Raise a Glass to Sydney’s Historic Rocks District

Amongst the tall skyscrapers and bubbling hubbub of contemporary Sydney, The Rocks district takes us back to a much simpler time. The sandstone buildings and historic laneways are proud remnants of Australia’s colonial history. Strolling about the area, it’s amazing to think it could easily have vanished!

During the 1960s, the state government planned to demolish the historic district to make way for more of those skyscrapers. The local community revolted, and so the area was transformed into the buzzing tourist district it is today.

The Rocks by Night

While The Rocks draws many visitors from around Australia and the world, it doesn’t feel as tacky as many tourist areas. The streets aren’t littered with cheap souvenir stores, and the rough edges of the buildings haven’t been smoothed over. In fact, every effort has been made to preserve the history of these streets.

Most of us could do without the high class luxury stores, like Louis Vuitton and Coach, but these modern infiltrations are offset by charming boutiques, independent bookstores, and museums. The art and craft markets which run every weekend are a real must see, and it wouldn’t be a trip to The Rocks without enjoying a pint or two.

The Rocks lays claims to some of Australia’s oldest pubs, with grand names like The Oxford, The Fortune of War, and The Hero of Waterloo. So raise your glass to The Rocks, and be glad that it’s still around for us to enjoy.

Image source: Sydney Media