Top Spots to Stay Cool in Parramatta This Summer
Parramatta is the place to be with exciting outdoor adventures, relaxing community spaces, splash-worthy water parks, and refreshing treats.
Lakeside Fun
Lake Parramatta is back and better than ever after its recent mini-makeover, ready for a summer of fun and relaxation. The upgrades include a lifeguard platform, stairs to the water’s edge, and a gently sloping ‘beach entry’ for easy access, along with enhanced safety and accessibility features. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities including kayak, pedal boat, or rowboat hire, swimming, bushwalking, and having a picnic or BBQ in this picturesque outdoor setting.
Cool Community Hangouts
Stay cool this summer in Parramatta’s community spaces, where air-conditioned facilities and a variety of activities cater to all ages. Parramatta Aquatic Centre, nestled in the lush surrounds of Parramatta Park, is open all summer and offers a range of activities to keep you refreshed. Swim, work out, or bring the kids to play in the splash pool. The centre features three swimming pools and a splash pad—perfect for fitness, swimming, and family fun.
Parramatta Library at PHIVE is also open throughout the summer, hosting school holiday activities. With stunning views of Parramatta Square, a café on the ground floor, and over 65,000 books to browse, it’s the perfect spot to cool down and unwind. You can also check out our other libraries, including Carlingford, Constitution Hill, Dundas, Epping, Ermington, and Wentworth Point (please note: these libraries will be taking a short break from December 25th and reopening on January 2nd).
Splash Worthy Spots
Situated in Sydney Olympic Park, UrbanSurf is the perfect destination for surfing enthusiasts looking to cool down this summer. Offering ocean-like waves in a safe and controlled setting, it’s an ideal spot for surfers of all ages and skill levels to learn and have fun.
The Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre is another top pick, featuring four indoor heated pools, a rapid river ride and giant water slide. Families will love Splasher’s Water Playground with its dumping buckets, interactive water cannons, and water slides in a shallow pool that’s safe and fun for children of all ages.
Cool off this summer at Parramatta’s top water play parks, James Ruse Reserve Water Park offers interactive jets, mushroom fountains, and play areas for all ages, with picnic and BBQ facilities. Philip Ruddock Water Playground is a local favourite, featuring misting tunnels, tipping buckets, and a creek pump. Ollie Webb Reserve has an inclusive play space with a popular water section and picnic options. Blaxland Riverside Park’s water play circle is a must-visit on warm days, with the Armory Wharf Café nearby for parents to relax while kids play.
Cool Down with a Sweet Treat
Indulge in a refreshing treat from Parramatta’s top dessert spots this summer. Gelato Messina , with over 40 unique gelato flavors, bespoke gelato cakes, and daily specials, is a popular place to hit after dinner. Local favourite, Thirsty Monkey , with locations in Parramatta and Wentworth Point, is known for its creamy acai bowls topped with granola, fresh banana, strawberries, and popular add-ons like peanut butter, Biscoff, and Nutella. For an authentic Italian gelato experience, visit Rivareno Gelato in Parramatta Square, offering intensely creamy flavors made daily in their “laboratorio” for peak freshness. And don’t miss Ben & Jerry’s , famous for its euphoric flavors loaded with chunks and swirls that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
