One of Sydney's first areas zoned for public use, it has been farmland and a racecourse (hence the oval-like shape it has today). The green heart of CBD Sydney, it contains sights such as the Anzac War Memorial and museum in the south, and the Archibald Fountain in the north.

Many of Sydney's prominent buildings and locations are located near this park, such as historical buildings of old Sydney (Hyde Park Barracks, St Mary's Cathedral, Parliament House), the green oasis of the Domain and the hedonistic, famous and infamous "queer culture" clubs and shops of Oxford Street. Special events and festivals are held from time to time in the park - check with the tourism office for what's happening during your visit.