Top things to do in Sydney, events & more
If you are planning a road trip through New South Wales, Sydney is a must-see. From the Sydney Opera House to pristine beaches and art galleries, there are so many awesome things to do! From fun, kid-friendly adventures to free art exhibitions, we have put together a list of 25 free things to do in Sydney, Australia, without spending a dime. One night you're catching a gig by the harbour or checking out an art opening; the next, you're sipping cocktails on a rooftop, finding a secret cinema, or discovering your new favourite restaurant. Whether you're after free activities, a midweek date idea or a reason to stay out late, there's something here for every kind of Sydney explorer. Maybe one of the best things to do at night with kids, in saying that you need the right type of kids for these tours.
While a bit off the typical tourist route, you won’t regret making the trip over to Kirribilli to see the vr experience Opera House from a different angle. Soho galleries is a privately owned gallery providing a more intimate take on contemporary art and sculpture. Specializing in original canvas, large-scale paintings, and limited edition interior sculptures, this is a great place to visit for art lovers looking for a unique art experience.
In the heart of Sydney Harbour lies Cockatoo Island/Wareamah, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. Previously a convict prison from 1839 to 1869, followed by a shipyard and educational institution, the island now has historical tours, cafes, and concerts. You can even camp or stay on the island in heritage accommodation, like an old fire station. Originally built in 1935, Luna Park is one of the only heritage-listed amusement parks in the world.
Adjoining Chinatown in Haymarket you’ll find over 1000 stalls inside the complex. You can pick up an array of imported goods at bargain prices, from fashion and accessories to souvenirs and gadgets. Driving through Sydney’s southern CBD, you won’t be able to miss the stunning sandstone Gothic Revival architecture of St. Mary’s Cathedral. Standing on the site of Australia’s first Catholic chapel, St. Mary’s stands 107m long with a ceiling height of 22.5m and a nave 24.3m wide. But the outstanding architectural piece-de-resistance is the front towers and spires which soar over 74m in height. Sydney’s Royal Botanic Gardens is located just a few minutes’ walk from both the CBD and Opera House.
Luckily, Sydney's got plenty happening for those looking to have a damn good time — whether that includes discovering new bars, absorbing art or feasting your way through food markets. Powerhouse Castle Hill is the new home for the storage, conservation and display of the Powerhouse Collection, which includes more than 500,000 objects. Open and free to the public every weekend, education programs, workshops, talks and exhibitions will be hosted in the new space. It's hard to talk about Australian culture without mentioning the huge role sport plays in it. As the state's most historic sporting venue, the Sydney Cricket Ground has been the site of many of the country's greatest sporting triumphs. The SCG Museum, part of the SCG Tour, paints a picture of some of the most memorable athletic moments on Australian soil, with one-of-a-kind memorabilia and first-hand accounts of the people who lived it.
Madame Tussauds Sydney begins with a journey back into Australian history to see figures such as Captain Cook and the HMAS endeavour and famous outlaw Ned Kelly. Made famous worldwide with the help of social media, come along and capture an Instagram worthy pic with your favourite movie star, musician or popular figures. The Australian location can be found on the Darling Harbour foreshore welcoming visitors through its doors between 10am to 6pm daily. Pay a visit to this zany tourist attraction in Darling Harbour, Sydney and you can have your very own brush of fame mingling with the stars. Race past harbour front mansions and iconic sights for a ‘hot lap’ where you will be taken on 270-degree spins, speeds, slides and fishtails and wave jumping and surfing. Depending on the length of the scenic flight, you may also get the chance to fly over Bondi Beach, Taronga Zoo, Rose Bay and other popular city sights.
Walking through the garden offers a peaceful escape from the city hustle. Strolling along the promenade is also a delightful experience. You can watch surfers catch waves or simply enjoy the beach atmosphere. This site details the stories of convicts who first settled here.
To help you learn more about Sydney’s tallest building, the city’s oldest buildings and a few of the most stunning new buildings in the city, I made this shortlist of my personal favourites. The Sydney Powerhouse is a wonderful place to visit on a rainy day in Sydney! You can learn about so many cool things, ranging from the Apollo 11 mission to the Boulton and Watt engine. There’s something for everyone at the Sydney Powerhouse Museum. Sydney is a great base with so many things to do, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t venture a little further outside the CBD. There are so many great day trips from Sydney to choose from, but if you’ve only got time for one then it is hard to go past the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Blue Mountains region for amazing landscapes.
From hatted fine dining restaurants to bustling food markets and waterfront cafes, the city offers an exceptional gastronomic experience. With over 100 beaches scattered along Sydney's coastline, beach culture is at the heart of the Sydney lifestyle. Whether you're looking for world-famous surf breaks, family-friendly swimming spots, or secluded coastal havens, Sydney's beaches offer something for everyone. Hop on a ferry to Manly or book a harbour cruise to soak in the city’s iconic skyline from the water.
Nestled on the banks of the Georges River is this incredible playground. It has futuristic looking slides, an exercise zone where you can practice your obstacle course skills and a sky walk. The toddlers are not forgotten here either, with bridges, slides and ropes they will love. When it comes to Sydney Kids entertainment, a visit to WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo should definitely be on the cards. You can sight and experience the best of Australia’s wildlife at this venue. It has Tasmanian Devils, Kangaroos, Koalas and Wombats just to name a few.
See the Sydney Sixers battle the Hobart Hurricanes on January 11, then enjoy the Sydney showdown against the Sydney Thunder on January 16, both at the SCG as part of the Big Bash League (BBL). Australia and England meet again at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), after a series of test matches at Perth Stadium, The Gabba (Brisbane), Adelaide Oval and Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Even though Australia already won the Ashes in the third test match, camaraderie, competitiveness, and schooners in the sunshine mean that a day out at the Ashes is always in high demand.
Sydney offers a wide range of accommodation options for visitors, ranging from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels. All our favourite excursions are on our day trips from Sydney guide. The Chinese Garden of Friendship is a heritage-listed tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. Sydney’s City Centre comprises the Central Business District (CBD) and the Rocks. Both are ideal destinations on a rainy day, with plenty of indoor activities to enjoy.
From understanding the distilling process to choosing your own botanicals, a lot goes into making the perfect gin. Try it for yourself at some of Sydney’s distilleries, including Archie Rose and Manly Spirits Co. Take a cocktail-making class or simply just enjoy sampling some of the city’s spirits. Or for something a little different, head to Govinda's for movies and all-you-can-eat Indian food. A rainy day is the perfect excuse to enjoy some delicious ramen.
While a bit off the typical tourist route, you won’t regret making the trip over to Kirribilli to see the vr experience Opera House from a different angle. Soho galleries is a privately owned gallery providing a more intimate take on contemporary art and sculpture. Specializing in original canvas, large-scale paintings, and limited edition interior sculptures, this is a great place to visit for art lovers looking for a unique art experience.
In the heart of Sydney Harbour lies Cockatoo Island/Wareamah, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. Previously a convict prison from 1839 to 1869, followed by a shipyard and educational institution, the island now has historical tours, cafes, and concerts. You can even camp or stay on the island in heritage accommodation, like an old fire station. Originally built in 1935, Luna Park is one of the only heritage-listed amusement parks in the world.
Adjoining Chinatown in Haymarket you’ll find over 1000 stalls inside the complex. You can pick up an array of imported goods at bargain prices, from fashion and accessories to souvenirs and gadgets. Driving through Sydney’s southern CBD, you won’t be able to miss the stunning sandstone Gothic Revival architecture of St. Mary’s Cathedral. Standing on the site of Australia’s first Catholic chapel, St. Mary’s stands 107m long with a ceiling height of 22.5m and a nave 24.3m wide. But the outstanding architectural piece-de-resistance is the front towers and spires which soar over 74m in height. Sydney’s Royal Botanic Gardens is located just a few minutes’ walk from both the CBD and Opera House.
Luckily, Sydney's got plenty happening for those looking to have a damn good time — whether that includes discovering new bars, absorbing art or feasting your way through food markets. Powerhouse Castle Hill is the new home for the storage, conservation and display of the Powerhouse Collection, which includes more than 500,000 objects. Open and free to the public every weekend, education programs, workshops, talks and exhibitions will be hosted in the new space. It's hard to talk about Australian culture without mentioning the huge role sport plays in it. As the state's most historic sporting venue, the Sydney Cricket Ground has been the site of many of the country's greatest sporting triumphs. The SCG Museum, part of the SCG Tour, paints a picture of some of the most memorable athletic moments on Australian soil, with one-of-a-kind memorabilia and first-hand accounts of the people who lived it.
Madame Tussauds Sydney begins with a journey back into Australian history to see figures such as Captain Cook and the HMAS endeavour and famous outlaw Ned Kelly. Made famous worldwide with the help of social media, come along and capture an Instagram worthy pic with your favourite movie star, musician or popular figures. The Australian location can be found on the Darling Harbour foreshore welcoming visitors through its doors between 10am to 6pm daily. Pay a visit to this zany tourist attraction in Darling Harbour, Sydney and you can have your very own brush of fame mingling with the stars. Race past harbour front mansions and iconic sights for a ‘hot lap’ where you will be taken on 270-degree spins, speeds, slides and fishtails and wave jumping and surfing. Depending on the length of the scenic flight, you may also get the chance to fly over Bondi Beach, Taronga Zoo, Rose Bay and other popular city sights.
Walking through the garden offers a peaceful escape from the city hustle. Strolling along the promenade is also a delightful experience. You can watch surfers catch waves or simply enjoy the beach atmosphere. This site details the stories of convicts who first settled here.
To help you learn more about Sydney’s tallest building, the city’s oldest buildings and a few of the most stunning new buildings in the city, I made this shortlist of my personal favourites. The Sydney Powerhouse is a wonderful place to visit on a rainy day in Sydney! You can learn about so many cool things, ranging from the Apollo 11 mission to the Boulton and Watt engine. There’s something for everyone at the Sydney Powerhouse Museum. Sydney is a great base with so many things to do, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t venture a little further outside the CBD. There are so many great day trips from Sydney to choose from, but if you’ve only got time for one then it is hard to go past the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Blue Mountains region for amazing landscapes.
From hatted fine dining restaurants to bustling food markets and waterfront cafes, the city offers an exceptional gastronomic experience. With over 100 beaches scattered along Sydney's coastline, beach culture is at the heart of the Sydney lifestyle. Whether you're looking for world-famous surf breaks, family-friendly swimming spots, or secluded coastal havens, Sydney's beaches offer something for everyone. Hop on a ferry to Manly or book a harbour cruise to soak in the city’s iconic skyline from the water.
Nestled on the banks of the Georges River is this incredible playground. It has futuristic looking slides, an exercise zone where you can practice your obstacle course skills and a sky walk. The toddlers are not forgotten here either, with bridges, slides and ropes they will love. When it comes to Sydney Kids entertainment, a visit to WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo should definitely be on the cards. You can sight and experience the best of Australia’s wildlife at this venue. It has Tasmanian Devils, Kangaroos, Koalas and Wombats just to name a few.
See the Sydney Sixers battle the Hobart Hurricanes on January 11, then enjoy the Sydney showdown against the Sydney Thunder on January 16, both at the SCG as part of the Big Bash League (BBL). Australia and England meet again at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), after a series of test matches at Perth Stadium, The Gabba (Brisbane), Adelaide Oval and Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Even though Australia already won the Ashes in the third test match, camaraderie, competitiveness, and schooners in the sunshine mean that a day out at the Ashes is always in high demand.
Sydney offers a wide range of accommodation options for visitors, ranging from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels. All our favourite excursions are on our day trips from Sydney guide. The Chinese Garden of Friendship is a heritage-listed tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. Sydney’s City Centre comprises the Central Business District (CBD) and the Rocks. Both are ideal destinations on a rainy day, with plenty of indoor activities to enjoy.
From understanding the distilling process to choosing your own botanicals, a lot goes into making the perfect gin. Try it for yourself at some of Sydney’s distilleries, including Archie Rose and Manly Spirits Co. Take a cocktail-making class or simply just enjoy sampling some of the city’s spirits. Or for something a little different, head to Govinda's for movies and all-you-can-eat Indian food. A rainy day is the perfect excuse to enjoy some delicious ramen.
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