The Rocks is Sydney's oldest area and is steeped in history and character. One reason is the strict control on development has limited the construction of brash modern buildings. This is one of the reasons they call The Rocks 'Sydney's Oldest Museum'. Add to this a vibrant cafe, pub and dining culture, some wonderful shopping, and what is arguably the city's best view of the Opera House, and you've got the recipe for a great Sydney day out. So where's the best place to start?
That's an easy one; the place to go is the Sydney Visitor Centre at 106 George Street. It offers a mass of free information and literature about everything to do with The Rocks.
The Rocks may be Sydney's Outdoor Museum but it's home to many indoor museums, too, and these are great places to explore the area's past.
One of the most fascinating is the Discovery Museum located in a restored 1850's sandstone warehouse. The three floors of the museum narrate the story of The Rocks from its Aboriginal days up to the present. The displays comprise extensive artifacts unearthed over the centuries.
For a glimpse into how life was in The Rocks long ago, visit Susannah Place a group of four terraced houses dating from 1844. They illustrate the raw community of l9th century working class life in the city. Susannah Place retains the brick toilets and open air washing facilities of those days. The block also contains a recreated corner store stocked with goods from that period.
You can get more insights into the Rocks past at Cadman's Cottage, Sydney's oldest building. Located on George Street, it was built in 1816 as barracks for the coxswain and crew of the Governor of New South Wales. It's named after the last government coxswain, John Cadman. Cadmans Cottage houses a museum and the Sydney Harbour National Park Information Centre.
Also here in the oldest part of Sydney you'll find the Museum of Contemporary Art. Officially opened in 1991, the museum’s four floors display artworks from both local an international artists. The displays are continually changing. The museum offers stunning views over Sydney Cove.
To see one of Sydney’s first churches, head for Miller's Point on the southern shore of Sydney Harbour, beside Darling Harbour. Garrison Church was built in 1840. Originally named the Church of the Holy Trinity, it became better known as the Garrison Church due to its proximity to the Commonwealth arsenal. Next to the church, you’ll find the volunteer-run Garrison Gallery Museum. The nearby St Brigid's Millers Point is the oldest existing place of Catholic worship in Australia.
Another Sydney first is the Customs House, built on the land of the Eora people. It was the site of the First Fleet landing in 1788 and now houses a collection of unique exhibits. The Aboriginal flag now flies permanently at Customs House to acknowledge the original owners of the land.
The Rocks is also a fine choice of location for your stay in Sydney. Choose a hotel at The Rocks and not only will you be in the historic heart of the city, but the Opera House, Harbour Bridge and the entire Sydney CBD are on your doorstep. The Rocks hotels include such august hostelries as Sebel Pier One Sydney and Rendezvous Stafford Hotel Sydney.
Latest Destinations Articles
Cheap Holidays
By: Elena Carr | 06/10/2008
So you’ve decided that you want to go somewhere, anywhere for holiday but like most people these days have found yourself the victim of bouncing economics, where do you go? The answer is a lot closer than you think.
The Reason Why Australia?
By: Journey Mile | 06/10/2008
As we all know that the biggest attraction in this place is its natural beauty. From the exquisite beaches to the impeccable landscape. Who among us didn't want to experience this kind of thing? Read on to know more...
Delightful Experience of Kerala Tours
By: Michael smith | 06/10/2008
Last year we with our friends decided to visit Kerala – one of the most beautiful states of India and globally famous tourist destination. We book a 9 Nights – 10 Days package with a Delhi based tour operator.
Kumarakom Houseboat Backwater Holiday
By: Michael smith | 06/10/2008
Imagine a luxurious cruise passing though the picturesque lakes, lush canals, scenic waterways, brackish lagoons, etc. Picture mesmerizing views of sunset viewed from a sundeck of houseboat cruise amidst tranquil water, gentle breeze and copious nature beauty.
Rajasthan Vacations in India
By: Manjari Singh | 06/10/2008
Planning for a tour to a culturally rich heritage destination where excitement never ends. Then nothing can surpass an enthralling trip to Rajasthan in India, a much desired monumental heritage tourist destination.
Country Lakes
By: Jeffrey Arcones | 06/10/2008
Country Lakes is a small district in Naperville, in the “prairie” state of Illinois. Naperville is considered as one of the most affluent cities of Illinois and is also the fifth largest in the state.
A Pretty Goa Villa for Your Perfect Honeymoon
By: Rick Hendershot | 05/10/2008
People who are seeking a unique, beautiful and affordable vacation or honeymoon destination should consider Goa.
A Rainy Day in Barbados, it Sure Sort of Reminds Me of Scotland
By: garryaw | 05/10/2008
Sunday sure was a rainy day, it rained heavily all night and for most of the day. At times it felt like I was back home in Aberdeen in Scotland, where I have known it to rain incessantly for 2 or 3 days at a time.
More from Richard Greaves
Paris for Families
By: Richard Greaves | 15/08/2008 | Destinations
If you are looking for a holiday in France or more specific, Paris, but you are travelling with children, you have to know there are many things to do in the city and different accommodations from quality hotels and holiday villas to cheap hotels.
Tips for Exploring Italian Cities Like Venice and Rome
By: Richard Greaves | 14/08/2008 | Destinations
f you are looking for accommodation in Venice or Rome, Italy, there is a range of typical Italian accommodation in the city, from quality hotels and holiday villas to bed and breakfast, youth hostels and the cheaper hotels if your budget is limited.
Sightseeing in Milan and the Choice of Italian Accommodation
By: Richard Greaves | 13/08/2008 | Destinations
If you are looking for accommodation in Milan, Italy, there is a range of typical Italian accommodation in the city, from quality hotels and holiday villas to bed and breakfast, youth hostels and the cheaper hotels if your budget is limited.
Sightseeing in Dublin and Which Accommodation to Choose
By: Richard Greaves | 13/08/2008 | Destinations
If you are looking for accommodation in Dublin, Ireland, there is a range of typical Irish accommodation in the city, from quality hotels and holiday villas to bed and breakfast, youth hostels and the cheaper hotels if your budget is limited.
Sightseeing in London and Manchester and Which Accommodation to Choose
By: Richard Greaves | 10/08/2008 | Destinations
If you are looking for accommodation in London or Manchester there is a range of typical English accommodation in the cities,from quality hotels and holiday villas to bed and breakfast,youth hostels and the cheaper hotels if your budget is limited.
Venice in Brief
By: Richard Greaves | 09/06/2008 | Destinations
Venice is definitely the most delightful place in Italy, founded in the 5th century it is spread over 118 islands connected by 400 bridges crossing some 160 canals. Locals and tourists frequent rowing boats and the famous romantic gondolas.
Birmingham and Cardiff
By: Richard Greaves | 08/06/2008 | Destinations
Cardiff and Birmingham city centres have recently undergone extensive regeneration so as to bring them up to date as cultural, modern cities.
Rome and Milan
By: Richard Greaves | 08/06/2008 | Destinations
Rome and Milan have beautiful historic buildings, architecture and art to connect them. But there the similarity stops as each also has their very own unique and individual style to offer a visitor.
Travel 
