With another La Nina potentially creeping around the corner, we must brace ourselves for a third wet #summer here in Sydney. Whilst disheartening to hear that the likelihood of experiencing a classic #Australian #summer is quite low this year, we can make do with what we have, and in Sydney’s case, there are plenty of enriching #activities and #sites scattered throughout the city that will have your wet weather itinerary packed to the brim. From #shopping to #art #galleries, I will take you through a list of inner-city sites that must not be missed when appreciating Sydney from indoors.
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SHOPPING - Queen Victoria Building
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As you walk through the CBD, you will notice traces of #history through its #architecture. Scattered throughout the modern buildings are historic cathedrals, banks and shops. Not many of these sites are more famous than the Queen Victoria Building adjacent to Town Hall. Constructed in 1898, this high-Victorian tribute to Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee features a grand sandstone exterior, stained glass windows and ornamented dome ceilings. The multi-storied hall features a range of #cafes, #shops and extensive decor that will have you exploring for hours. In particular, shoppers often visit the QVB to try a traditional #English high #tea. There are a few venues to choose from and can be found on almost every level. Taking the escalator underground will position you in the Town Hall Arcade which is a great way to make your way to Pitt St Mall without having to expose yourself to the elements, and you can even do some more shopping on the way! Even if shopping or eating weirdly isn’t your thing, it's worth visiting the QVB anyway to appreciate some of the city’s grandest #architecture.
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ART - Museum of Contemporary Art
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Most people go to The Rocks to see historic terraces, streets and even convict barracks on foot. However, if you are looking to appreciate #Australian #culture from the inside, the Museum of Contemporary Art is conveniently situated opposite the gateway to The Rocks. Regularly rotating exhibits, the MCA is an efficient way to experience #Australia’s modern #art scene. Currently, MCA is housing Perspective on Place, an exhibit that highlights the beauty and history of #Australia’s landscape from a variety of perspectives including those of Australian First Nations People. Taking the lift up to the rooftop of the MCA also grants you with one of #Sydney’s best #cafe #views. If there isn’t a massive cruise ship sitting in the terminal, you can get a clear picture of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge with your lunch. Apart from designated exhibits, MCA is free for all patrons making it too good of an opportunity to pass up when visiting The Rocks.
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ART - Art Gallery of New South Wales
As one of my favourite buildings in all of Sydney, the Art Gallery of New South Wales is a rainy day paradise. The exterior of the old #gallery will make you feel like you’re entering an ancient temple due to the neoclassical motifs of the pillars and archways. Names of famous classical artists have also been written on the walls of the #gallery - reminding you that this is a serious haven of culture. Inside, the grand hall splits into different genres of art, from classical framed oil paintings to contemporary sculptures. Art Gallery NSW has some inspiring instalments lined up for the bulk of #summer, including a massive wall #painting by Australian artist Sol LeWitt and traditional dotted landscapes by Daniel Boyd. Permanent instalments include the Grand Courts - a hall of sourced #European classical paintings to ancient ceramics. With everyone taking a trip to the Louvre this winter, I finally felt included all the way in Sydney through this hall! A final specialty of the Art Gallery NSW is its regular events. Art After Hours is a great way to make friends if new to Sydney, as the #gallery hosts guided tours where you can grab a #bite or a #drink whilst learning more about the many exhibits of the #gallery, all while surrounded by other art appreciators.
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