Parramatta

Long been considered the population center of Sydney, it is also known for its historic colonial buildings, excellent restaurants and as a shopping paradise.Originally founded on November 2nd, 1788 by Captain Arthur Phillip, it was the second European settlement in Australia after Sydney Cove. Parramatta is an aboriginal word that actually means ‘Place where eels lie down‘.


Parramatta Westfields, along with other Parramatta department stores, shops, boutiques and speciality stores offer an almost bewildering amount of choice, with more than 600 retail shops to choose from.


The Heritage Walk


Parramatta, first settled by the colonials in November 1788 to help stave off starvation in the fledgling colony, quickly grew to become a rich farming area and then into the thriving commercial area it is today.


The Heritage Walk starts from the Charles Street Wharf, upstream, visit the Parramatta Visitors Centre for brochures on self guide walk tours and information about Parramatta.


Parramatta Park


There are a number of historic buildings here, now operating as museums, including Old Government House, Elizabeth Farm and Experiment Farm. See Parramatta - Western Sydney Attractions.


Old Government House Parramatta
Old Government House, furnished in 19th Century style, built in 1799 and finished in 1818 on the site of Captain’s Phillips original house. It is Australia's oldest public building and its furnishings represent the finest collection of pre-1855 furniture of the early colony.

Elizabeth Farm


Elizabeth Farm, also the oldest home in Australia, has gardens originally laid out in 1830 has a variety of interesting botanic specimens, including historic ones. 70 Alice Street, Rosehill.


The oldest existing house in Australia and originally built for John and Elizabeth MacArthur, pioneers of the Australian Merino wool industry. 70 Alice St, Rosehill.


Elizabeth Farm Phone +61 2 9635 9488.


Experimental Farm


Experimental Farm, now a museum, was set up by the fledgling colony to research farming techniques in Australia and helped to stave off starvation. This farm was the first land grant by the Crown in Australia, to James Ruse, who had arrived with the first fleet. There is an exhibit on his life at the museum. 9 Ruse Street, Harris Park.


Experimental Farm Phone +61 2 9635 5655.


Things to Do


You can go Cloud 9 Ballooning at Parramatta Park, watch horse racing at Rosehill Gardens Racecourse Park, home to the Golden Slipper Festival, take a helicopter scenic ride, go to the footy at Parramatta Stadium. Much shopping at Westfields Parramatta and the surrounding shops.


Restaurants


In Church Street there is an enjoyable collection of restaurants and eateries which feature al fresco dining.


There are many more than 140 restaurants offering all sorts of cosmopolitan fare in the streets leading to Church Street as well.


Accommodation


Accommodation of all kinds, from luxury hotels to those catering for the budget minded visitor as well. Serviced apartments, lodges, motels and bed and breakfast places are all available here. You can book Parramatta accommodation here: Parramatta Hotel Reservations


Getting There


One way to get to Parramatta from the City centre is to take the Jetcat from Circular Quay, allowing you to take in some spectacular views of the western side of Sydney Harbour.


There are plenty of express trains leaving from the city train stations as well, making it a quick day trip, there and back.


Bus L20 or 520 - approx 1 hour 10 minutes from Circular Quay. Transport Infoline Phone 131 500.



reference: http://www.destination360.com/australia-south-pacific/australia