Family Things To Do In Sydney

Sydney, Australia is a vibrant and exciting city that offers something for everyone. Known for its stunning harbor and iconic attractions like the Sydney Opera House, Sydney is a popular destination for tourists and families alike. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, there’s plenty to do and see in Sydney. From world-famous landmarks to family-friendly activities, here’s a guide to some of the best family things to do in Sydney.

Explore the Iconic Harbor

One of the best things to do with kids in Sydney is explore the iconic harbor. The harbor is home to many of Sydney’s most famous attractions, including the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and the Royal Botanic Gardens. Take a boat tour to get a closer look at these stunning landmarks and view them from the water. There are also plenty of water activities to enjoy on the harbor, from fishing and kayaking to sailing and paddle boarding.

Visit Taronga Zoo

Taronga Zoo is one of the most popular attractions in Sydney for families. Located on the shore of Sydney Harbor, the zoo is home to over 4,000 animals from around the world, including elephants, giraffes, koalas, and more. Visitors can take guided tours, learn about conservation efforts, or just enjoy watching the animals in their natural habitats. Kids will love the interactive exhibits and the chance to get up close with some of the animals.

Go Shopping at the Queen Victoria Building

The Queen Victoria Building (QVB) is a shopping center in the heart of Sydney’s central business district. This historic building was designed in the late 1800s and features beautiful Romanesque-style architecture. Inside, you’ll find over 160 shops, cafes, and restaurants as well as a food court. Spend the day browsing the stores or take a break from shopping and enjoy some of the entertainment options, such as live music and street performers.

Visit Bondi Beach

Bondi Beach is one of Sydney’s most famous beaches and it’s a great place for families. The beach offers plenty of activities for kids, including swimming, surfing, body boarding, and beach volleyball. There is also a playground with swings and slides for younger children. Bondi Beach also has a café and restaurants within walking distance for refreshments or meals.

See a Show at the Sydney Opera House

The Sydney Opera House is one of the most iconic landmarks in Sydney and it’s a must-see for visitors. The building itself is an architectural marvel and its iconic white sails are visible from many points around the city. The Opera House hosts a variety of shows and performances throughout the year, ranging from musicals to ballet and opera. Take your family to see a show for an unforgettable experience.

Take a Tour of the Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountains are located just outside of Sydney and they offer stunning views of the city skyline. Take a tour of this World Heritage area and explore its many trails and waterfalls. Some of the most popular attractions include Echo Point Lookout, Three Sisters Lookout, and Katoomba Falls. Families can also take part in fun activities like mountain biking, horse riding, and abseiling.

Visit Manly Beach

Manly Beach is another popular beach destination in Sydney that’s ideal for families. This beach has something for everyone, from calm waters suitable for swimming to more challenging waves ideal for surfing. Take a stroll along Manly’s promenade and explore its many shops and restaurants. Kids will love visiting Manly Sea Life Sanctuary or catching a ferry ride to explore nearby attractions such as Taronga Zoo and Luna Park.

Tour Popular Attractions on a Hop-on Hop-off Bus

A great way to explore Sydney is with a hop-on hop-off bus tour. These tours make stops at some of Sydney’s most popular attractions, such as Darling Harbour, The Rocks, Bondi Beach, and Manly Beach. Enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline as you travel between stops and soak up some of Sydney’s history along the way.

Sample Some Local Cuisine

Sydney has a vibrant food scene with plenty of delicious local dishes to try. From gourmet burgers to seafood dishes like fish and chips, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Be sure to sample some of Sydney’s signature dishes like meat pies or Vegemite toast or take your family out for some traditional Italian cuisine in one of the city’s Italian restaurants.

Sample Some Local Craft Beer

Sydney is home to some great craft breweries that offer up delicious craft beers for adults to enjoy. Try some local brews from top breweries such as Young Henrys or James Squire or visit one of Sydney’s craft beer bars like The Taphouse or The Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel for samples from multiple breweries.

Enjoy an Interactive Experience at Scitech

Scitech is an interactive science museum located in Darling Harbour that’s perfect for kids of all ages. Explore more than 100 interactive displays that explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Kids can learn about dinosaurs, outer space, robotics, engineering, and more in this fun and educational environment.

Book a Harbour Cruise

One of the best ways to experience Sydney Harbour is by taking a cruise around it. Hop on board one of the many cruise vessels that offer tours around the harbour and take in spectacular views of iconic landmarks such as the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Book a full-day tour complete with lunch or opt for a shorter tour that focuses on seeing highlights such as Fort Denison or Shark Island. Book a Harbour Cruise here.

Explore Watsons Bay

Watsons Bay is an idyllic beachside suburb located on Sydney’s South Head Peninsula and it’s perfect for families looking for a day out by the sea. Relax on one of the many beaches lining Watsons Bay or take a stroll along its scenic walking tracks. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes in the area offering delicious seafood specialties as well as other local dishes. Book a tour of Watsons Bay here.

Climb to the Top of the Harbour Bridge

For a truly unique experience in Sydney, take your family to climb the Harbour Bridge. This iconic bridge is an engineering marvel that offers breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour from its summit. A guided tour takes you up through the bridge’s inner workings before emerging at the top for panoramic views of Sydney’s skyline. Book a tour to climb the Harbour Bridge here.

No matter what kind of vacation you’re looking for, there’s something for everyone in Sydney. From iconic landmarks to family-friendly activities, this vibrant city offers plenty of things to see and do that will make your trip to Sydney unforgettable.