POWERHOUSE PARRAMATTA OPENS. SPEND A DAY WITH WEST.
Parramatta, on the traditional lands of the Burramattagal People, a clan of the Dharug Nation, is a region known for its vast richness of art, culture, diversity and food. Embracing green spaces, contemporary architecture, a thriving cosmopolitan city centre and cuisine from around the world thanks to the wonderful diversity of its local businesses, Parramatta is a beautiful riverside city full of life. Add to that a new national landmark cultural institution, and you open another exciting chapter in what makes Western Sydney so very special. Set to become one of Australia’s most exciting cultural destinations, Powerhouse Parramatta is opening its doors, bringing with it a world of art, science, technology and design to the banks of the Parramatta River.
Powerhouse Parramatta 
Gelato Messina 
Powerhouse Parramatta, Parramatta River
More than just a new museum, Powerhouse Parramatta marks a significant milestone for Western Sydney, introducing world-class cultural exhibitions and artists to a region rich in creativity. With Western Sydney International (WSI) Airport a short drive away, Parramatta is perfectly placed to welcome visitors from around Australia and the world. WEST is proud to feature in the Powerhouse Parramatta opening celebrations, with a WEST print exhibition showcasing the beauty of Western Sydney as part of the 2026 FOMA FUTURES program.
Through FOMA Fabrics of Modern Australia, an Australian creative enterprise connecting fashion designers, artists and creative talent with industry networks, commercial opportunities and global markets, the program brings culture to the forefront, celebrating diversity and the beauty of our world. With an extraordinary opening festival, plenty of places to eat and a city brimming with history and experiences, there’s never been a better time to make a weekend of discovering Parramatta.
Sonia Sadiq Gandhi, FOMA Founder and Anoulack Chanthivong MP 
Powerhouse Parramatta 
Fabrics of Modern Australia (FOMA) Runway
When visiting, one of the most scenic ways to arrive is by hopping aboard the F3 Parramatta River Ferry. Cruising from Circular Quay to Parramatta Wharf, the ride is wonderful, inspiring almost, as you pass iconic landmarks, beautiful homes, bird-filled mangroves and historic bridges. It gives a great sense of the beauty all around us, and as you approach Parramatta Wharf, the modern city skyline welcomes you to Parramatta.
Once ashore, make your way to Lucien Baked Goods, a short stroll away. Created by the team behind local favourite Circa Espresso, this popular bakery-cafe is a welcoming stop for freshly baked pastries and a morning Circa coffee. The friendly team make you feel like a regular from the moment you walk in. Grab your order and head down to the Parramatta River Foreshore, where a riverside stroll takes you past historic buildings, bridges and leafy parks.
Lucien Baked Goods 
Parramatta River Foreshore 
Lucien Baked Goods
Before long, the breathtaking Powerhouse Parramatta comes into view, its striking white exoskeleton making a bold statement against the city skyline. Sitting right on the river's edge, it’s an impactful way to arrive. Stop to admire the impressive Tree of Life totem sculpture by British Indian contemporary artist Bharti Kher, then head inside to explore the abundance of exhibits and spaces.
Powerhouse Parramatta 
Tree of Life totem sculpture by Bharti Kher 
Powerhouse Parramatta
Opened from 7 November 2026, there’s plenty to capture the imagination. The museum offers five opening exhibitions spanning aviation and space in Task Eternal, First Nations perspectives of Water Country in Overflow, the social phenomena of shopping centres in The Mall, immersive art in Es Devlin: The Turning and an imaginative experience for children in The Dark.
Over the course of the 23-day opening festival, the Powerhouse will feature talks, workshops, food, music, screenings, performances and tours. With a program highlighting creativity, innovation and Western Sydney's diverse communities, it's an exciting time to visit. WEST is honoured to partner with Fabrics of Modern Australia’s 2026 FOMA FUTURES, presenting a special print exhibition celebrating the beauty and character found throughout Western Sydney. It’s an opportunity to discover the places and stories that make this part of the world so memorable.
2026 FOMA FUTURES will feature thirteen exhibits, four live conversations and an incredible runway presentation celebrating contemporary Australian fashion. WEST and FOMA First Nations Cultural Ambassador and artist Danielle Mate features in the program, showcasing her artistic talents with live painting and storytelling, be sure to stop by and show your support. You can find exhibition details and the festival program online at Powerhouse Parramatta.
WEST and FOMA First Nations Cultural Ambassador and artist Danielle Mate 
Powerhouse Parramatta 
Fabrics of Modern Australia (FOMA) Runway
Once you’ve explored the Powerhouse, spend time discovering the surrounding city and riverfront. Continue your walk along the Parramatta River Foreshore, then make your way to Church Street, Parramatta’s lively Eat Street, where an eclectic mix of restaurants, cafes and bars makes it a favourite dining destination.
The Meat & Wine Co, Parramatta 
Church Street 
Baba Ghanouj, Parramatta
History enthusiasts can step back in time at Old Government House, a heritage-listed Georgian residence, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Convention Australian Convict Sites listing, set within the sprawling green surrounds of Parramatta Park. With walking paths, heritage landmarks and picturesque picnic spots, the park is an attraction in and of itself.
For a delicious lunch, be sure to visit Baba Ghanouj. Genuine Lebanese flavours, generous hospitality and dishes made for sharing. Step inside and you could almost forget you're in Parramatta. With its realistic Middle Eastern-inspired interiors, the restaurant transports you somewhere else entirely. WEST recommends the Batenjen Mehshi, a combination of smoky eggplant, vibrant red capsicum sauce and a refreshing hit of labneh. It's a little taste of the Middle East, in the heart of Parramatta. Afterwards, follow your sweet tooth to Gelato Messina on Church Street for a scoop (or two) of their unique gelato creations.
Baba Ghanouj 
Old Government House, Parramatta Park 
Gelato Messina
As a Purple Flag city, Parramatta is just as exciting at night to explore as it is during the day. With the PARKROYAL Parramatta a few steps away from Powerhouse Parramatta and all the amazing experiences in this vibrant city, you could treat yourself and stay the night. Riverside Theatres is a wonderful space to catch a live show, and if you’re a sports fan, then watching a game at CommBank Stadium alongside cheering crowds is a fantastic local experience.
PARKROYAL Parramatta 
Riverside Theatres 
CommBank Stadium
With a world-class new cultural institution, fascinating heritage, waterfront experiences and a dining scene rivalling international cities, Parramatta gives you plenty of reasons to head West. Come for the Powerhouse, stay for Parramatta, and spend a day with WEST.
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