20 MINUTES FROM TAKE-OFF: WHY ORAN PARK IS WORTH THE DETOUR

A great day starts with coffee, so make your first stop at The Grid Café, an Italian-inspired local favourite serving Seven Miles coffee, alongside delicious breakfast and lunch options. Grab a table on the outdoor terrace, order something hearty and ease into the day before heading out to explore. Founded by two fine-dining trained chefs who have worked internationally, you’re guaranteed a great quality meal.

Long before Oran Park became the bustling town centre it is today, this corner of south-west Sydney was known for its rural roots and a racetrack that would become a legend among Australian motorsport fans. Opening in 1962, the circuit became part of Australian motorsport history before closing in 2010, making way for the town that you see today. Its legacy lives on in Oran Park’s street names, public spaces and Raceway Walk of Fame, a tribute to some of the motorsport names that graced the track. The walk can be found at Perich Park, right in the town centre. You’ll also encounter large cow sculptures, representative of the First Fleet’s lost Cowpastures cattle. It’s a fun way to begin your exploration of this emerging smart city.

Oran Park is dotted with many greenspaces and parks that pay homage to the area’s raceway days, and you can easily explore on foot or bike. Discover the elegantly designed Oran Park Library, Oran Park Leisure Centre and civic area, and when travelling as a family, there’s plenty of room to get outdoors with many creative playgrounds designed for all abilities. The colourful Julia Reserve Youth Precinct’s skate park is a standout, as well as its parkour training ground, basketball courts, POPP ping pong tables and a large open space to kick around a footy. Dawson-Damer Park is another great park, with a splash pad, playground, Ninja Warrior-inspired course, basketball facilities and picnic areas for warmer weather. It’s a place where the kids can burn off some energy while the adults enjoy a breather.

When lunchtime arrives, head to Oran Park Hotel and make your way upstairs to Jinja Rooftop. With modern Asian dining, cocktails and a lively atmosphere, it’s a top spot to settle in for lunch with great views over the town centre. And if one visit turns into a longer stay, there’s plenty more under the same roof. The hotel spans three levels, with seven bars and a range of dining experiences. The pub-style bistro’s menu will cater for everyone, while Papi’s Pizza takes care of pizza cravings. If you’re looking for a chill afternoon, then head to Crush Bar for a cosy art-deco designed cinema experience.

Stretch your legs afterwards with a browse and shop at Oran Park Podium. With more than 100 stores, cafés, casual eateries and dessert spots, it’s the heart of the suburb. Wander along Podium Way, check out the outdoor Eat Street precinct or head into Graze Food Hall for plenty of dessert options. Banksia Café & Dessert Bar is a well-designed spot for an afternoon treat, while the wider mix of shops and food outlets makes it easy to pick up a few essentials or find something to take home.

If you’ve decided that a few hours isn’t enough, book a night at Atura Oran Park. Located within the Oran Park Podium precinct, the brand new contemporary hotel puts you close to everything in the suburb, with Western Sydney International (WSI) Airport just a short drive away. There’s also Tavola, the hotel’s onsite restaurant serving Italian-inspired fare, so you can settle in for dinner before calling it a night. Stay over, enjoy breakfast the next morning and use Oran Park as a base for exploring more of Western Sydney.

Oran Park’s racing heritage, growing town centre and mix of local experiences make it a worthwhile addition to any Western Sydney itinerary. With Western Sydney International (WSI) Airport opening the region to more visitors, there’s every reason to look beyond the airport and discover what’s already here. So, when passing through, make a little room in your plans for Oran Park. Between its racing past and all that’s taking shape today, there’s plenty for a stopover.

WEST. Decision Made.