Nestled in Sydney's North, about 13 kilometres from the central business district, Macquarie Park is a thriving urban neighbourhood loaded with numerous tourist attractions for visitors and locals alike. From scenic parks and historical landmarks to art centres, recreation hubs, museums and iconic restaurants, this dynamic suburb offers a range of memorable experiences through its diverse tourist places. Whether you're seeking history, modern architecture, outdoor adventures, cultural refreshment or simply a cosy atmosphere, Macquarie Park has something for everyone. Here are the top places to visit in this vibrant Sydney neighbourhood.
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One of the largest shopping centres in the region, Macquarie Centre is a top retail destination for shoppers in Macquarie Park. With over 360 retail stores, including major brands, boutique shops, gourmet stores and restaurant chains, the place is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore trending fashion or shop souvenirs. From clothes and electronics to kitchenware, groceries and beauty products, there's everything you need on every budget. Catch the latest blockbuster at the cinema or enjoy a hearty meal at a restaurant.
Located just outside the suburb’s boundary along the banks of the Lane Cove River, Lane Cove National Park is a nature lover’s haven, offering everything from scenic walking trails and kids’ playgrounds to open areas and gyms for outdoor enthusiasts. The park has many trails suitable for walking, cycling and dog-walking, open and covered areas for picnics and barbecuing, and breathtaking river views. For those seeking wildlife, this park has colourful birds and evasive marsupials among other benign animals.
One of the top places to visit in Macquarie Park for art enthusiasts, recreation seekers and history lovers, Macquarie University is both an architecture marvel and a prominent learning centre with a scenic park, sprawling grasslands, a beautiful lake, a sports centre, a history museum, an art gallery and an astronomical observatory. Art lovers must visit the Macquarie University Art Gallery to explore a diverse collection of classic and contemporary art by famous and emerging Australian artists, including paintings, sculptures and modern multimedia art. Entry is free for everyone. For nature lovers, Macquarie University has sprawling gardens with grasslands and a beautiful lake, making it the perfect place for a retreat after a day full of classes or exploring the campus. For fitness enthusiasts, Macquarie University Sport and Aquatic Centre is a must-visit place, where one can take swimming lessons, sign up for gym memberships or engage in various sports. Macquarie University Astronomical Observatory is another place not to miss for space enthusiasts and astronomy lovers. Get a chance to view the galaxy and stars like never before with the Observatory’s cutting-edge telescopes. Lastly, visit the Macquarie University History Museum to explore the region’s history and colonial past through pictures, antiques and remembrances.
A popular attraction for ice skating enthusiasts, Macquarie Ice Rink at the corner of Herring Road and Waterloo Road is an ice skating park and coaching centre. Whether you're looking to learn ice skating from the beginning or want to test your skills, this is the best place for skating sessions.
Revisit the suburb’s history at the famous Macquarie Park Cemetery, a heritage-listed burial ground that is home to the graves of many notable figures from Sydney and surrounding regions. Guided tours are available for those looking to learn about the region’s glorious past and famous personalities and their stories.
Nestled in a charming garden centre, this lovely restaurant offers local Australian cuisines in a stunning ambience surrounded by nature. It’s located at the corner of Lane Cove Park.