INSIDE: Everything you need to know about things to do in Sydney with kids.
Sydney Australia is one of our favourite cities for kids in the world.
And there’s thousands of reasons why.
The views of the harbour are spectacular.
The National Parks are sublime.
The Sydney attractions for kids are so varied, and there’s something for everyone of all ages.
But mostly, it’s the good weather, the friendly people, and the Sydney atmosphere.
Sydney is electric! (and we love it)
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3 Best Things to do in Sydney with Kids
Correct at time of publication on Roam the Gnome. Please check with venue for updates. We apologise in advance if there have been any changes we are unaware of. All prices in AUD dollars, unless otherwise stated
No.1: Best Sydney Bike Tracks for Kids
Ride your scooters or bikes around the fun Sydney Park Bike Track
Here’s another cool bike track in Sydney – Brightmore Reserve kids bike park
No.2: Art Deco Cinema Cremorne
See a movie at this retro cinema – The Hayden Orpheum in Cremorne
Bring money for the candy bar so you can buy all the jaffas.
No.3: See a Musical at Capitol Theatre Sydney
Take the kids to see a musical show at the heritage-listed Capitol Theatre in Sydney.
Our last visit, we watched Aladdin, the most sumptuous stage production we’ve ever been lucky enough to watch!
We were also lucky enough to see the musical Cats, with Delta Goodrem in the title role.
No.4: Circular Quay
Head down to Circular Quay to see the harbour ferries, and the street entertainers!
(If you are headed that way, you can catch a Sydney ferry from here to Taronga Zoo. )
Visiting Circular Quay is one of the best free kids activities in Sydney too.
All you need is an ice cream treat!
No.5: Luna Park
There’s lots of fun rides & attractions for kids here.
Don’t miss the old school wooden slides, and carnival hall!
It’s unchanged since the 1950’s, and LOADS of fun!
No.6: Darling Harbour
One of Sydney’s most popular precinct for families, with a top notch playground (Tumbalong Park), water splash pad, children’s theatre, plus loads of family friendly restaurants and cafes.
Darling Harbour celebration space and leisure complex is home to Madame Tussauds, Sea Life Sydney Aquarium, and WildLife Sydney too. Learn about native Australian wildlife such as koalas, kangaroos, snakes, reptiles, and Australian ocean life here.
(These animal zoos are two of the best things to do with toddlers in Sydney)
Chinatown Sydney is just a few minutes walk away. Check out Paddy’s Market and the Chinese Garden of Friendship there too.
The famous Sydney pie shop, Harry’s Cafe de Wheels at Darling Harbour can be found here too.
The Sydney Powerhouse Museum is a hop skip and a jump away also, perfect for older kids.
Best Museums and Art Galleries in Sydney for Kids
No.1: Art Gallery of NSW Kids Activities
There’s FREE school holiday activities plus more all year round at the Art Gallery of NSW in the CBD
Hot tip: Go shopping at the New South Wales Art Gallery shop for the best Australian souvenirs for design lovers including coffee table books, socks, scarves & more.
While you are there, wander the Royal Botanic Gardens to see the Sydney Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge views, and Hyde Park Barracks.
No.2: Museum of Fire Penrith
The Museum of Fire in Sydney showcases all things fire-department.
It’s home to model fire trucks, helmets, and uniforms too.
AND a dedicated children’s play space.
No.3: National Maritime Museum
Visit this museum to climb aboard a submarine, go down into the holding area of a replica tall ship, and find lots of hands on activities for Sydney kids inside.
Best Playgrounds in Sydney for Kids
No.1: Pirrama Park playground
There’s a water park at Pirrama Park playground and views of the water too.
It’s just up the road from the Star Casino.
A hidden treasure, with a giant sand pit water course too.
BYO sand pit toys.
No.2: Enmore Park Sydney
Climb the Rocket Ship in Enmore Park Marrickville
Bring swimmers and towels for a dip in the pool next door too.
No.3: Prince Alfred Park playground
Prince Alfred playground has ADORABLE play equipment for toddlers.
There’s an elephant to slide down!
Plus HEAPS of playground equipment and sports courts for kids of all ages, including this epic slippery dip.
No.4: Wulaba Playground
Whizz down the gigantic slide at Wulaba Park playground in Waterloo Sydney
This is a hidden gem, known only to locals and few others.
Bring your hats and sunscreen. It’s hot.
No.5: Sydney Park playground
Enjoy a day out at Sydney Park playground near the heritage chimney stacks.
It’s a nature scape where the playground is surrounded by natural landscapes, and designed with the colours of the history of this place in mind.
No. 6: Tunks Park playground
Check out all the fun play equipment at Tunks Park playground
It’s another hidden secret in Sydney, with two popular bushwalking tracks suitable for kids nearby.
Best Places to Swim in Sydney with kids
Wondering where to swim in Sydney with children in tow?
Check out these safe places to swim in Sydney with kids.
No.1: Malabar Rock Pool Sydney
The Malabar Beach rock pool is a iconic place to swim with kids.
It’s our number one rock pool in Sydney for kids.
No.2: Parsley Bay Beach Sydney
Take a look at the ultimate guide to Parsley Bay Reserve for families and kids.
This is another flat water beach surrounded by beautiful Sydney bush.
No.3: Prince Alfred Park Pool
The best splash pad for toddlers in Sydney is at the Prince Alfred Pool!
Combine a visit to the pool with a stop at the Prince Alfred playground (link in playgrounds section above)
No.4: Camp Cove Beach Sydney
How to get to Camp Cove, Sydney’s prettiest beach.
It’s like a tropical island, only better, as it’s just minutes from the Sydney CBD.
No.5: More of the Best Sydney Harbour Beaches for Kids
Check out this guide to the BEST Sydney Harbour Beaches for children and families.
There’s a whole bunch of cute coves and bays to discover around the Vaucluse area.
Eating in Sydney with Kids
No.1: Emperor Puffs Sydney
If you are visiting Chinatown, join the queue for mouth-watering hot Cream Puffs at Emperor’s Garden Sydney
Be sure to eat them while they are HOT!
No.2: Sofitel Sydney High Tea
Looking for high tea in Sydney?
There’s themed extravaganzas for High Tea at the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth hotel for groups and families too.
The guide also includes a list of MORE of the best high teas in Sydney, and unique high tea experiences too.
RELATED: Ultimate Guide to the BEST Australian Food gifts for family, friends, & foodies
Best Sydney Events
No.1: Christmas Carols in the Domain Sydney
At Christmas time, do not miss Carols in the Domain
It’s our favourite yearly tradition in the festive season school holidays to get us in the spirit!
Looking for MORE THINGS TO DO IN SYDNEY WITH KIDS?
Check out these Sydney tours and attractions in the city.