Visiting cities typically characterized as traffic-clogged, dense and hectic, it’s easy to balk at the idea of mixing an unknown urban destination with kids. However, harborside, fresh-air-swept Sydney is an exception that feels like it puts families first.
Studded with emerald green parks and playgrounds, Sydney is exploding at its water-sewn seams with kid-friendly activities. It serves up a coveted mix of bucket-list icons, world-class museums, rich cultural activities and free attractions, including over 100 beaches. Paired with its “no worries, mate” vibes, Sydney is a must-visit destination for any family unit.
Sydney is synonymous with sand, sea and sun. It’s also stroller-friendly. The friendly attitude towards children is reflected in its abundance of public amenities; most parks feature restrooms, shelter from the sun, play areas and water fountains.
Breastfeeding in public is widely accepted and navigating your way through neighborhoods is made easy, thanks to a public transport system that accommodates baby buggies with elevators, ramps and wide doorways.
Even pubs can be surprisingly kid-friendly in Sydney, with some featuring dedicated family eating areas and playgrounds to keep young ones entertained. You won’t have trouble feeding your crew, with everything from Japanese sushi to weekend sausage sizzles (barbecued sausages in bread) at beachside surf clubs.
Educative explorations include learning more about the traditional custodians of the land – the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation – and early colonists at the Rocks, where Susannah Place Museum depicts working-class life over 150 years. Adrenaline activities include climbing to the top of the Harbour Bridge, or screaming on new rides at the much-loved Luna Park (established in 1935, it was most recently upgraded in 2021).
Many of Sydney’s best activities are free and ideal for families on a budget, like visiting the Royal National Park, one of the world’s oldest national parks.
Darling Harbour is a one-stop entertainment shop. Start your day by having breakfast with koalas at Wild Life Sydney Zoo, then side stroke next door to Sea Life Sydney Aquarium to help prepare a dugong its lunch, or clamber into a submarine at the National Maritime Museum. Just next door is Tumbalong Park Playground, one of Sydney’s best with a flying fox, climbing ropes, a splash park for hot days and multiple coffee options within a froth flick.
For beaches, catch a ferry to Manly or head to Bondi for coastal walks and photo-worthy views.
For something different though, walk north over the Harbour Bridge to discover under-the-radar family gems, such as Maccallum Seawater Pool. Fed by the ocean waters, it has stellar harbor views with the Sirius St playground
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