Built in classic Georgian style in the early 1800s, the Old Government House Parramatta is Australia’s oldest surviving public building. Built entirely by convicts, it is set within the lush parklands of the former Governor's Domain, now Parramatta Park.

The Old Government House was the country residence for the first 10 governors of New South Wales. They include Governor Lachlan Macquarie and his wife Elizabeth Macquarie, who was said to have “impeccable taste in gardens” and preferred the clean air and space of rural Parramatta to downtown Sydney.

Considered both European and Aboriginal, this archaeological resource offers deep insights into the evolution of New South Wales and Australian society since 1788. One of 11 Australian Convict Sites accorded the UNESCO World Heritage site status, this historic monument also houses an important collection of original colonial furniture in Australia.

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When the days are hot (especially during the summer), Parramatta’s families flock to James Ruse Reserve Water Playground – the largest water playground in the city.

This water park is almost entirely shaded and has a non-slip surface that is safe for little tots. Play features like tipping buckets, mini fountains, and larger cascading water features provide endless thrills for older children.

Don’t wish to get your kids wet? Set them free at the great dry playground and skate park. Equipped with a BBQ pit area, you can whip up an Australian-styled barbeque while your children play.

Do note that the restroom facilities are a bit of a walk from the playground, so it's a good idea to use swim diapers for the little ones to ensure their comfort and convenience.

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A trip down the Parramatta River by ferry is one of the best ways to experience Sydney’s most iconic waterways. You can begin your trip at Parramatta Wharf, which is located next to the Queens Wharf Reserve and the historic Gasworks Bridge. The wharf lies close to the site of Governor Phillip’s first official landing place in 1788, back when Parramatta was established as the second settlement in Australia.

Built by convicts out of gum tree logs, Parramatta Wharf is served by ferry services operating to and from Circular Quay. En route to Circular Quay, you can drop off at several noteworthy spots such as Sydney Olympic Park and Cockatoo Island—the largest island in the Sydney region.

Travellers love exploring Sydney by ferry as it allows them to see a lot more than just downtown. The ferry also offers great vantage points to capture photographs of Sydney’s harbour attractions.

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Paper Plane Cafe in Parramatta is designed with families in mind. Think warm, inviting vibes, farmhouse-chic decor that feels like a big hug, and friendly staff who go the extra mile to make everyone feel welcome.

Little ones will love digging into yummy kid-friendly dishes, while parents can savour a cup of expertly brewed Picasso Blend coffee. The spacious layout provides ample room for everyone to spread out, relax, and enjoy a stress-free meal together.Another good family dining option is Lil Miss Collins, a quirky little café located behind Parramatta Station. This animal and kids-friendly spot features a toy corner and little animal residents. The café is known for its organic, vegan, and vegetarian meal options.

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Lake Parramatta Reserve is a 73-hectare bushland and parkland reserve located just two kilometres away from Parramatta’s central business district. Created from the damming of Hunts Creek in 1856, it is the largest surviving bushland in the Parramatta district, and also one of the most scenic bushland remnants in Western Sydney.

Lake Parramatta Reserve is popular for swimming, picnicking, and bushwalking, with a visitor’s kiosk open on weekends. It features three marked bushwalking trails, with the longest being the 4.2km Lake Circuit that goes around the entire lake. Families with younger children not used to long walks may opt for the shorter She-Oak Track (1.5km) or Banksia Trail (2.4km).

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Australia Day Parramatta is one of the biggest celebrated events in Parramatta. Every 26 January each year at Parramatta Park, visitors can enjoy a spectacular aerial hot air balloon display, fun kids' activities, a massive BBQ cookout, a talent competition featuring local talents, and a grand fireworks finale.

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Still looking for more kid-friendly activities for the whole family? Visit the Destination Insights guide on PARKROYAL Parramatta for recommendations.