25 Best Things to Do in Sydney with Kids

The Australian Museum isn't just Australia's oldest museum, it's a time machine through 200 million years of history, wrapped in stunning architecture right in the heart of Sydney's CBD. For families, this is where natural history meets hands-on discovery. Kids can come face-to-face with dinosaur skeletons (the T. rex is a crowd favourite), explore mineral collections that sparkle under the lights, and wander through Indigenous Australian exhibits that bring 65,000+ years of culture to life through art, tools, and storytelling. The museum's permanent collections are vast, but the rotating exhibitions keep it fresh, whether it's giant spiders, ancient Egypt, or climate science, there's always something new to spark curiosity.

What makes the Australian Museum brilliant for families is how it balances education with genuine wonder. Younger kids love the tactile displays and interactive screens, while older children and teens engage with deeper scientific and cultural content. The museum doesn't talk down to kids or overwhelm them—it invites exploration at your own pace. For families who have children with special needs or those with sensory sensitivities, the Early Birds program is a game-changer: reduced sensory sessions run before the museum opens to the wider public, with adjusted lighting and sound, limited visitors, a designated quiet area, and staff trained in autism awareness. These sessions include "Ask a Scientist" interactive tables and café access for an early morning treat in a calm, supportive environment. It's thoughtfully designed, welcoming, and won the 2024 NSW Premier's Award for driving diversity in the public sector—proof that inclusivity done well makes experiences better for everyone. Plan for 2-3 hours minimum (you could easily spend longer), and the Museum Shop has quality science kits and books if you're looking for meaningful souvenirs. Located near Hyde Park, it pairs perfectly with a picnic afterward or a wander through the city. Rainy day? This is your answer. 

For an all weather indoor activity, you can't go past a visit to SEA LIFE Sydney. Allow at least 90 minutes for your visit, but with the mesmerising exhibits and the many play areas designed to engage the children in the underwater world and its conservation, you could spend a few hours here if you get your timings right!

Highlights include Pig the Dugong, the Penguin Expedition boat ride and exhibit to see and learn about Antarctica as well as the King and Gentoo Penguins. You'll also encounter some of the world's largest sharks as you walk through the aquarium tunnels. We found this easily accessible via Darling Harbour and the CBD, there's plenty to see and do in the surrounds. 

Open in the warmer months, Raging Waters goes off with the summer head in full swing, and is the OG for tweens and teens. Located a half hour from the airport and 40 minutes from Sydney CBD, you'll be lapping up the good-times with over 40 rides, slides and attractions. 

Younger children will enjoy the Beach Wave Pool, Dinosaur Lagoon, Junior Slides and splash pads. Plenty of slide and tube action for the big kids with great friendly staff on duty and a variety of tasty food options for lunch, this has all the ingredients for a memorable day out! Remember to get in early to get the jump on the lines. 

The Ian Potter Children's Wild Play Garden in Centennial Park is a must-visit for families with younger children under 9 years.

The garden is designed to encourage children to explore, climb, and play in a natural environment. There are tunnels to crawl through, rocks to climb, and even a water play area. It's a great way for kids to connect with nature and burn off some energy.

The Australian National Maritime Museum is a fascinating place for families to learn about Australia's maritime history. The museum has a range of permanent exhibits, from historic ships to interactive displays, which are free to discover. Children can explore submarines and climb aboard a tall ship. There's something for everyone at this museum. We spent hour's here and also lucky enough to time it with the Lego Brick Wrecks interactive exhibit. 

Just an hour from Sydney CBD or Newcastle, the Australian Reptile Park is a Central Coast icon offering up-close encounters with over 2,000 animals in a gorgeous natural bush setting.

Cuddle up to koalas, feed kangaroos, and come face-to-face with Australia’s crankiest croc, Elvis! Discover their groundbreaking Venom Show, learn about their lifesaving antivenom program, and meet adorable baby animals in their daily shows—all included in your visit.

Plan your trip around special holiday events and snap a photo with Ploddy the dinosaur, Australia’s first “Big Thing,” visible just before the Gosford exit.

With a main track and a mini track for 3 to 8 year olds, Hyper Karting in Moore Park in Sydney's CBD is the perfect activity for high energy children, or those who love a thrill. With electric go-karts that can reach speeds of up to 80km/h, it's an adrenaline fuelled experience that's sure to get hearts racing. The track is designed with safety in mind, so parents can relax while their kids enjoy the ride. 

The architecture and location of Sydney's Luna Park alone offer sights to see. Luna Park and its timeless amusements are a must for family FUN!

Discover Coney Island and Sideshow Games plus the modern day thrill rides we're all familiar with. All ages are covered with a selection to suit both fun-lovers and thrill-seekers. The fun doesn't stop with the amusements, you can refuel with nostalgic style classics like dagwood dogs, hot chips, fairy floss, churros, donuts and hot dogs. 

Forget theme parks and pretend pirate ships this is the real deal. Set sail aboard an authentic tall ship (either the Southern Swan or the magnificent Soren Larsen) for a swashbuckling adventure that combines genuine maritime history with theatrical pirate mayhem on Sydney Harbour. Come dressed as pirates (prizes for best costumes!) and join Captain Pineapple and his crew for 90 minutes of explosive, interactive adventure where YOU become part of the story. Help hoist the jolly roger, set the sails, find the gold, and fire the cannons this isn't passive entertainment, you're essential to how the adventure unfolds.

The magic happens when the sails fill with wind and the engine cuts out. Kids can get hands-on with real sailing (hoisting sails on an actual tall ship!), while parents who prefer to observe can find a comfortable spot with harbour views and enjoy the entertainment. It's the perfect blend of education and adventure kids think they're just being pirates, but they're learning about maritime history, teamwork, and navigation. Perfect for families with kids 4+, birthday parties, or anyone who wants to turn "another Sydney Harbour cruise" into an unforgettable adventure.

There's a reason Taronga Zoo consistently ranks as one of Sydney's most beloved family attractions—it's not just a zoo, it's a full day of adventure wrapped in spectacular harbour views. Home to over 5,000 animals from across the globe, Taronga delivers up-close encounters with tigers, elephants, giraffes, kangaroos, and rare species you won't see anywhere else in Australia. But here's what sets it apart: the setting. Perched on the shores of Sydney Harbour, you'll spot koalas with the Opera House backdrop and watch seals play with ferries gliding past in the distance. The journey itself is half the magic—catch a scenic ferry from Circular Quay or Darling Harbour, and you've already started the adventure before you even arrive.

What makes Taronga special for families is the combination of world-class animal care, engaging keeper talks and live shows, and the freedom to explore at your own pace. Make it a quick morning visit or settle in for a full day—there's no wrong way to do it. The zoo's sloped terrain means you're constantly discovering new viewpoints (and getting a workout without realizing it). Want to make it truly unforgettable? Taronga's Wildlife Retreat offers overnight stays where you wake up to animal calls and harbor sunrise—it's on our personal bucket list for a special occasion with our kids. Whether it's your first visit or your tenth, Taronga never gets old.

One of the smartest ways to explore Sydney with kids? On two wheels. We're big believers in bike tours when visiting a new city, they're the perfect antidote to jet lag, let you cover serious ground in a short time, and give restless kids a chance to stretch their legs while actually seeing something. This 2.5-hour guided tour hits all the iconic landmarks: Opera House, Circular Quay, Barangaroo, Darling Harbour, Chinatown, Hyde Park's Anzac Memorial, and Mrs Macquarie's Chair. By the end, you'll actually understand where things are in relation to each other, a game-changer for the rest of your trip.

What makes bike tours brilliant for families is the Goldilocks factor: not too slow (walking with tired kids), not too fast (bus whizzing past), but just right for absorbing what you're seeing while keeping everyone engaged. Kids stay interested because they're actively doing something, and a knowledgeable guide shares stories that transform landmarks from "pretty building" into "oh, THAT'S why it matters." Sydney's relatively flat harbor foreshore makes it genuinely accessible for confident young riders. Book this early in your trip—once you've got your bearings, you can revisit the spots that intrigued you most.

Visit Australia’s most famous beach — Bondi Beach! 🌊☀️ Beloved by locals and tourists alike (and yes, the stars of Bondi Rescue), this iconic stretch of sand is buzzing with energy and adventure. It’s easy to see why families flock here, soft sand for building castles, gentle waves perfect for paddling or a surf lesson, and a lively promenade for soaking up the scene. If your kids are glued to Bondi Rescue and dream of being mini lifeguards, they’ll love seeing all the action in real life!

And when you’re ready to burn off a bit more energy, take a stroll along the breathtaking Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk — it’s the perfect way to end a sun-soaked family day out. Or for a special treat for your teenager, why not book them in for a surf lesson on this famous break!

If your kids thrive on adrenaline and you're looking for a Sydney Harbour experience that's the polar opposite of "gentle scenic cruise," strap in for Thunder Jet. This isn't a leisurely float past the Opera House—it's a 30-minute high-speed thrill ride that turns Sydney Harbour into a waterborne rollercoaster. The jet boat hits speeds of up to 80km/h, complete with 360-degree spins, fish-tails, and wave-riding that'll have everyone screaming (the good kind). You'll blast past iconic landmarks—Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Fort Denison, Luna Park—but you'll be moving too fast to admire the architecture. That's kind of the point.

Perfect for tweens, teens, and any parent who misses the rush of theme park rides, Thunder Jet delivers pure fun without the queues or sugar crashes. Kids must be at least 1.2m tall (roughly 4-5 years old, depending on the child), and everyone gets kitted out in waterproof gear because yes, you will get wet. The crew is experienced, safety-conscious, and excellent at hyping up the energy without being obnoxious. Book an afternoon slot if you can—the harbour glows golden in late sun, and the photos are spectacular. Fair warning: this is loud, fast, and not ideal for nervous kids or anyone prone to motion sickness. But for families who love a good thrill? Absolutely unforgettable.

Taking a ferry to Manly is not only a great way to see the sights of Sydney Harbour, but it's also a fun day out for the whole family. Once in Manly, there are plenty of shops, cafes and restaurants to explore, as well as the beautiful Manly Beach. Children can play in the sand, swim in the netted beach, or even try their hand at surfing. The Manly Surf n Slide is also a great option for kids, with water slides and pools for all ages.

Standing 268 metres above Sydney's CBD, Sydney Tower Eye is the city's tallest structure—and the view from the observation deck is genuinely breathtaking. On a clear day, you can see for 80km in every direction: the harbour glittering below, the Blue Mountains in the distance, endless coastline stretching north and south, and the entire city grid laid out like a map. It's the kind of view that makes even jaded teenagers put down their phones for a minute. The 4D cinema experience adds context before you ascend, but honestly, the real magic is standing at the windows and picking out landmarks you've visited from ground level. Kids love the glass floor panels (adults... less so). 

 Here's what elevates it (pun intended): SkyFeast, Sydney's highest revolving buffet restaurant. While you dine, the entire floor slowly rotates 360 degrees, giving you a complete panoramic tour of Sydney 82 floors below—no need to fight for window seats, everyone gets the full view over the course of your meal. The contemporary Australian buffet features over 30 international dishes including fresh seafood, international flavours, and desserts that genuinely impress. Best part for families? Kids eat free during special promotion periods (check their website for current offers—this alone makes it incredibly good value). Book a guaranteed window table for lunch or dinner, and you've just turned an ordinary Sydney day into something extraordinary. Perfect for celebrating birthdays, treating visiting grandparents, or making memories that don't involve another playground. The city lights coming on at sunset while you're dining 268m up? Genuinely magical. 

When Sydney's weather turns, or you've simply had enough of walking, Entermission offers an escape into fully immersive experiences that blend virtual reality, physical challenges, and interactive gaming. Located in the CBD on Kent Street (just behind EVENT Cinemas on George Street), this is your rainy-day ace in the hole. Unlike home VR setups where you're tethered to a single spot, Entermission gives you free-roam experiences in large, tracked spaces—meaning you can actually walk around, explore, and interact with virtual worlds as a team. Choose from adventures like Hologate Arena (fast-paced multiplayer games), Hyper Reality experiences (think zombie apocalypse survival or space station missions), or the absolute standout: Floor is Lava, which transforms the childhood game into a physical adventure course where projection-mapped lava surrounds obstacle courses, platforms, and challenges you navigate against the clock.

Floor is Lava is the genius hybrid: part ninja warrior course, part video game brought to life, entirely brilliant for burning energy indoors. Kids (5+) and adults alike get competitive jumping between platforms, solving challenges, and racing while avoiding the "lava" below—different zones and difficulty levels mean younger children aren't overwhelmed and older kids aren't bored. Other VR experiences cater to tweens and teens (minimum age varies, usually 8+), and parents can participate too (highly recommended—watching is nowhere near as fun as playing). Sessions run 15-60 minutes depending on the experience, so you can slot it into your day without losing half your schedule. Staff are excellent at matching experiences to your group's age and comfort level. Located right in the heart of the CBD, it pairs perfectly with EVENT Cinemas for a full rainy-day double feature. Pro tip: book in advance, especially during school holidays—sessions fill up fast, and walk-ins often face long waits. Pack water bottles (especially for Floor is Lava—kids will be sweaty and happy), and maybe schedule something calm afterward. It's not cheap, but it's the kind of next-level experience kids will rave about for weeks.

We timed our trip with the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, however Sydney hosts plenty of events and festivals throughout the year with Sydney Festival in January and Vivid Sydney May through to June offering music, theatre, dance and visual arts. During April you can catch the Sydney Royal Easter Show covering two-weeks of livestock competitions, carnival rides and food stalls. During winter try Bondi Winter Magic with ice-skating, outdoor cinema and other winter activities. Spring time brings Sydney Children’s Festival in October followed by Sculpture by the Sea, an annual outdoor sculpture exhibition held in October and November along the coastal walk from Bondi extending through to Tamarama Beaches.

Visit the Grounds of Alexandria for a whimsical treat!  A place abundant with delicious food options with ample outdoor seating for families to eat and allow some freedom for children to play. We love the kid friendly fun here with animals giant sandpit and interactive installations that are often changing.

Madame Tussauds Sydney brings the world's most famous wax museum to Darling Harbour, and it's exactly the kind of silly, Instagram-friendly fun families need in their Sydney itinerary. The collection features Aussie icons (Hugh Jackman, Nicole Kidman, Steve Irwin), global superstars (Taylor Swift, BTS, Marvel heroes), and historical figures kids actually recognise from school. Unlike traditional museums where touching is forbidden, here you're encouraged to interact—drape an arm around Ryan Reynolds, sit with the Royal Family, strike a superhero pose with Spider-Man. The wax figures are eerily lifelike, which makes for hilarious photo ops and inevitable debates about who looks most realistic.

The newest arrival? K-Pop superstar Jackson Wang has just landed at Madame Tussauds Sydney, joining the museum's growing K-Pop collection. If you've got a BTS-obsessed tween or a K-drama fan in the family, this is their moment. The museum is designed as a self-guided experience—you wander through themed zones at your own pace, snap as many photos as you like, and genuinely have fun being a bit ridiculous. It's not educational in the traditional sense, but it sparks conversations ("Who even is that?" / "How did they make the hair so realistic?") and gives everyone permission to be playful. Located in Darling Harbour, it pairs perfectly with SEA LIFE or WILD LIFE Zoo for a full day out. Rainy day? Absolutely ideal. Just embrace the cheese—it's part of the charm.

The Queen Victoria Building, or QVB, is  a historic shopping center in the heart of Sydney. It's a stunningly unique building, with an array of unique  shops and cafes to explore. Families can take a leisurely stroll through the shops, browse for souveniers and then stop for brunch at one of the many cafes. It's a great way to spend a slower paced morning or afternoon with the children. 

The Rocks is where Sydney began—literally. This historic harbourside precinct, tucked beneath the southern approach to the Harbour Bridge, is a maze of cobblestone streets, sandstone colonial buildings, tucked-away laneways, and some of the best harbour views you'll find outside of a ferry. For families, it's one of those rare places where wandering aimlessly is actually the plan. Explore the weekend markets (Saturdays and Sundays) for handmade crafts, local art, and street food. Visit Cadmans Cottage, Sydney's oldest surviving residential building (1816), or simply get deliberately lost in the laneways discovering hidden cafes, bookshops, and galleries. The Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) is right next door—free entry, family-friendly programs on weekends, and rooftop views worth the visit alone.

What makes The Rocks special is how it balances history with modern Sydney energy. You're standing on streets where convicts walked in the 1700s, but there's also excellent coffee, gelato shops kids actually want to visit, and harbourfront restaurants perfect for a family lunch with a view. For older kids and tweens (10+), book one of the after-dark experiences: the Ghost Tour brings colonial history to life through spooky storytelling in historic laneways (atmospheric, not terrifying), or the True Crime Tour dives into Sydney's darker past with theatrical guides who make history genuinely gripping. Both tours are engaging without being inappropriate for families—think educational theatre rather than horror show. The Rocks works equally well as a quick morning wander or a full-day exploration combined with Circular Quay, the Opera House, or a ferry ride. Either way, you'll leave with that rare feeling of having discovered something special in plain sight.

ctive smart room designed to offer immersive experiences from popular games, such as Squid Games, Black Mirror Careers, Tetris 1991, Angry Birds, Paw Patrol, Ghostbusters and more.

Suitable for all ages and experience levels, this attraction is perfect for families looking to bond over innovative games and challenges.

Cockatoo Island is one of Sydney's best-kept secrets—a UNESCO World Heritage site sitting right in the middle of Sydney Harbour that most tourists completely miss. Accessible via a short, free ferry ride from Circular Quay (kids love ferries, and this one's included in regular Opal card transport), the island is a fascinating blend of convict history, industrial heritage, and sprawling open spaces where children can actually run wild. Explore the old convict-era buildings, wander through massive industrial workshops and shipyard ruins, duck into tunnels carved by convicts in the 1800s, and let kids scramble over old cranes and machinery (safely fenced, don't worry). There's a genuine sense of discovery here—it feels like exploring abandoned ruins, except it's all sanctioned and family-friendly.

What makes Cockatoo Island brilliant is the freedom it offers. Unlike most Sydney attractions, there are no queues, no crowds, no gift shops pressuring you to buy overpriced souvenirs. Pack a picnic (BYO everything—there's a small cafe, but it's limited), spread out on the harbour-facing lawns, and let the kids explore while you soak in views of the Harbour Bridge and city skyline. The island even offers camping and glamping if you want to make it an overnight adventure (waking up on the harbour is pretty magical). Audio tours are available for history buffs, or you can just wander and let the island reveal itself. Perfect for families who love exploring off the beaten path, need space after crowded attractions, or want a uniquely Sydney experience that doesn't feel touristy. And did we mention the ferry ride? Always a hit.