Blaxland Riverside Park – All About to Know
Blaxland Riverside Park located in Sydney Olympic Park, New South Wales, Australia, is a sprawling play space spanning three hectares. It’s the biggest playground in Sydney, offering a plethora of activities and challenges for kids of all ages and abilities.
Location:
Jamieson St, Sydney Olympic Park NSW 2127, Australia
Phone Number:
+61297147888
Direction to Blaxland Riverside Park:
Blaxland Riverside Park Hours
The good news is that Blaxland Riverside Park itself is open 24/7, so you can visit it any time of day or night! However, the operating hours for specific park features and facilities might vary. Here’s a breakdown:
General Park Area:
- Always open for walking, cycling, or enjoying the riverside views.
Blaxland Riverside Playground:
- Open from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm daily.
Water Play Area:
- Seasonally dependent: Opens from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm during the warmer months. Currently, the water play area is closed as it’s winter in Australia.
Armory Wharf Cafe:
- Wednesday to Friday: 9:00 am to 2:00 pm
- Saturday and Sunday: 8:30 am to 2:30 pm
- Closed Monday and Tuesday
Why Blaxland Riverside Park is famous?
Blaxland Riverside Park has gained fame for several compelling reasons:
- Size and Scope: It is the largest playground in Sydney, spanning three hectares. Families flock here for its expansive play areas, ensuring kids of all ages have a blast.
- Diverse Play Equipment: The park boasts an array of exciting features, including a double flying fox, mega-swing, tunnel slides, and a multi-level treehouse. These attractions provide endless fun and adventure.
- Inclusive Design: Blaxland Riverside Park is inclusive and accessible for children with varying abilities. Its thoughtful design ensures that everyone can participate and enjoy.
- Water Play Area: The largest outdoor water play area in Sydney keeps kids cool during hot days. Splashing around in the water is a favorite activity for families.
- Picturesque Location: Situated in Sydney Olympic Park, the park offers stunning views of the river and surrounding greenery. It’s an ideal spot for picnics and relaxation.
- Community Hub: Families gather here to socialize, celebrate birthdays, and create lasting memories. The park fosters a sense of community and connection.
So, whether it’s the sheer size, exciting play features, or the inclusive environment, Blaxland Riverside Park has become a beloved destination for families seeking outdoor fun and quality time together. Read West Side National Park – All About to Know
History of Blaxland Riverside Park
Blaxland Riverside Park has a fascinating history that connects it to the past and makes it a unique destination. Let’s delve into its story:
John Blaxland’s Land:
- The site where Blaxland Riverside Park now stands was originally part of the land granted to John Blaxland in 1807.
- John Blaxland was a prominent figure, and his family’s residence, Newington House, still exists within the grounds of the adjoining Silverwater Correctional Centre.
- Newington House is listed on the State Heritage Register, preserving its historical significance.
Sydney Olympic Park’s Legacy:
- The parklands at Sydney Olympic Park cover 430 hectares of open space, wetlands, and waterways.
- These parklands are a lasting legacy of the Sydney 2000 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
- The land was formerly used by government industries, including the State Abattoirs, State Brickworks, and the Commonwealth Department of Defence.
- The transformation of this industrial land into parklands is an internationally recognized environmental remediation and urban renewal project.
- Today, the parklands serve as both a local park and a significant regional destination as Sydney continues to grow.
Biodiversity and Recreation:
- Blaxland Riverside Park is just one part of the larger parklands.
- It offers a diverse range of attractions, including leisure areas, sporting grounds, and natural spaces.
- Over 280 hectares (nearly half of the park) provide habitat for threatened species, endangered ecological communities, and protected marine vegetation.
- The park supports a rich biodiversity, including endangered Green and Golden Bell Frogs, native birds, reptiles, and various plant species.
- With 35 kilometers of pedestrian/cycle paths, it’s a haven for cyclists and nature enthusiasts.
Archery Park:
- Archery Park, located within the parklands, served as the venue for archery competitions during the Sydney 2000 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
- It features bocce courts, picnic shelters, and free barbecues.
- The award-winning Archery Centre building follows environmentally sustainable design principles.
Blaxland Riverside Park not only offers recreational opportunities but also connects us to the past, reminding us of the land’s rich history. Read Antioch Bridge – All about to know
Picnic area in Blaxland Riverside Park
Blaxland Riverside Park is a haven for picnic lovers, offering a variety of beautiful spots to spread out your blanket and enjoy a feast amidst stunning scenery. Here are some of the park’s most popular picnic areas:
Riverfront Bliss:
- Riverbank Picnic Spot: Located right beside the Parramatta River, this area offers breathtaking views of the water and the Sydney Olympic Park skyline. It’s perfect for catching some rays while you dine, and the gentle breeze off the river provides a refreshing escape from the city heat.
- Jetty Point: This grassy knoll juts out into the river, offering panoramic views and a sense of seclusion. It’s a great choice for a romantic picnic or a small gathering with friends.
Shady Retreats:
- Fig Tree Grove: Nestled under the shade of mature fig trees, this grove provides a cool and peaceful escape from the sun. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic if you have little ones who need protection from the sun’s rays.
- Woodland Picnic Area: Surrounded by native trees, this area offers a sense of being surrounded by nature. It’s a great choice for a picnic if you’re looking for a serene and quiet atmosphere.
Family Fun Zones:
- Near the Playground: If you have kids in tow, picnicking near the Blaxland Riverside Playground is a great option. You can keep an eye on them while they play and enjoy your meal at the same time. There are plenty of picnic tables and grassy areas in this vicinity.
- BBQ Areas: The park has several designated BBQ areas equipped with electric grills. These are perfect for a larger picnic or barbecue with friends and family. Just be sure to arrive early on weekends and holidays as they can get crowded quickly.
- Armory Wharf Cafe, nestled on the edge of the Parramatta River within Blaxland Riverside Park, is a delightful casual dining spot. The spacious cafe offers both indoor and outdoor seating.
Sydney Olympic Park BBQ area
Sydney Olympic Park boasts a variety of scenic and well-equipped BBQ areas perfect for a fun day out with friends and family. Here are some of the top options:
- Bicentennial Park: This sprawling 40-hectare park is a popular choice for picnics and BBQs, offering stunning lake views, gentle hills, and plenty of shaded areas. It features multiple designated BBQ areas equipped with electric grills, picnic tables, and garbage bins.
- Wentworth Common: Nestled where Haslams Creek enters Homebush Bay, Wentworth Common is a haven for nature lovers. It features a large BBQ area with electric grills, picnic tables, and a playground, making it ideal for families. The park also offers opportunities for bushwalking, birdwatching, and kayaking.
- Blaxland Riverside Park: Situated on the banks of the Parramatta River, Blaxland Riverside Park offers a picturesque setting for a BBQ. It features a designated BBQ area with electric grills, picnic tables, and stunning river views. The park also boasts the famous Blaxland Riverside Playground, making it a great option for families with kids.
- Village Green Pavilion: Located near Bicentennial Park, the Village Green Pavilion is a versatile space perfect for large gatherings. It features a covered BBQ area with gas grills, picnic tables, and a playground. The pavilion can also be booked for events.
- Lake Pavilion: Situated close to the Olympic Stadium, the Lake Pavilion offers a serene setting for a BBQ. It features a designated BBQ area with electric grills, picnic tables, and stunning lake views. The pavilion can also be booked for events. Read Spitting Caves – O’ahu, Hawaii – All about to know
Blaxland Riverside Park Review
TripAdvisor: Blaxland Riverside Park boasts a 4.5-star rating on Tripadvisor, with over 200 reviews praising its various aspects:
- Families: “Awesome park for kids of all ages, fantastic playground with water play area, great BBQ spots for picnics, beautiful riverside walks.” – Sarah F.
- Nature lovers: “Stunning views of the Parramatta River, peaceful walking paths, nice to see the historical features of the old depot.” – John M.
- Overall: “Hidden gem, a great day out for everyone, something for all interests, highly recommend!” – Emily K.
Google Reviews: Similar to Tripadvisor, Google Maps shows a 4.5-star rating with positive reviews highlighting:
- Playground: “Best playground in Sydney! My kids can spend hours there, amazing variety of equipment, water play is a blast.” – Michael B.
- Relaxation: “Lovely spot for a picnic, beautiful scenery, perfect for a walk or bike ride along the river.” – Anna L.
- Cafe: “Armory Wharf Cafe is a delightful surprise, delicious food, charming setting, excellent river views.” – David C.
Local publications and blogs: Articles like “Top 10 Playgrounds in Sydney” and “Best Family Picnic Spots in Sydney” often feature Blaxland Riverside Park, emphasizing its unique features and overall appeal.
Hotels near Blaxland Riverside Park
Here are some hotels near Blaxland Riverside Park, Sydney:
- Nesuto Parramatta Sydney Apartment Hotel: This apartment hotel is just a short walk from Blaxland Riverside Park and offers guests stunning views of the Parramatta River. It features modern apartments with fully equipped kitchens, perfect for families or groups of friends.
- Novotel Sydney Olympic Park: This hotel is located within Sydney Olympic Park, just a short distance from Blaxland Riverside Park. It offers guests a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, fitness center, and restaurant.
- Pullman at Sydney Olympic Park: This hotel is also located within Sydney Olympic Park and offers guests luxurious accommodations and stunning views of the park. It features a variety of restaurants and bars, as well as a spa and fitness center.
- Rydges Parramatta: This hotel is located in the heart of Parramatta, just a short drive from Blaxland Riverside Park. It offers guests modern accommodations and a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, fitness center, and restaurant.
- Meriton Suites Church Street: This apartment hotel is located in Parramatta, just a short drive from Blaxland Riverside Park. It offers guests spacious apartments with fully equipped kitchens, perfect for families or groups of friends.
- The Langham, Sydney: This five-star hotel is located in the heart of Sydney and is a short drive from Blaxland Riverside Park. It offers the ultimate in luxury and service, with a rooftop pool, spa, and Michelin-starred restaurant.
When choosing a hotel near Blaxland Riverside Park, consider your budget, how close you want to be to the park, and what amenities are important to you. Read Sunseeker Resort Charlotte Harbor- Florida
Blaxland riverside Parking
Blaxland Riverside Park, located within Sydney Olympic Park, New South Wales, Australia, offers convenient parking options for visitors. Here’s what you need to know:
- Car Park Entry:
- You can access the car park from Jamieson Street.
- Please note that time restrictions may apply.
- Parking Availability:
- While parking is available, it can be limited due to the park’s popularity.
- If the main car park is full, consider parking in the P5 car park located off Hill Road.
- P5 Car Park:
- The P5 car park provides an alternative option.
- Keep in mind that parking at P5 costs $4 per hour, with a maximum of $20 (except on event days, when a flat fee of $25 may apply).
Bike hire Blaxland Riverside Park
At Blaxland Riverside Park, you can easily explore the scenic surroundings on two wheels. Here’s how you can enjoy bike hire at this fantastic park:
- Bike Hire Locations:
- Shop 1, Bicentennial Drive, Bicentennial Park, Sydney Olympic Park:
- Open 7 days a week from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm.
- Last bike hire at 4:30 pm.
- No prior bookings are required.
- On Australia Day (26th Jan), operating hours are from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm.
- Contact: Phone: 9746 1572
- Gatehouse, Newington Armory, Blaxland Riverside Park, Sydney Olympic Park:
- Open on weekends and weekdays during school and public holidays.
- Operating hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
- The last bike hire at 4:00 pm.
- No need for advance bookings.
- On Australia Day (26th Jan), hours are from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
- Contact: Phone: 9746 1572
- Shop 1, Bicentennial Drive, Bicentennial Park, Sydney Olympic Park:
- Explore the Riverside Trail:
- Rent a bike from the historic Gate House in the Armory.
- Follow the riverside walking trail alongside the Parramatta River.
- Enjoy the fresh air, scenic views, and a leisurely ride.
- Family-Friendly Adventure:
- Whether you’re with family or friends, biking at Blaxland Riverside Park is a delightful experience.
- Pedal through the park, soak in nature, and create lasting memories.
Attractions near Blaxland Riverside Park
here are some attractions near Blaxland Riverside Park that you might enjoy:
1. Sydney Olympic Park: This 640-hectare park precinct is home to a variety of sporting venues, including the iconic Sydney Olympic Stadium and ANZ Stadium. There are also gardens, walking and cycling paths, and a number of cafes and restaurants.
2. Bicentennial Park: This sprawling park is a popular spot for picnics, barbecues, and walks. It has a lake, playgrounds, and several sporting facilities.
3. Wentworth Common: This park is home to a variety of native plants and animals, and offers stunning views of the Parramatta River. There are walking and cycling paths, a playground, and many picnic areas.
4. Sydney Olympic Park Ferry Terminal: This ferry terminal provides a convenient way to get to and from the city center. There are also many cafes and restaurants located near the terminal.
5. Qudos Bank Arena: This arena is home to a variety of sporting events, concerts, and shows. There are also several cafes and restaurants located near the arena.
6. Newington Armory: This heritage-listed building was once used as a munitions storage facility. It is now home to a number of function spaces and is also a popular spot for weddings and events.
7. Circus Arts Sydney: This circus school offers a variety of classes and workshops for all ages. There are also regular performances by students and professional circus artists.
8. DFO Homebush: This is an outlet shopping haven, housing numerous designer and brand-name stores at discounted prices. Treat yourself to some retail therapy and find incredible deals on your favorite brands. Read Lake Minnetonka – All about to Know