Metal discs cast into the promenade hold ruminations from Australian writers (and the odd literary visitor). The likes of Mark Twain, Germaine Greer, Umberto Eco and Clive James wax lyrical on subjects ranging from Indigenous rights to the paradoxical nature of glass. Genres vary from poems on the human condition to a ditty about a meat pie by Barry Humphries.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Justice & Police Museum

0.11 MILES

In a sandstone building that once headquartered the Water Police, this atmospheric museum plunges you straight into Sydney noir. An assemblage of black…

2. Government House

0.14 MILES

Set within the Royal Botanic Gardens, this Gothic sandstone mansion (built 1837–43) is the official residence of the Governor of NSW. Its lovely loggia…

3. Customs House Library

0.15 MILES

The elegant 1885 Customs House houses this three-level library. There's a great selection of international newspapers and magazines, internet access and…

4. Customs House

0.15 MILES

This elegant harbourside edifice (1885) has a democratic feel to it. It houses tourist information, a library, bars and restaurant options, including Cafe…

5. Sydney Conservatorium of Music

0.21 MILES

The castellated ‘Con’ was designed in 1817 by convict architect Francis Greenway as the stables and servants’ quarters of Governor Macquarie’s new house…

6. Royal Botanic Garden

0.22 MILES

Southeast of the Opera House, this garden was established in 1816 and features plant life from around the world. Within the gardens are hothouses with…

7. Museum of Contemporary Art

0.22 MILES

The MCA is a showcase for Australian and international contemporary art, with a rotating permanent collection and temporary exhibitions. Aboriginal art…

8. Museum of Sydney

0.23 MILES

Built on the site of Sydney’s first Government House, the MoS is a fragmented, storytelling museum, which uses installations to explore the city’s history…