Things to do in Walsh Bay

In this piece

Walsh Bay’s Arts and Culture Scene

The History of Walsh Bay

Top Attractions in Walsh Bay

Things to Do in Walsh Bay

Where to Eat and Drink

Plan Your Visit to Walsh Bay

Walsh Bay is a vibrant harbourside suburb located on the western edge of Sydney Harbour, between Dawes Point and Millers Point. Just a short walk from Circular Quay, The Rocks area, and the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge, Walsh Bay is known for its rich history, thriving arts scene, and excellent dining options. With beautifully restored wharves, scenic harbour views, and plenty of things to see and do, this area is a great place to explore for locals and visitors alike.

Walsh Bay’s Arts and Culture Scene

Walsh Bay is famous as Sydney’s premier arts precinct. It is home to some of Australia’s leading performing arts companies, including the Sydney Theatre Company, Sydney Dance Company, Bangarra Dance Theatre, Bell Shakespeare, and Australian Chamber Orchestra. Throughout the year, you can catch world-class theatre productions at venues like Roslyn Packer Theatre or watch captivating dance performances at Sydney Dance Company. The lifestyle in Walsh Bay combines cultural activities with a relaxed waterfront atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the harbour or explore nearby historic neighbourhoods like Millers Point and Dawes Point. Before or after a show, there are plenty of stylish bars and restaurants to visit for a meal or drink.

The History of Walsh Bay

Walsh Bay has a fascinating maritime history dating back to early colonial times. Originally known by its Aboriginal names Tar-ra and Tullagalla, it was renamed after Henry Deane Walsh—the engineer-in-chief responsible for major redevelopment in the early 1900s. Between 1906 and 1922, the area became an important shipping hub with its distinctive finger wharves built along Hickson Road. Today, these heritage-listed wharves have been carefully restored into theatres, galleries, apartments, restaurants, and hotels—transforming Walsh Bay into a lively cultural destination while preserving its historical charm.

Top Attractions in Walsh Bay

Here are three key landmarks you shouldn’t miss: - Sydney Theatre Company & Roslyn Packer Theatre: Watch outstanding theatre performances by renowned groups like Sydney Theatre Company and Bell Shakespeare. - Sydney Dance Company: Experience exciting contemporary dance shows or even join dance classes at this internationally recognised company. - Historic Finger Wharves: Walk along Hickson Road's restored finger wharves to admire their unique architecture while enjoying beautiful views across the harbour.

Things to Do in Walsh Bay

Make the most of your visit by experiencing these local activities: - Walking Tours: Explore Walsh Bay’s history through self-guided walking tours around Dawes Point and Millers Point. - Harbourfront Walks: Enjoy relaxing strolls along the waterfront promenade connecting Walsh Bay with Barangaroo Reserve—perfect for photography or simply taking in the views. - Attend Cultural Events: Check out live performances at local theatres or attend special events hosted regularly within the precinct.

Where to Eat and Drink

Walsh Bay offers fantastic dining spots catering to all tastes: - Elements Bar & Grill: Located conveniently in Walsh Bay near The Rocks area, Elements Bar & Grill offers an exceptional dining experience specialising in premium steaks grilled perfectly alongside fresh seafood dishes. With stunning harbour views overlooking Sydney Harbour Bridge, our restaurant provides an elegant yet comfortable setting ideal for romantic dinners or gatherings with family and friends. Visit us for delicious food made from quality ingredients served with friendly service. - Lotus Dumpling Bar: Situated on Hickson Road overlooking the water, Lotus Dumpling Bar serves tasty Chinese dumplings alongside other Asian-inspired dishes in a relaxed atmosphere. - Ventuno Restaurant: Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine at this popular waterfront restaurant known for wood-fired pizzas and handmade pasta dishes served in a lively environment right by the harbour.

Plan Your Visit to Walsh Bay

Whether you're exploring historic areas like Dawes Point or Millers Point, attending performances at Sydney Theatre Company or Sydney Dance Company—or simply enjoying delicious meals at local favourites such as Elements Bar & Grill—Walsh Bay offers something special for everyone. Start planning your visit today!

IN THIS POST

Walsh Bay’s Arts and Culture Scene

The History of Walsh Bay

Top Attractions in Walsh Bay

Things to Do in Walsh Bay

Where to Eat and Drink

Plan Your Visit to Walsh Bay

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Walsh Bay

Address:
Pier 8/9, 23 Hickson Rd, Millers Point, NSW 2000

Lunch Hours

Monday: 12 PM to 3 PM

Tuesday: 12 PM to 3 PM

Wednesday: 12 PM to 3 PM

Thursday: 12 PM to 3 PM

Friday: 12 PM to 5 PM

Saturday: 12 PM to 5 PM

Sunday: 12 PM to 5 PM

(Mon - Thur kitchen open until 2PM

Fri - Sun kitchen open until 4:30 PM)

Dinner Hours

Monday: 5:30 PM to 9 PM

Tuesday: 5:30 PM to 9 PM

Wednesday: 5:30 PM to 9 PM

Thursday: 5:30 PM to 9 PM

Friday: 5 PM to 10 PM

Saturday: 5 PM to 10 PM

Sunday: 5 PM to 6:30 PM

(Mon-Thur kitchen open until 8:30 PM

Fri-Sat kitchen open until 9 PM

Sun kitchen open until 5 PM)

Pyrmont

Address:
3 Harris St, Pyrmont, NSW 2009

Lunch Hours

Monday: 12 PM to 3 PM

Tuesday: 12 PM to 3 PM

Wednesday: 12 PM to 3 PM

Thursday: 12 PM to 3 PM

Friday: 12 PM to 5 PM

Saturday: 12 PM to 5 PM

Sunday: 12 PM to 5 PM

(Mon-Thurs Kitchen open until 2PM

Fri-Sun Kitchen open until 4:30PM)

Dinner Hours

Monday: 5:30 PM to 10 PM

Tuesday: 5:30 PM to 10 PM

Wednesday: 5:30 PM to 10 PM

Thursday: 5:30 PM to 10 PM

Friday: 5 PM to 11 PM

Saturday: 5 PM to 11 PM

Sunday: 5 PM to 10 PM

(Sun-Thurs Kitchen open until 8:30pm

Fri-Sat Kitchen open until 10:00pm)

Haberfield

Address:
217 Ramsay St, Haberfield, NSW 2045

Dinner Hours

Monday: Closed

Tuesday: 5:30 PM to 10 PM

Wednesday: 5:30 PM to 10 PM

Thursday: 5:30 PM to 10 PM

Friday: 5:30 PM to 11 PM

Saturday: 5:30 PM to 11 PM

Sunday: 5:30 PM to 10 PM

(Sun-Thurs Kitchen open until 8:30pm

Fri-Sat Kitchen open until 10pm)

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