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.
Summer in Parramatta is vibrant and full of exciting events, outdoor adventures, and dining experiences. However, when temperatures soar, finding a cool escape becomes essential.
Whether you are planning a family day out, catching up with friends, or exploring Sydney, this guide will help you discover the best places to stay cool and enjoy the season.
1. Relax Under the Shade at Parramatta Park
Parramatta Park is one of the city’s most popular green spaces, offering plenty of shady areas for picnics and relaxation. It is ideal for families and friends looking to enjoy the outdoors without overheating. The park also features walking and cycling tracks, playgrounds, and heritage sites for those who want to explore.
Tip: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for cooler temperatures. Do not miss the free Christmas Carols and New Year's Eve Concert in December for an evening under the stars.
2. Dive into Fun at Lake Parramatta Reserve
Lake Parramatta Reserve has recently undergone a mini-makeover, making it better than ever for summer fun.
Upgrades include a lifeguard platform, stairs to the water’s edge, and a gently sloping beach entry for easy access. These improvements make swimming safer and more enjoyable for visitors of all ages.
The designated swimming area is perfect for cooling off on a hot day. It is patrolled by lifeguards on weekends during summer, ensuring a safe environment for families. The water is calm and surrounded by bushland, creating a relaxing natural setting. For those who prefer to stay active, you can also hire a kayak and explore the lake from a different perspective.
One of the highlights of Lake Parramatta is its bushwalking trails, which wind through 73 hectares of native bushland. There are three main tracks to explore. These trails provide a peaceful escape from the summer heat and are a great way to combine exercise with nature. Keep an eye out for native birds and flora along the way.
There are also picnic and BBQ facilities, making Lake Parramatta Reserve an excellent choice for a full day outdoors.
Swimming Safety Tips:
- People wishing to swim at Lake Parramatta are recommended to do so in the designated swimming area when it is supervised by lifeguards.
- Before swimming, it’s important to recognise the risks, check water conditions and understand your own swimming abilities. It is also recommended that people never swim alone.
- Visit Swimming at Lake Parramatta for more lifeguard patrol times, safety tips & advice.
3. Explore Parramatta’s Water Play Parks
Parramatta is home to several fantastic water play parks that are perfect for families looking to cool off and have fun during the summer months. These parks combine interactive water features with shaded picnic areas and BBQ facilities, making them ideal for a full day outdoors.
- James Ruse Reserve Water Park: he park features interactive water jets, mushroom fountains, and shallow splash zones that are safe for children of all ages. There are also grassy areas for picnics and plenty of seating for parents to relax while the kids play.
- Philip Ruddock Water Playground: a local favourite. It offers misting tunnels, tipping buckets, and a creek pump for endless water play. The playground is surrounded by shaded seating areas and BBQ facilities, making it a great spot for family gatherings.
- Ollie Webb Reserve: an inclusive play space that caters to children of all abilities. The water play section includes gentle sprays and interactive features, alongside a large playground with accessible equipment. There are picnic tables, BBQs, and shaded areas for parents to relax.
- Blaxland Riverside Park: is a must-visit for families who love adventure. The park boasts a large water play circle with jets and fountains, alongside an impressive playground featuring climbing structures and slides. Parents can enjoy a coffee at the nearby Armory Wharf Café while the kids splash and play.
Extra Tips for Water Play Days
- Pack towels, sunscreen, and plenty of snacks for a full day of fun.
- Bring a change of clothes for the kids and a waterproof bag for wet items.
- Check park opening hours and any maintenance updates before you go.
- Use public transport where possible to avoid parking hassles on busy days.
- Stay hydrated and look out for free water refill stations nearby.
4. Chill Out at Your Local Library or Community Hub
When the summer heat becomes too much, your local library is the perfect place to cool down and unwind. Parramatta Library at PHIVE offers air-conditioned comfort, stunning views of Parramatta Square, and over 65,000 books to browse. It is more than just a library—it’s a vibrant community hub with school holiday activities for kids, free Wi-Fi, and a ground-floor café where you can enjoy a refreshing drink.
Other libraries across the Parramatta area include Carlingford, Constitution Hill, Dundas, Epping, Ermington, and Wentworth Point. These libraries provide quiet spaces for reading, study areas, and family-friendly programs. Please note that these branches will take a short break from December 25 and reopen on January 2.
5. Cool Off at Parramatta Aquatic Centre
The Parramatta Aquatic Centre, located in the heart of Parramatta Park, is a state-of-the-art facility designed for fitness, fun, and relaxation.
It features: three swimming pools, including a 50-metre lap pool for serious swimmers, a leisure pool for families, and a dedicated splash pad for children. The centre also offers a modern gym, group fitness classes, and wellness programs, making it a one-stop destination for staying active and cool.
Why visit?
- Air-conditioned comfort and plenty of shaded outdoor areas.
- Family-friendly facilities with lifeguards on duty for safety.
- Accessible design for all abilities.
Tip: Book your swim sessions online during peak times to avoid queues. Bring goggles and swim caps for lap swimming, and check the school holiday timetable for kids’ programs.
6. Make a Splash at Sydney Olympic Park
Sydney Olympic Park is home to two incredible destinations for water lovers:
URBNSURF
URBNSURF delivers ocean-like waves in a safe, controlled environment, making it perfect for beginners and experienced surfers alike. You can book lessons for all skill levels, and equipment hire is included, so there’s no need to bring your own gear. The venue also features shaded seating areas and a café for post-surf refreshments.
Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre
The Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre is a family favourite and a must-visit destination for summer fun. It features four heated pools, including a 50-metre Olympic pool, a leisure pool, and a dedicated toddler pool.
Thrill-seekers will love the rapid river ride and giant water slide, while younger children can enjoy Splasher’s Water Playground, complete with dumping buckets, interactive water cannons, and slides in a shallow pool that’s safe for all ages. The centre also offers aqua fitness classes and has a café for snacks and drinks.
7. Treat Yourself to Something Sweet
After a day of swimming, bushwalking, or exploring Parramatta, cool down with a delicious treat from one of the city’s top dessert spots:
- Gelato Messina: serves over 40 unique gelato flavours, plus bespoke gelato cakes and daily specials.
- Thirsty Monkey: famous for its creamy acai bowls topped with granola, fresh fruit, and indulgent add-ons like peanut butter, Biscoff, and Nutella.
- Rivareno Gelato: offers authentic Italian gelato made fresh daily in their laboratorio for peak creaminess and flavour.
- Ben & Jerry’s: is the go-to for euphoric ice cream flavours loaded with chunks and swirls.
