Kings Cross & Darlinghurst

Coca-Cola sign in Kings Cross, Sydney, NSW. Photo credit: Andy Vermeulen; Destination NSW

Kings Cross & Darlinghurst

Back in the 1970s, Darlinghurst was known for just about one thing: prostitution. Kings Cross is still troubled by organised crime and houses the city’s red light district. It’s also the most densely populated area in Australia. So why on earth should you visit here?

Darlinghurst has changed. Today it is a cultured, vibrant and cosmopolitan area of Sydney. It is the centre of Sydney’s gay and lesbian community, with Oxford Street world-renowned as its hub.

Kings Cross may have work to do, but it’s just as thriving an area. It’s still widely regarded as one of the best centres for nightlife in Sydney. If you’re in search of bars, nightclubs, restaurants or adult-themed stores and clubs, make it a must-do.

Kings Cross and Darlinghurst attractions

Darlinghurst Gaol
The old prison was built by convicts and began its working life in 1841 (although it wasn’t completely finished until 1885). Over 70 people were hanged here at public executions. Nowadays, the building forms part of the National Art School.

Darlinghurst Courthouse is connected to the Gaol through underground passages which are open to the public.

Oxford Street
Darlinghurst’s main commercial area is also one of the city’s premier nightspots. It’s the centre of Sydney’s Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, a rich, sophisticated parade of colour which doesn’t so much travel down the street as explode onto it.

Victoria Street
A wide range of cafés and restaurants cater for just about all tastes and price ranges. One of the less celebrated attractions of Kings Cross and Darlinghurst is wandering from café to café, soaking in the charming Victorian architecture as you go.

El Alamein Fountain
At the entrance to Fitzroy Gardens sits one of Kings Cross’ main attractions. The El Alamein Fountain was constructed in 1961 to commemorate the Australian soldiers who died during the Second World War battle of El Alamein in Egypt, and in the wider North African conflict. The dandelion-shaped fountain is particularly stunning at night when it is brightly lit.

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The Real(ly) Big Thing

At the intersection on William Street in Kings Cross, look up. You’ll see a billboard advertising Coca-Cola.

This, trivia buffs, is the largest billboard in the southern hemisphere. And while it may just be a billboard to you and us, it has become something of an icon in Sydney.