It’s testimony to the ‘cleaning up’ of the Cross that this once-dodgy park is now a reasonably safe place to hang out (probably helped by the austere police station in the corner). It still feels seedy, though: bullyboy seagulls compete for scraps with pigeons who look like Keith Richards, while bearded homeless guys compile cigarettes from discarded butts.

Known by some local wags as the ‘elephant douche’, the dandelion-esque El Alamein Fountain (1961) sends waves of chlorinated spray across the open space. An organic-food market sets up here on Saturday mornings, while on Sundays a little flea market takes its place.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. The Cross Arts Projects

0.06 MILES

This little commercial gallery stages interesting curated shows, including lots of Aboriginal art.

2. Elizabeth Bay House

0.19 MILES

Now dwarfed by 20th-century apartments, Colonial Secretary Alexander Macleay's elegant Greek Revival mansion was one of the finest houses in the colony…

3. Coca-Cola Sign

0.25 MILES

A Sydney landmark, this huge sign marks the entrance to Kings Cross. You're actually looking at the 2016 model: the previous one was replaced, then…

4. McElhone Stairs

0.29 MILES

These stone stairs were built in 1870 to connect spiffy Potts Point with the Woolloomooloo slums below. The steep steps run past an apartment block:…

5. Embarkation Park

0.32 MILES

The top deck of a multistorey navy carpark doesn't sound like a great place to hang out, but this beautiful park is a hidden gem, offering a secluded…

6. Artspace

0.35 MILES

Artspace is spacey: its eternal quest is to fill the void with vigorous, engaging Australian and international contemporary art. Things here are decidedly…

7. Rushcutters Bay Park

0.39 MILES

Surrounded by enormous Moreton Bay fig trees, luxury yachts and pampered pooches, this unpretentious waterfront park is a beaut spot for a quiet stroll,…

8. St John’s Church

0.4 MILES

This lovely neo-Gothic sandstone church (1858) makes for a hushed escape from the urban jangle of Darlinghurst Rd. There's some fine stained glass; the…