The Iglu Guide | Blog
Best student hangouts in Chippendale
Located close to UTS, Sydney University, Notre Dame University and Central Station, it’s hard to go wrong living in Chippendale. Known affectionately as Chippo to the locals, this quirky suburb was once the domain of factory workers and rundown housing. Cut to 2022, and the streets are spilling over with eclectic shops, artisan eateries, warehouse charm and a cool, contemporary arts scene. A popular student choice, you’ll never be short of ways to fill your time.
The Lord Gladstone
This gentrified pub fits nicely into the cool inner-west vibe, with a grungy exterior out front and a student-friendly menu tucked away inside. Factor in regular live music, DJ sets and an outdoor courtyard, and it’s the perfect place to hang out with mates on a lazy Sunday afternoon. Serving up all the pub classics you would expect, from steak and chicken wings through to burgers and pies, pop in early in the week and grab lunch for $12.50 – and hang on in for the 4-6pm happy hour. Venture upstairs and check out the innovative Goodspace Gallery, a revolving exhibition that showcases emerging Australian artists across a variety of disciplines.
The Seymour Centre
This multi-purpose performing arts space is actually housed within Sydney University, and has several creative spaces available for use. The curated program is a favourite with students from around the city and offers a cultural mix from contemporary performances and larger scale theatre through to independent productions and dance recitals. Committed to arts that embrace experimentation, education and big ideas, the Seymour Centre is a leading cultural venue and sits at the heart of the Sydney student experience.
Spice Alley
Students on a budget will love this Asian hawker-style eatery that opens out quite unexpectedly from an unassuming backstreet just off Chippendale’s Kensington Street. Nestled under a ceiling of lanterns with a side order of street art, here you’ll enjoy over 12 predominantly Asian outlets cooking up some of the freshest and tastiest fare in town. Try out Alex Lee’s Singaporean specialties, handmade dumplings from the Shanghai Dumpling Bar, or pick from some of the best Southeast Asian street food in Sydney all thanks to Yum Yum. Handily BYO, but a cash-free zone, don’t forget to load up your card for lunch.
White Rabbit Gallery
A stone’s throw from Central Station, this modern gallery is home to one of the world’s largest collections of contemporary Chinese art and is open to the public completely free of charge. Owned by Judith Neilson, the gallery has four floors of exhibition space and changes collections just twice a year. The perfect place to while away the day without spending a cent, the White Gallery is a popular hangout for students and tourists alike. Indulge in some Chinese tea and a tasty treat at the end, as you contemplate this immersive experience.
Chippendale Green
There’s nothing quite like an urban oasis in the middle of the city, and that’s exactly why students flock to Chippendale Green. Home to the tallest vertical garden in the world, as well as Halo – a striking wind-powered public sculpture inspired by the site’s brewing heritage, the urban renewal project of One Central Park represents the perfect pairing of art, science and engineering. Minutes away from White Rabbit and Spice Alley, Chippendale Green is the ideal spot to catch up with friends.
Prince Alfred Park
Just the other side of Central Station, there’s over 18 acres of lush green space for all students to enjoy. In addition to a 50m heated swimming pool, Prince Alfred Park also offers 5 tennis courts, fitness stations and barbecue facilities. Whether you’re feeling sporty or just fancy some fresh air, this city oasis is the ideal way to refresh your day.
Image from Spice Alley
