12 Free Activities To Enjoy With Kids In Sydney

Sydney is a beautiful and vibrant city, full of opportunities for families to bond over fun-filled activities. With a plethora of world-class attractions, it's no surprise that Sydney can be quite expensive, but that shouldn't deter you from having a good time with your little ones. In fact, there are plenty of free activities that you can enjoy with kids in Sydney, from exploring the great outdoors to discovering fascinating cultural landmarks. We've rounded up 12 of the best free activities that you and your family can enjoy in Sydney, so pack a picnic and get ready to explore this amazing city without breaking the bank!

Visit the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

If you're looking for a free and fun activity to do in Sydney with your kids, make sure to visit the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. This stunning garden is one of the most beautiful places in the city and offers endless opportunities for exploration and learning.

Here are some reasons why the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney is perfect for a family day out:

Beautiful Scenery

The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney is home to more than 8,000 plant species from around the world. You'll find everything from towering trees to delicate flowers, creating a stunning and diverse landscape. Your kids will love exploring the gardens and discovering new things at every turn.

Picnic Spots

There are plenty of picnic spots throughout the gardens, so make sure to bring a packed lunch or some snacks. Relax and enjoy the stunning views while your kids run around and play.

Free Tours

The Royal Botanic Garden offers a range of free guided tours, including a "Plants with Bite" tour where you can learn all about the garden's carnivorous plants. These tours are a great way to learn more about the garden's history and the plants that call it home.

Fun Activities

The garden hosts a range of family-friendly activities throughout the year. From nature walks to scavenger hunts, there's always something fun happening at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney.

Learning Opportunities

The garden is more than just a beautiful place to explore. It's also an important centre for scientific research and education. Take the opportunity to teach your kids about the importance of conservation and the role of plants in our ecosystem.

In conclusion, if you want to have a fun and free day out with your kids, make sure to visit the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. You'll be surrounded by stunning scenery, have plenty of picnic spots and access to free tours. Your kids will also love the fun activities and learning opportunities that the garden has to offer. So pack some drinks and snacks, and head over to this iconic Sydney attraction.

Play at Bondi Beach or Manly Beach

Sydney is a vibrant city with plenty to offer for families with kids. If you're looking for ways to entertain your little ones without breaking the bank, you can start by planning a trip to Bondi Beach or Manly Beach.

Both Bondi and Manly are iconic beaches in Sydney, and they're excellent spots for some sun, sea, and sand. The best part? They're entirely free! So, bring your kids along for a day out and soak up the Aussie beach culture.

Bondi Beach is located just a short bus ride from the city center. The beach itself is over a kilometer long and boasts turquoise waters and golden sand, making it the perfect spot for a swim or surf. It's also home to plenty of family-friendly cafes and restaurants, so you can grab a bite to eat with your kids.

For those looking for a more active day, Bondi also offers a coastal walk from Bondi to Bronte Beach. This walk is approximately 6 kilometers long and takes you along the coastline, where you'll see stunning views of the ocean. Take your time, and let your kids explore the rock pools and hidden coves along the way.

Manly Beach is located on the northern side of Sydney Harbor and can be reached by a 30-minute ferry ride from Circular Quay. Manly Beach is famous for its wide, tree-lined promenade that stretches for 1.3 kilometers along the beachfront. This walk is perfect for riding bikes, scooters, or just enjoying the views.

Manly Beach is also a great destination for families looking to enjoy some water sports. You can rent kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and surfboards at any of the rental shops located around the beach. If your kids prefer to stay on land, there are plenty of parks and playgrounds nearby to keep them entertained.

So, whether you decide to visit Bondi or Manly, both destinations offer plenty to do for families with kids. Best of all, they're completely free. So, grab your sunscreen, pack a picnic, and head out for a day full of fun in the sun!

Explore the Australian National Maritime Museum

For families with kids, Sydney is a great destination to visit as there are plenty of free activities to do and enjoy. One must-visit attraction is the Australian National Maritime Museum, which offers an exciting, interactive way to learn about the history and culture of Australia's maritime heritage.

Located in Darling Harbour, the museum has both indoor and outdoor exhibits, making it an ideal destination no matter the weather. Here are some of the highlights that families with kids can expect to enjoy:

• Captain Cook's Endeavour - the museum's permanent exhibit of an exact full-scale replica of the ship that Captain James Cook sailed in when he discovered Australia. Visitors can explore the ship's cabins, engine rooms, and decks, and imagine themselves as a crew member during the ship's voyages.
• Big Ticket - The museum's most popular exhibit, the Big Ticket, will give visitors access to all the exhibitions and activities on the site, including the 3D Cinema, Mini Mariners Play Space, and exciting exhibitions like 'On Sharks and Humanity' and 'Submerged'.
• Family-friendly activities - The museum is designed to engage kids of all ages, with several activities including creative workshops, story times, and dress-up zones. The Mini Mariners Play Space is a dedicated area for kids aged 0-5, where they can learn through play using interactive exhibits in a safe and fun environment.
• Interactive exhibitions - The museum also boasts interactive exhibits like 'Action Stations' which is an interactive adventure that takes visitors through the life of a sailor in the Royal Australian Navy. 'Warships Pavilion' is also an interactive exhibit showcasing the history and technology of modern Australian warships.
• Outdoor exhibitions - The museum has several outdoor exhibitions, including Australia's tallest ship, the four-masted barque 'James Craig'. Visitors can go on a short adventure cruise on board or only enjoy touring around the ship.

In summary, the Australian National Maritime Museum is a fantastic place to spend a day exploring with children and is an excellent educational option to learn about Australia's history and explore the country's maritime heritage. Better yet, admission to the museum is entirely free, making it a perfect destination for families looking for an affordable day out.

Take a stroll through the Rocks Markets

Sydney is a wonderful city with plenty of options for family-friendly fun. It can be difficult and expensive to find activities that kids will love, but luckily, there are also many free things to do in Sydney with kids. One of our favorite experiences is visiting the Rocks Markets.

Nestled in the historic and charming Rocks area of Sydney, the Rocks Markets offer a wide range of stalls selling everything from handmade jewelry and clothing to baked goods and gourmet snacks. There's plenty to explore and discover here, and the atmosphere is always lively and bustling.

One of the best things about the Rocks Markets is that it's completely free to visit. You can take a leisurely stroll through the different sections of the market, browsing the unique and interesting products on offer. The vendors are friendly and welcoming, and you're sure to find something that catches your eye.

In addition to the shopping, there are also loads of free activities for kids to enjoy. You can watch street performers and buskers showing off their talents, or participate in any one of the many free workshops or activities on offer. From craft making to face painting to balloon twisting and more, there's plenty of fun to be had.

If you're visiting on a weekend, you're in for an even bigger treat. The Rocks Markets host a weekly food and drink festival, featuring an eclectic mix of local food trucks and vendors offering everything from savory snacks to decadent desserts. There are also pop-up bars and live music to enjoy, making for a truly fun and festive atmosphere.

Overall, the Rocks Markets are a must-visit destination for families visiting Sydney. With its charming atmosphere, unique shopping opportunities, and endless free activities for kids, it's the perfect place to spend a day soaking up the best of what Sydney has to offer. So pack a picnic, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to enjoy all the fun of the Rocks Markets!

Attend a free family concert at the Sydney Opera House

Sydney is a fantastic destination for families with plenty of attractions and activities to keep kids entertained. However, a trip to the city can quickly add up in costs, which is why finding free entertainment options is always a great idea. One such option is to attend a free family concert at the Sydney Opera House.

The Sydney Opera House is not only an iconic landmark of the city but also a cultural hub that hosts numerous events and performances. The family concert series is a popular feature of the Opera House's programming, which includes free monthly concerts designed to introduce music to young children in a fun and engaging way.

These concerts blend storytelling and music education, featuring talented musicians and performers who use instruments, movements, and singing to captivate children's attention. The concerts are usually about 45 minutes long, and children can participate in the interactive sessions, sing-alongs, and dance moves that are incorporated into the show.

Apart from the music, the free family concerts at the Sydney Opera House also provide a great opportunity for families to explore the iconic venue. The concert hall is acoustically optimized to ensure an excellent listening experience, and the stage provides an excellent view of the glittering harbor.

It is important to note that while the concerts are free, reservations are required due to high demand. Families should check the Opera House's schedule to see upcoming events, and then book their spots online ahead of time.

In conclusion, attending a free family concert at the Sydney Opera House is an excellent way to enjoy quality entertainment while in the city without breaking the bank. It is an opportunity for children to discover the joy of music, and for families to experience one of Sydney's most significant cultural landmarks. With interactive performances, talented musicians, and picturesque views, the family concert series at Sydney Opera House is an experience not to be missed!

Check out the Art Gallery of New South Wales

Sydney is a vibrant city that offers numerous activities for families with children. One activity that you should definitely check out is a visit to the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Not only is admission to the gallery free, but it also offers a great opportunity to introduce your children to the world of art.

The Art Gallery of New South Wales has a diverse collection of art, ranging from contemporary to classical. Your children will be able to see inspiring pieces of work by some of the world's most renowned artists. The gallery also features temporary exhibitions from around the world, which keeps the experience new and exciting each visit.

One thing that sets the Art Gallery of New South Wales apart from other art museums is that it has a designated space for children. The gallery has recently opened a space called the Brett Whiteley Studio, which is dedicated to inspiring the creativity of children. The studio is based on the works of Australian artist Brett Whiteley, who is known for his vibrant and colourful paintings.

The studio features hands-on activities that allow children to interact with art in fun and innovative ways. Your children can create their own works of art, using a range of materials such as paints, crayons, and markers. They can also participate in workshops that teach them more about art and how to create their own art pieces.

Aside from the studio, the Art Gallery of New South Wales also offers guided tours for children. The tours are designed to be engaging and informative, making learning about art fun for kids. The guides are knowledgeable and are able to answer any questions your children may have.

Before you visit the Art Gallery of New South Wales, it's a good idea to check the gallery's website for any upcoming events. The gallery often features events that are specifically designed for families, such as storytelling sessions and art workshops. You can plan your visit around these events to make the experience even more enjoyable for your children.

In conclusion, the Art Gallery of New South Wales is a great place to take children in Sydney. The gallery is free, features a diverse collection of art, and offers a designated space for children to explore their creativity. With the variety of activities available, your children will have a great time and learn something new.

Take in the views from Mrs Macquarie's Chair

Sydney is a beautiful city to explore with your kids with plenty of free activities to enjoy. One fantastic spot to take in the city's stunning views, and spend time with your kids is "Mrs Macquaries Chair". Located in the heart of the Royal Botanic Garden, it is an iconic Sydney landmark that provides an excellent 360-degree view of the Harbour.

Mrs Macquaries Chair is a sandstone rock formation carved into the shape of a bench. It was named after the wife of Governor Lachlan Macquarie, who was known to frequent the area. The name was passed down, and now it's one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sydney.

Getting to Mrs Macquaries Chair is relatively easy, and you can use public transport, cycle or walk to the Royal Botanic Garden. Once you arrive, follow the signs to the chair, and you'll find yourself on a path that hugs the shoreline of the beautiful harbour. The views along the path are breathtaking, and your children will be fascinated by the boats, ferries and meandering yachts that travel the Harbour.

As you reach the chair, you'll see that you're blessed with a clear panoramic view of the Sydney skyline. With views of both the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, it's a perfect spot to take family photos that will last for generations to come.

While Mrs Macquaries Chair may be the main attraction, there are more things to do in the Royal Botanic Garden. The garden features lush green lawns, native Australian flora, waterfalls, and many picnic spots, ideal for a family day out. You can spend hours exploring the different gardens, taking peaceful nature walks, and enjoying the scenery.

In conclusion, a visit to Mrs Macquaries Chair is a must-do for all families visiting Sydney. It offers scenic views of the majestic Harbour and is also an excellent opportunity for some family bonding time. Plus, exploring the neighbouring Royal Botanic Garden is another fantastic stress-free, and family-friendly activity where nature and city come together. Best of all, this experience is entirely free for adults and children alike, so go ahead and take it all in with your loved ones.

Play and picnic in Centennial Park

Sydney is a wonderful city to explore with your kids, filled with exciting activities to keep them occupied. If you're looking for a perfect day-out with your little ones that won't break the bank, head to Centennial Park! Here are some of the best things to do with your kids in Centennial Park.

Playgrounds

Centennial Park is home to four different playgrounds specially designed for kids between three and 12 years old. These playgrounds are safe and filled with plenty of fun activities that are perfect for kids to let loose and enjoy themselves.

Bike and Scooter Tracks

If your kids love to bike or scoot, Centennial Park has them covered! There is a dedicated bike and scooter track inside the park, a great spot to cycle around the 3.6km loop, and burn off some energy.

Picnicking and BBQ areas

Centennial Park's wide-open spaces and tranquil water features make it an ideal spot for a family picnic. Bring in your own food, or use one of the multiple BBQ pits that are available to use all year round.

Pond and Wildlife Watching

Take a stroll around the park, and you might come across the park's ponds, which are home to a range of local wildlife. Bring along a small tub of bread to feed the ducks and fish, and it's also fun to take some time to birdwatch as there are many different species of birds that live in the park.

Horse Riding

Looking for an exciting activity to do with your kids? Take them on a horse ride around Centennial park! There are several companies that offer horse rides for both children and adults.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a fun-filled day out with your kids, head to Centennial Park in Sydney. With the range of activities on offer, you can keep your kids busy all day long without spending a penny! Pack up a picnic basket, prepare your bikes and get ready for an adventurous day out!

Visit the Australian Museum

Sydney is a fantastic city to explore with kids, and there are plenty of fun and exciting things to do that won't break the bank. If you're looking for a great free activity to enjoy with your little ones, then visiting the Australian Museum is a must.

Located in the heart of Sydney, the Australian Museum is an iconic institution that has been educating and inspiring people for over 190 years. As well as being a leading research and education facility, it is also home to an amazing collection of cultural and natural history exhibits.

When you visit the Australian Museum, you'll have the chance to discover fascinating artifacts, specimens, and objects from around the globe. From towering dinosaur skeletons to fascinating insect displays, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

One of the best things about the Australian Museum is that it's free for all visitors. This means that you can spend a whole day exploring without having to worry about expensive admission fees. The museum is open every day from 9:30am to 5:00pm, so you can drop by any time that suits you.

If you're travelling with young children, then the Australian Museum is a great place to visit. The museum offers a range of interactive exhibits and activities that will keep your little ones engaged and entertained. They will have the chance to get up close and personal with real fossils, make their own insect models, and learn about the fascinating animals that call Australia home.

The Australian Museum also runs special programs and events throughout the year, including school holiday programs and interactive workshops. Check their website to see a schedule of what's on during your visit.

After your visit, you can grab a bite to eat at the onsite cafe, or head to the rooftop cafe to enjoy stunning views of the city.

Overall, the Australian Museum is a fantastic destination for families looking for a fun and educational day out in Sydney. With so much to see and do, you'll definitely want to add it to your list of must-visit attractions.

Take a ferry ride to Taronga Zoo

Sydney is a beautiful city and an ideal place for a family vacation. However, the cost of traveling with children can add up quickly. Fortunately, there are plenty of free activities to take advantage of when visiting Sydney. One of the most popular is taking a ferry ride to Taronga Zoo.

Taronga Zoo is one of the top zoos in the world and home to a diverse range of animals. It is located on the shore of Sydney Harbour and can be easily accessed by ferry. Riding the ferry is an experience in itself, as you will enjoy stunning views of the harbor, the Opera House, and the Harbour Bridge.

Once you arrive at the Taronga Zoo ferry terminal, you can take a short walk to the entrance of the zoo. The entrance fee is the only expense you will incur if you want to enter the zoo. However, you can also choose to just walk around the exterior of the zoo and enjoy the free views of the animals and the beautiful scenery around the zoo.

Taronga Zoo is home to more than 4,000 animals, including many native Australian species such as kangaroos, koalas, and Tasmanian devils. The zoo also offers many interactive experiences, such as animal encounters, shows, and keeper talks. If you choose to purchase tickets to enter the zoo, you can enjoy these experiences, but they are not free.

If you are looking for a free and educational experience for your children, you can visit the zoo's free areas. These include the Tasmanian devil exhibit, where you can learn about the efforts to save this endangered species. You can also visit the bird show, which takes place twice a day and showcases the intelligence and beauty of various bird species.

In summary, taking a ferry ride to Taronga Zoo is a free and enjoyable activity to do with kids in Sydney. It provides stunning views of the harbor and Opera House, as well as a chance to see many different animal species. You can choose to visit the zoo's paid areas or simply enjoy the free exhibits and shows. Either way, it's a great day out for the whole family.

Observe the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House in Circular Quay

Sydney, the capital city of New South Wales, is a great destination for families with kids. There are plenty of activities to choose from which won't break your budget. One of the most iconic landmarks in Sydney is the Harbour Bridge and Opera House in Circular Quay. The Circular Quay area is one of the most visited and picturesque locations in Sydney and it’s totally free to visit!

You can start by walking along the harbor and enjoying the fresh sea breeze and gorgeous views of the Harbour Bridge. You can also take a stroll in the Botanic Gardens which is a large park located just beside the Opera House. This is a great place to relax and have a picnic. The gardens have a lot of open spaces, plus great playgrounds, water features and enough space for your kids to run around and play. There are also free guided tours through the gardens, which are recommended if you want to learn more about the plant species.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can take a ferry ride from Circular Quay to other beautiful locations in Sydney. These ferry rides are very affordable and allow you to experience the beautiful sights of Sydney while on the water. You can visit Taronga Zoo, Manly Beach, or Watsons Bay, all of these places have amazing views of the Harbour Bridge.

On weekends, you can also experience the hustle and bustle of the famous Rocks Market where you can discover unique Australian souvenirs, handmade jewelry, and clothing. The market offers an abundance of food and drink from vendors selling all sorts of delicious and affordable food items.

In late afternoons or early evenings, head over to the Opera House Forecourt to listen to free music. From classical symphony, jazz concerts, and world music, there is something for everyone.

To sum up, exploring the Harbour Bridge and Opera House in Circular Quay is a must-visit experience for families. It’s a great free activity with plenty of things to see and do. Whether you're into taking photographs in scenic locations, relaxing in parks or exploring the amazing sights of the harbour, Circular Quay offers a fantastic day out for families with kids.

Go on a bushwalk in the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

If you're planning a trip to Sydney with your little ones, exploring the great outdoors is a must-do activity for families. One of the best ways to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and experience some of Australia's natural beauty is to go on a bushwalk in the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. With its spectacular views, gorgeous beaches, and abundant wildlife, this park has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages.

Located just 25km north of Sydney's CBD, the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park covers over 15,000 hectares of coastal bushland, making it a great spot for hiking, picnicking, and swimming. One of the best things about this park is that many of its hiking trails are suitable for kids, so you can enjoy a family-friendly adventure.

One of the most popular trails in the park is the Gibberagong Walking Track. This 5.5km loop begins at Bobbin Head and takes you on a journey through the mangroves and along the banks of Cowan Creek. Along the way, you'll encounter lush forests, sandstone cliffs and rock formations, and even the occasional wallaby or bird. If you're lucky, you might even spot a koala napping in the trees above.

Another great trail to explore with kids is the Aboriginal Heritage Walk. This short 1km loop takes you through the bushland of Ku-ring-gai and shares Aboriginal history and culture through a series of interpretive signs. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn about the local Indigenous culture and appreciate the area's rich history and traditions.

If you're keen to hit the beach, you can also visit Resolute Beach, which can be accessed via a 2.5km walking trail. This secluded beach is perfect for a refreshing swim, and you might even see dolphins frolicking in the waves. Just be sure to pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and snacks.

Before you head out, be sure to check the weather and park conditions, wear appropriate footwear, and bring along a map and a first-aid kit. It's also a good idea to teach your kids about bush safety and leave no trace principles to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience.

In summary, a bushwalk in the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is a great way to experience Sydney's natural beauty with your family. With its beautiful landscapes, abundant wildlife, and family-friendly hiking trails, this park is a must-visit for any nature-loving family visiting Sydney.

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