Local’s Guide to Rainbow Precinct

Summer in Sydney is the ideal time to enjoy sunny days and party long into the night, and Oxford St and the Rainbow Precinct are the place to go for a fun time and a friendly crowd.

Venues like Stonewall, Universal, The Oxford, Claire’s Kitchen and Burdekin scattered along the Pink Mile, have entertainment programmed every night of the week so you’re never too far from a drag show, a trivia night or a DJ set. And there are plenty of other small bars, lively pubs, cafes and restaurants. Plus, in addition to glitter and sparkles, there’s a myriad of cool clothing and retail options to explore.

Here’s our ‘6 listicles’ to help you enjoy Rainbow Precinct this summer.

8 Top Summer Essentials

Get your holiday reading from The Bookshop and all your BBQ meats from Jim’s Butchery. If your job is to bring dessert, Christopher’s Cakes is your go-to. Grab a bunch of flowers from Adriatic Cove and the best, fresh juices from Simon Says Juice. Whether you’re heading to the beach, a party or the pub, if swimwear or Hawaiian shirts are required try Daly Male and get your Calvins at Aussie Boys. The new queer museum Qtopia has free admission every Sunday. 

Rooftops of Darlo

There’s a bunch of Darlo rooftops that have to be amongst the best-kept secrets in town! Head to the top at Columbian or climb the stairs to Chingalings’ tiny terrace. Burdekin has pub dining with unbeatable CBD views, whilst Taphouse offers tap beers and Chinese food.

Street Style

This stylish precinct has serious street cred styles available at Carhartt, Eastern Hill Supplies, Bandsome and Above the Clouds. Plus, some of the best vintage shopping in the city can be found here - start with SWOP, Zoo Emporium, Fabrique and Vinnies.

Drag me to Brunch!

Looking to linger over a long brunch? These venues offer drag and bottomless. Burdekin has rooftop drag brunch every Sunday, Lil Ms Piggy has a delicious middle-eastern spread and The Winery gardens inside or out are a fun destination for a lively crowd.

Beer

Sometimes all you need on a hot day is a cooling ale. Work your way through the craft beer selection at Bitter Phew or immerse yourself in the cool cowboy style of Shady Pines Saloon. 

Sit outside and watch the world go by at Kinselas, the Courthouse or the Oxford all with a ringside view of Taylor Sq.

Getting Party Ready

Whether it’s Parade night, club night or a night in, if you need to get glam, here’s the lowdown: House of Priscilla has all things sparkly any showgirl could want; Kryolan professional make-up stays on, has amazing colours and gives great advice; Sax Fetish is a treasure trove of locally made leather clothing, gear and toys. Something amazing is going to happen, so make sure to remember the summer of ‘25 with new ink from Thanks Tattoo.