibitions are ticketed but all 3 levels ...
@franmagiera
26.5K likes • 364K views
📍Abattoir Blues 🏡 Historic 1900’s abattoir cafe in Sydney Olympic Park. @abattoirbluescafe - Matcha Latte ⭐️ - Decent matcha! Not too sweet and a nice flavour. No complaints here, I’ve ordered it twi...
alinastaste
137 likes • 7.2K views

🚲 Bike Rentals Available

Rent bikes to explore Bicentennial Park and enjoy the scenic trails. Reddit

💧 Aquatic Centre Fun

Don't miss the water playground and slides at the Aquatic Centre for family fun. Reddit

@bubbleplanetexperience just opened at the Paddington Pavilion at Sydney Olympic Park! This is a a cool fully immersive experience, it’s kid-friendly and kids under 2 can enter for free. Tickets can b...
anniesbucketlist
14.9K likes • 621.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Pre-book Parking

Parking can sell out, especially for events. Pre-booking is highly recommended to secure a spot. Reddit+1

🚆 Public Transport is Key

Consider trains or buses to avoid parking hassles and traffic jams. Reddit+1

🚲 Bike Rentals Available

Rent bikes to explore Bicentennial Park and enjoy the scenic trails. Reddit

💧 Aquatic Centre Fun

Don't miss the water playground and slides at the Aquatic Centre for family fun. Reddit

☕ Historic Cafe Vibe

Check out Abattoir Blues for a unique cafe experience in a historic building. Instagram

✨ Immersive Experiences

Look out for temporary immersive exhibitions like Bubble Planet. TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Sydney Olympic Park for its diverse range of activities, from family-friendly attractions like the Aquatic Centre and Bicentennial Park to unique immersive experiences. The park's green spaces and event facilities are often highlighted as positives. However, parking and traffic congestion, particularly during major events, are frequently cited as significant drawbacks.

What People Like

Diverse activities
Family-friendly options
Green spaces

What People Dislike

Parking issues
Event traffic

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most recommended way to reach Sydney Olympic Park is by public transport, primarily trains. Direct train services run from major stations to Olympic Park Station. For those driving, pre-booking parking is essential, or consider parking at nearby stations like Lidcombe or Rhodes and taking a shuttle bus or train. Reddit+2

Yes, Sydney Olympic Park has multiple car parks, including P1, P2, P3, P5, and P8. However, parking can be limited and often sells out for major events. It's highly advised to pre-book your parking online to guarantee a spot. Reddit+2

Finding free parking directly at Sydney Olympic Park is challenging, especially on event days. Some Redditors suggest parking in nearby suburbs like Newington or Lidcombe and walking or taking public transport. Reading Cinema on Parramatta Road is also mentioned as a free parking option with a 20-minute walk. Reddit+1

Train travel times to Sydney Olympic Park vary depending on your starting point. From Sydney Central Station, it typically takes around 20-25 minutes. Check the Transport NSW website for specific journey planners and timetables. Reddit

Yes, shuttle bus services often operate to Sydney Olympic Park from nearby train stations, especially during major events. It's advisable to check the event organizer's website or Transport NSW for specific shuttle information. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Sydney Olympic Park is a public precinct, so general entry is free. However, specific attractions, exhibitions (like Bubble Planet or Jurassic World The Exhibition), and sporting/concert events held at venues like Accor Stadium require separate tickets. TikTokInstagram+1

Entry to the park grounds is free. Parking fees apply if you drive, and costs vary depending on the car park and whether it's a special event day. Individual attractions and events will have their own admission fees. Reddit

The official Sydney Olympic Park website is the best resource for a comprehensive list of upcoming events, including sports, concerts, and exhibitions. You can also check venue-specific websites like Accor Stadium. Instagram

Yes, exploring Bicentennial Park, walking the Ring Walk (closes at dusk), and enjoying the general park atmosphere are free activities. Some temporary free exhibitions might also be available. Reddit+1

For most ticketed events and attractions, advance booking is highly recommended, especially for popular concerts or exhibitions, as they can sell out quickly. Check the official ticketing partners for each event. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Sydney Olympic Park offers a variety of activities, including exploring Bicentennial Park, visiting the Aquatic Centre with its water playground, cycling, walking the Ring Walk, and enjoying immersive exhibitions like Bubble Planet or Jurassic World. TikTokInstagramReddit+1

Absolutely! Families love the Aquatic Centre's water playground, the expansive Bicentennial Park with its playgrounds and picnic spots, and interactive exhibitions like Bubble Planet. TikTokInstagramReddit

Yes, bike rentals are available, particularly for exploring the extensive network of paths in Bicentennial Park. It's a fantastic way to see the park's natural beauty. Reddit

The Ring Walk is a free, elevated walkway offering panoramic views of the park and its venues. It's a great spot for a stroll and some photos, but it does close at dusk. Reddit

Abattoir Blues Cafe offers a unique dining experience in a historic abattoir building. There are also various cafes and restaurants within the park precinct and nearby Newington for more options. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

For scenic shots, Bicentennial Park offers beautiful natural landscapes and water features. The Ring Walk provides elevated views of the park's architecture. The unique setting of Abattoir Blues Cafe also makes for interesting photos. InstagramReddit

Yes, the Bubble Planet Experience is highly visual and designed for photos. Many visitors capture vibrant shots amidst the bubbles and colorful installations. TikTokInstagram+1

Generally, personal photography is allowed in public areas. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Always check signage at specific venues or attractions. Instagram

Photography often focuses on the park's modern architecture, the natural beauty of Bicentennial Park, and the immersive experiences offered by temporary exhibitions. Instagram+1

Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful lighting for outdoor photography in Bicentennial Park. For indoor exhibitions, lighting conditions will vary. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Sydney Olympic Park is a playground for families! The Aquatic Centre is a must-visit with its thrilling water slides and a fantastic water playground that kids will love. For outdoor fun, Bicentennial Park offers expansive green spaces, playgrounds, and picnic areas perfect for a family day out. Reddit

Don't miss out on immersive experiences like the Bubble Planet Experience, which is specifically designed to be engaging and fun for children of all ages. It's a vibrant, interactive space that guarantees smiles and plenty of photo opportunities. TikTokInstagram

🚗 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious visitors, focusing on free activities is key. Exploring the beautiful Bicentennial Park, walking the Ring Walk, and enjoying the general park atmosphere costs nothing. Pack a picnic to save on food expenses. Reddit+1

When it comes to transport, public transport is generally more budget-friendly than paying for parking, especially during events. Consider parking in outer suburbs and taking a train, or utilizing free street parking where available and walking. Reddit+1

📅 Day-Trippers

If you're visiting Sydney Olympic Park for a day, prioritize your must-sees. Consider combining a visit to Bicentennial Park for some nature and relaxation with an immersive experience like Bubble Planet or a swim at the Aquatic Centre. TikTokInstagramReddit

To maximize your time, plan your transport in advance. If driving, pre-book parking. If using public transport, check train schedules to ensure you don't miss out on your planned activities. Arriving earlier in the day often means fewer crowds and more time to explore. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Getting Around: Parking & Public Transport

Navigating Sydney Olympic Park, especially on event days, requires strategic planning. While driving is an option, Redditors consistently advise that public transport is often the most stress-free method. Trains are frequent and drop you right at Olympic Park Station. If you must drive, pre-booking parking is crucial, as car parks like P1 can sell out. Some suggest parking further afield in suburbs like Lidcombe or Rhodes and utilizing shuttle buses or trains to reach the park, a strategy that can save significant time and frustration when exiting after an event. Reddit+3

For those considering parking closer to the venue, tips include arriving very early to secure a spot near an exit or being prepared for a potential wait of 20-30 minutes to leave the car park. Some Redditors have found success parking at P8, which is not bookable, even when other lots are marked as 'booked out'. Alternatively, parking in residential areas like Newington and walking is an option, though it requires checking local parking restrictions. Reddit+2

Ultimately, the consensus from community discussions is to prioritize public transport or secure pre-booked parking to ensure a smoother experience when visiting Sydney Olympic Park. Reddit+1

Family Fun at Sydney Olympic Park

Sydney Olympic Park is a fantastic destination for families, offering a range of activities to keep children entertained. The Aquatic Centre is a major draw, boasting water slides and a dedicated water playground that kids adore. It's a perfect spot for a fun-filled day, especially on warmer weather. Reddit

Beyond the water, Bicentennial Park provides vast green spaces ideal for picnics, leisurely walks, and active play. The park features excellent playgrounds and open areas, making it a great place for children to run around and explore. For a unique experience, consider visiting temporary immersive exhibitions like the Bubble Planet Experience, which is specifically designed to be kid-friendly with interactive rooms and a giant ball pit. TikTokInstagram+1

Other family-friendly options include exploring the nature trails within Bicentennial Park or, for the more adventurous, trying out archery. The Ring Walk also offers a unique perspective of the park, though it's best suited for older children who can appreciate the views. Reddit+1

Unique Experiences and Dining

Sydney Olympic Park isn't just about sports venues; it also hosts unique attractions and dining spots. The Bubble Planet Experience has gained popularity, offering a surreal and colorful journey through multiple themed rooms, perfect for creating memorable photos and engaging with interactive displays. TikTokInstagram+1

For a more grounded yet equally unique experience, Abattoir Blues Cafe provides a charming atmosphere within a historic 1900s abattoir building. It's a great spot for a relaxed coffee or meal, offering a different pace from the usual park activities. Instagram

Beyond these specific spots, the park precinct and nearby Newington offer a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to more formal restaurants, catering to different tastes and budgets. Checking local listings for current offerings is always a good idea. Reddit

You may also like