Parramatta is a suburb located west of Sydney CBD in Sydney, New South Wales. It is an area with significant commercial activity with several skyscrapers and office buildings. It is situated on the banks of the Parramatta River and is administered by the local government area of the City of Parramatta. The place-name is Aboriginal for 'the place where the eels lie down'.

There are several historic homes and structures located within the suburb. An example of which is the Brislington, a house built in 1821 and now houses a museum featuring items associated with the nursing and medical history of Parramatta. It is located on the corner of George and Marsden Streets.

Another historic home is located along Hassall Stret, the Hambledon Cottage. Built in 1824, it is within the Elizabeth Farm Estate and contains diligently preserved furniture that visitors can examine up close.

On the corner of Macquarie and Smith Streets is the Old School House Museum. Featuring items related to the educational system at the turn of the 20th century, it is housed in a building designed in late Victorian Gothic style of architecture.

There are also numerous buildings located in the suburb that are on the Register of the National Estate such as the Elizabeth Farm that started its operations in 1793 and the Lennox Bridge that was completed in 1839, courtesy of convict labor.

Additional information on the social and cultural history of the area can be obtained at the Parramatta Heritage Centre on Church Street. The center also holds regular exhibits and programs for visitors. It is also the departure point for several heritage walks that leads to several interesting points within the suburb. The establishment also shares its space with the Parramatta Visitors Information Centre.

The suburb's main outdoor destination is Parramatta Park, located along Macquarie Street. The park provides ideal setting for picnics, hiking, bird watching, or just relaxing under shady foliage. Also situated within this park is the Old Government House, whose original structure was constructed in 1799, making it the oldest public building in Australia. Still another historic structure is nearby, the Dairy Cottage which was completed in 1805. Other notable structures found within the park premises are the Tudor Gatehouse built in 1885 and the Bath House which was constructed in 1823.

At the Bill Thompson Reserve, facilities for playground and picnics are provided for the whole family.

Parramatta also boasts of three performing arts venues located in one setting. The Parramatta Riverside Theatre is situated on the corner of Market and Church Streets and offers several theather-dining packages that cater to groups of friends or business groups.

Every year, the riverside comes alive with the Riverbeats festival, when live entertainments are held in open air. One of the anticipated events organized during this festival is the Loy Krathong or the Thai Water Festival. Parramatta is also one of the major venues for the annual Sydney Festival.

There are also several sporting facilities located within Parramatta. These include the Parramatta Swimming Centre, the Parramatta City Raceway, and the Parrmatta Stadium and to make sure you get to see Parramatta in all it's glory, there are many Parramatta accommodation options are available ensure all visitors enjoy a comfortable stay.

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