Darling Harbour in Sydney, just like its name, is ‘the darling of the visitors’. Tourists, vacationers, and local residents cannot resist visiting the Darling Harbour in Sydney. It is one of the most attractive and the largest recreational places in the capital city of New South Wales (NSW). The harbor has gained its fame and name from the time when Lieutenant-General Ralph Darling was the Governor of NSW in the 19th Century.
The attractions at the Darling Harbour act as a tourist magnet. The Australian National Maritime Museum lets you enjoy the magnificent collection of vessels, while the oldest Sydney Galleries specialize in a wide selection of canvas works. The 9D Action Cinemas is the place where you can enjoy exciting simulated rides
Relish the best food and drinks while journeying on the Captain Cook Cruises, which take you on a tour of the Murray River, or the Great Barrier Reef, or the Fiji Islands, or the SeaLink Kangaroo Island, depending upon your choice. The tours leave you with indelible memories. The Aussie Water Taxis allure water sport lovers who wish to indulge in jetting and boating.
The Teahouse at the Chinese Garden of Friendship serves the best Chinese tea along with dim sum. Soak up the sun while strolling in the walled garden and discover hidden pathways, waterfalls, and exotic plants. There are several restaurants, bars, and cafes located at the Darling Harbour.
The children love to go on a historic ride on the wonderful carousel, which is located at Palm Grove. The Darling Quarter’s playground is a place your children will love. It offers activities like water games, climbing ropes, slides, and swings.
Grab those pleasurable moments watching wonderful fireworks at the Darling Harbour. The lights of the illumined harbor at night look spectacular, but the fireworks add up to the beauty of the place – making it appear magical. Check the official website for the upcoming fireworks dates.
There are quite a good number of accommodation options in and around the Darling Harbour. Visitors can choose from luxurious 4-star and 5-star hotels and well-furnished service apartments for their brief stay. Some of the best hotels are the Adina Apartment Hotel, APX Apartments, Fraser Suites, Holiday Inn, and Ibis Hotels.
Shopping in Darling Harbor has its own delight. Buy unique souvenirs at the Babushkas or the Best Real Australian. The ‘Between the Flags’ store sells an assortment of beach and leisure wear. The list of shops and shopping options is endless.
Darling Harbour Location Map
Facts about Darling Harbour
- In 1826, Governor Ralph Darling eponymously named the harbor as Darling Harbour.
- It became the site where the first ever steam engine in Australia was brought into operation, in 1815.
- The harbor receives over 25 million visitors annually.
- The Darling Harbour Live Project costs $2.5 billion.
- The coordinates of Darling Harbour are 33.8723° S, 151.1990° E
Where is Darling Harbour?
Darling Harbour is located at about 8.5 km away from the Sydney Airport via the O’Riordan St Route. The harbor can be reached by train, bus, ferry, Sydney Light Rail, taxi, or even bicycle. If you choose to visit on your personal vehicle, do check the road closures to avoid hassles.
Address: Darling Harbour, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
Best time to visit Darling Harbour
The harbor is open year round. The best views of the harbor can be witnessed at the night.
Famous attractions in the state of New South Wales
Blue Mountains, Bondi Beach, Lord Howe Island, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Jenolan Caves, Luna Park Sydney, and Sea Life Sydney Aquarium.
Explore : What to do in Sydney
