13 parks, gardens and reserves to explore during warmer weather.

Shake things up a little for your next feast and explore one of these great parks and outdoor areas.

Before you choose a spot, check out these 6 steps for a waste-free picnic.

 

Barangaroo Reserve. Photo: Katherine Griffiths / City of Sydney

 

Barangaroo Reserve, Barangaroo

Expect lookouts, idyllic coves, picnic spots and stunning harbour views.

The closest train stations are Circular Quay and Wynyard. There is also an underground car park on-site.

Public toilets are available.

 

Blackwattle Bay Park. Photo: City of Sydney

 

Blackwattle Bay Park, Glebe

Work up an appetite by strolling the Glebe Foreshore Walk and ending up at this glorious park. There’s plenty of green areas for picnicking and at the foot of Leichhardt Street you’ll find a playground to keep the kids entertained.

Public toilets are in Bellevue Cottage.

 

Hyde Park, city centre. Photo: Katherine Griffiths / City of Sydney

 

Hyde Park, city centre

Australia’s oldest park in the heart of central Sydney is a great place to snack and relax. The park boasts 16 hectares of wide-open space and lots of trees to keep you shaded.

St James and Museum train stations are located right next to the park. Bus and light rail stops are also close by.

Public toilets are available.

 

Observatory Hill. Photo: Chris Southwood / City of Sydney

 

Observatory Hill, Millers Point

Enjoy a picnic with panoramic views of Sydney harbour. It’s also a brilliant spot to catch the sunset.

The park is a short walk from train stations at Wynyard and Circular Quay.

Public toilets are available on Upper Fort Street.

 

Tumbalong Park water play area

 

Tumbalong Park, Darling Harbour

This picturesque park is home to a large playground with lots of water and adventure play equipment for children of all ages. Public ping pong tables mean grown-ups get to play too.

Bus, train and light rail stops are nearby and parking is available.

Public toilets are dotted around.

 

Victoria Park. Photo: Katherine Griffiths / City of Sydney

 

Victoria Park, Broadway

Relax and enjoy the outdoors at this brilliant park in Broadway. You’ll be surrounded by shady spots and have access to a new playground that’s great fun for kids of all ages.

The park is well serviced by Parramatta Road and City Road bus services. There’s also on-site parking.

 

Royal Botanic Gardens. Photo: Paul Patterson / City of Sydney

 

Royal Botanic Gardens, city centre

These heritage-listed gardens are a city oasis that hug the harbour and offer fantastic Sydney views.

Public transport links are nearby, and car parking is available at The Domain.

Public toilets are available and there’s also cafes and restaurants on-site.

 

Rainbow path at Prince Alfred Park. Photo: Chris Southwood / City of Sydney

 

Prince Alfred Park, Surry Hills

Right next to Central station you’ll find this wonderful 7.5-hectare park. The park has plenty of green space, as well as barbecue and picnic areas built with custom-designed tables and seating.

Public toilets are near the entry to the pool.

 

Paddington Reservoir Gardens. Photo: Josef Nalevansky / City of Sydney

 

Paddington Reservoir Gardens, Paddington

Stroll through the immaculate gardens and discover this award-winning park in Sydney’s east. There are open and enclosed grass lawns as well as shaded areas.

Bus stops are close by. No public toilets available.

 

Arthur McElhone Reserve. Photo: Sarah Rhodes / City of Sydney

 

Arthur McElhone Reserve, Elizabeth Bay

Located opposite Elizabeth Bay House, this reserve offers spectacular harbour views and lovely gardens.

No public toilets available.

 

Beare Park. Photo: Paul Patterson / City of Sydney

 

Beare Park, Elizabeth Bay

This park has a large grassed area with harbour views and a playground for the little ones. There are shaded areas to keep you sun-safe and a cafe nearby at the marina for snacks and hot drinks.

Public toilets are available.

 

Ariel view of Centennial Parklands

 

Centennial Park

One of Sydney’s biggest parks has nearly 200 hectares of open space. You’ll find gardens, wetlands and children’s play areas. There’s also a few cafes and restaurants.

Public toilets are available. You can park on-site too.

 

Sydney Park. Photo: Katherine Griffiths / City of Sydney

 

Sydney Park, Alexandria

You’ll find picnic and barbecue areas dotted throughout the park as well as a village green and café. Great if you’re a dog owner, this park is off-leash at all times and there’s also a puppy paddling pool.

Public toilets are available. St Peters train station is across the road and there are 4 on-site car parks.