 |
| Martin Place - Sydney's favourite pedestrian space |
Stewie here
If you haven't been to Sydney before, you might be wondering "This isn't exactly the Opera House or Harbour Bridge." Don't worry - we'll get to those soon.
But this morning I was in Sydney's CBD and realised that Martin Place tells us a lot about the character of the city.
Every day, diverse crowds of people - commuters, office workers, joggers, tourists - move through the area, living out their lives and enjoying the (hopefully great) weather.
Why not join the fun?
Quick Info
Cost: free entry
How: enter from any direction by walking, catch a train to Martin Place Station, or take the bus
What to do: Architecture, shopping, dining, people watching, walking, events
Time: walk through in 10 minutes, or take a leisurely stroll soaking it up for longer
 |
| Train station. On the 'City Circle', frequent trains from other CBD stops |
Location
It's a free civic space that connects areas of the city, from the Domain and Botanic Gardens to George Street and beyond. See how central it is:
View Martin Place in a larger map
Banks and major corporations, including Commonwealth Bank, MLC, Reserve Bank, call this prestigious address home. You'll see lots of people meaning business - or maybe politics, with the New South Wales State Parliament located at Martin Place's Eastern end.
History
Once a busy vehicular street, it was converted into a pedestrian strip for the public to enjoy.
 |
| Historical image of Martin Place as a street, before conversion. Part of a display on a construction barrier. |
Lined with intricate colonial architecture and modern & under-construction skyscrapers, an eclectic mix of Sydney's different time periods and social forces is on display. So look up and marvel at the impressive design on display!
 |
| We'll get to that pyramid in a little bit... |
Every day is different. That green pyramid above is actually composed of ...weeds! It's part of a temporary showing that challenges what we think is beautiful, with the 'pest' species becoming something visually appealing and the centrepiece of this place...if only for a while.
Don't worry if you miss one attraction - something new will be there next time.
 |
| Were you listening to me, Neo? Or were you looking at the woman in the red dress? |
Charities, protesters, artists and festival organisers make this place alive, each day giving you the opportunity to see another side of the city.
You might just catch a show at the Amphitheatre...
A Solemn Memorial
Martin Place is a gathering place with special meaning.
The Cenotaph is a stone memorial to ANZAC soldiers (Australian and New Zealand Army Corps), with the annual Anzac Day March beginning here with the laying of wreaths at the Dawn Service.
Pay your respects either then on the 25th April, or any other time of year.
 |
| "Lest We Forget" |
Lights, Camera - You!
Seven Network's television studio gives fans a chance to spy their favourite TV hosts, the Sunrise and Sky News programs shooting daily.
You can even be on TV through the studio window...so get those signs ready!
 |
| Catch up on the headlines with the Seven News scrolling banner |
Give in to your senses...
For those with a sweet tooth, the Lindt Chocolate Cafe should hit the spot. Let the Master Chocolatiers do their worst!
...and your fantasies!
If you're feeling a little indulgent, than maybe some shopping (or window shopping) at one of the many high-end retail outlets is for you!
 |
| Maybe a surprise for that special someone? |
The Final Word
Martin Place is definitely somewhere you'll want to check out, you never know what surprises will be in store in this buzzing urban centre!
I'll be back sometime soon, but before that, you'll be meeting the rest of the awesome Sydney Destinations team - is your body ready?
Laters,
- Stewie
 |
| Don't ask... |
No comments:
Post a Comment
So where the bloody hell are your comments?