Best Sydney Neighborhoods for Your Artistic Soul
It is often said that Sydney is among the best cities in the world, not only in terms of living, but also when talking about tourism. Indeed, it has won many hearts over with its varied landscape where you can find anything you might want – from gourmet restaurants to small artisan pubs and bustling streets, it’s all there. However, art lovers might find their piece of heaven in this renowned metropolis as well: with so many artistic places and fun activities you can find if you look hard enough, you are in for a treat if you want to spend an art-infused holiday in Sydney. Read on to learn which neighborhoods should be your go-to places to explore this side of the Harbour City.
Newtown
Newtown is certainly a staple when it comes to an art-laden escapade in Sydney. Thanks to the many students that live in this area, the vibe is always fresh and the nightlife vivid. You don’t have to search long to find the most delicious food you’ve had in a while – in fact, the abundance might even be overwhelming. Music lovers will revel in the live music scene present on every corner, while photographers will rejoice at the many photogenic spots with interesting street art and huge graffiti. If you truly want to explore this neighborhood to the max, create an itinerary based on the location of all the marvelous murals you don’t want to miss. You might just find one that truly speaks to your soul.
Surry Hills
Often referred to as the most “hipster” Sydney neighborhood, Surry Hills is indeed a colorful stop where you can experience art in all forms. Not only because of its charming cafes that simply invite you in with their atmosphere, but also because of the numerous thrift and vintage stores where you can find truly unique pieces. If you’re up for a night out, besides visiting some of the many bars, you can also book a ticket to the renowned Belvoir St Theatre, while movie lovers can catch a film at the Golden Age cinema that boasts a truly retro feel. Its bar often has live music too, so make sure you check the schedule! Art galleries abound too in Surry Hills, including Brett Whiteley Studio that used to be the workplace and home of the notable artist!
Northern Sydney
All the neighborhoods we mentioned so far were from the southern half of this magnificent city, however, it’s worth crossing the Harbour Bridge and exploring a bit of the northern part as well. There are plenty of interesting locales you can visit, such as Me Artspace in St. Leonards that hosts not only exhibitions but workshops for aspiring artists as well. North Sydney is home to the Boomerang Aboriginal Art Gallery where you might even buy an authentic piece of art to hang on your own wall as well as the Rochfort Gallery whose interior in itself is already a piece of art. In addition, conveniently located between the aforementioned two suburbs, as well as a stone’s throw from Wendy’s Secret Garden, Crows Nest is a friendly neighborhood where you can find long term accommodation in case you’re planning to explore the northern parts of Sydney in more detail.
Haymarket
Haymarket is another perfect neighborhood for art exploration. These streets, too, boast some amazing murals for you to marvel at, in addition to numerous installations, such as the interesting, modern Pavilion sculpture and the installation of “In Between Two Worlds” that combines traditional Chinese and Aboriginal motives, creating a charming alleyway that transports you to a different dimension. The city’s Chinatown is intersecting with this neighborhood as well, which means you won’t be hungry as affordable food is everywhere. And at night, catch a show at the Capitol Theatre, which is a famous and beautiful place worth checking out.
Paddington
Finally, while the list does not stop here, the last neighborhood we are going to mention is Paddington. If you happen to stumble here on a Saturday, make sure you walk the Paddington Markets where you can find all kinds of artsy things and delicious snacks for cheap. Paddington also has a vivid gallery scene, so check out, for example, the UNSW Galleries that house exhibitions from students as well as graduates, or the private Roslyn Oxley9 Gallery that has a more contemporary edge. Finally, for a relaxed afternoon, it’s worth spending a little time in the charming Paddington Reservoir Gardens that is a perfect combination of nature and architecture (and a perfect location to take some amazing photos)!
All in all, Sydney has a teeming art scene no matter where you go. Each neighborhood has something different to offer, so you can’t make a bad choice. Include some of these places in your plan, pack your camera, and you’re good to go on an art adventure of a lifetime!
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What are your favorite neighborhoods in Sydney? Leave suggestions in comments below!
