Easy activities to do in Sydney with kids
Sydney is a vibrant and exciting city with world-class museums, beaches and entertainment. There’s no shortage of fun activities you can do with the kids in Sydney. But holidays are supposed to be easy, right? So in this article, we’ll explore some of the fun and easy activities you can do in Sydney with kids that you’ll all enjoy.
Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town, these activities in Sydney with kids are perfect for a day trip, a weekend getaway or a week-long holiday. So pack your bags, grab the sunscreen, and get ready for some easy family fun in Sydney.
But first, if you plan on using public transport to get around Sydney, you’ll need an Opal Card. This is used to pay for trains, buses and ferries in Sydney.
Stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens
Where: Mrs Macquaries Rd, Sydney NSW 2000
Take a leisurely walk through the beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens for stunning views of the Opera House and Harbour. Kids will love the Sydney gardens’ many water features and parents will love the variety of activities to keep the kids entertained. Don’t miss ‘Garden Grubs’ or the ‘Sunset Spotlight Tour’. Also, it’s a lovely location to stroll around and find some peace when the city gets too much.
Various events are held here throughout the year. Check out the Royal Botanic Gardens website for more information on what’s on. But most importantly, don’t forget to pack the picnic rug and lunch.
Explore the wonders of the sea at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium
Where: Aquarium Wharf, Darling Harbour, Sydney NSW 2000
SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium takes you underwater (well, sort of) through nine special themed zones. Enjoyable for both kids and adults, board the free Penguin Expedition boat ride, which takes families through a themed Macquarie Island exhibit, home to Sydney’s only colony of sub-Antarctic king and gentoo penguins.
Families can meet Pig the dugong, one of only two rescued dugongs in human care in the world plus see marine turtles, sharks and hundreds of tropical fish in the ‘Day and Night on the Reef’ exhibit. From the marine life, breeding facilities and animal rescue centre to daily talks and interactive displays, SEA LIFE Sydney is fun and easy activity for kids and adults of all ages.
Take the ferry to Manly for a day at the beach
Where: Circular Quay Ferry Terminal, Sydney NSW 2000
Jump on board the Manly Ferry at Circular Quay for one of Sydney’s most iconic experiences – a trip to Manly for a day at the beach. The ferry cruises past the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and Kirribili House before arriving at Manly Wharf.
Once you’ve arrived, make a day of it and enjoy the stunning beaches, outdoor cafes and scenic coastal walks. Eating fish and chips on Manly Beach is a must-do activity with the kids in Sydney!
Take a ferry over to Taronga Zoo
Where: Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman NSW 2088
Yep, another iconic ferry. Take a scenic ferry ride to Taronga Zoo and spend the day with the animals. See kangaroos, koalas and other Aussie wildlife and take in the incredible views of the harbour and city skyline. For kids who like a bit of action, head to the Wild Ropes, a challenging Sydney activity course with options for different ages and abilities.
Head up the Tower Eye for a birds-eye view of the city
Where: Westfield Sydney, Level 5/108 Market St, Sydney NSW 2000
Take the high-speed double-decker lift from street level to the Sydney Tower Eye’s observation deck for stunning views in all directions. From here, you can see amazing views of the Sydney Harbour, watch the planes touch down at Sydney Airport 10 kilometres away and spot ships at sea two hours before they can be seen from Sydney beaches. On a clear day, you can even see as far as the Blue Mountains.
The telescopes in the observation deck are free to use on this Sydney activity with kids, and your entry ticket includes admission to a 4D Cinema Experience and a digital photo pass.
Eat at The Grounds of Alexandria
Where: 7A/2 Huntley St, Alexandria NSW 2015
The Grounds of Alexandria is one of Sydney’s most Instagrammable eateries, with vine arches and twinkling lights. Teens will be occupied getting their shot for the gram and younger kids will love meeting the resident farm animals, Lady Baba and Selena Goatmez. Disney-themed laneways are featured throughout the year and are a massive hit with all ages.
This activity in Sydney with kids has great atmosphere!
Spend the day at Luna Park for a classic carnival experience
Where: 1 Olympic Drive, Milsons Point NSW 2061
Luna Park is a classic amusement park entertaining families since 1935. As such, it’s even made its way onto the NSW State Heritage Register. Nevertheless, the magic of Luna Park in Sydney continues after all this time as a family activity and its unique architecture, iconic location, carnival rides, games, and shows make it an easy and fun-filled day out for kids of all ages.
Grab dessert in China Town
Where: Haymarket, Sydney 2000
Just to the left of the iconic China Town sign in the photo below, you’ll find two shops that’ll have you returning for dessert every night. The first is a kind of ‘hole in the wall’ shop where you can order mini pastry puffs filled with sweet, warm custard. These are to die for! The second is right next door, a Chinese bakery selling all sorts of sweet and savoury goodies.
While you’re here, you might as well have dinner first. It’s hard not to find a yummy meal here. Eating warm custard pastry puffs will fast become a favourite ‘food’ activity with the kids in Sydney.
Hit up a Sydney Arcade
Where: 614 George Street, Sydney NSW 2000
It may burn a slightly larger hole in your wallet than you’d like but not much beats a good old-fashioned, family-friendly arcade. Head to Koko Amusement at 614 George Street (right near Town Hall Station) for a whole lot of family fun.
Although the concept might be a little old-school, the machines certainly are not. Both kids and adults can enjoy this activity in Sydney with a variety of games on offer. For those of you with a not-so-secret fetish for gacha machines, you’ll be pleased to find a decent selection as you walk in.
Cool down the fun way at Raging Waters Sydney
Where: 427 Reservoir Rd, Prospect NSW 2148
With over 40 slides and attractions, head to Raging Waters to beat the heat when the mercury rises. There’s a zone dedicated to little water adventurers, adrenalin-pumping action for older kids and adults and even a ‘beach’ with a wave pool and sand.
Don’t miss the newest addition to the park – Whirlwind – a first-of-its-kind-slide that takes riders on a thrilling 206-metre long journey. Kids of all ages (adult ‘kids’ included) can enjoy this Sydney activity.
Explore a submarine at the Australian National Maritime Museum
Where: 2 Murray St, Darling Harbour, Sydney NSW 2000
Considered one of the top maritime museums in the world, the Australian National Maritime Museum is in an easy-to-find location on the shores of Darling Harbour. Board a modern submarine, a naval warship or even a full-scale replica of Captain Cook’s 18th-century tall ship. Although anything with ‘museum’ in its name conjures up some worry about boredom, this activity is far from it and a top choice for those with kids in Sydney. Interactive displays will keep the kids engaged and it’s not hard to sneak in some learning with exhibits on Aboriginal and European explorers, surfing, sailing, the navy and Australia’s beach culture.
Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge if you dare
Where: Bridge Climb, Sydney – 3 Cumberland St, The Rocks NSW 2000
Have you dreamed of ticking the Sydney Harbour Bridge climb off your bucket list? Well, now is your chance! Although climbing the Harbour Bridge isn’t technically easy, it’s worth the effort for a unique and unforgettable experience. The stunning views of the city and harbour are not to be missed but kids need to be at least eight years old and 1.2 metres tall for this activity in Sydney.
Explore the interactive exhibits at the Powerhouse Museum
Where: 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
With free entry and plenty of interactive displays and activities to keep kids engaged for hours, the Powerhouse Museum is an easy (and affordable) way to spend a great morning or afternoon in Sydney.
The permanent science and transport exhibitions are particularly appealing for families, but generally, the non-permanent exhibitions are thought-provoking and fascinating.
Once you’ve worn out your legs exploring the exhibition, head to the Powerhouse Cafe on Level 3 for a range of fresh and healthy morning tea and lunch choices.
Watch a movie under the stars
Where: Various locations
Pack a picnic full of good food and head to one of Sydney’s seasonal outdoor cinemas for a leisurely evening activity with the kids in Sydney.
Moonlight Cinema, Paddington: Head to Centennial Park for a BYO and pet-friendly moonlight cinema experience. Hire a bean bed or splurge out on a Gold Grass ticket where a waiter will deliver your food and drinks before the movie starts.
Sunset Cinema, North Sydney: The North Sydney Oval is the place to be come dusk but unfortunately, BYO is not permitted here. Instead, food trucks have everything you need with popcorn, pre-ordered picnic boxes, grazing platters, toasties, pizzas and hot chips. There is even a licenced stall selling beer, wine and gin. Choose between the grandstand or the grass.
Skyline Drive-In, Blacktown: Today, only one drive-in cinema remains in Sydney and it sure is popular. Complete with diner food served in era dress, this drive-in screens the latest blockbusters as well as big-screen classics. Opt for a late-night horror flick for older kids or a fun double feature for little ones.
Westpac OpenAir, Sydney CBD: Located right beside the Royal Botanic Gardens with views over the water, Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House, this movie night is one to remember. State of the art sound, a great selection of films and a variety of food outlets headed by notable Sydney chefs, this experience is a bit spesh.
Picnic at Centennial Parklands
Where: Grand Dr, Centennial Park NSW 2021
Known as the ‘lungs of the city’, Centennial Parklands is one of the most historical and socially significant urban spaces in Australia. Those with younger kids will want to head to the Ian Potter Children’s Wild Play Garden, a purpose-built nature play area encouraging urban children to engage in outdoor ‘wild’ play. Check out the Centennial Park Labyrinth to find a bit of Zen in Sydney’s CBD and if you’ve got your pooch in tow, they’ll be happy with the 154 hectares of off-leash space.
There are a number of self-guided walks here as well as bike, tandem or pedal car hire. There’s even horse riding!
Wherever you explore at Centennial Parklands, pack a picnic for when the tummy rumbles arrive and enjoy these activities with the kids in a fantastic Sydney location.
Learn to surf at Bondi Beach
Where: Northern end of Bondi Beach, next door to Speedo’s Cafe
Book a session with Let’s Go Surfing for an experience not to be missed. Imagine standing up on a surfboard for the first time at Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach!
There is a dedicated kids’ program for children ages seven to 16 years but you can book a private family lesson to learn together. This is a great activity for kids to report back at school when they return from their fun Sydney trip.
Visit the Sydney Opera House
Where: Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000
Visiting Sydney doesn’t count unless you visit the Sydney Opera House, one of the most recognisable landmarks in the world. Attend a family-friendly performance, jump on a tour or stroll around the outside to take the obligatory selfies.
Where to stay on your Sydney city break
Sydney obviously has a massive range of accommodations for families but if you’re seeking a mid-range hotel to ensure you have more buckeroos for the fun stuff, you can’t go past the Park Regis City Centre. Read our review of the Park Regis City Centre by clicking on the button below.
Looking for some family holiday inspiration?
For more inspiration and information on visiting New South Wales with kids, pay a visit to our New South Wales page. For other great destinations and awesome activities to do as a family, head on back to the home page for inspiration both around Australia and worldwide.
Got FOMO? Sign up to our monthly newsletter so you don’t miss out on anything!
Resources for booking a getaway to New South Wales
Flights
International flights will most likely land in Sydney and domestic flights are readily available from Australia’s capital cities and other regional airports. Search on Trip.com or I Want That Flight for a great deal on flights to Sydney or elsewhere in New South Wales.
Activities and Tours
Accommodation
For a mid-range hotel (ensuring you have more $$$ for the fun stuff), head to the Park Regis City Centre. For a luxury experience, you can’t go past the Four Seasons Hotel in Sydney.
