Sydney, Australia, also known as Emerald City, is a unique cultural hub that attracts thousands of visitors annually. But what is there to do when travelling the area with the tiniest travellers? In this guide, we highlight what to do in Sydney with kids to help you plan the perfect vacation down under.
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Explore Sydney’s Iconic Landmarks
There’s no mistaking Sydney has many landmarks to explore. The key to travelling with children is figuring out what activities interest them most. At the top of the list should be a visit and tour of the Sydney Opera House; the view of the architecture from the outside is enough to draw them in.
Next, take the kids on an adventure to see the city from a birds-eye view from the Sydney Tower Eye. Its observation deck gives you the perfect landscape shot of the entire city. Another fun activity in the area is taking a ferry ride around Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Lastly, don’t forget to take the little ones to Darling Harbour. This attraction has endless activities, including shops, dining options, and even fireworks! Check the schedule before going to see what’s on the docket for the evening.
Immerse in Nature and Wildlife
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to immerse yourself and your family in the many nature opportunities around Sydney. Every child will love a trip to the Taronga Zoo, and a visit will even provide learning opportunities to learn about native Australian animals.
On another day, you can head to the SEA LIFE Aquarium and experience fish like never before. At SEA LIFE, you can even swim with the sharks! If that’s not really your thing, you can always opt for an afternoon at the Royal Botanic Garden. It’s easy to spend a few hours looking at the beautiful flowers and plants.
Lastly, if your family is really into nature, by all means, take the time to do a hike in the Blue Mountains National Park. You will find trails of all different levels and see various wildlife during your time there.
Fun and Educational Museums
There is no shortage of museums available in Sydney, with many interactive exhibits for the whole family. If you have a child interested in arts and science, don’t miss out on a trip to the Powerhouse Museum. You will find various science shows and demonstrations to participate in during your visit.
Another top contender in the area is the Australian Museum. Here you and your kids can learn about the country’s history down under. If the children in your family aren’t history buffs, they may be more interested in the Australian National Maritime Museum, known for its hands-on learning opportunities.
Going in a different direction, the Sydney Observatory provides many ways to learn about astronomy and meteorology.
Enjoy Outdoor Activities
Sydney is known for its beautiful weather, and there are ample opportunities to get out and enjoy it. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to see one of the beautiful beaches in the city; Bondi Beach and Manly Beach are two of the local favourites.Â
Vacations can get long for kids, so be sure to schedule downtime for play. During such a time, venture over to Centennial Parklands, which is three parks in one, and enjoy the vast green land and playgrounds. You can even have a picnic on the grounds.
One of the best ways to see a new area is by walking; the slower pace gives you adequate time to check out your surroundings. Take a stroll or bike to the Sydney Olympic Park or the coastline to see the fantastic views.
Engage in Entertainment and Performances
You will always have something to do during your time in Sydney. The city offers many different types of shows and performances throughout the week that are worth checking out. You will often find family-friendly productions at the Sydney Opera House as well as live performances and concerts at Capitol Theatre.
For the adrenaline junkies, there is the perfect amusement park for you at Luna Park Sydney. This attraction is also located right on the water so that you can enjoy the fantastic views and waterfront breezes.
Cricket is a very popular sport in Australia, and if you want to see why you should check out a game at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Many different teams play at this stadium, and you may also be able to take in a rugby game while there.
Experience Cultural Diversity
Many don’t realize that Sydney, and Australia in general, is home to many different ethnic populations. You can easily see evidence of that in the city, and there are many different opportunities to experience them.
One of the first places you should go is Chinatown. Not only will you have access to many incredible restaurants, but there are often fun festivals and events. If you want to learn about the Aboriginal culture, be sure to check out the many art galleries dedicated to their work.
To see many cultures in play all at once, take a trip to Paddy’s Market near the Powerhouse Museum. You will see a vast assortment of items for sale with a diverse cultural atmosphere.
Ultimately, during your time in Sydney, you are bound to come by one of the many festivals and celebrations that the city holds throughout the year. As a city, the residents are proud of their heritage and celebrate it frequently.
Final Thoughts
Sydney is a beautiful city that makes for a once-in-a-lifetime vacation. While taking your children on such a trip can cause anxiety, you will be happy to know that when figuring out what to do in Sydney with kids, there is no reason to worry.
Sydney is a very family-friendly city and includes children in many of its attractions and events. Whether your kid is a fan of the great outdoors or is a scientist at heart, there are options to suit their interests throughout the area.