Open spaces

The city of Sydney has some exceptional open spaces. Over 130 hectares of parks, gardens and plazas are set aside within the city.

Open spaces provide sanctuary from the hubbub of urban life and allow public access to the natural beauty of Sydney's harbour setting.

Detail from Salvation Army in the Domain, c. 1932, by Sam Hood
Photograph    PXE 789/19/89

Sydney's first officially planned open space was the Governor's Domain, set aside by Governor Phillip in 1788. Originally extending down to Circular Quay, the Domain was opened to the general public in the 1830s.

Since then it has been a gathering place for concerts, picnics, official celebrations, political meetings and sporting activities.

 > View a selection of open spaces within Sydney