Top things to do in Sydney with kids
From splash pads to roller coasters, Sydney is the ultimate family destination.
By Leah Dobihal
A city of beaches, bridges and bucket-list icons, Sydney is truly a city for all ages. Whether you’re travelling with young children or older teens, Sydney will serve up experiences that become lifelong memories.
Here’s your family-friendly guide to Australia’s Harbour City.
Meet Sydney’s cutest residents
Taronga Zoo, Sydney, New South Wales © Destination NSW
When to go
Add to the excitement and plan your visit during Vivid Sydney, a festival of lights. The event is held annually in May and June.
Where: Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman
Taronga Zoo is a wildlife wonderland for families. Meet more than 350 animal species, ride in a cable car over the enclosures and come eye to eye with giant giraffes as you feed them a snack. Taronga Zoo isn’t Sydney’s only wildlife experience suited to young children. WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo is located in Darling Harbour, while the open-range Featherdale Wildlife Park is just a 45-minute drive away in Doonside.
Visit an enchanted eatery
The Grounds of Alexandria, Sydney, New South Wales © Destination NSW
Where: 7a/2 Huntley St, Alexandria
One of Sydney’s most Instagrammable eateries, The Grounds of Alexandria is a place of twinkling lights and arches of vines. Teens will love looking for the perfect photo opp (good luck finding just one).
If you have younger kids, be sure to meet resident farm animals Selena Goatmez and Lady Baba. Plus, a calendar of events will have your little ones dancing under laneways themed after popular Disney films like Cinderella and Frozen.
Sydney's most kid-friendly museums
Australian National Maritime Museum, Darling Harbour, New South Wales © Destination NSW
Where: Various locations
There are a number of museums around the city with incredible programs on offer for kids of all ages. Get creative at the Museum of Contemporary Art where little ones can engage in sensory play and or get hands on and make their own art. At the National Maritime Museum kids can climb aboard real-life ships and submarines, peek below the surface of the harbour or get their hands dirty with printmaking, sculpting and painting. The Powerhouse Museum is great for kids that love science and technology, or discover natural history and Australian culture at the Australian Museum, perfect for tiny dinosaur enthusiasts.
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Discover Sydney’s aquatic adventures
The Playground Darling Quarter, Sydney, New South Wales © Destination NSW
Where: Multiple locations
As Australia’s Harbour City, it’s no surprise that Sydney has aquatic activities for all ages. Older children will find the ultimate thrill on a jet boat ride around the harbour – prepare to be splashed! Centennial Parklands offer wide open spaces and playgrounds for children to release their energy, including the beautiful Ian Potter Children's WILDPLAY Garden. For younger families, one of the country’s top playgrounds can be found at Darling Quarter. With a splash pad, balance ropes, slides and more, it’s a great place to burn some energy. Even better – it’s free!
Ride a roller coaster at Luna Park
Luna Park, Sydney, New South Wales © Destination NSW
Where: 1 Olympic Drive, Milsons Point
Sydney’s Luna Park was originally opened in 1935, and the family fun continues today. You’ll find amusement for all ages, from thrilling roller coasters to mirror mazes. Plus, a selection of great fair food and a glistening harbourside location make Luna Park a must-visit.
Learn about Sydney’s Aboriginal heritage
Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, Sydney Harbour, New South Wales © Destination NSW
Where: Sydney Harbour
Step into the living history of Sydney Harbour with the Royal Botanic Garden's Aboriginal Harbour Heritage Tour, an interactive adventure led by an Aboriginal guide. As you explore the picturesque gardens and foreshore, kids and adults alike will adore learning about the history, culture and traditions of the local Gadigal people. Learn to identify native plants and their uses and experience Sydney's iconic waterways from a new perspective.
