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Looking for things to do in Penrith? Whether you’re visiting for a day, a weekend or longer, this vibrant Western Sydney hub offers live entertainment, art galleries, family attractions, cafés and restaurants, and outdoor adventures, all by the Nepean River at the foot of the Blue Mountains.
Exploring Penrith
On the banks of the Nepean River right at the foot of the spectacular Blue Mountains, Penrith is an exciting visitor destination only 20 minutes from Western Sydney International Airport.
This is Dharug and Gundungarra Country, where First Nations people continue their culture that has been connected to this place since the beginning.
Whether you’re spending a day or a week here, there is so much to explore that is unique, from exceptional art galleries and heritage museums to white-water rafting to inviting cafes, bars and restaurants to bushwalks and scenic lookouts in nearby national parks. Here are our local favourites:
Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre
Named after Australia’s legendary opera singer, Dame Joan Sutherland, The Joan is Penrith’s premier performing arts venue, presenting an exciting year-round program of live theatre, comedy, concerts, dance, family entertainment, classical music and contemporary Australian performance. Whether you’re planning a night out in Penrith or looking for live entertainment in Western Sydney, The Joan offers unforgettable experiences for every age and interest.
Travelling via Western Sydney International Airport? The airport’s free shuttle bus (Route 790) connects to Penrith Station, with The Joan just a five-minute walk through Westfield Penrith—making it an easy addition to your Penrith itinerary.
For our full entertainment program and bookings see thejoan.com.au
Lewers: Penrith Regional Gallery
Set within beautiful heritage gardens overlooking the Nepean River, Lewers: Penrith Regional Gallery is one of Western Sydney’s leading contemporary art galleries. Explore inspiring exhibitions, artist talks, workshops, family programs and the much-loved Café at Lewers, all in a peaceful setting just minutes from Penrith CBD.
Discover contemporary Australian art, celebrate Western Sydney artists, learn about local stories and Indigenous culture, or simply wander the gallery’s heritage gardens before enjoying breakfast, lunch or coffee at Café at Lewers. Free exhibitions make it an ideal stop for visitors looking to experience Penrith’s vibrant creative community.
If you’re travelling via Western Sydney International Airport, Lewers is an easy first stop before exploring the wider region.
Local Highlights
A few of our favourites for your itinerary, from historic gems to riverside walks to whitewater adventures.
Penrith Museum of Fire
Explore the drama, danger and history of firefighting, with an unrivalled collection of firefighting vehicles, equipment and memorabilia. So much fun for kids and adults alike.
1 Museum Drive, Penrith, 02 4731 3000
Penrith Museum of Printmaking
If you’re in Penrith on a Sunday, don’t miss this unique slice of history displaying and demonstrating 23 working printing machines dating back over more than 100 years. A great hands-on experience for kids too.
Penrith Showground, Ransley Street, 0415 625 573
Penrith Heritage Walk
Stroll past 22 points of interest from Penrith High Street over the Nepean River and landing in Emu Plains, a great way to explore the city and its history
Yandhai Nepean
Penrith’s distinctive pedestrian bridge crossing the Nepean River is part of the Great River Walk, a 6.4-km loop that can be walked or cycled with views of the Blue Mountains.
Punt Road, Emu Plains & Memorial Avenue, Penrith
St Marys Street Art Trail
Find angel wings, butterflies and blooming roses as this trail map leads you to eight murals and street art locations in and around St Marys.
Penrith Whitewater Stadium
Whitewater rafting and kayaking in Penrith? Yes you can! With guided rafting for beginners (over 12 yrs) and self-guided for the more adventurous (over 16 yrs).
McCarthy’s Lane, Cranebrook, 02 4730 0087
The Rock Lookout
Take a drive out through historic Mulgoa then it’s an easy walk to this expansive view over the Nepean Gorge.
End of Fairlight Road, Mulgoa
Mountain View Reserve
Another hidden gem – stroll the tracks here to enjoy peaceful bushland and local wildlife, including a bird hide to spot feathered visitors.
Nepean Street, Cranebrook