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Who says you have to travel far to have an adventure? Metropolitan Parramatta in Sydney’s west, may seem like your average, unassuming city on the surface. But you could find yourself pleasantly surprised, if you look in the right places!

In fact, if you are after the perfect family ‘stay-cation’ with just a little excitement thrown in, Parramatta definitely doesn’t disappoint. Here are our top reasons to GO WEST for a truly memorable break.

Travel Back in Time

No, we didn’t invent an actual time machine overnight. But stepping into Elizabeth Farm, the oldest house in the country, it sure feels like you’ve made a journey two centuries backwards. One of Parramatta’s most fascinating colonial landmarks, whose dark history is a source of much intrigue, this quaint bungalow was once the home of a military couple. Now it serves as a museum, which shines a light on the NSW colony’s early history. Even better, it’s just a short, five-minute drive  from PARKROYAL Parramatta.

Where: 70 Alice Street, Rosehill NSW 2142. Open 10:00am – 4:00pm, Wednesday – Sunday. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays.

Be a naturalist for a day 

Time to tap into your inner Attenborough, strap on your explorer boots and reconnect with nature in Sydney’s west! At Lake Parramatta Reserve, a natural 73 hectare tract of land, you’ll find a plethora of walking trails amongst tranquil streams and rocky paths. Explore the local bushland and be astounded by its indigenous history as well as the park’s stunning natural beauty.

Where: 28 Bourke Street, North Parramatta NSW 2151. Open from 6:30am to 5:30pm daily.

Eat like a Greek God 

All that activity is sure to make you hungry. For adventurers and foodies alike, Parramatta’s popular Kouzina Greco offers the perfect culinary adventure guaranteed to tempt your taste buds. Situated a mere two blocks down the road from PARKROYAL Parramatta, this busy and buzzy family-owned and operated restaurant serves authentic Greek dishes which are literally, the stuff of dreams. Throw in an unpretentious, laidback, family-friendly environment, replete with checked tablecloths and cosy seating, and it’s not hard to see why people keep coming back for seconds.

Where: 16 Phillip Street, Parramatta NSW 2150. Open from 12:00pm to 3:00pm Tuesdays – Fridays and from 5:30pm to 10:00pm Saturdays. Closed Sundays and Mondays.

Where to Stay

Of course you will need to rest and relax after an action packed day of exploring Parramatta and surrounds. So why not book a stay at PARKROYAL Parramatta?

Located on the banks of Parramatta River, the ever-so-sleek 286-room hotel is situated right in the centre of Parramatta’s premium shopping and entertainment belt on Church Street, and within easy walking distance of its vibrant hub of restaurants, bars and cafes. All of which make it the perfect place to stay, whether you’re visiting from interstate or a local looking for a relaxing ‘stay-cation’.

Better still, upgrade yourself to one of the hotel’s luxurious Club Rooms, and enjoy exclusive Club privileges including access to all day refreshments and more.

Rooms priced from just $140 per night.

So what are you waiting for? Go west, now.