Strolling Circular Quay

by Anna Z (subscribe)

I feel so fortunate that living in Sydney, I have the Circular Quay wharf and Circular Quay station so easily accessible by public transport.

They make an entertaining destination for my family outing and on Opal's unlimited travel cap on Sundays, only cost $2.50 per adult.

The route my family frequently strolls (chosen out of consideration for ease and safety for our little 3 year old) begins with walking alongside the Circular Quay ferry wharf in the direction of the Opera House.

This Sydney's biggest 'ferry central' is no doubt Sydney's business wharf. Little adventurers are sure to enjoy observing the comings and goings of the ferries and all the action on the wharfs.

With flat pathways, relatively removed from the bustle of the city traffic, wandering along the Circular Quay waterfront leads to easy access to Sydney's most well-known attractions, the Opera House and The Royal Botanic Gardens, all within a short walking distance from one another.

I like to make use of the lift to the Cahill Walkway, located across from Wharf 2, that just about leads to the gate entrance of the Royal Botanic Gardens - and is the quickest and least effortful way to access the Botanic Gardens from Circular Quay station.

As the lift takes us up to the Cahill Walkway we are treated to a toy-town view of the harbour side. Against the back-drop of the Harbour Bridge, our views include the Museum of Contemporary Art, Darling Harbour and the Rocks to our left and the Opera House to our right.
Once within the Royal Botanic Gardens, we love strolling along the pathway alongside the water's edge towards the Opera House, taking in the fresh harbour breeze, scenic views of the Sydney harbour, and the expanse of the greenery of the gardens.

I personally enjoy looking at the contrast of the city's skyline amidst the diverse greenery and fresh ocean breeze, away from the city's usual bustle and noise.

Sydney's favourite gardens offers many attractions throughout the year, including: free guided walks, workshops around gardening and Australian plants, school holiday activities for children, and frequent motorised Choochoo Express tours (with commentary).
Heading back towards Circular Quay train station we exit the gardens via the Opera House exit gate.

Depending on our energy levels, we may climb the steps of the Opera House for more bird-eye views of Sydney's most beautiful waterfront, or take a little rest at the Opera bar (which has a kids menu as well as diverse mains, sides and snacks).

With so much to see and experience, no wonder strolling Circular Quay is one of our favourite past-times which we just can't get enough of – happy strolling!

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Where: Circular Quay Station

Cost: Free

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