Mrs Macquarie's Chair Sydney
Historic sandstone bench offering iconic Sydney Harbour views, perfect for sunset photos and picnics.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour and sunset magic
Mrs Macquarie's Chair Sydney
Best Time
Golden hour and sunset magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic sandstone bench offering iconic Sydney Harbour views, perfect for sunset photos and picnics.
"The most incredible sunset I have ever seen, feel so blessed."
🌅 Sunset Picnic Perfection
Pack a picnic to enjoy the stunning sunset views. A perfect romantic or chill spot!
📸 Capture the Classic Shot
This is the spot for that iconic Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge photo.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iconic Opera House & Harbour Bridge View
Mrs. Macquarie's Chair
The quintessential Sydney postcard view, especially magical at sunset.
Historic Convict-Carved Bench
Mrs. Macquarie's Chair
Sit on a piece of history, carved for Governor Macquarie's wife in 1811.
Outdoor Theatre Performances
Mrs. Macquarie's Chair
Experience live shows with a stunning harbour backdrop.
Planning Your Visit
Sunset Spectacle Timing
Accessing the Chair
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Sunset Picnic Perfection
Pack a picnic to enjoy the stunning sunset views. A perfect romantic or chill spot!
📸 Capture the Classic Shot
This is the spot for that iconic Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge photo.
🚶♀️ Garden Access Check
Royal Botanic Garden gates can lock at night. Check access if visiting after dark.
🎭 Enjoy a Show
Catch outdoor theatre performances with a spectacular harbour backdrop.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Sunset Picnic Perfection
Pack a picnic to enjoy the stunning sunset views. A perfect romantic or chill spot!
📸 Capture the Classic Shot
This is the spot for that iconic Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge photo.
🚶♀️ Garden Access Check
Royal Botanic Garden gates can lock at night. Check access if visiting after dark.
🎭 Enjoy a Show
Catch outdoor theatre performances with a spectacular harbour backdrop.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be walking through the gardens to reach the chair.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Mrs. Macquarie's Chair for its breathtaking, iconic views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, especially during sunset. It's a popular spot for picnics and photography, offering a historical touch with the convict-carved sandstone bench. Some visitors note that access can be tricky during events or after dark, and it can get crowded during peak times.
"One of the best view point of Sydney to see panoramic view of all iconic location in one place. Surrounded by beautiful trees and green park, good for family and kids to stay and join special time together. Ample space for car park."
Niyom Kaseng
"ICONIC PLACE
What better place to watch the sunset? This of course, close to the city but not so close, is a place surrounded by the water of the Pacific Ocean and the green lung that delivers one of the best spots in Sydney in my opinion.
We have nearby toilets, water fountains, a wide coastal street for those who love to walk, run or just lie on the grass."
Nicole Muñoz Acevedo
"One of the best view to see the opera house from distance. Beautiful, nice park. Just love it to enjoy the view. Definitely would come here again."
Budi Dermawan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mrs. Macquarie's Chair is located within the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. You can walk from Circular Quay or the CBD, or take a bus to the garden entrance. If visiting in the evening, check garden access as gates may be locked.
There is no direct parking at Mrs. Macquarie's Chair. The closest parking is at the Domain Car Park or Wilson Parking at Sydney Opera House, followed by a walk through the gardens.
Access to Mrs. Macquarie's Chair at night depends on the Royal Botanic Garden's closing times. During events like Vivid Sydney, access through the gardens might be restricted, requiring alternative routes.
The paths within the Royal Botanic Garden are generally paved and accessible, making it possible to reach Mrs. Macquarie's Chair. However, some areas might have inclines.
From Circular Quay, it's a pleasant 15-20 minute walk through the Royal Botanic Garden directly to Mrs. Macquarie's Chair.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Mrs. Macquarie's Chair and the Royal Botanic Garden is generally free. However, special ticketed events may be held at the location.
Mrs. Macquarie's Chair is located within the Royal Botanic Garden, which has specific opening and closing hours. These can vary seasonally and for special events.
During certain events or times, access to the Royal Botanic Garden and Mrs. Macquarie's Chair might be restricted or require special passes. Always check for event notifications.
The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney is free to enter. You can explore its grounds and visit Mrs. Macquarie's Chair without any admission charge.
There's no need to book a spot for sunset viewing. It's a public viewpoint, but arriving early is recommended to get the best position.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hour just before sunset offers the most magical light for photographing the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge from Mrs. Macquarie's Chair.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive harbour views. A tripod can be useful for low-light sunset shots.
Drone usage is generally restricted in Sydney's parks and near sensitive landmarks like the Opera House. Check with the Royal Botanic Garden for specific regulations.
Professional photoshoots may require permits from the Royal Botanic Garden. It's best to inquire with their management beforehand.
Experiment with different angles to include both the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. The classic shot is from the chair itself, looking out over the water.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there are no dining facilities directly at Mrs. Macquarie's Chair, you can enjoy a picnic. Cafes and restaurants are abundant in the nearby Royal Botanic Garden and Circular Quay area.
Absolutely! Mrs. Macquarie's Chair is a popular spot for picnics, offering stunning views as a backdrop.
Circular Quay offers a wide range of dining options, from casual cafes and food trucks to upscale restaurants, catering to various tastes and budgets.
Generally, you can bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks. Alcohol consumption rules may apply within the Royal Botanic Garden, so it's best to check their guidelines.
You can pick up supplies from supermarkets or delis in the Sydney CBD or Circular Quay before heading to the chair.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during daylight hours to fully appreciate the gardens and the iconic landmarks. While the historical aspect might be less engaging for very young children, the open space and the chance to see boats on the harbour can be captivating. Remember to bring hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water, as Sydney can get quite warm.
📸 Photographers & Instagrammers
To get the best shots, arrive early to claim a good spot. Experiment with different focal lengths and angles. Wide-angle lenses are excellent for capturing the grandeur of the scene. Don't forget to capture the details of the historic sandstone chair itself, adding a unique element to your photos.
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider timing your visit for a weekday evening to avoid the largest crowds. The gentle sea breeze and the panoramic views make it a perfect place for a quiet conversation or a memorable proposal.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Mrs. Macquarie's Chair
This historical context adds a layer of depth to the experience of visiting the chair. It's not just about the picturesque scenery, but also about appreciating the legacy of those who shaped the city. The convict origins of the carving are a stark reminder of the penal colony's past, while its designation as a place of leisure for the Governor's wife highlights the social strata of the time.
Capturing the Perfect Sydney Sunset
To make the most of your sunset experience, arrive at least an hour before sunset to secure a good vantage point. Bring a picnic to enjoy while you wait, and consider a tripod for sharper, more dramatic low-light shots. The changing light throughout the evening offers a dynamic photographic opportunity, from the vibrant hues of sunset to the emerging city lights.
Beyond the sunset, the chair also provides excellent photo opportunities at other times of the day. Morning light can be soft and beautiful, and the clear blue skies of a typical Sydney day offer a different, yet equally stunning, perspective. The combination of historical significance, natural beauty, and iconic landmarks makes Mrs. Macquarie's Chair a photographer's dream.
Experiencing Outdoor Performances
Attending a performance here offers a distinct advantage: the natural beauty of the location enhances the artistic presentation. Imagine watching a musical with the Sydney Opera House illuminated behind the performers – it's a truly immersive and memorable event. However, it's worth noting that seating arrangements can vary, and some 'restricted viewing' seats might not offer the best experience, so booking in advance and understanding seat allocations is advisable.
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