Sydney has always been one of my favorite destinations. It’s a city that’s brimming with family-friendly activities, offering everything from iconic landmarks to hidden gems that appeal to both kids and parents alike. Having spent considerable time in Sydney with my own family, I can confidently say that the city has something for everyone.I’ll take you through three activities that I’ve personally experienced and loved with my family, followed by four additional activities I recommend for families visiting Sydney. Each activity offers something unique, whether you’re looking for thrilling adventure, cultural enrichment, or simply a fun day out with the kids.
1. My Top Family Experiences in Sydney
1.1. Taronga Zoo Sydney: A Wildlife Adventure for All Ages
Located on the beautiful shores of Sydney Harbour, Taronga Zoo is an iconic family destination that provides an unforgettable wildlife experience. What sets this zoo apart from others around the world is its stunning location, offering breathtaking views of the Sydney skyline and the harbor.
Location and How to Get There:
Taronga Zoo is located in Mosman, about 12 minutes by ferry from Circular Quay. One of the best parts of visiting the zoo is the ferry ride itself, as it gives you a chance to enjoy Sydney’s world-famous harbor. Once you reach the zoo wharf, there’s a Sky Safari cable car that takes you up to the main entrance, offering a bird’s-eye view of the zoo’s grounds.
My Experience:
As soon as we arrived at the zoo, my kids were thrilled by the cable car ride, which felt like an adventure in itself. The zoo is large, and we spent the entire day exploring its various zones. From the Australian Walkabout, where we encountered kangaroos and koalas, to the African Savannah, where giraffes and zebras roamed, every exhibit felt like a mini-world of its own.
One of the highlights for my family was the Wild Ropes course—a high ropes adventure that’s suitable for kids and adults. While my children were eager to conquer the ropes, I found myself enjoying the experience just as much. The adrenaline rush, combined with the stunning views of the harbor, made this one of the most memorable parts of our visit.
Entertainment and Educational Activities:
- Seal Show and Bird Show: These live animal shows are not to be missed. The kids were fascinated by the seals’ tricks, and the free-flying birds in the Bird Show left us all in awe.
- Keeper Talks: Throughout the day, zookeepers provide informative talks about the animals. My family particularly enjoyed the talk about the zoo’s efforts in wildlife conservation.
Services and Amenities:
The zoo has plenty of rest areas, clean restrooms, and cafes that cater to families. We stopped for lunch at the Taronga Food Market, which offers a variety of kid-friendly meals. There are also picnic areas, so packing your own lunch is an option if you prefer.
Pros:
- Stunning harbor views from various points in the zoo.
- Wide variety of animals from all over the world.
- Family-friendly activities, including the Wild Ropes course.
Cons:
- The zoo is spread over a large area, so be prepared for a lot of walking. Strollers are available for hire, but if you’re traveling with very young children, this is something to keep in mind.
Discounts and Ticketing:
I booked our tickets online through the zoo’s official website, which offered a family discount. If you’re planning to visit during the school holidays, I recommend booking early, as it can get quite busy. There are also combo tickets available that include ferry transportation, making it a convenient and cost-effective option.
Recommended Rating: 9/10
Taronga Zoo is a fantastic family day out that offers something for all ages, from toddlers to grandparents. It’s educational, entertaining, and located in one of the most beautiful spots in Sydney.
1.2. Luna Park Sydney: A Carnival of Fun
If your family loves thrilling rides, carnival games, and that classic amusement park atmosphere, Luna Park Sydney is the place to go. Situated at Milsons Point, right on Sydney Harbour, this historic amusement park has been delighting families since the 1930s.
Location and How to Get There:
Luna Park is easily accessible by train, ferry, or bus. From Circular Quay, you can take a quick ferry ride across the harbor, which drops you right at the entrance. Alternatively, you can take a train to Milsons Point Station, which is a short walk from the park.
My Experience:
My kids and I had an absolute blast at Luna Park. The first thing that caught our attention was the giant smiling face at the entrance, which sets the tone for the fun that awaits inside. The park has a mix of rides for all ages, from the tame to the downright terrifying.
For younger children, there’s the whimsical Carousel and the Ferris Wheel, which offers stunning views of the city and the harbor. My kids spent a lot of time on the Dodgem Cars, laughing hysterically as they bumped into each other. For older kids (and parents who love a thrill), the Wild Mouse roller coaster and the Hair Raiser drop ride provide plenty of excitement.
Entertainment and Activities:
- Carnival Games: No trip to Luna Park is complete without trying your hand at the classic carnival games. My kids were determined to win a giant stuffed animal, and while we didn’t succeed, the fun was in the trying.
- Coney Island: This indoor funhouse is filled with slides, mirror mazes, and other quirky attractions that brought out the kid in all of us. It’s a great way to spend time if the weather isn’t ideal.
Services and Amenities:
Luna Park is well-equipped for families, with restrooms, stroller-friendly pathways, and plenty of seating areas. There are several food stands offering everything from pizza and burgers to cotton candy and ice cream. We had lunch at the Hungry Horse Cafe, where the menu had plenty of options for picky eaters.
Pros:
- Beautiful location on Sydney Harbour.
- A wide variety of rides and games for all ages.
- Nostalgic, old-school amusement park vibe.
Cons:
- It can get crowded, especially on weekends and during school holidays.
- Some of the rides have long wait times, so be prepared to queue.
Discounts and Ticketing:
I recommend purchasing tickets online in advance, as there are often deals for families and discounted multi-ride passes. We opted for the Unlimited Rides Pass, which gave us access to all the rides for the entire day, making it the best value for money.
Recommended Rating: 8.5/10
Luna Park Sydney is a fantastic choice for a fun-filled family day. The mix of rides, games, and its prime location on Sydney Harbour makes it a memorable experience for both kids and parents.
1.3. Sydney Sea Life Aquarium: An Underwater Adventure
The Sydney Sea Life Aquarium is located at Darling Harbour, and it’s a mesmerizing world of marine life that captivates both kids and adults alike. From sharks and stingrays to colorful coral reefs and penguins, this aquarium offers a deep dive into the wonders of the ocean.
Location and How to Get There:
The aquarium is located at Darling Harbour, which is a short walk from Town Hall Station. You can also take a ferry to Darling Harbour Wharf or a light rail from various parts of the city. If you’re driving, there are parking lots nearby, but I found public transport to be the most convenient option.
My Experience:
My family and I were amazed by the variety of sea creatures on display. The highlight for my kids was the Shark Valley exhibit, where a glass tunnel takes you through an underwater world filled with sharks and rays swimming overhead. My personal favorite was the Great Barrier Reef exhibit, which recreates the vibrant colors and diversity of one of the world’s most famous natural wonders.
The aquarium is well-laid out, with different zones dedicated to various marine ecosystems. We spent several hours here, and my kids were particularly fascinated by the hands-on interactive exhibits in the Discovery Rockpool, where they could touch starfish and sea cucumbers.
Entertainment and Educational Activities:
- Penguin Expedition: This is an indoor boat ride that takes you through a chilly Antarctic-themed exhibit, where you get up close to a colony of king and gentoo penguins. My kids were thrilled by the playful penguins swimming and waddling around.
- Dugong Island: Here, you can meet Pig the Dugong, one of the aquarium’s most beloved residents. Learning about this gentle sea cow and the conservation efforts in place to protect dugongs was both educational and heartwarming.
Services and Amenities:
The aquarium has plenty of family-friendly facilities, including baby change rooms, pram parking, and a cafe offering light snacks and meals. There’s also a gift shop at the exit, where we couldn’t resist picking up a few marine-themed souvenirs.
Pros:
- Interactive exhibits that engage kids and adults alike.
- A chance to see a wide variety of marine life, from sharks to penguins.
- Convenient location at Darling Harbour, close to other attractions.
Cons:
- It can get quite busy, particularly during weekends and school holidays.
- Some areas are a bit cramped, especially if you’re visiting with a stroller.
Discounts and Ticketing:
I booked our tickets through the aquarium’s website, which offered a family ticket discount. There are also combo deals that include entry to nearby attractions like Madame Tussauds and Wild Life Sydney Zoo, which can save you money if you’re planning to visit multiple places.
Recommended Rating: 9/10
The Sydney Sea Life Aquarium is a must-visit for families who love marine life. It’s educational, visually stunning, and offers plenty of interactive experiences that make learning about the ocean fun for kids.
2. Recommended Family Activities in Sydney
While the activities I’ve experienced firsthand were fantastic, Sydney has so much more to offer for families. Below are four more activities I highly recommend for a fun day out with kids.
2.1. The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney
Located just next to the Sydney Opera House, the Royal Botanic Garden is a peaceful green space that’s perfect for families who want to enjoy nature without leaving the city.
Location and How to Get There:
The garden is located at Mrs Macquarie’s Road, Sydney, and is easily accessible by foot from Circular Quay. You can also take a bus or train to Circular Quay Station, then enjoy a short walk to the gardens.
Entertainment and Activities:
- Cali Dreaming Playground: A unique, nature-themed playground that will keep younger kids entertained for hours.
- The Calyx: A beautiful, rotating exhibition space that showcases art inspired by nature. Perfect for a quiet family stroll.
- Picnic Spots: There are plenty of grassy areas where you can lay out a picnic and enjoy a meal with the family. I recommend packing your own snacks for an affordable family day out.
Recommended Rating: 8/10
The Royal Botanic Garden is ideal for a relaxing day with kids, and its proximity to the Opera House makes it easy to incorporate into a day of sightseeing.
2.2. Darling Harbour Playground and Tumbalong Park
Darling Harbour’s massive playground is one of Sydney’s best family-friendly attractions. With water features, climbing structures, and slides, it’s a child’s paradise.
Location and How to Get There:
Located at Darling Harbour, this playground is easily accessible by train, ferry, or bus. It’s a short walk from most central city locations.
Recommended Rating: 8.5/10
If you’re looking for a place where kids can burn off energy while parents relax, this playground is perfect.
Sydney is a city filled with opportunities for family fun, and these activities are just the beginning. Whether you’re visiting with toddlers, teens, or grandparents, you’re sure to find something that suits your family’s needs.