Stepping through Epping

An outdoor public art program | June – August 2022

Stepping through Epping, curated by Parramatta Artists’ Studios brings together our artists Nadia Odlum and Chris Dolman. They have created two temporary artworks in the Epping Ward, City of Parramatta.  These playful works have been created with the communities of Epping in mind and invite you out to enjoy the local area. 

Portait of artist Nadia Odlum. Photo credit: Jacquie Manning

Nadia Odlum

Nadia’s practice involves introducing moments of play and connection through their installations in public space.

They have delivered temporary artworks for Wentworth Point Community Hub, Sydney Olympic Park and permanent public art in Granville.

Nadia is one of the current Parramatta Artists’ Studios Rydalmere artists. 

Roll, an interactive artwork by artist Nadia Odlum.

Roll

Roll is an interactive artwork that encourages discovery and play.

A brightly coloured maze of tracks on the hill in Boronia Park becomes a participatory ball run.

Different sized and weighted balls will sit at the top of the hill in a basket. The community are invited to play with the artwork by rolling the balls down the pipes.

Roll has been created with the children and families of Epping in mind and can act as a catalyst for intergenerational connection and engagement.

Roll on View 5 June – 19 June

Portrait of artists Chris Dolman. Photo credit: Jacquie Manning.

Chris Dolman

Chris uses caricature, pop culture references and humour to create absurd narratives for his mischievous characters. His work explores human psychology and emotion. 

His work has been featured in exhibitions in Western Sydney, throughout Australia and internationally.

Chris is one of the current Parramatta Artists’ Studios Rydalmere artists. 

Wandering Troubadours Epping character with tongue by artist Chris Dolman.

Wandering Troubadours

The Wandering Troubadours are a series of playful self-portraits that take from the art histories of caricature and the comic grotesque.

Mixing slapstick humour with geometric shapes and bold colour. This series of weird characters were created via a mix of physical and digital painting.

These characters will engage with the Epping community, both young and old in a light-hearted and inquisitive way.

The decals will guide you on your journey from Epping Train Station, up Oxford St, near Epping Library.

Stepping through Epping has been supported by former Epping Councillors through the Epping Councillors Ward initiatives budget.

Celebrate the end of a long week with an after-work happy hour drinks night in Parramatta. Whether you’re a Parramatta local or a travelling Sydneysider, you’re sure to find a bar or pub perfect for your after-work drinks celebration. 

Below are the best after-work bars and pubs to visit for happy hour drinks with workmates in Parramatta.

Workers coming up an escalator in an office building.

Nick & Nora’s Parramatta

A stylish 1920s themed cocktail and champaign bar located in SKYE Suites Parramatta, Nick & Nora’s is the place to be for a glamorous after-work drinks night with your workmates. Easy to get to at the heart of the Parramatta CBD, this high-class bar is best known for serving impressive cocktails, champagne, and whiskies, as well as fresh oysters and world-class caviar and artisanal cheeses to accompany your drinks.

If you’re keen to experience the golden era of soirees and affordable happy hour drinks, Nick & Nora’s Parramatta is a must-visit. Gather your colleagues and spend an after-work night at the 26th story bar in Parramatta.

Heritage Lounge

Heritage Lounge is a chic bar for an after-work hangout, featuring happy hour cocktails, sharing boards and pizza and a fancy cigar menu. Another pub with a 1920s theme, Heritage Lounge is a core contributor to Parramatta’s nightlife, with a barrage of signature aged cocktails, scotch whiskies and wine for tasting.

Heritage Lounge is also home to the rarest whisky in the world - the Glenfiddich 50 Year Old. Experience something new with your favourite workmates the next time you’re going out for happy hour drinks at Heritage Lounge. The bar is located on Church St in Parramatta.

Bar 30 & Bistro

Bar 30 & Bistro, located in the PARKROYAL Hotel Parramatta has a great selection of hot beverages, refreshing cocktails, beers and wines along with delicious lunch and dinner options.

Sit indoors by the bar or outside on the alfresco deck! It’s the perfect place in Parramatta to ease into the afternoon or wind down the day with friends, family or colleagues.

Ruse Bar and Brasserie

Ruse Bar and Brasserie in Parramatta Square is a great place to wine, dine and relax with colleagues after a long week at work. A European-inspired dining brasserie, Ruse Bar is ideal for a small bite accompanied by a signature cocktail. Serving Negroni, Sours, Paloma and Daiquiri, there’s a wide range of seasonal cocktails to try at Ruse Bar and Brasserie. 

Whether you’re after a casual and quick happy hour drinks environment or a more formal experience, Ruse Bar and Brasserie has an expansive space and venue fit for your needs. You can reserve a table online and enjoy happy hour from 3pm to 5:30pm, Tuesdays to Friday.

General Bourke

General Bourke is the place to be for a hearty Irish meal and pub fare in Parramatta. Part of the Iris Capital Group Venues and a host to a large series of monthly events, there’s always something to try and do at General Bourke with your workmates.

Embodying the cheerful Irish spirit, the restaurant serves Guinness on tap as well as other classic cold beers. General Bourke is a great place to visit for a filling shared meal, with many pizzas, bread, seafood and pie options on the menu.

The Crown Hotel Parramatta

If you’re looking for a lively bistro and bar with outdoor seating and a buzzy vibe, check out The Crown Hotel Parramatta on Church St. Open from 10am to 4am, you can plan a long and fun night at the bar and enjoy live sports screening as well as great food and drinks with your colleagues.

Happy hour is between 4pm to 6pm, Mondays to Fridays, and patrons can enjoy local tap beers and house wines for $5.50. The Crown Hotel Parramatta’s menu includes classic burgers, seafood and steak dishes, as well as pizzas and pasta to share.

Collector Hotel Parramatta

If you’re looking for a more casual happy hours vibe with pub grub classics and live sports viewings, Collector Hotel is the place to visit. Located in Launch Pad WSU Parramatta, the pub serves your favourite beers, as well as Collector’s house-made cocktails during happy hour.

From the Jager Spiced Old Fashion to the Passionfruit Cosmo, there’s a wide selection of happy hour drinks suited to all sorts of taste buds at Collector Hotel. Enjoy some after-work drinks at Collector Hotel’s state-of-the-art sports bar with TAB and KENO facilities with your colleagues any time of the week.

Workers having a drink together.

Enjoy Happy Hour in Parramatta

Treat yourself and your colleagues to some happy hour drinks in Parramatta. Above are our top seven recommendations for bars, pubs and bistros offering happy hour drinks in the Parramatta area. Be sure to check them out the next time you’re organising an after-work drinks night with your workmates.

A good active lunch break may be all you need to keep motivated and energetic during your workday. If you’re working in the Parramatta precinct, there’s a wide range of exercise options available for you to conquer during your lunch break.

From Active Parramatta’s intensive fitness programs to simple, peaceful walks around Parramatta Park, there’s always something active you can do during your lunch break in Parramatta.

Check out our list of exercise options below and spend your lunch break active and keeping fit in Parramatta.

Two workers exercising in Parramatta

Active Parramatta Health & Fitness Programs

Active Parramatta offers a wide selection of short and punchy health and fitness programs in Parramatta - perfect for quick fitness sessions during lunch. Programs differ day to day, are aimed at a range of individuals and can be attended either in-person or online. Due to their flexibility, Active Parramatta health and fitness programs can be a great way to spend lunchtime during the week.

Onsite activities are bookable but require registrations, usually on a term-by-term basis. They are also located in a number of different venues, although all are around the Parramatta area.

Programs perfect for an active lunch time include:

  • Yogalates class | Monday 12:00pm - 12:40pm
  • Core and Stretch Class | Wednesday 12:00pm - 12:40pm
  • Adult Fit class at Telopea | Thursday 12:00pm - 12:45pm

For workers over 55 years, Active Parramatta also offers Better Ageing Activities aimed at improving wellbeing and fitness for older individuals.

Some lunchtime exercise programs include:

  • Gentle Exercise class at Winston Hills | Monday 12:15pm - 1:00pm, 2 May - 20 June
  • Strength for Life class at North Rocks | Tuesday 12:30pm - 1:15pm, 17 May - 7 June

No matter your location and exercise preferences, Active Parramatta has a fitness program to offer you. Enjoy an active lunch break and register your interest with Active Parramatta today.

Local Parramatta Gym Sessions

If you’re looking to exercise at your own pace during your lunch break, visiting a local gym might be the best option for you. There are many gyms in Parramatta that you can register a membership for, all offering a wide range of facilities, personal training services and fitness classes for you to choose from.

Universal Fitness Group is an independent boutique gym in Parramatta offering premium gym services and exercise training, including group and functional training. Perfect for your lunch break, training sessions range from 30 to 60 minutes, and you can choose which time duration is best for you. After your training session, you can also enjoy Universal Fitness Group’s featured sleeping pods, meditation rooms, oxygen chairs and sauna and steam rooms. 

Parramatta is also home to many gym chains, so rest assured that you can use any existing gym membership in the area. These gym chains include Anytime Fitness, Plus Fitness, and Strive Fitness.

Two workers carry gym bags in Parramatta

Jogs & Walks Around Parramatta Park

Would you prefer to spend your lunchtime out and about enjoying the sun? If so, consider visiting Parramatta Park and jogging or walking along the trails and courses. Located smack in the middle of Parramatta, the park is quick and easy to access and is also the perfect place for lunchtime strolls and short jogs around the suburb. 

While spending your lunchtime in Parramatta Park, you can take a look at historical monuments and heritage sites such as the Wistaria Gardens, the Observatory Transit Stones, the Old Government House and the Dairy and Rangers Cottages. The scenic views at Parramatta Park are best enjoyed on a sunny afternoon when you’re craving some fresh air out of your office.

Two workers are exercising in Parramatta

Parramatta Leagues Sporting Club Activities

If you’d like to spend your lunch break exercising with others, Parramatta Leagues Club is the best place to do so. Parramatta Leagues is home to many clubs that you can join for regular sporting and recreational activities.

They include:

  • Parramatta District Cricket Club
  • Parramatta Leagues Fishing Club
  • Dundas Valley Vikings Rugby Football Club
  • Travelling Bowlers
  • Two Blues Rugby & Vikings Social Golf Club

Before joining these clubs, make sure you contact them and confirm whether their activity schedules align with yours. Not all may have activities during your working lunch break, although they may have facilities and recreational sites that you can visit to spend your lunch break. 

Recreational Yoga Classes

For an exercise option a little more structured than the rest, consider joining a wellness and relaxation activity like a yoga class in Parramatta. Not only are they less intensive than some other active activities in Parramatta, but you can also enjoy them with friends or co-workers.

One well-known yoga centre located in the heart of Parramatta CBD is Yoga Parramatta. Yoga Parramatta focuses on providing rewarding, calming and performance-enhancing yoga classes to all those interested in the ancient practice, beginners and experienced participants alike. They have a wide range of yoga classes curated for different health needs, including Hatha yoga, Vinyasa yoga, Ashtanga yoga and Pregnancy yoga. 

Spending Active Lunch Breaks in Parramatta

Lunch breaks are best spent active and out and about, especially if you find yourself working at a desk for long periods of time. Fortunately, there are many exercise options for you to take advantage of during lunchtime. From your local Parramatta gym to curated yoga classes, you’re sure to find an active activity to be a part of during your lunch break in Parramatta.

Sometimes, the best way to get through a long day’s worth of work is with a 3pm coffee pick-me-up. Luckily, there are many great cafes in the local Parramatta area that can serve you the drinks and snacks you’re looking for during your workday.

Keep reading to find out our top cafe and coffee shop picks for your 3pm pick-me-up.

Two workers sit in a coffee shop.

1. Mr Phillip's Coffee House

Mr Phillip’s Coffee House is a local favourite in the Parramatta area, known simply for its great coffee. Serving a variety of your classic coffees for as little as $2.50, you can enjoy a cheap yet high-quality coffee for your 3pm pick me up at Mr Phillip’s Coffee House.

If you’re craving a sweet treat during your workday, you can also enjoy the store’s homemade muffins, cookies and pastries. Mr Phillip’s Coffee House serves freshly baked almond croissants, “Papa Knows Best” mini ricotta cheesecakes, and deliciously addictive Butte Boy Cookies. Open six days a week, closing at 5pm, you can visit Mr Phillip’s Coffee House for a coffee break at any time of your workday.

2. Riverside Central Café

Another cafe open late for your work breaks in the Parramatta area is the Riverside Central Cafe. A classic Australian cafe serving hefty breakfast, lunch and brunch meals, the cafe also offers every kind of coffee you could possibly order, from Goldilocks coffee to chai lattes. You can order freshly made berry smoothies as well for any sweet fruity cravings you might have.

For a quick energy boost in the middle of your workday, you can also order from the vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free meal and snack options available at Riverside Central Cafe. Closing at 3pm, you’ll have to enjoy your pick-me-up coffee takeaway, although you can always visit earlier for a snug seat and dine in coffee away from the office. 

3. Badmanner Thymes

Badmanner Thymes is a small cafe tucked away in Parramatta known for serving the best munchies alongside deliciously roasted coffee. Open from 7am to 4pm every day, the cafe sells dine-in breakfast with classic Australian favourites such as the eggs benedict, acai bowl and bruschetta.

Alongside some takeaway brunch meals, you can also order freshly made juices, smoothies and frappes from Badmanner. For $8, you can grab healthy veggie, tropical, detox and green cold-pressed juices. If you’re working around Horwood Place in Parramatta, Badmanner Thymes is the perfect place for your 3pm pick-me-up. 

4. Social Hideout Parramatta

If you’re after an aesthetic cafe to spend your work break, Social Hideout in Parramatta is the place to be. Decorated in all things floral with a bright and cheerful atmosphere, visiting this Instagram-famous cafe might be exactly what you need to re-energise after a long day at work. 

Social Hideout Parramatta is best known for serving unique, snacky meals such as taro hotcakes, mac n cheese waffles and tempura soft shell crab. As for drinks, you can enjoy special cold-pressed juices, smoothies, and shakes, as well as your representative Australian coffees and teas. Be sure to visit at 3pm sharp, as the cafe will take the last takeaway orders around that time.

5. Coffee Embassy Bar

Coffee Embassy Bar is a must-visit coffee shop if you’re working in the Northmead area. Open every weekday from 6am to 4pm, you can rely on the cafe to give you a much-needed caffeine boost whenever you need it. Serving hot coffee, all-day breakfast meals as well as Embassy Famous rolls, there’s a variety of options for you to choose from at the Coffee Embassy Bar. You can also try the store’s unique coffees, such as the beetroot latte or golden turmeric latte. 

One of the biggest perks of the Coffee Embassy Bar is its online menu and ordering service. If you’re tight on time and need a coffee on the go, simply place your order on the cafe’s website and pick it up as scheduled.

6. Iconic Café

Located in Westfield Parramatta, Iconic Cafe is, as the name implies, a staple coffee shop in the local Parramatta area. With comfortable seating arrangements and modern wooden decor, you can enjoy a quick afternoon meal at the Iconic Cafe alongside some delicious, high-quality coffee. All coffee is priced reasonably and served at lightning speed, so you can spend more time relaxing with your drink before heading back to the office.

Whether you’re working at the shopping centre or simply shopping all the international brands at Westfield Parramatta, this café is a great place to re-energise. With long opening hours from 8am to 4:30pm, you can grab your pick-me-up coffee at virtually any time you’d like.

7. Black Seed Eatery

Black Seed Eatery is a contemporary, creative and artisan cafe in Parramatta serving tasty food made with fresh seasonal produce, as well as great coffee. For a great price, you can enjoy delicious deli gourmet sandwiches, burgers and grilled meals, as well as flavourful, quality coffee.

Black Seed Eatery is open from 6:30am to 4pm every weekday on Phillip St in Parramatta. It’s known for its quick and friendly customer service, as well as a modern and comfortable interior, perfect for work calls or short team meetings.

8. Els Café & Bar

Els Cafe & Bar is a modern and newly renovated cafe serving delicious coffee in the heart of Winston Hills, worth going out your way for. With friendly staff and a spacious dining area, the cafe is best known for its roast coffee and diverse food menu, including sourdough stacks, pizza, salad bowls and pasta.

The cafe is a great spot to unwind during or after work, with long opening hours between 7amd and 4pm. The kitchen closes at 3:30pm, so make sure to pay a visit during the early afternoon if you’re looking for an excellent snack and pick-me-up coffee.

9. La Roue Café

Located on Parramatta’s famed Church St, La Roue Café is a central coffee shop to visit if you’re looking for a quick 3pm pick-me-up. Known not only for their high-quality coffee but also for handmade sweet crepes, this cafe is a great place for sweet tooths and hard-working locals alike. 

La Roue Café serves Campos beans coffee, fresh juices, and delicious French crepes from 6:30am to 4pm every weekday. You can enjoy the friendly and funky atmosphere at the cafe and order takeaway or enjoy your coffee and meal indoors. 

10. Ground Floor Café

Ground Floor Cafe is a local coffee and catering shop located on George St in Parramatta. Specialising in takeaway coffee and brunch meals, you can order a large assortment of afternoon tea, coffee, and vegan or gluten-free snacks to your office from Ground Floor Cafe. 

After a long day at the office, you can treat your team to a much-needed pick-me-up by ordering coffees and drinks from Ground Floor Cafe. The shop closes at 4pm on weekdays, so you have plenty of time to make your way to the cafe during the last few hours of your working day. 

A man working with a takeaway coffee.

Visit Parramatta's Best Cafes for Your 3pm Pick-Me-Up

Break up your workday by paying a visit to Parramatta’s best independent boutique coffee shops. No matter what kind of coffee or snack you’re looking for, there’s sure to be a store that can satisfy your caffeine needs and provide you with a much-needed pick-me-up to get you through the last few hours of work.

If you’re looking for coffee to try throughout the day, check out the must-try coffee stops in Parramatta. And if you’re feeling peckish, the City of Parramatta has plenty of fantastic local brunch options for you to try. 

If you live in or around Parramatta, you don’t have to travel far to find an excellent hair salon. There are plenty of top-notch stylists close to home for you to experience.

If you don’t already have a favourite salon or are looking to go somewhere new, here are eight of the top hair salons in Parramatta:

Hair by Phd

Hair by Phd has three locations in Sydney: Parramatta, Carlingford, and Camden. The first salon location was Parramatta, which was established in 1968. Still in its original location on Phillip Street, they focus on providing the highest possible level of service and excellence in hairdressing.

Hair by Phd is a unisex hair salon – one of the first to open in Parramatta. They specialise in all hair colouring work and provide a range of other services such as hair extensions, keratin hair treatment and styling for special events.

Saba Hair Parramatta

Saba Hair Parramatta is an award-winning salon with a friendly and relaxing atmosphere. Their services include everything you could want, from straightening through colouring and styling. They will work with you and help educate you about good hair care tips to make sure you are happy and excited about your new look.

Saba Hair is located near Parramatta Park in the Central Park Apartments on Macquarie Street.

Bodhi boutique

Bodhi boutique is a boho-luxe hair salon awarded the title of the best hairdresser in New South Wales & Parramatta in 2020.  They specialise in lived-in colour and balayage. For those wanting eco-friendly hair products, you’re in luck. Their hair product of choice, Mr Smith, is Australian-owned and made, vegan, and eco-friendly.

You can find Bodhi boutique on Charles Street just off Macquarie Street.

Mes Cheveux

Mes Cheveux is Parramatta’s 5-star exclusive salon that’s been exceeding client expectations since 2015. Their team are highly experienced and provide services to clients of all ages and genders.

You can find Mes Cheveux in Westfield Parramatta. If you’re looking to pamper yourself and your hair, try their new services, such as the luxury caviar treatment and plasm treatment.

Hair Crew & Co.

Hair Crew & Co. is also located in Westfield Parramatta. Hair Crew & Co for him and her can do whatever you need, including perms, extensions, treatments, colouring, cuts and styles.

They also offer a wide range of high-quality hair products that help you keep your salon-style hair between visits. Their friendly and knowledgeable stylists can recommend the right products for your hair type.

Esstudio Colour Bar

Esstudio Colour Bar is a hair and beauty salon that focuses on making you feel welcomed, heard, and understood. They have two locations: one in Chippendale and the other in Parramatta. Their Parramatta studio is located on Barrack Lane in the CBD.

You begin to experience what makes them different as soon as you walk into their studio. You can sit back and relax – and choose a drink from their tea and wine menu – while they transform your hair.

Esstudio cares about local communities and is passionate about sustainability in the hair and beauty industry. To learn more about this passion and vision, ask them about their charity, The Feel Good Project.

Neo 20 Hair & Beauty Salon

Neo 20 Hair & Beauty Salon is perfect for any occasion. They will create a new look that leaves you looking your best every day. They offer a long list of services, making it easy to get all your pampering done in one place. Starting with hair care, they also provide facial treatments, waxing, threading and Henna (Mehndi) design. 

Neo 20 Hair & Beauty Salon is located in Greenway Plaza, a short five-minute walk from Westfield Shopping Centre.

Salon D’Art

Salon D’Art is located near the Parramatta Train Station on Church Street. They specialise in Japanese hair straightening through bio ionic straightening or rebonding. This helps to not only keep hair straighter for longer but also reduces frizziness.

Salon D’Art also includes services such as cut and colour, permanent wave, foils, treatments, scalp massages and styling.

What to do after your appointment

Getting a new cut is a fun way to freshen up your style and feel glamorous. But you don’t have to stop there! Keep on pampering yourself with more wellness and relaxation activities in Parramatta.

If you’re keen to show off your new look, meet up with some friends after your appointment. There are dozens of places to eat around Parramatta CBD. Explore Eat Street or discover one of the many cafes and restaurants inside Westfield Parramatta. Local restaurant favourites include ALEX&Co., The Meat & Wine Co Parramatta, and Holy Basil. Popular cafes include Circa Espresso and River Café.

Parramatta is bustling with beauty and wellness stores. Everywhere you turn, you’ll find stores and salons that can pamper you from head to toe, all within a short walking distance of each other. From the local studios to international salons, they’ll have you looking your best in no time!

When you’re keen to get your nails done, there are plenty of places to choose from. Here are the top six nail studios in Parramatta for stylish nails:

Pearl Nails Parramatta

Pearl Nails & Beauty is a nail salon in Parramatta that will leave you feeling glamorous and relaxed. Their trendy and modern salon provides acrylics, shellac, nail art and spa pedicures. You can find Pearl Nails in Westfield Parramatta on level 3 near Kmart.

Plan a day with your friends and get pampered at Pearl Nails before doing some shopping or grabbing a coffee at one of the many cafes nearby, such as Café Lélunar.

Nails Avenue

Nails Avenue is located on Level 3 in Westfield Parramatta, next to Universal Store. Their chic salon offers professional manicures and pedicures. Nails Avenue is known for show-stopping specialty nails. No matter the colour or style you choose, they’ll make sure you have healthy and trendy nails.   

Their convenient location in Westfield Parramatta means it’s easy for you to make the most of your nail appointment. Run other errands, do a little shopping, and grab a yummy bite to eat from the food court – all without needing to leave the building. Local favourite include Lok Lok Dumpling Bar.

Parlour Nail

Parlour Nail opened in August 2020 in the heart of Parramatta on Church Street. The highly trained team of nail technicians are incredibly friendly and treat your nails like a blank canvas – creating something amazing and unique with each visit. Alongside nail treatment, Parlour Nail also provides waxing and eyelash extension services. For the ultimate experience, you can even get a facial massage while you get your nails styled!

Take advantage of the salon’s location on Church Street and get some food before you head home. Just across the street is BL Burgers, and you’ll have a dozen other choices if you walk another block or two down ‘Eat Street’. From the Cuban-inspired eatery Coco Cubano to authentic Indian cuisine at Itihaas Restaurant, you’re sure to find the perfect place to relax and enjoy your new nails.

ProfessioNAIL

ProfessioNAIL is a global company with roughly 200 nail salons. What started in 1992 in New Orleans has become one of the best places to go for nails. Their Parramatta location is found in Parramatta Westfield.

You can easily make a day out of it by shopping at the Westfield after you’re done. With other 450 stores, you’re sure to find the perfect outfit to match your new nails. If you get hungry, head over to the food court on Level 5. There are dozens of cafes and restaurants for you to choose from. If you’re keen to indulge, try Bannos Brownies.

Fresh Nails

Fresh Nails offers all kinds of options for you to choose from, including SNS, gel and shellac nails. Come here to relax and enjoy premium manicures and pedicures with quick service and quality results.

You can find Fresh Nails in the Westfield Parramatta on Level 1 near Tommy Guns. Once you’re done, wander through the shopping centre to explore the shops or grab a table. Popular restaurants include PapaRich Malaysian Delights, the award-winning Chefs Gallery, and Thai Riffic On Street Parramatta.  

Delicate Beauty

Delicate Beauty is a one-stop nail and beauty salon located on Level 1 in Westfield Parramatta next to Australia Post. They offer professional manicures and pedicures, as well as nail enhancement treatments. Their services also include waxing, eyelash extensions, spray tans, eyebrow microblading, and facials. 

If you get hungry during your appointment, Sushi Lover and Buddha Boy are right around the corner on the same level. Delicate Beauty is conveniently located near Chemist Warehouse and on the same floor as Woolworths Metro and IGA X-press if you need to grab a couple of essentials before heading home.

More ways to pamper yourself

Getting your nails done is a relaxing way to pamper yourself, but don’t stop there! Why not treat yourself to a facial or foot scrub too?

Here is a list of day spas in Parramatta. These clinics and spas also offer massages, steam rooms, foot reflexology, skin treatments, and more. Look over their services and see if something else doesn’t catch your eye. Grab your partner or some friends to share the experience with too!

Pilates and yoga are growing in popularity throughout Australia. Though similar in promoting strength, flexibility and balance, they are slightly different. Pilates is inspired by callisthenics, yoga and ballet. It can be mat-based or equipment-based. Yoga focuses on exercise, breathing and meditation. There are many varieties and types of yoga, including Hatha, Vinyasa, and Bikram. 

Always consult your medical professional before starting a new fitness routine. Once you are cleared to begin exercising, there are a handful of different studios and gyms you can join throughout Parramatta for in-person and virtual classes. Here is a list of the top spots for Pilates and yoga in Parramatta.

KX Pilates

KX Pilates is a great new studio for Pilates in Parramatta, conveniently located on Church Street. They offer high-intensity 50-minute classes for all experience levels. Their classes are full-body workouts with a maximum of 14 clients per class. There are many classes throughout the day to work with your schedule. They also offer home workouts via their app.

KX is Australia's leading reformer Pilates chain, with more than 75 studios across the country. They offer three class levels (beginner, intermediate, advanced), and the reformer beds have varied levels of resistance.

kx pilates class

Xtend Barre

Xtend Barre is inspired by Pilates and aerobic dance. The classes offered at their studio vary from Barre to Pilates and HIIT to Suspend (TRX style). You can go to their conveniently located studio on Church Street or follow along at home online. XTEND @ Home gives you unlimited access to their live-streamed classes, meaning your instructor will still be able to provide you with unique form corrections and encouragement throughout the class. 

Their classes are designed to be adaptable and challenging for all fitness levels. 

xtend barre class

Yoga Sadhana – School of Classical Hatha Yoga

Yoga Sadhana is Australia's first private school to teach Isha Hatha Yoga. The focus is on reviving the ancient science of Classical Hatha Yoga through their unique programs to bring enhanced energy, mental clarity and inner balance.

They offer programs and workshops for all skill levels. You can access their classes by going to their studio or joining online. Their studio address is 74 Phillip Street in Parramatta. 

woman practicing yoga

Soul Tree Yoga Studio Northmead

Soul Tree Yoga Studio offers genuine yoga classes and natural therapies. All teachers are qualified with at least 200 hours of Yoga Australia recognised training and have a combined teaching experience of over 25 years. They offer various yoga classes, including Hatha Yoga, Yin Yoga, and Dynamic Yoga, to choose from as you build up your yoga practice. 

Their studio is located at 10 Kleins Road in Northmead, just off James Ruse Drive. 

Yoga Parramatta

Yoga Parramatta is committed to making yoga accessible, affordable and welcoming to everyone. Their class schedule includes a variety of yoga types for you to choose from. Classes ideal for beginners include Hatha Yoga and Iyengar Yoga. For more advanced yogis, try their Vinyasa, Ashtanga, and Hot Yoga classes. There are also yoga classes in Parramatta specifically designed for pregnant women that focus on preparing for the birthing experience.

Yoga in Parramatta Park

Mita Wellness offers classes for Kriya Yoga in Parramatta Park. These classes focus on alignment and safe transitions between poses. The emphasis on correct fundamentals and core poses will leave beginners and experienced yogis feeling more centred and connected to their breathing. 

The outdoor sessions are held regularly throughout the year. View their upcoming schedule on the Mita Wellness website

people doing yoga in the park

Fitness First

If you're looking to add yoga into your workout routine, you can find both classes and weights at Fitness First. Along with other fitness classes, they run Body Balance which is inspired by yoga, Tai Chi and Pilates. The aim is to build flexibility and strength.

Adding the Body Balance class into your resistance training can create a more holistic routine that supports muscle balance and flexibility while improving strength. Fitness First is in the Parramatta CBD, just a short walk from the train station on Macquarie Street. 

Active Movement Studio

Active Movement Studio is located on George Street in Parramatta. Not only does it offer Pilates classes but physiotherapy and exercise physiology services to support total wellbeing. The mat-based Pilates classes focus on controlled movements, stability and strength. You can choose from one-on-one sessions or group classes.

Universal Fitness

Universal Fitness offers various classes such as yoga, Pilates, Les Mills, Zumba, Boxing and Barre Fitness. If you can't make it to one of their live classes, you can use their wellness solution player to access 1000s of pre-recorded classes anytime in their studio room.

Their facility has a variety of other unique services to support your wellness journey, including a meditation room, oxygen chairs, sleeping pods, as well as a sauna and a steam room. Their studio is conveniently located near Parramatta Square offices, making it easy to destress and unwind. 
 

Taking regular care of your mind and body is integral to your long-term health. Wellness has long been a priority subject in the health space, and during today’s pressing times, it’s now more important than ever to invest in it. 

Parramatta is home to dozens of spas, clinics, parlours, and salons that can help you take care of both your mental and physical health. Refresh and rejuvenate yourself by spending a wellness day in Parramatta.

Day Spas

Days spas in Parramatta are known for their incredibly effective health, beauty and relaxation services. They provide a variety of non-invasive treatments that focus on relaxing and rejuvenating both your mind and body.

Day spas are the perfect place to pamper on a special occasion or as a well-deserved treat after a draining week. From hydrotherapy to facials, to manicures, to body wraps, the wellness services offered at day spas at practically limitless. You can even book aromatherapy and acupuncture services at a few day spas in Parramatta.

The Body Space

The Body Space is a reputable Parramatta day spa specialising in laser and beauty treatment services. If you’re looking for hair removal treatments, The Body Space has got you covered with affordable and top-notch laser and waxing services.

The Body Space also offers various non-surgical skincare treatments to help with anti-aging and improve skin health, such as microdermabrasion, micro-needling, LED facials, and pigmentation removal.

Located conveniently on Church St in Parramatta. The Body Space is the place to be if you’re looking for high-quality beauty and skincare treatments.

Moroccan Hammam

A women-only day spa, Moroccan Hammam offers a range of relaxing packages and options for private, group or event bookings for special occasions. 

Enjoy a body scrub using the Moroccan kees (loofah) and signature Beldi (black) soap with argan and herb infused oils for glowing skin. 

Located at 31 Grose Street in North Parramatta. 

woman at day spa

Massages

Massages are scientifically proven to promote health and wellness by loosening tension in muscles and improving balance within the body. Not only can they relieve the stresses of everyday life, but massage services may also treat musculoskeletal aches and pains. There are many clinics offering massage at Parramatta that can provide you with top-notch massage services.

Golden Tree Thai Massage

Golden Tree Thai Massage provides authentic and traditional Thai massages in a peaceful and relaxed environment. Their massages specialise in clearing energy blockages and restoring harmony and balance in the body.

Golden Tree Thai Massage’s services concentrate on the “sen” lines of the body, helping to stretch, compress and press muscles to relieve ailments and promote general health and wellbeing. Their Thai massages may help treat joint and flexibility issues, soft tissue injuries, physical tension in the body, and sprains.

City Cave

City Cave in Parramatta offers massage services and other wellness care such as float therapy and infrared sauna. Their massages focus on improving general health and achieving deep relaxation, specialising in remedial, pregnancy, and sports.

City Cave offers three types of massages at affordable prices; Remedial Massage, Energising Deep Tissue Massage, Stress and Anxiety Relief Massage.
 

woman enjoying a back massage

Yoga

Much like any other form of physical exercise, yoga helps individuals manage stress, improve their mental health and lose weight sustainably and healthily. Yoga can also be a healthy alternative to detrimental hobbies such as smoking and drinking.

There are many wellness centres offering yoga in Parramatta. No matter where you are, you can find a local yoga class dedicated to improving your physical and mental health for your wellness day.

Liv Ayurveda

Liv Ayurveda recognises the health benefits yoga can bring to a person’s general wellbeing. The experienced yoga therapists at Liv Ayurveda strive to provide you with the best yoga experience possible while also being mindful of your general wellbeing and health concerns. 

To accommodate all health needs, the wellness centre offers personal yoga therapy consultations and one-on-one yoga sessions. Those looking for a like-minded community can also join Liv Ayurveda’s group yoga classes, typically lasting for 60 to 90 minutes. 

Yoga Peace Australia

Yoga Peace Australia is a boutique yoga studio in Parramatta offering specialised yoga classes for those interested in investing in their body, mind, and general wellness. Yoga Peace Australia offers a variety of classes to fit different needs and lifestyles. Whether you are a professional athlete or an average office worker looking to take up a new exercise, there is a class at Yoga Peace Australia for you.

Yoga peace Australia’s most popular yoga classes include Hatha yoga classes (slow and steady practice for beginners), Vinyasa yoga classes (dynamic yoga), and Core yoga classes. Most classes all also live-streamed so that you can join in on the fun from the comfort of your own home.
 

women practicing yoga

Investing in Your Health in Parramatta

It’s a good idea to take a wellness day off every once in a while to invest in your health and wellbeing. If you’re local to the Parramatta area or simply happen to be visiting, you can spend your wellness day visiting day spas, enjoying massages, and taking part in yoga classes. 

There are many wellness and health centres in Parramatta that can offer all the health services you are looking for. Be sure to start your wellness journey (or at least spend a day) in Parramatta.

Population and Economic Growth

Parramatta’s population is forecast to grow approximately three per cent per year. The City’s population forecast for 2022 is 287,289 and is estimated to grow to 487,731 by 2041. This increase in residents will bring economic growth as the majority of those people will seek work in Parramatta or set up their own new businesses.

The current Gross Regional Product for the City of Parramatta is estimated at $31.36 billion, which represents 5.01 per cent of the state's GSP (Gross State Product). 

A dad with his child on his shoulders amongst a crowd of people at a Parramatta event.

Development Growth

Over the next five years, $20 billion will be invested into Parramatta’s infrastructure and development, which will be invested right across the city’s precincts creating opportunities for workers, residents, investors, students and visitors.

Major projects include the Metro West, Light Rail, Parramatta Square, Powerhouse Precinct & Museum, Riverside Theatres, Westmead Health, Parramatta North, Parramatta Quay & Charles Street upgrade, and the new Aquatic & Leisure Centre.

The future investment complements the investment in Parramatta’s infrastructure over the past decade on both public and private projects.

Highlights have included the $360 million CommBank Stadium, part of the stage one component of the $2.4 billion light rail, the $18 million Escarpment Boardwalk, the $345 million Arthur Phillip High and Parramatta Public school upgrades, the $320 million 32 Smith Street building, the $300 million Western Sydney Innovation Hub and the Walker Corporation’s $3.2 billion Parramatta Square.

A crowd watching a soccer game at Commbank Stadium.

Tenancy Growth

Parramatta continues to lead office market activity in NSW with record levels of tenant activity in 2021. In the fourth quarter of 2021, the Parramatta office market recorded strong leasing activity with an absorption of 68,000 sqm. This was the strongest quarterly demand result since JLL Research began tracking the market in 1990.

According to JLL Research, the high take-up levels are largely a combination of strong pre-commitment levels within new completions as well as strong activity within the small tenant market.

Counterintuitively Parramatta’s tenancy vacancy rates increased last year as a result of new office accommodation coming online and the withdrawal of a major tenant which has freed up significant premium office space in one of Australia’s fastest-growing office markets. The Property Council of Australia’s Office Market report released in August 2021 saw a vacancy increase from 6.4 percent to 10.2 percent.

Parramatta will continue to see an increase in its office vacancy rate as new buildings continue to come online, with the completion of 6 and 8 Parramatta Square, along with 6 Hassall Street which will continue to add to Parramatta’s premium office space.

Office building in Parramatta Square

Housing Growth

Parramatta is experiencing a significant amount of housing growth across the LGA. Most of this is occurring in the identified growth precincts in the form of apartments in locations like Parramatta CBD, Wentworth Point and Melrose Park.

Currently, about 51 per cent of the resident population live in detached houses, 33 per cent live in apartments and 15 per cent live in medium-density dwellings (townhouses, terraces and semi-detached homes).

The current growth rate is a product of sustained strategic planning over many years and the increased attraction of being close to the Parramatta CBD. In the last five years, Parramatta has seen the most dwelling completions of any LGA in Greater Sydney. The City is already seeing a significant change in the Parramatta CBD, Carlingford, Carter Street, Epping Strategic Centre, Wentworth Point and Melrose Park precincts.

The NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment (DPIE) anticipates that Parramatta will require a total of 162,100 dwellings to house its growing population. This represents an increase of almost 77,000 dwellings from current dwelling numbers. The City’s Housing Strategy indicates that 87,900 dwellings will be delivered between 2016 and 2036, with a further 20,020 dwellings already being planned for in growth precincts beyond 2036, which easily meets the DPIE’s growth predictions.

The identified growth precincts will be the focus of future housing delivery because they align with major transport and infrastructure investment which is critical for the delivery of new housing.

Apartments along the Parramatta River

Parramatta’s future is bright with growth in population, the economy, investment and housing. The City of Parramatta Council continues to work closely with the NSW Government to progress its plan for a vibrant and strong future for Greater Sydney’s second CBD.
The collective plans will lay the foundation for growth in the greater Parramatta area that will see more people live in the area, work in the region, and enjoy everything Parramatta has to offer.