Things to do near Powerhouse Parramatta
Powerhouse Parramatta is opening its doors. Make a day of it with great food, riverside adventures, live shows, markets and plenty more to discover around the city.
Photo Credit: Destination NSW
A new chapter for Parramatta begins on Saturday 7 November 2026, when Powerhouse Parramatta opens on the banks of the Parramatta River.
And there’s a whole city waiting outside.
Discover the new Powerhouse Parramatta
Set on the Parramatta River foreshore, Powerhouse Parramatta is Western Sydney’s first state cultural institution and one of Australia’s most significant cultural infrastructure projects.
The new museum brings together science, technology, engineering, design and contemporary culture through exhibitions, learning programs, events and public spaces, including a purpose-built STEAM play and learning space. Opening day also launches the Powerhouse Parramatta Opening Festival. From 7 to 29 November 2026, the 23-day celebration features more than 170 events and experiences, including exhibitions, live music, hands-on creative activities, food experiences, late-night events and family-friendly experiences.
Once you’ve explored inside, step out and see what else Parramatta has in store.
Grab a bite in Parramatta
Come hungry. Parramatta has been recognised by Condé Nast Traveller as one of the world’s best places to eat, and you don’t have to venture far from Powerhouse to find out why.
The city's food scene is shaped by cultures and traditions from around the world, with everything from neighbourhood favourites to restaurants made for a long lunch or special night out.
Put a few of these local favourites on your list:
- Sahra by the River – take a seat by the river and discover Lebanese food with a story behind it. The Alamein family created Sahra to share the culture and cuisine of Lebanon in Parramatta, where they’ve been serving diners for 20 years. Think generous Lebanese hospitality, food for sharing and a riverside setting.
- Willo Restaurant & Bar – dinner starts before you’ve even opened the menu. Watch chefs at work in Willo’s open kitchen, then settle into a sharing menu inspired by Mediterranean cuisine and made with Australian ingredients. Stay for signature cocktails, premium wines or live music. [atparramatta.com]
- The Zungle – bring an appetite for Korean barbecue, with prime meats flamed right at your table. Go beyond the grill with naengmyeon (cold noodles) or kimchi beef fried rice, then raise a glass with a Korean drink such as a soju bomb. [atparramatta.com]
- Temasek – tucked away in Roxy Arcade, Temasek has been serving Singaporean-Malay cuisine since 1992. Family recipes and flavours inspired by Singapore are at the heart of this longstanding Parramatta favourite, now carried on by the next generation.
- Touka – gather around a charcoal grill and cook your own premium cuts, including Wagyu beef, at this intimate Japanese yakiniku restaurant. Add izakaya-style sides and premium sake for a relaxed night around the table.
- Heritage Lounge & Oribu – step into a 1928 heritage setting before settling in at Oribu for Japanese dining. Its menu moves from sashimi and hiramasa kingfish carpaccio to tenderloin brochettes, while the bar offers cocktails and a wide selection of spirits.
From meat sizzling over the grill to Lebanese shared plates and bowls made for slurping, Powerhouse can be the start of a much bigger food adventure.
Playtime with a river view
Little adventurers coming along for the museum trip?
Just across from Powerhouse, Parramatta River Foreshore Reserve gives you the chance to swap exhibitions for outdoor play. Cool off in the water play area. Dig and build in the sandpit. Tackle the climbing equipment. Then race down the long slide built into the grassy embankment.
Add shaded seating, public art and river views and you have a spot where little legs can keep moving while grown-ups slow down and take in the scenery.
Discover Parramatta Riverside Foreshore Reserve
Walk the Parramatta River
When you're ready to stretch your legs, follow the water.
The Parramatta River foreshore gives you a different way to experience the city, moving between culture, green spaces and places to stop along the way.
Take your time to:
- discover public art along the foreshore
- find a shady lawn and watch the city go by
- grab a coffee for the walk
- take in the river views
No complicated itinerary required. Slow down and see where the path takes you.
See a show at Riverside Theatres
From museum halls to centre stage, keep the culture going at Riverside Theatres.
The riverside performing arts venue presents theatre, comedy, dance, concerts and film festivals, making it an easy addition to a culture-filled Parramatta itinerary.
Check what's on when you're planning your Powerhouse visit, catch a performance and make a night of it with dinner nearby.
Explore What's On at Riverside Theatres
Explore Parramatta Square
Next stop: the heart of the city.
Head towards Parramatta Square, where contemporary architecture sits alongside the heritage-listed Parramatta Town Hall and food, art and city life come together.
Step inside PHIVE and explore its artworks and creative displays. Stop for Asian-inspired dishes at Lilymu, grab a burger at Betty's Burgers or cool down with Italian gelato at Rivareno.
Then look around. There might be something else happening while you're here. AT Parramatta's What's On program features events and activities throughout the CBD and beyond, making it worth checking the calendar before every visit.
Explore What's On in Parramatta
