As winter melts away and spring blossoms into full bloom, Sydney transforms into a vibrant canvas of colours and fragrances. Spring is the perfect time to explore this stunning city, as gardens and parks come alive with a riot of colours. Whether you're a local or a visitor, these must-see spring spots in Sydney will leave you enchanted!
1. Muston Park, Chatswood
Muston Park in Chatswood is a local gem known for its breathtaking wisteria walk. The park's pathways are lined with cascading wisteria blooms, creating a magical atmosphere. The place has gotten popular recently (and rightly so!) however we highly recommend coming earlier in the day or on a weekend to make the most of it!
Highlight Flower: Wisteria
Best Time to Visit: September to October
2. Lavender Lane at The Grounds of Alexandria
The Grounds of Alexandria has been reimagined with a fresh theme called "Lavender Lane." As Sydney gets ready to welcome spring, this photogenic café has turned into a breathtaking floral haven. The space is now adorned with a captivating mix of jacaranda, wisteria, and lavender, making it a must-visit spot for those seeking beauty and inspiration. With its bright purple hues and, The Grounds has once again proven why it’s one of the city’s most Instagrammable locations, offering visitors a perfect setting to capture the essence of the upcoming season.
3. Cherry Blossom Festival at Auburn Botanic Gardens
Experience a taste of Japan, right here in Sydney at this Cherry Blossom Festival at Auburn Botanic Gardens! The gardens are adorned with delicate pink cherry blossoms, creating a dreamy atmosphere perfect for leisurely strolls and picnics. Featuring the popular Cherry Trail with over 100 Sakura trees, this event gets pretty crowded, and we highly recommend the most early or late evening sessions to have a better experience (crowd-wise). You can also have some incredible Japanese food & cocktails and participate in fun workshops and activities like meeting Hello Kitty for her 50th birthday this year! Tickets are live and you can book them here
Highlight Flower: Cherry Blossoms Festival
Dates: 17th August to 25th August 2024, 9 AM to 4:45 PM daily
4. Royal Botanic Garden
The Royal Botanic Garden is a paradise for nature enthusiasts, offering a serene escape amidst the bustling city. During spring, the garden is a spectacle of blooming flowers and greenery.
Highlight Flower: Tulips and Azaleas
Best Time to Visit: September to November
5. Wendy’s Secret Garden
Hidden in the heart of Lavender Bay, Wendy’s Secret Garden is a local gem offering a whimsical escape from the city’s hustle. This charming garden, created by Wendy Whiteley, is a testament to the transformative power of nature and creativity and is one of our favourite free things to do in the city!
Highlight Flower: Various blooms, including roses and native plants
Best Time to Visit: September to November
6. Hyde Park
Hyde Park, located in the city’s centre, is Sydney's oldest public park and a favourite spot for both locals and tourists. In spring, the park is dotted with vibrant flower beds and towering trees, making it an ideal location for a relaxing day out.
Highlight Flower: Tulips and Annuals
Best Time to Visit: September to November
7. Chinese Garden of Friendship
Located in Darling Harbour, the Chinese Garden of Friendship is a tranquil oasis designed to celebrate Chinese heritage and culture. In spring, the garden is adorned with beautiful blooms and serene water features.
Highlight Flower: Azaleas and Camellias
Best Time to Visit: September to November
8. McDougall Street, Kirribilli
The neighborhoods of Kirribilli and Lavender Bay are renowned for their stunning jacaranda-lined streets especially McDougall St, Kirribilli!
TIP - This Jacardanda tunnel is quite popular and can get super crowded in the day. Try coming early (like even 7am) or on weekdays to experience the magic and picnic nearby. Also beware of cars here!
A stroll through Lavender Bay during the blooming season is also a visual treat, with the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House providing a picturesque backdrop.
Highlight Flower: Jacarandas
Best Time to Visit: Late October to mid-November
9. Barangaroo Reserve
Barangaroo Reserve is a contemporary urban park that blends native Australian flora with stunning waterfront views. In spring, the park is adorned with blooming wildflowers, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely walk or picnic.
Highlight Flower: Native Wildflowers
Best Time to Visit: September to November
10. Camellia Gardens
Located in Caringbah, the Camellia Gardens are a delightful spot for a spring outing. The gardens are home to a vast collection of camellias, along with other seasonal flowers that add to the charm of this serene location.
Highlight Flower: Camellias
Best Time to Visit: August to September
11. Wahroonga Park
Wahroonga Park is a beautifully landscaped park in the upper north shore of Sydney. The park features manicured gardens, a large playground, and picturesque flower beds, making it an ideal spot for families and nature lovers.
Highlight Flower: Azaleas and Camellias
Best Time to Visit: September to November
12. Parramatta Park
Parramatta Park in Sydney is a historic park with expansive grounds and picturistic gardens that flourish in spring. The park is known for its displays of seasonal flowers, including stunning cherry blossoms and cute tulips, creating a colourful and glowing environment.
Wisteria Gardens in Parramatta Park this 21st and 22nd September, 10 AM to 4 PM where annual displays of wisteria and cherry blossom are showcased.
Highlight Flower: Cherry Blossoms and Tulips
Best Time to Visit: September to November
🏡 There is Wistaria Gardens which you can access thru Parramatta Park which is completely free and there’s live music, activities, workshops and tours. It’s open 24 hours 7 days a week and you can see it in full bloom this September!
13. The Australian Botanic Garden, Mount Annan
Situated in Mount Annan, this expansive botanic garden showcases a wide variety of native Australian plants. In spring, the garden bursts into colour with blooming wildflowers and unique plant species including the native paper daisies.
Highlight Flower: Paper Daisies, Waratahs and Grevilleas
Best Time to Visit: September to November
Weather: During spring, Sydney experiences mild to warm temperatures, with average daytime highs ranging from 18°C (64°F) in September to 24°C (75°F) in November. Nights can still be cool, especially in September.
Wildlife: Spring is a fantastic time for wildlife spotting in Sydney. Many birds, such as the Australian magpie and the rainbow lorikeet, are particularly active during this season. It's also a good time for whale watching as humpback whales migrate south along the coast.
Attend Local Markets and Festivals: Spring in Sydney is a vibrant time for local markets and festivals. From farmer's markets to craft fairs, these events offer a chance to explore local produce, artisanal goods, and unique crafts. Festivals such as the Orange FOOD Week or the Hunter Valley Wine and Food Festival also take place in spring, providing a fantastic opportunity to indulge in local cuisine and wines while enjoying the pleasant weather and scenic landscapes. Check local event calendars to discover what's happening in different regions during your visit.
Sydney during spring is a magical experience, with its gardens, parks, and streets transforming into a kaleidoscope of colours. From the enchanting Jacaranda Festival to the serene beauty of hidden gardens, there's no shortage of breathtaking spots to explore.
So, pack your picnic basket, grab your camera, and immerse yourself in the superb spring atmosphere of Sydney. Happy exploring!