Choose from 146 Fun Things to Do in New South Wales
ShowingFilter 101-120 of 146 listings.
The Rocks
With its Georgian sandstone buildings, narrow alleyways, historic pubs, and regenerated warehouses, The Rocks is one of Sydney’s oldest and most popular precincts. Set back from Circular Quay, it was one of the earliest parts of Sydney to be settled. Formerly a raffish area, today this city-center quarter has been gentrified and given a good polish.
You’ll find Sydney’s oldest pubs here, a vibrant weekend street market specializing in handicrafts, historic Cadmans Cottage, the Sydney Observatory, Museum of Contemporary Art, and a swag of shops and boutiques. Some of Sydney’s best restaurants are also here, including Sailors Thai, Altitude, Neil Perry’s Rockpool, and Doyles at the Quay.
The best way to get a feel for The Rocks is to just follow your nose down 200-year-old cobbled laneways like Playfair St, Mill Lane, and Nurses Walk.
Practical Info
The Rocks precinct extends behind the Museum of Contemporary Art and George St, best reached from the Circular Quay ferry, bus and train transport hub.
If you’re walking from Darling Harbour, access is from Hickson Rd. Streets include Kent St, Grosvenor St, Cumberland St and Argyle St, while to the north Dawes Point leads to the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Address: George and Argyle Streets, Sydney 2000, Australia
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 21
Wattamolla Beach
Nested inside a quiet lagoon, Wattamolla Beach is a popular spot to stop in for a picnic or a swim within Royal National Park. It takes it name from the Aboriginal words for “place near running water.” The waters provide excellent conditions for snorkeling, swimming, and fishing, while cabbage tree palms provide shade for a more leisurely beach afternoon.
Particularly suited for families, there are barbecue facilities to make a beachside lunch, seaside tracks to explore or take a walk along the coast. There is also a quiet freshwater lagoon, separated from the sea by a long sandbar. The beach is unpatrolled, welcoming appearances from local wildlife and keeping with its peaceful nature. Though it is centrally located within the park, it often feels secluded and calm.
Practical Info
Wattamolla Beach is located at the end of Wattamolla Road, off Sir Bertram Stevens Drive in Sydney. The park is open daily from 7 am to 8:30 pm.
Address: Little Marley Fire Trail, Wollongong Regional Districts, NSW, Australia, Australia
Hours: Daily 7am-8:30pm
From $ 139
Sydney Harbour Bridge Pylon Lookout
In addition to the Bridge Climb, there is a cheap alternative to get the famous view from the top of town on the Sydney Harbour Bridge–the Pylon Lookout. The bridge walkway leads to the South East Pylon and to the entrance of the lookout, from where 200 steps lead up to the viewing platform located 285 feet (87 meters) above sea level.
From here enjoy fantastic panorama views of the Opera House, Circular Quay and the two arches of the Harbour Bridge. You'll also be able to observe the daring bridge climbers.
The Pylon Lookout doesn't only consist of the viewing platform though, but is made up of three levels of exhibits. A visit to the small museum located inside the Pylon is included in an admission ticket and includes information about the history and construction of the bridge, including the dangerous working conditions of the riveters, stonemasons and riggers who constructed it. Hear incredible stories, such as the tale of a worker who survived a fall from the bridge, and watch a film that features the building process and artifacts that were crucial to the accurate construction of one of Australia’s most famous icons.
Practical Info
The Pylon Lookout is only closed on Christmas Day, but apart from that, it is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. To get to the entrance, take the Bridge Stairs opposite the Australian Hotel up to the pedestrian walkway and walk north until you reach the South East Pylon.
Address: South East Pylon of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney, NSW, Australia
Hours: Daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed Christmas Day.
Admission: Adults (13+) $13 AUD, Children (5-12) $6.50 AUD, Children (4 and under) Free
From $ 125
Sydney Observatory
Those in search of stars can head to the shores of Palm Beach, a Sydney celebrity hot spot, or they can make their way to the Sydney Observatory, where astronomers and locals have been charting the skies of the southern hemisphere since 1858.
Self-guided walking tours through the observatory explore astronomy, meteorology, timekeeping and archaeology, and visitors can also travel through the observatory’s rich past by checking out the impressive array of informative exhibits. The facility’s world-class planetarium is a popular spot to visit, but the opportunity to view the night sky through a telescope is a one-of-a-kind treat. The oldest working telescope in Australia opens up the skies for guests, who can catch a glimpse of double stars, the moon and even planets.
Practical Info
The observatory is located on Observatory Hill on Watson Road, near Observatory Park, just west of Upper Fort Street. It is open daily from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Daytime entry is free for the gardens and observatory exhibitions, but travelers who want access to telescopes and 3D theater showings must pay additional fees of $10 for adults and $8 for children. Prices are higher for night visits, which require advance booking.
Address: 1003 Upper Fort Street, Millers Point, New South Wales, Australia
Hours: Daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission: Day: Adults $10, Children (4-15 years) $8; Night: Adults: $18, Children (4-15years) $12
From $ 7
Watsons Bay
Set on the narrow southern head of famous Sydney Harbour, Watson's Bay is one of the city's most underrated attractions. Whether it's hiking the Hermitage Foreshore Track or bathing in the buff at Lady Bay Beach, this eastern suburb is about being outside and taking in the views of the harbor. That is, of course, unless you’re seated at a café enjoying some fish and chips, which locals suggest are some of the best you'll find in all of Sydney. History buffs can wander the bluffs to see guns, cannons and military installations that have guarded Sydney Harbor, while swimmers can head to Camp Cove Beach to splash in the protected waters.
The hiking trails here run all the way to down to Bondi and up to Hornby Lighthouse, which looks out toward the northern head and all of Sydney Harbour. The easiest way to visit Watson's Bay is by jumping on a ferry or hop-on, hop-off cruise and then either exploring on your own or as part of a guided walking tour.
Practical Info
Multiple ferries connect Watson's Bay and Circular Quay, with direct, peak-hour ferries making the crossing in only 20 minutes. Travelers wanting to hike and explore should devote at least half a day.
Did You Know? During World War II, Sydney Harbour was protected by an anti-submarine boom net that spanned from Watson's Bay in the south to Georges Head in the north.
Address: Watsons Bay, Sydney, Australia
From $ 36
Tamarama Beach
Bondi beach might be Sydney’s most headline-grabbing beach, but another local favorite is right nearby – Tamarama Beach. The small bay stretches just 80 meters along the coast and it’s an idyllic setting, with its golden sands framed by rugged sandstone headlands and lush parks.
Tamarama has long had a reputation as one of the city’s most exclusive beaches and its young, fashionable crowds has earned it the nickname ‘Glamarama’ among locals. The consistent surf and big breaks also make Tamarama a top choice for adventurous surfers, but with dangerous riptides at both sides of the bay, swimmers are advised not to venture outside of the marked safe zones.
Practical Info
Tamarama Beach is located around 1km south of Bondi Beach in southeast Sydney.
Address: Tamarama Marine Drive, Tamarama NSW, Australia
From $ 93
The Gap
The eastern Sydney suburb of Watson’s Bay is more than just a charming fishing town—it’s also home to one of the most stunning views found anywhere in all of Sydney. At the cliff top viewpoint known as the “The Gap,” walkers are treated to a 360° panorama of Sydney’s Harbor and coastline. For all of its natural beauty, however, The Gap has a somewhat morbid history that is occasionally more famous than its view. In 1857, the Dunbar sailing ship was aiming for the Sydney Harbor entrance, but misjudged the entry point and was shipwrecked on the rocks.
All of the 122 passengers aboard perished in the grisly wreck, except for one sailor who would end up tending a lighthouse along Australia’s coast. The Gap is also infamously known for its high number of suicides, with hundreds of Australians having leapt from the cliff to the icy waters below.
Thankfully, this famous Southern Head promontory is working to reduce the number of deaths, and most people who visit The Gap today have come for the hiking and views. Take a walk on the cliff front trails and inhale the smell of the ocean, all while listening to the powerful surf crash thunderously on the rocks below. Nearby, the South Head Heritage Trail runs to the entrance of magnificent Sydney Harbor, and Manly Beach and the Sydney skyline are all visible from the cliff top overlook. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head back into Watson’s Bay for some authentic fish and chips, and listen to seagulls as they squawk in the streets of this luxurious fishing town suburb.
Practical Info
Though Watson’s Bay is accessible by road, taking the ferry from Circular Quay is the most enjoyable way to visit. It’s a 10-minute stroll from the ferry terminal to The Gap, and there is no admission fee to walk the trails or relax in the adjoining park.
Address: Sydney, Australia
From $ 96
Tallavera Grove
Tallavera Grove is home to one of many family-owned boutique vineyards, with arguably the best view in the Hunter Valley. Estate wines produced here are award-winning, many receiving five stars (so perhaps a tasting is in order.) The tranquility of the green hills surrounding the vines offers a relaxing place to taste some of the area’s best wines. Within a small microclimate with slight seasonal changes that are different from the rest of the valley, Tallavera Grove wines offer something a bit different from the rest.
In addition to Hunter Valley wines, Tallavera Grove offers tastings from vineyards of Orange and Wrattonbully regions as well. The winery is known for its beautiful, Tuscan-inspired cellar door, dramatic scenery, and of course, fine wines. The drive to the vineyard is worth a visit alone. A bistro on site offers dining options as well.
Practical Info
The vineyard is located at 749 Mount View Road and is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm.
Address: 749 Mount View Road, Mount View, NSW, Australia 2325, Australia
Hours: Daily 9am-5pm
From $ 853
Sydney Tall Ships
No trip to Sydney is truly complete without a full embrace of the ocean water. Day or night, the Sydney Harbour's Tall Ships set off providing passengers an authentic Australian experience, watching over the city harbour over some genuine barbecue.
With a variety of different services, meal offerings, and specials, you can choose which time of the day and price setting best suits you, either choosing to share a romantic date with a loved one or giving the kids something to brag about, as you set sail on these majestic tall ships.
The scenery is spectacular, with most boats providing amazing views of some of the city's great landmarks, including the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Fort Denison, and even the Taronga Zoo, so be sure to bring a camera!
With a variety of different services, meal offerings, and specials, you can choose which time of the day and price setting best suits you, either choosing to share a romantic date with a loved one or giving the kids something to brag about, as you set sail on these majestic tall ships.
The scenery is spectacular, with most boats providing amazing views of some of the city's great landmarks, including the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Fort Denison, and even the Taronga Zoo, so be sure to bring a camera!
Address: Sydney, Australia
Admission: Pricing varies
From $ 36
Sydney Harbour Bridge
Few sights are as instantly recognizable as the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the grand centerpiece of Sydney Harbour and one of Australiaâs most photographed landmarks. The historic structure dates to 1932 and is the worldâs largest steel arch bridge. Itâs also an important transport hub, linking downtown Sydney with the north shore, Manly, and the areaâs northern beaches.
The Basics
Whether you walk beneath it, drive over it, or climb up it, you simply canât miss the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and most city sightseeing tours include at least a glimpse of the iconic bridge. Walking and biking tours afford impressive panoramic city views from the bridge, while a Sydney Harbour cruise provides plenty of photo opportunities. Adventurous types can scale the summit on a Sydney BridgeClimb or even soar overhead on a helicopter tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Car, bike, and pedestrian lanes run across the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
- Walking the length of the bridge takes about 15 minutes.
- Tolls are in operation for the car lanes, while the walking and cycling lanes are free.
- The bridge is not currently wheelchair accessible, with the pedestrian lanes reachable only by stairs.
How to Get to Sydney Harbour Bridge
Sydney Harbour Bridge is located in the heart of Sydney Harbour, opposite the Sydney Opera House, and can be reached by foot from anywhere in downtown Sydney. Pedestrian access to the bridge starts from Circular Quay in The Rocks or Milsons Point in North Sydney.
When to Get There
The Sydney Harbour Bridge is always open, but it can get busy, especially during rush hour. To beat the crowds, visit at sunrise or after dark, when the bridge is dramatically illuminated. For the most spectacular photo opportunities, time your visit for sunset or visit during Sydneyâs legendary New Yearâs Eve celebrations, when the bridge forms the focal point of the epic fireworks display.
Sydney Harbour Bridge by the Numbers
Using 52,800 tons of steel, it took 1,400 people more than eight years to build the Sydney Harbour Bridge. In addition to being one of the tallest bridges of its kind, itâs also the sixth-longest bridge in the world, measuring an impressive 3,770 feet (1,149 meters) long. Today, nearly 200,000 vehicles and foot passengers pass over the bridge daily.
Address: Sydney 2000, Australia
Admission: Free
From $ 20
Sydney Opera House
The Sydney Opera House, a world-class performing arts venue and iconic Australian landmark, defines the Sydney Harbour in the heart of the city. Designed by Danish architect Jorn Utzon, the structure is a masterpiece of late 20th-century architecture, despite challenges that plagued the 15-year project before it was formally opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1973. Distinguished by soaring halls with a white ceramic-tiled exterior shaped to evoke the sails of a yacht, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see Sydney attraction.
The Basics
The Sydney Opera House is a highlight of any city tour or harbor cruise, and it’s well worth an up-close look, too. It’s best explored as part of a guided tour, either a guided walking option that hits highlights of the building's history and architecture or an in-depth tour that goes backstage to concert halls, green rooms, and studios usually off-limits to visitors. Given that this is a functioning performance venue, visitors can also experience the Opera House by attending a show, whether pairing a theater performance with dinner as part of an evening package, or dining along the waterfront before a night of ballet.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Attending a performance at the Opera House is a must for music, dance, and theater fans.
- Tickets for tours and events often sell out, so it’s best to book in advance.
- Public areas of the complex are wheelchair accessible, and accessible show seating is available for all performances (seats must be pre-booked, and availability is limited).
- Unless visiting on a guided tour, travelers are unable to access the Concert Hall and Joan Sutherland Theatre foyers or performance spaces.
- The Opera House complex contains restaurants, bars, cafes, shops, and outdoor plazas.
How to Get There
Located on Bennelong Point at the waters of Sydney Cove and Farm Cove, the Sydney Opera House is just a few minutes’ walk from Circular Quay and its ferries, trains, and buses. The site is easy to spot from around Sydney Harbour and from the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
When to Get There
Shows and performances run year-round at the Opera House, and with more than 2,500 of them taking place each year, you’re likely to find one during your visit. For a special experience, time your trip during the Vivid Sydney festival, when the Opera House exterior becomes the canvas for colorful light displays.
Address: Bennelong Point, Sydney 2000, Australia
Hours: Daily
Admission: Varies
From $ 24
Three Sisters
The Three Sisters is an ancient rock formation located in the Blue Mountains National Park in the town of Katoomba. The towering trio of stone has a mythical dimension in the Aboriginal Dreamtime legend about three sisters who lived in the Jamison Valley and fell in love with three brothers from a rival tribe whom they were forbidden to marry.
The Basics
Today the landmark is a popular destination, and a trip to Echo Point—a viewing and access point for the Three Sisters— is an easy day trip from Sydney. Visitors can walk down a very steep and winding staircase of about 800 steps past the rock formation and connect with other walking trails at the bottom of the valley.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The staircase down past the Three Sisters is very steep. Wear good walking shoes and be aware of the physical demands if you choose to take the stairs.
- There are alternative trails like the federal Pass Trail, which give hikers the option to ride back to the top of the valley on the Scenic Railway.
- Scenic World, an eco-amusement park, is also located in the Blue Mountains National Park.
- The Park is sometimes closed due to bushfires in the summer or wet weather in winter.
How to Get There
The Three Sisters rock formation is located at Echo Point in the town of Katoomba. The spot is easily accessible by car or train. From Sydney, it’s about 90 minutes by car, or a 2-hour train journey on the Blue Mountain Line. Many tours also include transportation to the Three Sisters.
When to Get There
The Blue Mountains National Park is always open to the public, although some parts of the park may occasional close due to bad weather. The Echo Point Visitor center is open daily; check the website for up-to-date hours.
Leura
Visitors to the Three Sisters will find themselves a short drive or one train stop away from the charming village of Leura. With family-run cafes, bakeries, gift shops, and food stores, Leura offers a taste of small town life in Australia. There are a number of casual and higher-end dining options, making it a great lunch stop during a day of sightseeing.
Address: Blue Mountains National Park, NSW, Australia
From $ 37
Sydney Olympic Park
In 2000, Sydney Olympic Park hosted athletes from around the world, all of whom arrived hungry for gold. And while these games are now more than a decade behind us, this world-class facility still draws travelers and locals looking to experience the Olympic spirit.
The park is made up of several venues like ANZ Stadium, Sydney Showground, Athletic Centre, Aquatic Centre and Sports Centre.
The park is made up of several venues like ANZ Stadium, Sydney Showground, Athletic Centre, Aquatic Centre and Sports Centre.
At the park, visitors can wander through the scenic stretches of well-kept boardwalk that winds through protected wetlands or settle the score in a match at the world-class tennis center. Bikes and Segways are available for hire, which makes exploring the grounds just a little more manageable. The Urban Jungle Adventure Park, with its high ropes course, is a popular stop for families and thrill-seekers, and weekend archery clinics help travelers hit the bull’s-eye. Travelers can explore the park solo or hire a guide for an in-depth Olympic experience.
Practical Info
The Olympic Park complex is easily accessible by train; get off at the Olympic Park stop. Guided tours of the facility are available, and the Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre is open to the public for swimming, too. The park can be fairly empty when there are no scheduled events taking place.
Address: Australia Ave, Sydney Olympic Park, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Hours: Daily
From $ 81
Sydney Harbour
With the iconic silhouette of Sydney Opera House and the dramatic arch of Sydney Harbour Bridge etched against a backdrop of glittering ocean and soaring skyscrapers, Sydney Harbour is Australia’s quintessential postcard image. The harbor, the natural heart of Sydney, features more than 150 miles (240 kilometers) lined with golden beaches, lush gardens, and vibrant neighborhoods.
The Basics
Sydney Harbour is at the top of the must-see list for first-time visitors to Sydney, and the most popular way to enjoy the views is on a sightseeing cruise. Opt for a scenic lunch cruise, admire the illuminated city skyline on a romantic dinner cruise, take a whale-watching cruise, or book one with a stop at Goat Island or Fort Denison. For the most spectacular views, soar overhead on a helicopter tour, or get back to nature on a walking tour in Sydney Harbour National Park.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Sydney Harbour cruises range from a 90-minute excursion to a half-day tour.
- Sydney Harbour attractions such as the Royal Botanic Garden, Taronga Zoo, and Sydney Opera House are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get to Sydney Harbour
Sydney Harbour is located in central Sydney, a 30-minute train or taxi ride from Sydney Airport, and is easily accessible from all corners of the city. Boat cruises and ferries set sail across the harbor from Darling Harbour and Circular Quay, toward Rose Bay, Bondi Beach, and Watsons Bay, while trains and buses run over the Sydney Harbour Bridge between the Central Business District and the North Shore.
When to Get There
The Sydney skyline is impressive at any time of year, but the most atmospheric times to photograph Sydney Harbour are at sunrise and sunset. For a special experience, time your visit to coincide with one of the city’s world-famous events, such as the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, New Year’s Eve fireworks, or the Australia Day parade.
Where to Find the Best Views of Sydney Harbour
Gaze out over the harbor from Sydney Harbour Bridge, stroll along the waterfront of The Rocks, or take in the ocean views from Bondi Beach. For a striking landscape view, head to Mrs. Macquarie's Point, McMahons Point, Kirribilli, or Milsons Point, where you can capture a unique shot looking out beneath the Harbour Bridge.
Address: Sydney, Australia
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 33
Sydney Tower Eye and Skywalk
Sydney Tower Eye rises 1,000 feet (309 meters) into the sky, and at twice the height of the Harbour Bridge, it's Sydney’s tallest structure. Designed by Australian architect Donald Crone, construction was finished in 1981, and the tower was soon after opened to the public. If the air is clear, you will be able to see as far as the Blue Mountains, which sit about 50 miles (80 km) away. But even if there is haze in the air, the tower offers a full 360-degree view of Australia’s biggest city, from the golden beaches and the ferries shuttling commuters across the blue harbor to a new perspective of the famous Opera House and the Central Business District below. This high up, Sydney is a jumble of houses and the parks are nothing but tiny green spots.
If you count yourself as brave enough, you can sign up for the adrenaline-fueled Skywalk. After taking a breath test to prove they aren't under the influence, visitors are suited up in a jumpsuit and harness belt to enjoy the tower's famous view with nothing but glass below and the wind all around.
Practical Info
The Skywalk experience is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., except from October through April when it stays open until 8 p.m. It only shuts down on days of very high winds. The regular observation deck, on the other hand, is open daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. To get to the tower, enter the New Westfield Shopping Centre at the corner of Pitt and Market streets and head up to level five. From there, follow the signs.
Address: 100 Market St, Sydney 2000, Australia
Hours: Tower (Observation): Daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Skywalk: Open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; until 8 p.m. from October through April
Admission: Tower: Adult $26 AUD, Child (4-15) $15 AUD. Skywalk & Tower: Adult $69 AUD, Child (4-15) $45 AUD.
From $ 21
Tropical Fruit World
With 65 hectares (175 acres) of fruit orchards and plantations open to visitors, Tropical Fruit World is one of the Gold Coast’s most unique tourist attractions. The eco-friendly, family-run farm grows over 500 varieties of tropical fruits, and visitors can not only go behind-the-scenes to discover the workings of the farm, but sample a delicious array of exotic fruits.
There’s plenty to see and do at Tropical Fruit World - take a Plantation Safari by tractor train, enjoy a wildlife boat cruise, ride a miniature train and get close to kangaroos, emus and Clydesdale horses at the fauna park. Of course, the best part is tasting the exotic fruits, juices and ice creams, so head to the Plantation Café to try unique varieties like cheese fruit, chocolate pudding fruit, caramel fruit and champagne fruit. There’s also a recreational area, with mini golf and a children’s playground; a fruit market where seasonal fruits like dragonfruit, jackfruit and papaya are on sale; and a shop, where you can purchase souvenirs like avocado oil cosmetics or home-made fruit jams.
Practical Info
Tropical Fruit World is located in Duranbah on the Gold Coast and is open daily from 10am to 4pm. Admission is AU$45 for adults and AU$25 for children.
Address: 29 Duranbah Road, Duranbah NSW 2487, Australia
Hours: Open daily from 10am to 4pm
Admission: Adults: AU$45; Children: AU$25
From $ 73
Waradah Aboriginal Centre
If you want to know more about Australia’s indigenous owners and wish to see or purchase genuine Aboriginal arts and craft, consider a visit to the Waradah Aboriginal Centre (sometimes referred to as Koomurri Aboriginal Centre) in Katoomba in the Blue Mountains.
One of Australia’s best Aboriginal cultural centers, Waradah is the place to learn more about Australia’s unique heritage and first peoples, as well as witness traditional Aboriginal dance and didgeridoo performances.
Various shows featuring Aboriginal dancers or musicians in traditional costume are scheduled throughout the day and include an introduction to the story and an explanation of the significance of each performance.
The recently refurbished fine art gallery contains genuine Australian Aboriginal paintings, while the center’s shop has a large collection of more affordable and varied Aboriginal art and crafts, such as totem statues, ceramics, glasswork and didgeridoos.
The Waradah Aboriginal Centre is just a short walk away from the Blue Mountain’s famous Three Sisters and Giant Stairway at Echo Point, Katoomba.
One of Australia’s best Aboriginal cultural centers, Waradah is the place to learn more about Australia’s unique heritage and first peoples, as well as witness traditional Aboriginal dance and didgeridoo performances.
Various shows featuring Aboriginal dancers or musicians in traditional costume are scheduled throughout the day and include an introduction to the story and an explanation of the significance of each performance.
The recently refurbished fine art gallery contains genuine Australian Aboriginal paintings, while the center’s shop has a large collection of more affordable and varied Aboriginal art and crafts, such as totem statues, ceramics, glasswork and didgeridoos.
The Waradah Aboriginal Centre is just a short walk away from the Blue Mountain’s famous Three Sisters and Giant Stairway at Echo Point, Katoomba.
Address: World Heritage Plaza 33-37 Echo Point Road, Katoomba, New South Wales, Australia
Hours: Daily 9am-5pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 119
Sydney Town Hall
The steps of this iconic building in the heart of Sydney’s central business district serve as a popular meeting place for both travelers and locals, but it is what’s found within its walls that make a visit worthwhile.
Built in the 1880s, this sandstone structure is the political powerhouse of the city, housing the Sydney City Council chamber and the offices of the lord mayor, the deputy lord mayor and the city’s councilors. But what catches the eye of most visitors is the building’s Sydney Town Hall Grand Organ, the world’s largest pipe organ. Two-hour guided tours include a look at Centennial Hall, the Lady Mayoress’s Rooms, the Reception Room and the former site of the Old Sydney Burial Ground, in addition to a stop at the world-famous organ.
Practical Info
Sydney Town Hall is located at 483 George Street between Druitt and Bathurst streets near Hyde Park and opposite the Queen Victoria Building. It is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. The schedule may change depending on scheduled events, so it’s best to call ahead for tours, which cost $5.
Address: 483 George Street, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Hours: Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
From $ 37
Taronga Zoo
Easily the wildest place in Sydney, the Taronga Zoo is a sprawling sanctuary where over 4,000 animals crawl and chirp just minutes from the heart of downtown. Situated on Sydney Harbour a short ferry ride from Circular Quay, the sprawling sanctuary ranks as a top Sydney destination, with a range of tours, keeper talks, animal shows, and activities suitable for kids and adults. Visitors can see the fuzzy face of a native koala as it first wakes up from a nap, or stand a few feet from playful lemurs as they swing and play in the treetops. There are also opportunities to spot exotic species such as Malaysian sun bears, giraffes, and African lions, or marvel at a fearsome saltwater crocodile as it cruises through shallow waters.
The Basics:
The Taronga Zoo’s animals reside in 10 themed zones, each designed to resemble a natural habitat. Ticket options range from general entry tickets to admission with add-ons and upgrades such as supervised hand-feedings, behind-the-scenes experiences, and educational visits with Aboriginal guides to hear about the area’s indigenous connections to nature. There's even the chance to sleep at the zoo inside a classic safari tent, where visitors fall asleep to the sounds of the savanna but wake to views of the harbor. All tickets include a ride on the Sky Safari cable car, which glides above the zoo and provides an aerial view of the animals and Sydney Harbour. Those looking for convenience can book a tour that includes a Taronga Zoo visit, a Sydney Harbour cruise, and roundtrip transport from their hotel.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking through the extensive grounds.
- The zoo is large and exhibits are spread out, so you might like to jump on the miniature train to get around.
- All shows and presentations, food outlets, and shops are wheelchair accessible, as well as most exhibits and pathways, although some connecting paths are steep.
- Multi-attraction tickets offer admission discounts to top destinations such as the Taronga Zoo, Sea Life Sydney Aquarium, the Sydney Opera House, and the Sydney Tower Eye.
How to Get There
Taronga Zoo is on Little Sirius Cove, a couple of inlets east of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The zoo is an easy and scenic 12-minute ferry ride from Circular Quay, from where ferries depart every 30 minutes. Ferries also depart daily from Darling Harbour and Manly. Upon arrival at the Taronga Wharf, either ride the Sky Safari cable car to the zoo entrance on top of the hill or take the zoo's shuttle bus from the ferry dock to the entrance gates. Public buses and trains also connect to the zoo, and paid parking is available.
When to Get There
The zoo is open daily from 9:30am to 4:30pm. Keeper talks take place throughout the day and are included with admission. Special events occur throughout the year, such as a summer evening concert series and a colorful light art exhibit during the city’s annual Vivid Sydney festival around May and June.
Views from the Zoo
Taronga is an aboriginal phrase that means “beautiful view.” Indeed, the zoo boasts sweeping views of Sydney Harbor and landmarks such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House. Snap a photo of giraffes with Sydney’s skyscrapers in the background, or soak in the scenery while relaxing at one of the picnic areas overlooking the harbor. For another perspective, test your limits on the ropes course (additional cost).
Address: Bradleys Head Road, Sydney, New South Wales 2088, Australia
Hours: Daily 9:30am–4:30pm (May-Aug), 9:30am-5:00pm (Sept-Apr), 9:30am-4:00pm (New Years Eve)
Admission: Adults: $46, children: $26
From $ 35
Sydney Jewish Museum
The Sydney Jewish Museum serves as a moving tribute to Australia’s Jewish community. It’s devoted to telling the story of the city’s Jewish history and heritage, from the population’s first arrivals in 1788 to the almost 30,000 survivors who started new lives in Australia after World War II and the Holocaust.
The Basics
Join a guided tour or explore the museum on your own, spending as long as you like delving into its many exhibitions, multimedia displays, and historical artifacts.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Free guided tours are offered daily, and are included in entrance price.
- On-site facilities include restrooms, a museum gift shop, and a kosher café.
- Most areas of the museum are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Sydney Jewish Museum is located on Darlinghurst Road, a short walk from Kings Cross and Oxford Street in central Sydney.
When to Get There
The museum is open every day except Saturday, all year round. To make the most of your visit, arrive in time for the daily guided tours at 12pm or 1pm. During the week, large school groups often visit the museum in the mornings, so it’s best to visit in the afternoon.
Permanent Exhibitions at Sydney Jewish Museum
The museum’s three main areas include fascinating exhibitions such as “Culture and Continuity: Journey through Judaism” and “Serving Australia: The Jewish Involvement in Australian Military History.” The main focus, however, is on the Holocaust, with a vast exhibition that details the atrocities of the Nazi regime and its far-reaching effects, as well as the future of human rights in Australia.
Address: 148 Darlinghurst Road, Sydney, Australia
From $ 11