According to the Australian tourism industry, Sydney is the most visited city in Australia. There’s much to do and see in Sydney for everyone in the family – amazing entertainment options, nightlife, fabulous sights and food. Here are 18 great things you can do with your family in Sydney for free.
1. Enjoy Great Bargains At China Town
Fight for great bargains at Paddy’s Markets in China Town. Enjoy a close-up look at one of the most influential cultures in Australia. China Town is a unique experience, especially in the evenings with the bright lanterns.
2. Explore Star City Casino
Even if you’re not into gambling, the Star City Casino is worth exploring. Sit at one of the free bars inside and watch people lose money hand over fist.
3. Take The Famous Bondi Beach To Coogee Walk
For the most amazing coastal views you ever saw, this is a must-take 6-kilometer long walk. Start at the southern end of Bondi Beach, take plenty of pics, picnic, laze around and dip in the azure blue waters of Coogee at the end.
4. Explore The Famous Sydney’s Harbor
Exploring Sydney’s harbor will take you more than a day or two. Don’t forget to walk the Harbor Bridge, do check out the Opera House, and stroll the 26 kilometers of enchanting loops in Sydney’s Harbor Circle Walk.
5. Visit The Royal Botanic Gardens With Family
These Gardens are a great opportunity to experience over 45,000 plant specimens from all over the world. Plus, you get an eyeful of rare wildlife too, such as flying foxes, possums and a multitude of colorful birds.
6. Explore The Darling Harbor Area
On Darling Harbor, you’ll find the Chinese Gardens and the Sydney Aquarium, apart from several other must-see attractions. This is a great place with plenty of free entertainment options for the entire family.
7. Take Your Kids To The Australian National Maritime Museum
The Australian National Maritime Museum houses 14 old ships, along with 40,000 maritime objects such as antique sextants, compasses and wheels. Don’t forget to check out the naval destroyer HMAS Vampire.
8. Hike The Picturesque Route From Manly To Spit Bridge
The best way to experience the diverse ecosystem of this region is to take the Manly Scenic Walkway. On this 4-hour walk, you’ll see subtropical rainforests and beaches and including the Manly and Clontarf and Crater Cove.
9. Admire The Art Exhibits In The NSW Art Gallery
What better way to instruct your family in art than to visit Australia’s top arty gallery? The NSW Art Gallery hosts artworks by European, Asian, Australian and Aboriginal artists, including works by Picasso and Charles Conder.
10. Go On A Picture-Taking Contest On The Circular Quay
For the most incredible views and pics, visit the Circular Quay between the Opera House and Sydney Harbor Bridge. With multiple ferries, walkways and Sydney’s Museum of Contemporary Art, there’s much to do here.
11. Be Sure To Explore Olympic Park
Explore the 430 hectares of walks, sports arenas, parks and wooden boardwalks. Watch out for an exciting 180 species of rare birds. Visit the NSW Hall of Champions, a place of tribute to 300 famous Australian athletes.
12. Picnic At Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair
Grab a hamper and get to the especially hand-carved sandstone chair made for the Governor’s wife in the early 1800s. Enjoy dramatic views of the Harbor Bridge, the Opera House and the fabulous Sydney’s skyline.
13. Check Out The Historic Sites At The Rocks
Take pictures of the famous historical sites, both colonial and pre-colonial. Visit the weekly market and picnic in this historical area. Visit the Rocks Discovery Museum to view the interactive historical exhibits.
14. Get To Hyde Park For A Game Of Giant Chess!
How about playing a game of chess using giant pawns and kings? Visit Hyde Park and pit your chess wits against visiting masters. When you’re tired of chess, visit the Anzac War Memorial and the enchanting Archibald Fountain.
15. Visit Sydney Famous Weekend Markets
Don’t miss Sydney’s weekend markets for handmade Australian crafts, jewelry, and artworks, clothing and great food. Visit one of these markets – Paddington, Glebe, Balmain, Bondi and Fox Studios.
16. Join Free Trivia Contests
If you love quizzes, go to one of Sydney’s free trivia nights and win some cash prizes. Locations are Toxteth in Glebe, Paddington’s Bellevue Hotel and Trinity in Surry Hills apart from the trivia nights in many Sydney pubs.
17. Explore The Sydney Opera House
Take your family for a close-up look-see at one of the most unique buildings ever constructed. Picnic on the grass next to the Opera House and climb 184 stairs to the front if you can. Grab a drink at Sydney Opera Bar just below.
18. Take Your Family To Sydney’s Beautiful Beaches
Sydney with its 37 sandy stretches including the world-famous Bondi Beach offers you the best beach life you can enjoy. Swim, stroll around and enjoy water sports with your family. Don’t forget the sunscreen.
When he’s not skydiving the beach, hot air ballooning or learning to fly, Som is writing about his travels and adventures, advocating the exciting lifestyle at adrenalin.com.au.