Looking for some fun-filled school holiday activities in Sydney? We know how tough it can be to keep the kids entertained during school holidays, so we are here to share some of the popular activities and places that you and your family will enjoy!
Best Activities for Kids During School Holidays in Sydney
Visiting the Best Museums in Sydney
Enjoy the wildlife at Sydney Zoos
Going to a Beach and Water Park
Have fun at the largest Theme Park
Visiting the Best Museums in Sydney
First up, we love visiting the museums in Sydney, like the Australian Museum, the Powerhouse Museum, and the Maritime Museum. They always have fun exhibitions and programs that are great for kids. We have written another post that talks about the best Museums we have in Sydney!
A Guide to Exploring the Best Museums in Sydney, Australia
Powerhouse Museum
If you’re interested in science, engineering or art, the Museum of Sydney is definitely worth a visit. With sections dedicated to the Industrial Revolution and Space, you’ll be amazed by the variety of exhibits on display. It’s recommended that you set aside around 3-4 hours to explore all the sections properly.
Australian Museum
The Australian Museum offers a diverse range of collections covering zoology, mineralogy, palaeontology and anthropology, with the Dinosaurs gallery being a particular favourite. The level two kids experience area is fantastic, offering a wide range of sensory activities and play areas that will keep your children entertained for hours.
Museum of Sydney
The educational programs, talks, and workshops on offer cater to visitors of all ages, providing them with a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. The museum’s exhibits also touch on Aboriginal culture, offering an enlightening look into this important part of Australian history.
Australian National Maritime Museum
The Australian National Maritime Museum boasts a remarkable collection of ships that you can explore. You can immerse yourself in Australian maritime history as you explore an entire Navy vessel, a submarine, and even a replica of Captain Cook’s legendary ship, the Endeavour. The museum is a vast space, and it is recommended that you plan to spend a minimum of two hours there to fully appreciate all that it has to offer.
Museum of Contemporary Art Australia
The Museum of Contemporary Art Australia is known for its consistently interesting and well-curated art exhibitions. The museum particularly shines a light on modern Australian artists, including indigenous talents who are making waves in the art world.
Enjoy the wildlife at Sydney Zoos
Another favourite of ours is checking out the zoos and wildlife parks, such as Taronga Zoo, Featherdale Wildlife Park, and the Australian Reptile Park. These parks often have special events and shows during school holidays, which are always a hit with the kids.
Taronga Zoo
Taronga Zoo is a must-visit destination for animal-loving families. Perched on the banks of Sydney Harbour, it boasts breathtaking views of the city skyline while you explore the zoo’s extensive collection of animals. Kids will delight in getting up close and personal with their favourite animals, including majestic elephants, towering giraffes, and ferocious big cats. The Australian wildlife exhibit is a must-see, where you can interact with adorable koalas, kangaroos, and wallabies.
Featherdale Wildlife Park
For a more intimate animal encounter, take a trip to Featherdale Wildlife Park. Though smaller in size than Taronga Zoo, this park provides an opportunity for kids to get even closer to a range of native Australian animals, such as wombats, Tasmanian devils, and echidnas. The park also offers the unique experience of hand-feeding kangaroos and wallabies, a memorable highlight for any young animal lover.
Australian Reptile Park
For families with little ones enamoured with reptiles, the Australian Reptile Park is a must-visit. This park is home to an extensive collection of snakes, lizards, and crocodiles, along with some other Australian wildlife such as koalas and kangaroos. Interactive shows and demonstrations offer an opportunity for kids to learn about the animals and even hold some of the friendlier creatures.
Have fun at the Sydney theme park
We have also written another post that talks about some of the best and biggest theme parks we have in Australia, you can check out the link below.
The Best Theme Parks in Australia to Visit This Year
Luna Park, Sydney
Luna Park is a great amusement park located in Sydney, Australia. First things first, you’ve got to ride their iconic Ferris wheel. The views from the top are absolutely amazing, and it’s also a great way to get an overview of the whole park.
Next, you should definitely check out their Wild Mouse roller coaster. It’s a fast-paced, thrilling ride that is sure to get your heart pumping! And if you’re feeling brave, try riding it backwards – it’s a whole different experience!
If you’re a fan of classic carnival games, Luna Park has plenty to choose from. You can try your hand at ring toss, balloon darts, or even test your strength with a hammer game. And if you’re looking for something a little more high-tech, check out the arcade games inside the Coney Island building.
Going to a Beach
Of course, we can’t forget about the beaches in Sydney! Bondi Beach, Coogee Beach, and Manly Beach are all great options for families. We love spending the day building sandcastles, swimming, and soaking up the sun.
Bondi Beach
Bondi Beach is a must-visit for families visiting Sydney. With its wide stretch of sand and stunning views of the ocean, it’s the perfect place for kids to play in the surf and build sandcastles. Plus, there’s no shortage of cafes and restaurants nearby to refuel and recharge.
Coogee Beach
For a more peaceful beach experience, head to Coogee Beach. It may be smaller than Bondi, but that’s what makes it special. Take a dip in the calm waters, snorkel around the rocks, or enjoy a paddleboarding session. And if you want to explore the area further, take a walk along the picturesque coastal trail.
Manly Beach
If you’re up for an adventure, hop on the ferry from Circular Quay to Manly Beach. The ride itself is a treat, but when you arrive, you’ll be greeted with a beautiful stretch of sand and plenty of opportunities for surfing and swimming. And when it’s time for a break, there are plenty of dining options nearby to satisfy everyone’s cravings.
We have also written another post that talks about the best Water Parks in Sydney, make sure you check that out!
Best Waterparks in Sydney and New South Wales
Raging Waters Sydney
If you’re planning a visit to Raging Waters Sydney, you’re in for a treat! They’ve got so many fun slides and pools to choose from, suitable for all ages. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just looking for a relaxing float, there’s something for everyone.
Jamberoo Action Park
Jamberoo Action Park has a lot of amazing slides and attractions that are perfect for people of all ages. One of the most popular slides is the Funnel Web, which is a giant funnel-shaped slide that shoots you down before plunging you into a pool of water. The Taipan is another popular slide that features twists, turns and drops that will have your heart racing.
The Big Banana Fun Park
Are you planning a visit to The Big Banana Fun Park? Well, you’re in for a treat because there are some awesome slides and attractions you won’t want to miss! If you’re looking for something a little less wet, then check out the Toboggan Ride – it’s a dry slide that twists and turns down a hill, and you can ride it solo or with a friend. And for the adventurous types, there’s the giant swing, which lifts you up high before dropping you down in a thrilling freefall.
Cables Wake Park & Aqua Park
Aqua Park is basically an inflatable obstacle course on water! It’s perfect for anyone who loves a bit of adventure and wants to test their skills. You’ll have a blast jumping, sliding, and climbing your way through this awesome course.
Head to indoor Play Centres
On days when the weather isn’t great, we like to head to indoor play centres like Monkey Mania, Lollipops Playland, and Inflatable World. They have plenty of activities to keep the kids entertained, rain or shine.
Monkey Mania
At Monkey Mania, your kids can swing, climb, and slide their way through multi-level play structures, obstacle courses, and even a dedicated toddler area. With plenty of seating for parents and a café serving up snacks and drinks, it’s a great spot for a playdate or a rainy day activity.
Lollipops Playland
Lollipops Playland is another popular option for families. With colourful and themed play areas for kids of all ages, there’s something for everyone – from slides and ball pits to ride-on toys and arcade games. And with regular events and activities like disco nights and storytime, there’s always something new to keep the kids entertained.
Inflatable World
For a different kind of play experience, head to Inflatable World. As the name suggests, this indoor play centre is all about bouncing, sliding, and jumping on giant inflatable structures. From slides to obstacle courses to bouncy castles, the kids will have a blast while getting in some exercise.
And finally, we always enjoy spending time in Sydney’s beautiful parks and gardens. The Royal Botanic Garden, Centennial Park, and the Chinese Garden of Friendship are all fantastic options for families, with playgrounds, walking trails, and other fun activities.
We hope these suggestions help you plan some fun activities with your kids during the school holidays!