Darling Harbour derelict past and buzzing present

Darling Harbour derelict past and buzzing present

If you asked a Sydney local what their favorite Sydney attraction was, they would most likely say it was Darling Harbour. There's such a large diversity of things to see and do there, it is not just an attraction for visitors - it is an attraction for everybody. Between great shopping, world renowned entertainment venues and a fabulous position, there is certainly nothing that Darling Harbour does not have to offer.

Darling Harbour did not always have so much to show off about. Throughout the 19th century and much of the 20th century, the Pyrmont-Darling Harbour area was a huge manufacturing center. Gradually, though, the area lost its appeal to manufacturers and so they moved elsewhere, leaving derelict warehouses and factories behind. By the 1970s, Darling Harbour was a virtual ghost town.

As Australia's Bicentennial approached, civic leaders lead by Premier Neville Wran decided it was time to reinvigorate Darling Harbour for a new era and it was formally re-opened just in time for the 1988 celebrations. Then, when Sydney prepared to host the 2000 Olympic Games, an additional $1.5 billion was poured into Darling Harbour. This massive influx of funds is what made Darling Harbour what it is today.

There are innumerable reasons to visit Darling Harbour or you can go there for no reason at all. Just take a walk over the historic Pyrmont Bridge from Sydney's CBD and you arrive in a different world. Take a slow stroll across the Cockle Bay foreshore or take the children for a ride on the slow moving tram and take in the sights. Stop off for an ice cream or enjoy a delicious meal at an alfresco cafe or restaurant. If you are looking to give the family a real treat, take them to the IMAX Theatre, the world famous Sydney Aquarium, the National Maritime Museum or the Powerhouse Museum.

There are so many things to do and see in Darling Harbour, many Sydney residents return again and again and do something different each time. If you've taken the kids to the aquarium, you'll be wanting to bring them back for a second time to see Sydney Wildlife World with its 6000 varieties of Australian wildlife. Then, for a night on the town without the kids, you'll be able to enjoy the spectacle of Star City Casino. Inside the casino, Sydney's Lyric Theatre and Star Theatre are two of Sydney's premier entertainment venues.

Back outside, it is possible to enjoy a ride on the Sydney monorail and get a bird's eye view of Sydney or you can see the city from a dolphin's perspective aboard a Sydney Harbour cruise. Then again, if you feel you need a bit of peace and tranquillity, a visit to the gorgeous Chinese Garden of Friendship, with its wonderful gardens, lakes and waterfalls is sure to put your mind and spirit at ease.

Now can you see why Sydneysiders call Darling Harbour their best Sydney attraction? An excellent way to spend your vacation in Sydney is to make a Darling Harbour accommodation your base. Just try and find at least a bit of time to tear yourself away from Darling Harbour and explore the rest of the city!

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