Planning a family trip to Sydney and not sure where to begin? You are in the right place. Sydney is one of Australia’s best destinations for families. To help you plan your trip, we have put together this guide featuring some of the best things to do in Sydney with kids. From iconic landmarks and beautiful beaches to wildlife parks, there are plenty of places where the whole family can have fun together.
Why Sydney Is Perfect for a Family Trip
Attractions for Every Age
Sydney has attractions for all ages. Families with young children, older kids, and teenagers will all find plenty of fun things to do.
Easy to Get Around
Many of the city’s top attractions are close to each other and easy to reach. This makes it simple to explore more places without spending too much time travelling.
Great for Outdoor Adventures
Sydney’s climate makes outdoor activities enjoyable. Families can spend time at the beach, explore coastal walks, visit parks and gardens, or take a ferry across the harbour.
Ideal for Any Length of Stay
Sydney is easy to explore, no matter how long you are visiting. You can fit several attractions into a day, enjoy a weekend getaway, or spend a full week discovering different parts of the city.
What Are the Best Things to Do in Sydney with Kids?
1. Circular Quay and the Sydney Harbour Foreshore
Circular Quay is a great place to begin your family trip. You can see the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge up close, watch ferries come and go, and enjoy an easy walk along the waterfront. There are also cafes nearby if you want to stop for a meal or snack.
2. Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk
This scenic coastal walk takes you past beaches, ocean pools, and beautiful views of the coastline. Along the way, you can stop at Tamarama Beach for a snack or let the kids enjoy the playground at Bronte Beach. It is one of the best free family activities in the city.
3. Taronga Zoo
Taronga Zoo is home to Australian wildlife as well as animals from around the world. Families can enjoy keeper talks, animal encounters, and daily shows.
4. WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo
Located in Darling Harbour, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo is a great place to see Australian animals, including koalas, kangaroos, wombats, platypus, and crocodiles. SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium is right next door, so it is easy to visit both attractions in one day.
5. Darling Harbour Playground
Darling Harbour is one of the best family-friendly areas in Sydney. The Darling Quarter playground has slides, swings, climbing equipment, and a flying fox that children love. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby.
6. Luna Park
Luna Park is one of Sydney’s most famous attractions for families. It has classic rides, carnival games, and a historic fun house. The Ferris wheel also offers great views of Sydney Harbour.
7. Walk Across the Sydney Harbour Bridge
Walking across the Sydney Harbour Bridge is a fun and free activity for the whole family. Along the way, you can enjoy harbour views and stop at the Pylon Lookout to learn more about the bridge’s history.
8. Royal Botanic Garden Sydney
The Royal Botanic Garden is a peaceful place where kids can run around while adults enjoy the harbour views. It is also a great spot for a picnic and a visit to Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, which is one of Sydney’s best photo locations.
9. Ferry to Manly
A ferry ride to Manly is highly recommended to see Sydney Harbour. Once you arrive, you can walk to Manly Beach, enjoy an ice cream, or visit the quieter Shelly Beach nearby.
10. Sydney Tower Eye
Sydney Tower Eye offers panoramic views across the city, harbour, and surrounding areas. Families with older children can also try the Skywalk for an outdoor experience high above the city.
11. Cockatoo Island
Cockatoo Island combines history with outdoor exploration. Kids can discover old buildings, join a family-friendly history tour, or complete a self-guided activity while exploring the island.
12. Surfing Lessons at Bondi Beach
Bondi Beach is a popular place for beginners to learn how to surf. Lessons are available for children and adults, making it a fun activity for families looking to try something new.
13. Chinese Garden of Friendship
This quiet garden in Darling Harbour features ponds, waterfalls, bridges, and winding paths. You can pick up a map at the entrance and explore the garden at your own pace.
14. Australian National Maritime Museum
This interactive museum lets families explore real historic ships and even step inside a submarine. It is a fun way for children to learn about Australia’s maritime history.
15. Sydney Tall Ship Harbour Cruise
A tall ship cruise offers a different way to experience Sydney Harbour. Families can enjoy harbour views by sailing on a traditional wooden ship that looks like those used in the 1800s.
16. Museum of Contemporary Art Australia
The Museum of Contemporary Art offers family workshops and creative activities throughout the year. Even if you do not join a session, it is worth visiting during Vivid Sydney to see the colourful light displays.
Vivid Sydney is an annual festival celebrating light, music, ideas, and food that runs for 23 days. The next event will take place from 28 May to 19 June 2027, transforming the city with colourful light installations, projection art, live music, and culinary experiences. The lights switch on from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm, making it a great time to explore Sydney after dark.
17. High Tea at the QVB Tea Room
For a special family treat, enjoy high tea at the Tea Room inside the Queen Victoria Building. Children can enjoy cakes, pastries, and sandwiches while taking in the beautiful historic surroundings.
Tips for Visiting Sydney with Kids
Start Your Day Early
Popular attractions like Taronga Zoo, Circular Quay, and Bondi Beach can get busy, especially during weekends and school holidays. Arriving early gives you more time to explore and helps you avoid large crowds.
Bring Sunscreen, Water, Swimmers and Towels
Sydney’s weather can be warm, even outside summer. Pack sunscreen, refillable water bottles, and hats to help everyone stay comfortable when exploring the city. Bringing swimmers and towels also makes it easy to enjoy a swim along the way.
Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes
Sydney’s top attractions are best explored on foot. Comfortable shoes will make it easier to enjoy coastal walks, gardens, parks, and the city’s waterfront areas.
Book Popular Attractions in Advance
If you are visiting during school holidays or peak travel periods, book attractions and tours ahead of time. This gives you more choice of dates and entry times, especially for popular family attractions.
Conclusion
Sydney is a fantastic destination for families. In this city, there is something for every age and interest.
To help you get more out of your time, Ready Steady Tour offers an easy way to explore the city’s highlights without organising everything yourself. We offer private tours that let you discover the city’s top attractions at your own pace.
To learn more or book a tour, call 0434 136 329 or complete our online form. Our Sydney tour guide will be happy to help you plan a family day out that suits your interests and schedule.
