Rooftop bars to ghost stories: The 22 best things to do in The Rocks
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There’s always something to do in The Rocks. There are charming cafes hidden down brick alleyways, and thriving artisan markets under the shadow of Sydney’s Harbour bridge. There are rooftop bars with panoramic harbour views, award-winning French pastries to taste and centuries of fascinating history to experience.
To help you make the most of your next visit, here are the 22 best things to do in The Rocks, Sydney.
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Cut some shapes at The Argyle
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See Australia’s best collection of contemporary art at the MCA
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Visit countless local galleries
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Get spooked at The Rocks Ghost Tour
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Picnic under the bridge
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Watch live music at Sydney’s oldest bar - Fortune of War
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Shop local at The Rocks Markets
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Pamper yourself at Barber Supreme or Endota Spa
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Bike around the harbour
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Have a drink with 180 degree views at The Glenmore
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Get your future told at Argyle Oracle
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Explore The Rocks Discovery Museum
You’ll love The Rocks Discovery Museum; packed with thousands of years of history! Housed in a restored 1850s sandstone warehouse, the museum is home to a unique collection of images and archaeological artefacts found in The Rocks – some of which you can even hold. Four permanent exhibitions have been developed in close consultation with the Metropolitan Aboriginal Land Council which share the history and stories of the area and the impact of European settlement. The exhibitions cover the periods:
- Warrane (pre-1788)
- Colony (1788–1820)
- Port (1820–1900)
- Transformations (1900–present)
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Eat award winning pastries at La Ren
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World famous pancakes at Pancakes on The Rocks
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Have a pint of Guinness at Australia’s oldest Irish pub
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Coffee at ASLAN, Fine Foods, Black & White Espresso and Creperie Suzette
Our city has better coffee than your city and we can prove it. Head down to ASLAN, Fine Foods, Black & White Espresso or Creperie Suzette, grab a flat white and try and tell us that’s not the best coffee you’ve ever tasted.
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Discover hidden laneways
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Check out Foundation Park
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Have a juicy steak at The Cut
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Discover a hidden underground bar
Since its construction in the 1840s, the basement space that The Doss House whiskey bar now occupies has been home to a boot maker, doctor’s surgery & opium den. Original fireplaces, sandstone walls and vintage charm still remain - but now visitors will find a huge selection of premium whiskies and a beautiful sunny terraced area to drink in. The best bar in Sydney for a dram in sophisticated surrounds.
Once you are done head to Frank Mac's. Inside the sandstone walls of a two-story heritage building, you’ll find one of Sydney’s largest collections of gins and a team of mixologists who know their way around a cocktail. Behind Frank Mac’s 5-metre long bar, there’s over 80 juniper blends sourced from all over Australia and the world.
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High Tea at The Tea Cosy
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