Lidcombe is a tiny suburb snuggled right into Sydney's Western border, just 15 kilometres away from the CBD. That puts you within driving distance of the city's most iconic sites. The most unmissable of them all are Bondi Beach and the Sydney Opera House. Lidcombe isn't as grand or sparkling as Sydney, but its unassuming natural habitat is sure to captivate you.
Newington Nature Reserve is perched on the Newington Lidcomb loop and is a prime spot for twitchers. You'll spot migratory birds, saltmarsh parrots, and the lush flora of the Turpentine-Ironbark Forest. This is excellent hiking terrain, so don't forget the binoculars. If you've arranged a van rental in Lidcombe, you'll have plenty of space for your family and their fishing rods.
Waterbabies can head out to the Homebush Bay and Parramatta River Loop, which is paved for the comfort of cyclists. The river has a picturesque picnic area to settle down in when you're taking a break from kayaking and sailing.
Foodies adore Lidcombe's unpretentious cuisine. Like much of New South Wales, it has a strong Asian influence, so head out to Kung Fu Kitchen or Vincent's Noodle House when you grow hungry. Once you've had your fill, you can put on your history buff hat and take a historical tour of Lidcombe hospital, which was launched in 1896.
The suburb is a stone's throw away from Little Bay Beach, a sedate, beautiful spot that's perfect for beachgoers who are trying to evade the crowds. If you want to experience New South Wales's wildest territories, Whiting Beach is a little-known spot that's a short walk from Taronga Zoo.
Tenpin City is a local haunt that will keep you busy all evening. This brightly-lit bowling alley offers a wide range of entertainment options, from pool and bowling to darts and arcade games. It serves a wicked burger, to boot.
Visitors seeking tranquillity might want to spend the day at Thai Niramit Spa, which offers full-body Thai Massages combined with yoga stretching. If you're more of an aromatherapy buff, the spa offers all the scents you could wish for alongside its massages.
Rookwood Cemetery might not be on your bucket list, but it's home to some important historical monuments. You'll find a sculpture exhibit and a diverse collection of flora. The cemetery harks back to the late 1800s, so it's a popular destination among locals.
Lidcombe's Reading Cinemas offer a budget-friendly way to waste the afternoon. They line up all the best movies in a comfy location with excellent snacks. Family travellers might prefer Lidcombe Shopping Centre, which hosts a variety of exciting children's workshops and cooking events throughout the year. While you're there, be sure to fill up with sushi at Sushi Naya.