"This is one of the city’s most state-of-the-art and sustainable parks, thanks to an award-winning $9 million 2013 redevelopment. A "poetic reinterpretation of Sydney’s large 19th-century parks," it includes a gorgeous 50-metre heated outdoor pool and toddlers’ splash zone (princealfred.org), lined with yellow umbrellas, loungers, and sloped landscaping, including a native grass roof and resort-worthy palms. A cafe, sky-lit changing rooms, and shaded spots sit alongside. You’ll find fitness stations and an alfresco gym dotted through the park, plus two playgrounds, an oversized tree seat, a hillside slide, barbecue and picnic facilities, and off-leash areas for hounds. Even the pool’s ventilation chimneys are arty." - Sophie Davies
