About The Rocks


History
Originally home to local Indigenous people, the Cadigal, The Rocks is the site of Australia’s first European settlement in 1788.

Since that time, The Rocks has undergone many transformations, from a convict town to a burgeoning port city by the mid 1800s. The 1900s were a period of change and immense upheaval.

Sydney’s first suburb’s character was totally altered as whole streets and homes were demolished when landmark events took place such as:

  • the government resuming the area following the plague in 1901
  • the construction of the city circle railway from the 1920s to the 1950s
  • the building of the Harbour Bridge in the 1920’s and early 30’s
  • the Cahill Expressway being built in the 1950s.

There are many ways to discover the past and connect with Sydney's heritage in The Rocks. Visit one of the many heritage attractions or take a walking tour of The Rocks to gain a deeper understanding of the people and the place through time.

Shopping
A walk along the streets of The Rocks reveals many boutique stores and galleries with everything from hand-made puppets, vintage clothing and accessories, art supplies, jewellery and some of Australia's finest arts and crafts. 

At many stores in The Rocks, you can meet artists and craftspeople face to face. Antiques and vintage wares can be found alongside modern products made from authentic Australian materials such as native timbers.

The Rocks Market is held every Saturday and Sunday and is located at the northern end of George Street. Perfect for gift and souvenir shopping, it has more than 150 stalls selling quality crafts, home wares, jewellery and Australian-designed goods, all under a unique sail-like canopy.

The Rocks - historic buildings, restaurants and shopping. Dining
There are myriad places to eat in The Rocks, from some of Sydney's finest restaurants to quaint cafes and casual eateries. 

Sydney's mild climate is ideal for outdoor dining. Day or evening, many restaurants offer stunning views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

For casual dining options, try one of the 13 heritage pubs serving traditional and contemporary Australian meals along with local wines and boutique beers – some are even brewed on the premises. Courtyard cafes are perfect for coffee and cake, breakfast and lunch, and there is a diverse and exciting range of international cuisines to choose from. 

Galleries, parks and museums
With approximately 33 galleries, museums and art institutions, The Rocks is brimming with an exciting array of artworks from Aboriginal and modern art to sculpture, photography, glass, ceramics and textiles. Purchase a unique gift or simply enjoy the works on display: many of the galleries have free entry, including the Museum of Contemporary Art.
  
Fascinating glimpses of the past can be found everywhere. Purchase old-fashioned sweets from Susannah Place Museum, view archaeological artefacts on display in a former sheep dip and soap factory at The Rocks Discovery Museum, or explore the delightful range of shops such as The Puppet Factory or the gallery of craftspeople from Craft NSW.

Dawes Point (Tar-ra) Park, has enchanting harbour views and is the site of Sydney’s first battery. Many original features, including the powder magazine, Officers’ Quarters, gun battery and a remounted cannon, are on display.

Accommodation
Located on the spectacular Sydney Harbour, The Rocks is one of the top spots to stay in Sydney. Choose to stay in fabulous five star hotels, charming bed and breakfasts, character-filled pubs or boutique hotels. From colonial to ultra-modern, The Rocks boasts accommodation for all budgets. 

How to get there
Transport to and from The Rocks is easy. Circular Quay, Sydney’s major transport hub for bus, train and ferry services is within five minutes’ walk. The Rocks is also serviced by the Sydney Explorer and Airport Express Buses.
 
More information
The Sydney Visitor Centre is recommended as your first stop for information about Sydney, especially The Rocks. Friendly staff are on hand 363 days a year to give you details of all the attractions that make The Rocks so special. The Centre is located at the corner of Argyle & Playfair Streets, The Rocks. www.sydneyvisitorcentre.com    

 

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