Sydney Parks & Gardens
• A WorldWeb.com Travel Guide to Parks & Gardens in Sydney, New South Wales.
The park opened to the public in 1985 and presents a unique chance to experience and learn about the life and times in an authentic Australian rainforest. The park is home to almost 200 species of rainforest flora and sanctuary to more than 126 species of native birds. Open Wednesday to Sunday plus all public holidays.
Taronga Zoo
A walk-through kangaroo enclosure is just one of the highlights at Taronga Zoo. There are several other major animal enclosures, including Cats of Asia, the Gorilla Forest, the Orangutan Rainforest, as well as koala and chimpanzee enclosures.
Pinchgut Island
Right in the middle of Sydney Harbour lies the tiny island of Pinchgut, or Fort Denison. A former penal site and defensive facility, this small island is now a museum, tourist attraction and a popular location for wedding receptions and other special events.
Blue Gum Farm Zoo
Blue Gum Farm Zoo offers visitors the opportunity to see rural Australia up close and personal. There is a variety of animals here, including farm livestock such as cows, horses, lambs, goats, ducks and turkeys, as well as various indigineous Australian animals, such as emus, wallabies, and kangaroos. Hands on interaction with the animals is encouraged here, and horse and camel rides are available. A climbing wall is also located here.
Clark Island
Located off the tip of Darling Point, Clark Island is used as a semi-private recreational park. It has pathways through natural bush and is dotted with quiet areas that are ideal for picnics. The island is limited to up to 150 people at any one time so reservations are highly recommended.
Shark Island
Shark Island is a relatively small island located at the mouth of Rose Bay in Sydney Harbour. Up until 1975, the island was used as an animal quarantine area, public recreation reserve and naval storage depot. Today, Shark Island features picnic shelters, a gazebo, large grassed area and a wading beach. A ferry service runs daily trips out of Circular Quay to the island.
Oceanworld Manly
Oceanworld Manly provides its visitors with an up-close and intimate look at some of the area's sea animals. There are three levels. The tank on the lower level is home to stingrays and sharks, the middle level showcases exotic fish and coral species, and the top level is where educational lectures and shows featuring the inhabitants are held. There is also a 110 metre acrylic tunnel, where the various varieties of sharks held here can be viewed.
