Summary
When considering cities that are often regarded as congested, dense, and fast-paced, it is understandable to hesitate at the prospect of exploring an unfamiliar urban destination with children. Nevertheless, harborside, fresh-air-infused Sydney stands out as an exception that prioritizes families.
Adorned with lush parks and playgrounds, Sydney offers a wealth of activities suitable for children. It presents a desirable combination of iconic landmarks, world-class museums, culturally enriching experiences, and complimentary attractions, including over 100 beaches. Coupled with its laid-back atmosphere, Sydney emerges as an essential destination for any family.
Is Sydney good for kids?
Sydney is renowned for its sandy beaches, ocean, and sunshine. Additionally, it is equipped with stroller-accessible pathways. The welcoming attitude towards children is evident in its extensive public amenities; most parks are equipped with restrooms, shaded areas, play zones, and water fountains.
Public breastfeeding is broadly accepted, and navigating through neighborhoods is straightforward, thanks to a public transport infrastructure that accommodates strollers with elevators, ramps, and spacious entrances.
Even public houses can be notably accommodating for families in Sydney, with establishments featuring designated family dining sections and playgrounds designed to engage young visitors. Dining options are diverse, ranging from Japanese sushi to weekend sausage sizzles (barbecued sausages in bread) available at beachside surf clubs.
Educational opportunities abound, offering insights into the traditional custodians of the land – the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation – and early colonial history at the Rocks, where Susannah Place Museum illustrates the lifestyle of working-class inhabitants over the past 150 years. For those seeking adventure, activities include ascending the Harbour Bridge or enjoying thrilling rides at the beloved Luna Park (which was established in 1935 and underwent upgrades in 2021).
Numerous activities in Sydney are free and suit families operating on a budget, such as exploring the Royal National Park, recognized as one of the world’s oldest national parks.
Where are the best areas in Sydney for kids?
Darling Harbour serves as a comprehensive entertainment hub. Start your day by enjoying breakfast with koalas at Wild Life Sydney Zoo, then proceed next door to Sea Life Sydney Aquarium to assist in preparing a dugong’s lunch, or explore a submarine at the National Maritime Museum. Adjacent to these attractions lies Tumbalong Park Playground, renowned as one of Sydney’s most outstanding playgrounds, complete with a flying fox, climbing ropes, a splash park for warm days, and various coffee options nearby.
For beach excursions, consider catching a ferry to Manly or traveling to Bondi for scenic coastal walks and breathtaking views.
Alternatively, venture north across the Harbour Bridge to uncover lesser-known family-friendly treasures, such as Maccallum Seawater Pool, fed by ocean waters and offering exquisite harbor vistas, complemented by the adjoining Sirius St playground.
Approximately 3km (1.8 miles) further, you will discover the Sub Base Platypus, a former torpedo factory that now functions as a recreational area, presenting a maritime-themed playground and shaded barbecue facilities. Additionally, remarkable cafes such as the parkside The Flying Bear (situated within a sailing shed) ensure that no one experiences hunger prior to exploring the intriguing tunnels of the Coal Loader, a heritage-listed former industrial site.
The best things to do in Sydney with babies and toddlers
Go hiking
While a visit to Sydney can involve leisurely walks through urban streets, the city is also surrounded by multiple national parks suitable for family hikes. Located less than 15km (9 miles) from the city center, Lane Cove National Park is ideal for baby backpacking during short hikes. Meanwhile, toddlers will find enjoyment in observing the playful kookaburras, vibrant lorikeets, and engaging in activities like paddling at Discovery Parks – Lane Cove, which also offers cabins for overnight stays.
Other short, family-friendly hikes include Trumper Park located in the upscale Paddington neighborhood. Alternatively, navigate the stroller-friendly path of Blackwattle Bay Park, which begins with gelato at Forest Lodge Tramsheds (featuring the exceptional Harold Holt Playground adjacent) and concludes at the Sydney Fish Markets where you can enjoy fresh fish ‘n’ chips.
Rock-a-bye-baby in a rock pool
Immerse yourself in over 30 distinct rock pools extending from Palm Beach to South Cronulla. Each pool offers a unique experience; whether naturally formed from stone, surrounded by boulders, or presenting swimming lanes.
Nearby Bondi, you will find McIver’s Ladies Baths in Coogee, Sydney’s last remaining women-only rock pool, which is particularly favored by new mothers. Adjacent to this, the sheltered Bogey Hole – a semi-enclosed rock pool located at the southern end of Bronte Beach – is perfect for young children. Conversely, the ultimate rock pool for the smallest members of your family is Fairy Bower Rockpool at Manly. Established in 1929, it is situated close to the ferry wharf and features calm waters at Manly Cove, with shaded grassy areas suitable for crawling infants.
The best things to do in Sydney with young children
Playground-a-rama
Sydney’s array of playgrounds extends beyond mere swings and slides, showcasing innovative parks throughout the city. Notable examples include The Ian Potter Children’s Wild Play Garden situated within Centennial Parklands. This nature-themed playground boasts a splash park designed for all ages, a bamboo forest, treehouses, and tunnels that weave through native banksia vegetation.
Sydney Park Playground in Alexandria features hillside slides and netting structures that resemble rockets. This playground is a mere 20-minute walk from the Grounds of Alexandria, a captivating expanse of greenery that features a vast café, a coffee roasting facility, and an animal farm where children can discover residents such as a pig affectionately named “KB” (Kevin Bacon).
A worthy mention is given to the Blues Point Reserve Playground located at McMahons Point, which commands an impressive view of the Harbour Bridge, making it a top spot for family outings.
Spot wildlife
Despite its urban classification, Sydney is home to a variety of wildlife. Encounters with ring-tailed possums and Australian brushturkeys are common in public parks, and a population of sulphur-crested cockatoos resides in King’s Cross.
During the evening hours at Centennial Park, one can observe the local colony of flying foxes (a variety of fruit bat) taking flight. Regardless of your location, it is likely that you will spot one of Sydney’s notorious “bin chickens” (Australian white ibises) seeking food.
For an unforgettable experience, consider glamping at Taronga Zoo in the Roar and Snore tents or in the newly developed Wildlife Retreat. Waking up to a view of a koala or kangaroo is a unique memory that is sure to last a lifetime.
Visit a free museum or art gallery
The Museum of Contemporary Art routinely offers programs for children, known as ARTplay days, while the Australian Museum features an impressive dinosaur collection that consistently captivates young visitors. Both venues offer complimentary admission and air-conditioning, providing respite on warm days.
Also free to visit is the interactive Powerhouse Museum, where children can engage with various scientific concepts, fashion, design, and technology through hands-on experiences such as working with electromagnets. Additionally, families can participate in guided tours for stargazing at the Sydney Observatory. If your timing is right, you may even have the opportunity to join an Aboriginal astronomy workshop led by Wiradjuri astronomer Kirsten Banks.
