Department Stores
Ikea
I wish Sydney had more Ikeas but this one is the most convenient to go to if you live in the west. Parking in Rhodes has become more difficult with more and more development but usually on a weekday it isn't too bad and is free for 3 hours I believe. This Ikea, I would say, is the same size as others I've been to, and of course it has the confusing map that makes you walk through the whole store. Ikea is great for cheap, flat pack furniture and household utensils, but don't be expecting excellent quality. I also recommend their hot dogs, tasty and cheap at only $1 each! And if you aren't an Ikea member yet, sign up for discounted prices on set items, member only offers and discounted food in the cafe.
I'm glad they built an IKEA closer to where I live, as this store gets out of control busy. It becomes more of a frustrating experience as you have to dodge so many people and families. I love what the store sells but it's not worth it unless you're going mid-week where there's less crowds.
Not too crowded if you come late Sunday afternoon. Also seems to have more parking at Rhodes shopping centre at this time too. You can spend hours here just admiring all the displays, it is amazing how well presented everything looks despite hundreds of people walking through and touching everything. A few things that surprised me, they sell live orchids, they have real cow hide rugs and water is only $1 if you are an ikea member.
We bought a few things including a highchair, a rug and some other random home accessories. Things are cheap but it all seems to add up.
Really enjoyed it here I think because it was dramatically less crowded than what I was expecting.