Adventure, baby!

Christine Knight

Christine is the editor of Adventure, Baby!

Quizzic Alley Canberra: Harry Potter Magic in Australia

Quizzic Alley Canberra

Quizzic Alley Canberra: Harry Potter Magic in Australia

Visit Australia’s most magical Harry Potter-themed store, Quizzic Alley, located in Fyshwick, ACT. 

Quizzic Alley is the passion project of Michael and Penni Milton. Michael and Penni have stocked the store with the most incredible range of Harry Potter goods from all over the world, including lollies, board games, jewellery, toys, clothing and accessories like bags and wallets. Quizzic Alley carries the biggest range of Harry Potter merchandise in Australia.

Quizzic Alley Canberra

The store has brought the magic of Harry Potter to life with incredible care to detail, with a flying Ford Anglia car that visitors can pose in, and amazing decorations hanging from the ceiling. It’s truly a transformative visit for any Harry Potter fan wishing to duck inside J.K Rowling’s magic world and lose themselves for a few moments.

Quizzic Alley Canberra

Quizzic Alley also offers customers the opportunity to try their “QBrew” (the beverage of choice for witches and wizards everywhere).

Quizzic Alley Canberra

Locals can book kids’ birthday parties at Quizzic Alley, or attend an adult-focused evening event.

Quizzic Alley Canberra

Can’t make it to Canberra to visit in person? All good, Quizzic Alley delivers Australia-wide.

Quizzic Alley Canberra Quizzic Alley Canberra Quizzic Alley Canberra Quizzic Alley Canberra

Find more things to do in Canberra with kids here.

Quizzic Alley
5 Pirie St, Fyshwick ACT
Phone 02-61798856
Hours: Wed-Fri 10am-5:30pm, Sat & Sun 10am-4pm, closed Mon & Tues
quizzicalley.com

Corin Forest Mountain Resort: The Perfect First Snow Experience

Corin Forest Mountain Resort Snow Experience 

Corin Forest Mountain Resort: The Perfect First Snow Experience

Give kids their first snow experience at Corin Forest Mountain Resort in the ACT. Corin Forest is the closest snow experience to Sydney.

Corin Forest is located in the Tidbinbilla Mountain Ranges, 45 minutes from Canberra. During the warmer months, Corin Forest is a place to picnic, ride the 1.2km Alpine Slide and visit neighbouring Square Rock, Gibraltar Falls and Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve.

You can read more about visiting nearby Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve here.

In the winter months (often extending into spring), Corin Forest is the place to take kids to enjoy an affordable and fun first snow experience.

The Corin Forest Mountain Resort is a rustic lodge set among tall trees, in a beautiful secluded valley. 

During the winter season, the lodge is a place to sit back and enjoy a wood fire pizza or hot chocolate after an exhilarating snow session. (In 2020, the lodge is open for takeaway only).

Beyond the lodge are an array of picnic tables around a picturesque lake, and the snowfields. 

Corin Forrest offers very popular snow play sessions, beginner skiing or snowboarding.

Snowplay

We drove down to Corin Forest to experience the snow with their two-hour snowplay experience. The sessions for the school holidays and weekends book out a long way in advance, as they’re a bit of a bargain and the easiest way for most families to experience the snow.

During the snowplay sessions, families can ride a toboggan, build a snowman and generally just play in the snow. We had a lot of fun throwing snowballs at each other.

There are two snowplay areas that run next to each other, with staggered start times.

The capacity is limited, particularly in 2020, with 100 people per sessions permitted. Snow play is open until October 11th in 2020.

Entry to the snowplay area is a bargain $20 per person. You can hire a toboggan for an extra $5 and snow boots for $15. Jacket and pants rental as been suspended for 2020.

We visited in the middle of July and found it not overly cold temperature wise, but still were glad that we had rugged up. I would suggest wearing warm clothes with waterproof pants and jacket, gloves, water resistant boots, sunglasses and a beanie. Bring sunscreen as the glare can burn, and a change of dry clothes for the trip home. 

Make sure to book your session as soon as possible so you don’t miss out.

Snowsports School

Corin Forest is also a great spot for beginners to learn to ski and snowboard. The ski slope features a “magic carpet” ski lift and is a nice, gentle slope to make learning to ski or board as easy as possible. 

In 2020 ski and snowboarding lessons are operating with private lessons for groups of up to four people including an instructor. Lessons are available for adults and children over the age of 8.

Lessons include the use of ski/snowboard and helmets. 

Lessons will be operating until September 7th 2020.

Ski + Ride

Experienced skiers or snowboarders can also enjoy the snow during the designated Ski + Ride sessions.

The Ski Hill will be operating until September 7th 2020.

Alpine Slide

The Alpine Slide descends 1.2km through the Mountain Ash forest. An hour session costs $25 per person.

In 2020 all sessions have a maximum capacity of 25 people so tickets will need to be booked in advance online.

General Info about visiting Corin Forest

For the majority of the winter season, Corin Forest is accessible to all cars. 4WD or snow chains are only needed a few days a season.

The snow at Corin Forest is mostly man-made. Natural snow falls around 6 days each winter.

Parking is unlimited and free.

There is no entry cost to Corin Forest. 

You are welcome t bring your own food and enjoy it in the picnic area. Food is available for purchase in the cafe that serves hot and cold drinks, snacks and meals, and features a wood fired pizza oven. In 2020 the cafe is doing takeaway only.

I would suggest booking the first session of the day as that’s when the snow is freshest.

Every person entering the snowfield needs a ticket, even it it’s just to watch.

If you forget to bring gloves, you can buy a pair at the retail shop.

Clothing rental is usually available from the age of 4 to adult 5XL – however rentals are suspended in 2020.

I strongly suggest booking ahead as Corin Forest is extremely popular.

Find more things to do in Canberra with kids here.

Corin Forest Mountain Resort
1268 Corin Dam Rd, Paddys River ACT
https://www.corin.com.au

Sydney Day Trips: Wollongong Botanic Garden

Wollongong Botanic Garden

Sydney Day Trips: Wollongong Botanic Garden

The Wollongong Botanic Garden is a 30-hectare garden in the suburb of Keiraville featuring a large collection of native and exotic plants from around the world. 

The site of the Wollongong Botanic Gardens was originally occupied by the by local Aboriginal peoples, the Dharawal, who occupied the land for tens of thousands of years. They remain the Custodians of the Land. European settlers in the 1880s used the land for farming until it was bought by the Hoskins family in 1929, who built their home, Gleniffer Brae, on the site in the late 1930s. The house still stands today within the Botanic Garden. 

The Hoskins family dedicated a large part of their property to Wollongong City Council in the 1950s to create a Botanic Garden. The garden was established in 1964 and officially opened to the public in January 1971.

Today, the Wollongong Botanic Garden is a beautiful spot to spend the day, either exploring the various collections or setting up folding chairs or a picnic blanket under one of the many shady trees and enjoying a picnic or bbq.

Tips for visiting the Wollongong Botanic Garden

There are seven entry points for the garden, most without maps or signposting of directions. I highly recommend if it’s your first visit entering at the main entrance located at Murphys Avenue and Paulsgrove Street and collecting a map (or downloading it to your phone).

Wollongong Botanic Garden

The garden is huge and it will take quite some time and leg power to see everything, so allow plenty of time to stroll and take everything in – at least two hours. 

Wollongong Botanic Garden

There are paved paths throughout the majority of the garden, making it extremely accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. There is a disabled toilet located at the entrance. Scooters and bikes are also allowed – a great idea for kids to help little legs get around.

Wollongong Botanic Garden

Pack your own food, folding chairs or picnic blanket to really enjoy a full day at the garden.

There is a cafe near the main entrance, the Garden Grounds Cafe, which serves coffee and light snacks daily between 9am and 2pm. 

Wollongong Botanic Garden

There are picnic tables scattered around the garden, and free barbecues near the playground.

Wollongong Botanic Garden

Wollongong Botanic Garden Collections

The Wollongong Botanic Garden is divided into 11 collections, all seamlessly connected. There are large signs that give information about each section but largely it’s a case of wander, explore and enjoy. The sections are: Australian Open Forest, Azalea Bank and Middle Creek, Dryland Collection, Flowering Trees and Shrubs, Palm Collection, Rainforest Collection, Rose Garden, Sir Joseph Banks Glasshouse (closed at time of print), Succulent Collection, Towri Bush Tucker Garden, Woodland Garden.

Wollongong Botanic Garden

We particularly enjoyed the Succulent Collection, which looks like a landscape from another world. Best visited in June / July when the Agave and Aloe plants produce amazing flower spikes, it’s also pretty spectacular in late August (when we visited) and in spring when a carpet of mesembryanthemum flowers blooms.

Wollongong Botanic Garden

The Azalea Bank and Middle Creek collection is also stunning, featuring plants found in Asiatic regions including China, Japan and Korea. Of note are the beautiful Azaleas, Rhododendrons, Camellias, Dogwoods (Cornus alba), Maples (Acer palmetum) and Dawn Redwoods (Metasequoia glyptostroboides), many of which were blooming when we visited, and a row of white flowering-cherry trees,  near the Japanese Tea House.

Wollongong Botanic Garden

We were fascinated by the aerial roots of the Swamp Cyprus (Taxodium distichum) in this section, too. 

Wollongong Botanic Garden Features

While you can read in detail about the features of the garden here, I have highlighted our favourites below.

Kawasaki Bridge

Wollongong Botanic Garden

One of the most stunning features of the garden is the Kawasaki Bridge. The traditional Japanese bridge and tea house were presented as a gift to the City of Wollongong from the City of Kawasaki in 1993 to mark the fifth anniversary of their Sister City relationship. 

The shape of the bridge is called taiko-bashi (drum bridge) in Japanese. If you look into the water from the top of the bridge you’ll see its reflection in the shape of a drum.

All Abilities Playground

Wollongong Botanic Garden

The fully-fenced all-abilities playground is perfect for kids aged 2-12. The playground includes swings, a sandpit, no-step slippery dip, climbing net, viewing platform and a maze. There is also an edible herb garden along the southern wall with seasonal herbs available for picking such as rosemary, chives, basil, parsley and mint.

Wollongong Botanic Garden Wollongong Botanic Garden Wollongong Botanic Garden Wollongong Botanic Garden

Outdoor Reading Rooms

What a fantastic idea to include little book libraries inside the garden! There are two with a range of fiction, non-fiction and children’s books located next to the Cafe at the Murphys Avenue entrance and along the main path near the Flowering Trees and Shrubs collection.

The Mercury Fountain

Wollongong Botanic Garden

While the fountain was turned off when we visited, it is still a striking piece to behold and for kids to climb, no matter the season. The Mercury Fountain was designed by Robert Woodward. It was inspired by Wollongong’s industrial and mining history, and the five islands off the coastline.

Duck Pond

Wollongong Botanic Garden

Who doesn’t love feeding ducks? The duck pond has a beautiful rotunda in the middle which is the perfect spot to feed the native ducks and watch the eels swim past. If you want to feed the ducks, please either buy the peas and corn from the cafe at the entrance or bring an approved feeding option from home. No bread.

Wollongong Botanic Garden Wollongong Botanic Garden Wollongong Botanic Garden Wollongong Botanic Garden

Insect Hotels

Wollongong Botanic Garden

We have made our own insect hotel at home, which pales in comparison to the beauties found inside the garden. The hotels give insects a sanctuary from the cold of winter and a nesting space in summer. 

Wollongong Botanic Garden

Events and programs

The Wollongong Botanic Garden runs a wide range of educational events throughout the year for adults and kids. During the school holidays kids can enjoy interactive hands-on activities relating to the environment. Find out about upcoming programs here.

Wollongong Botanic Garden

Getting to the Wollongong Botanic Garden

By car: Take the M1 Princes Motorway, then the Keiraville exit and follow the signs to the Wollongong Botanic Garden.

Parking: All parking is free (2 hour limit). There are four car parks and also street parking available. 

Public Transport: Take the free Gong Shuttle Bus or catch the train to North Wollongong. 

Wollongong Botanic Garden Wollongong Botanic Garden Wollongong Botanic Garden Wollongong Botanic Garden Wollongong Botanic Garden Wollongong Botanic Garden Wollongong Botanic Garden Wollongong Botanic Garden Wollongong Botanic Garden Wollongong Botanic Garden Wollongong Botanic Garden Wollongong Botanic Garden Wollongong Botanic Garden

Wollongong Botanic Garden
Murphys Avenue, Keiraville
Hours: Daylight saving hours 7am to 6pm weekdays, 7am to 6.45pm weekends and public holidays. Non-daylight saving hours 7am to 5pm daily

Phone: (02) 4227 7667
wollongong.nsw.gov.au

More things to do in Wollongong

Visit nearby Austinmer Beach.

Visit the Early Start Discovery Space

More things to do in Sydney and surrounds

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids.

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney.

Chase waterfalls in Sydney.

More things to do on the Central Coast.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Things to do in the Southern Highlands.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney.

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

Find the best ice cream and gelato in Sydney

Things to do in the Blue Mountains.

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

Wollongong Botanic Garden

Sotto on Ryde Cafe, Ryde Park: Kid-friendly Cafes in Sydney

Sotto on Ryde

Sotto on Ryde Cafe, Ryde Park: Kid-friendly Cafes in Sydney

Sotto on Ryde Cafe is a family-friendly gem, located in Ryde Park, Sydney. The cafe features outdoor seating, overlooks a playground and is a few steps from a bike and scooter track.

The cafe features a very reasonably-priced menu, with all-day breakfast, weekday lunch specials, and an excellent kids’ menu.

Sotto on Ryde Cafe, Ryde Park, Sydney Sotto on Ryde Cafe, Ryde Park, Sydney Sotto on Ryde Cafe, Ryde Park, Sydney Sotto on Ryde Cafe, Ryde Park, Sydney

The cafe is open-air, with plenty of tables, and overlooks the playground and park.

Sotto on Ryde Cafe, Ryde Park, Sydney Sotto on Ryde Cafe, Ryde Park, Sydney Sotto on Ryde Cafe, Ryde Park, Sydney Ryde Park, Sydney

The service is efficient and fast. The food fresh and served quickly.

Sotto on Ryde Cafe, Ryde Park, Sydney Sotto on Ryde Cafe, Ryde Park, Sydney Sotto on Ryde Cafe, Ryde Park, Sydney Sotto on Ryde Cafe, Ryde Park, Sydney

There are easily-accessible public restrooms at the rear of the cafe.

Sotto on Ryde Cafe, Ryde Park, Sydney

The playground is best suited to preschool/ lower primary-aged kids.

Ryde Park, Sydney Ryde Park, Sydney Ryde Park, Sydney

Read more about visiting Ryde Park and Ryde Park scooter and bike track..

Sotto on Ryde Cafe
30 Argyle Ave, Ryde
Hours: Daily, 7am-5pm
sotto-on-ryde.business.site

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids.

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney.

Chase waterfalls in Sydney.

More things to do on the Central Coast.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Things to do in the Southern Highlands.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney.

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

Find the best ice cream and gelato in Sydney

Things to do in the Blue Mountains.

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

Bodhi Restaurant Bar: Vegan Yum Cha Sydney

Bodhi Restaurant Bar: Vegan Yum Cha Sydney

Bodhi Restaurant Bar: Vegan Yum Cha Sydney

Enjoy vegan yum cha in the heart of Sydney at Bodhi Restaurant Bar. Located under St Mary’s Cathedral, diners can relax under fig trees while being served bright, fresh yum cha dishes. 

Bodhi Restaurant Sydney

Bodhi is a Sydney dining institution. Perfectly situated in the centre of the CBD, overlooking Cook + Phillip Park, the restaurant and bar features a large outdoor dining area as well as inside seating. 

Bodhi Restaurant Sydney

The restaurant opened in 1988 as one of the first vegetarian/vegan restaurants in Sydney, and has been a family-owned and operated business for three generations. Bodhi today is the longest running and largest vegan establishment in Australia. 

Bodhi has a strong emphasis on fresh ingredients, with a company ethos of “do no harm”, and “minimize your impact”. Their chefs follow aBuddhist vegan cooking philosophy, using no garlic, onion, chives, scallions and leek in their dishes. As a result, the food is quite subtle in flavour. 

Bodhi Restaurant Sydney

Bodhi also has a large variety of dishes catering to special dietary needs such as gluten or nut allergies.

​The vegan yum cha menu includes dumplings (my fave are the sweet Japanese pumpkin dumplings), fresh items such as blanched fresh kalian vegetables and Vietnamese rice paper salad wraps, steamed dishes, including the delicious green vegetable bread buns, oven-baked/fried/sauteed dishes (the vegetable curry puff is a must-try) and sweets. We loved the adorable custard lava buns shaped like pigs.

Bodhi Restaurant Sydney

Inside the dumplings and buns you’ll find a mix of vegetables, tofu and mock meats. The menu is extremely wide and varied, so even the pickiest of eaters will be able to find something that they like.

Bodhi Restaurant Sydney

We are frequent visitors to Bodhi and always find the staff to be extremely knowledgable about ingredients and accomodating.

Bodhi Restaurant Sydney

It’s a great place to take kids to try some new dishes, too. With the open-air dining area and wide tables with plenty of space in between, it’s an easy place to bring the family and relax. 

There is parking under St Mary’s Cathedral nearby, or in the Domain car park. Both have reasonable weekend rates. Read more about where to find cheap parking in Sydney.

Make a day of it – find the best things to do in the Sydney CBD with kids.

Bodhi Restaurant Bar
2/4 College St, Sydney
Hours: Yum cha Wed-Fri 11am-3pm, Sat-Sun 11am-4pm. Dinner (a la carte) Tue-Sun 5pm-10pm.
https://www.bodhirestaurant.com.au/

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids.

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney.

Chase waterfalls in Sydney.

More things to do on the Central Coast.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Things to do in the Southern Highlands.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney.

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

Find the best ice cream and gelato in Sydney

Things to do in the Blue Mountains.

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

Bodhi Restaurant Bar: Vegan Yum Cha Sydney

Wentworth Common at Bicentennial Park Sydney

Wentworth Common, Sydney

Wentworth Common at Bicentennial Park Sydney

A hidden gem inside the sprawling Sydney Olympic Park, Wentworth Common is a quiet, grassy park with wetlands, a playground and picnic facilities. 

Wentworth Common is easy to find, with a car park directly outside, off the main road (Marjorie Jackson Pkwy). It’s often overlooked, making it a lovely spot for those seeking solitude. 

Wentworth Common Sydney Olympic Park

The park features a huge grassy area, with lots of trees around the perimeter for shade. There are several sheltered picnic areas and free barbecues, plus a large, modern bathroom block. 

Wentworth Common Sydney Olympic Park

There is a large adventure playground with a huge sandpit, slide, climbing frame, swings and flying fox.

Wentworth Common Sydney Olympic Park Wentworth Common Sydney Olympic Park Wentworth Common Sydney Olympic Park Wentworth Common Sydney Olympic Park Wentworth Common Sydney Olympic Park

Little kids will love the stone sculptures of the lizard and frog in a smaller sandy play area. 

Wentworth Common Sydney Olympic Park Wentworth Common Sydney Olympic Park

There is a small water play feature connected to the sandpit in this part of the park for play during the warmer months.

Wentworth Common Sydney Olympic Park

There are some lovely wooden beams linking the two small play areas though the wilderness as well as low circular stepping stones dotted throughout the bush – great for balance as well as imaginative play.

Wentworth Common Sydney Olympic Park

Dogs are allowed on-leash. 

If you want some exercise, walk or cycle to the top of Bay Marker lookout for views of the wetlands, Haslams Creek, Homebush Bay and the city skyline.

Wentworth Common Sydney Olympic Park Wentworth Common Sydney Olympic Park Wentworth Common Sydney Olympic Park Wentworth Common Sydney Olympic Park Wentworth Common Sydney Olympic Park Wentworth Common Sydney Olympic Park

Look for ducks and other water birds in the wetlands.

Wentworth Common Sydney Olympic Park

Afterwards, check out nearby Brickpit Ring Walk.

There is more of Bicentennial Park to explore as well, plus nearby Blaxland Riverside Playground and the Olympic Cauldron in Cathy Freeman Park. Or, take a dip in the Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre. Scoot or bike around the Newington Armory.

Wentworth Common at Bicentennial Park Sydney
Marjorie Jackson Pkwy, Sydney Olympic Park
sydneyolympicpark.com.au/parks/wentworth-common

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids.

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney.

Chase waterfalls in Sydney.

More things to do on the Central Coast.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Things to do in the Southern Highlands.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney.

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

Find the best ice cream and gelato in Sydney

Things to do in the Blue Mountains.

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

Brickpit Ring Walk at Bicentennial Park Sydney

Brickpit Ring Walk, Sydney

Brickpit Ring Walk at Bicentennial Park Sydney

The Brickpit Ring Walk is an urban park and elevated walkway over a frog habitat and water storage facility in Bicentennial Park, Sydney Olympic Park.

Brickpit Sydney Olympic Park

The Ring Walk is accessed by an elevated walkway in two spots – the easiest is at the Brickpit Ring Walk carpark.

Brickpit Sydney Olympic Park

A circular walkway 550m in circumference and raised 18.5 metres above the sandstone floor of the Brickpit, the Ring Walk  allows visitors to experience what was once the State Brickworks and is now a habitat for the endangered Green and Golden Bell frog and other native Australian animals. 

Brickpit Sydney Olympic Park

It’s only a short walk to complete the circuit, however it’s a fascinating one with information panels outlining the significance of the Brickpit’s heritage and environmental significance. 

Brickpit Sydney Olympic Park

Brickpit Sydney Olympic Park

There are stunning views on the walk as well, to the chorus of frog and bird calls, and the recorded voices of the pit workers as they discuss their experience working to make the clay bricks in this spot that were sent all over Sydney to build our city.

Brickpit Sydney Olympic Park Brickpit Sydney Olympic Park Brickpit Sydney Olympic Park Brickpit Sydney Olympic Park Brickpit Sydney Olympic Park Brickpit Sydney Olympic Park Brickpit Sydney Olympic Park Brickpit Sydney Olympic Park Brickpit Sydney Olympic Park

Afterwards, check out nearby Wentworth Common. It has excellent picnic facilities and a large nature-based playground.

There is more of Bicentennial Park to explore as well, plus nearby Blaxland Riverside Playground and the Olympic Cauldron in Cathy Freeman Park. Or, take a dip in the Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre. Scoot or bike around the Newington Armory.

Brickpit Ring, Sydney Olympic Park
Marjorie Jackson Parkway
Sydney Olympic Park
Sydney
https://www.sydneyolympicpark.com.au/things-to-do/school-holiday-activities/brickpit-ring-walk

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids.

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney.

Chase waterfalls in Sydney.

More things to do on the Central Coast.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Things to do in the Southern Highlands.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney.

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

Find the best ice cream and gelato in Sydney

Things to do in the Blue Mountains.

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden: Sydney’s Best Parks & Gardens

Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden

Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden: Sydney’s Best Parks & Gardens

The Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden is a 123-hectare garden on Sydney’s north shore. Established in 1968, the garden is dedicated to preserving and showcasing Australian plants.

Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden

Located adjacent to the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, the garden is home to two endangered ecological communities; Duffys Forest and Coastal Upland Swamp as well as 18 threatened species of flora and fauna.

Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden

The Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden is a beautiful spot to picnic, bushwalk and learn about Australian flora and fauna. 

While some areas of the garden have been cleared from bush such as Lambert’s Clearing, which has a large grassed area with picnic tables and a children’s playground, most of the garden is in a natural bush state.

Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden

The Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden is tended by volunteers from the Australian Plants Society, who cut samples of common wildflowers in bloom and place them on a labelled stand in front of the St Ives Visitor Centre.

Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden

When visiting the Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden, your first stop should be the aforementioned St Ives Visitor Centre to collect a map, and take a quick look at the stick insects and snake on display inside. The visitors centre sells cold drinks and ice blocks. 

Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden

There is no cafe inside the garden so bring a picnic lunch and plenty of water. There are lots of picnic tables dotted around the gardens for use.

Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden

There are bathroom facilities in several places around the garden, including at the visitors centre.

While most of the garden is quite wild, there are a few features of interest: The Knoll Garden
(a display garden containing native plants from around Australia), the Fern House, Caley’s Pavilion Gardens (featuring a wide variety of showy native flowers, rainforest trees and bush foods such as macadamia, Davidson’s Plum and native ginger).

Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden

Use the map to take one of many walks around the garden. We took the Solander Trail which took about 40 minutes to complete and had plenty of lovely wildflowers along the path. 

Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden

Plenty of the trails are step-free and paved, suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. Other “adventure tracks” offer an off-road trekking experience. 

Step-free paths
The Senses Track
The Senses Track is located at the top of the Wildflower Garden opposite the Visitor Centre.

There are two loops of 400m and 500m respectively, which each take ten minutes or so at a steady pace. Interpretive signage reveals interesting facts about the bushland. This is a great track for kids to enjoy.

Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden

The Solander Trail
The Solander Trail is an almost 2km circuit that takes visitors past some of the best wildflowers in the garden. It takes about 40 minutes to an hour to complete. 

Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden

The Brown Trail
The Brown Trail is a short detour off the Solander Trail route that offers a view of Donnelly’s Swamp and access to the Mueller Track.

There is also a short, step-free path that winds through Caley’s Pavilion Gardens and boardwalk over the wetland area.

All of these paths are adjacent to accessible picnic areas and toilets.

Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden

Short adventure tracks
Banks Track
The Banks Track is 200m in length and takes about 5 minutes.

Smith Track
Smith’s Track is 400m in length and takes 10-15 minutes.

Bentham Track
The Bentham Track is 400m long and takes about 10 minutes.

Caley Track
Caley Track is 200m long and takes about 5 minutes.

Wilderness path
Mueller Track
A strenuous walk of 4km in length.

Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden

I really enjoyed looking around the  Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Nursery, located inside the Visitors Centre. The nursery specialises in local indigenous plants. It also stocks a variety of native plants suitable for planting in Sydney gardens.

Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden

Garden runs programs for kids throughout the year. You can see what’s coming up online.

Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden

Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden, 
420 Mona Vale Road, St Ives (entry off Richmond Avenue).
kmc.nsw.gov.au

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids.

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney.

Chase waterfalls in Sydney.

More things to do on the Central Coast.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

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Things to do in the Southern Highlands.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

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Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

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Things to do in the Blue Mountains.

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The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden

Berry Island Reserve & Playground

Berry Island Reserve

Berry Island Reserve & Playground

Enjoy some of the most beautiful harbour views in Sydney from Berry Island Reserve, a bushland island in North Sydney. 

Berry Island Reserve is a small, circular island, connected to the mainland by a grassed causeway.

Berry Island Reserve, Sydney

The grassed causeway is a nice, wide, open space, perfect for picnics. Public toilets and free barbecues available for use, and some seats dotted around. I would suggest bringing picnic blankets and chairs however. 

Berry Island Reserve, Sydney Berry Island Reserve, Sydney

There is a lovely little fenced adventure playground tucked into the side of the island. It has some of the best views of any playground we have seen. The playground is designed to blend into the bush setting and has equipment suitable for toddlers to primary aged kids.

Berry Island Reserve, Sydney

The Berry Island playground is fenced on three sides, with a rockface creating the fourth wall. At the entrance to the playground can be equipment suitable for younger kids, while the harder equipment is in the rear. 

Berry Island Reserve, Sydney Berry Island Reserve, Sydney Berry Island Reserve, Sydney Berry Island Reserve, Sydney

Take the Gadyan Track around the island for some exercise, stunning views, and to learn about Berry Island’s Aboriginal history. The 20 minute bush walk has interpretative signs posted along the way and there are some Aboriginal midden sites, a watering hole and rock engravings to be discovered.

Berry Island Reserve, Sydney

Berry Island Reserve, Sydney Berry Island Reserve, Sydney Berry Island Reserve, Sydney Berry Island Reserve, Sydney Berry Island Reserve, Sydney Berry Island Reserve, Sydney Berry Island Reserve, Sydney Berry Island Reserve, Sydney Berry Island Reserve, Sydney Berry Island Reserve, Sydney

Berry Island was a fishing, hunting and camping site for Aboriginal communities. The island was attached to the mainland with the construction of a stone causeway in the early 19th century by Edward Wollstonecraft, and was dedicated as a public nature reserve in 1926.

Dogs are permitted on Berry Island Reserve, however they must be kept on a leash in bushland areas and they are not permitted within 10m of the playground.

Berry Island Reserve, Sydney Berry Island Reserve, Sydney

Berry Island Reserve is quite easy to reach by driving straight down Shirley Road in Wollstonecraft, however parking is a bit tricky – there is limited on-street parking on Shirley Road. If you’re catching the train, Berry island Reserve is a 10-minute walk from Wollstonecraft railway station.

Berry Island Reserve
10 Shirley Rd, Wollstonecraft
https://www.northsydney.nsw.gov.au/Recreation_Facilities/Parks_Reserves/Search_Parks/Berry_Island_Reserve

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids.

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney.

Chase waterfalls in Sydney.

More things to do on the Central Coast.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Things to do in the Southern Highlands.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney.

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

Find the best ice cream and gelato in Sydney

Things to do in the Blue Mountains.

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

Berry Island Reserve

The Best Father’s Day Gifts For Dads Who Love The Great Outdoors

The Best Father’s Day Gifts For Dads Who Love The Great Outdoors

The Best Father’s Day Gifts For Dads Who Love The Great Outdoors

Stuck with ideas for Father’s Day gifts? Gift an experience and make this Father’s Day one that the dads in your family will never forget. 

We are family who thrive on experiences over possessions. Our family values time together and the memories built as the number one most important thing in our lives. When it comes to special occasions like Father’s Day, we love to gift experiences that we can do together and spoil the dads in our lives while having a special outing. Some previous Father’s Day gifts have included lunches by the beach and outings to the Southern Highlands.

Gordons Bay Clovelly Sydney

For Father’s Day presents this year, with all of the uncertainty surrounding travel, I’m
considering a gift voucher that can be redeemed when the time is right. A gift such as an
experience through RedBalloon offers a good mix of thoughtfulness and flexibility – and if you’re
completely stuck on what to get there’s a gift voucher option so Dad can choose exactly what
would suit himself best. (RedBalloon offers experiences in every state and territory by the way!)

For hubby, who loves the outdoors, here are some options I’m considering:

Quad Bike Adventure Tour

The largest coastal sand dunes in Australia are located in Port Stephens, NSW, and this gift
involves quad biking over them! The sand dunes are as high as 100 feet, with breathtaking
views of the ocean. For an hour, the tour will take us through the coastal grassland and scrub,
then up and down the magnificent sand dunes. This could be my favourite Father’s Day gift idea because we can end the day at the beautiful beaches of Port Stephens.

Discover this experience: Quad Bike Adventure Tour

Shark Dive at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

For dads who live wildlife, take a look at the Shark Dive experience at SEA LIFE Sydney
Aquarium. Divers get to come face-to-face with sharks and other marine life in a safe, controlled environment, with a qualified instructor. A professional photo and video of the dive is included in the package.

The dive takes place in SEA LIFE Sydney’s four million litre Oceanarium with grey nurse sharks, seven gill sharks, giant stingrays and an abundance of exotic fish. The dive is suitable for both certified and non-certified divers, with a scuba skills session and afternoon theory class included.

Discover this experience: Shark Dive at Sea Life Sydney Aquarium

Double Kayak Hire in Manly

A serene day trip to one of the most beautiful parts of Sydney, this experience includes the hire of a double kayak for four hours to paddle along the beautiful shorelines of North Harbour.

Some of the most exclusive beaches in Sydney are accessible by kayak, so on this aquatic adventure we will explore different beaches we’ve never seen before, and visit a secret waterfall! This experience is a self-guided one, where you can explore Manly at your own pace.

Discover this experience: Double Kayak Hire in Manly

Guided Kayak Tour with Bushwalking in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

We haven’t seen much of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park so this would be a gift for us all. The guided tour takes kayakers through the National Park’s waterways and bays to secluded
beaches, all only accessible by water. Included in the tour is exploring Scotland Island and
Lovett Bay waterfall, morning tea on a tranquil beach, and kayaking photos of the group.

Discover this experience: Guided Kayak Tour with Bushwalking

Whale Watching Cruise in Sydney Harbour

A cruise on Sydney Harbour is spectacular at any time of year, even for us locals! From May to December humpback whales (and the odd southern right whale) migrate along the coast and can be seen up close on a whale watching cruise. The three-hour cruise of both the inner
harbour and outside of the Sydney headlands is a beautiful way to enjoy the city, which I always think looks best from the water, and also spot whales!

Humpback whales migrate north in June and July and back south from September with their
calves, while the southern right whales do not migrate, instead moves along the coast finding
protected shelters for their young. The tour has a 99% success with whale sightings, with a
Whale Guarantee that entitles you to another free morning cruise if you don’t see one of the
magnificent sea creatures during your cruise.

Discover this experience: Whale Watching Cruise in Sydney Harbour

Book Father’s Day Gifts online and spoil Dad with an experience he will love!

Written in partnership with RedBalloon.

The Best Father’s Day Gifts For Dads Who Love The Great Outdoors

The Best Father’s Day Gifts For Dads Who Love The Great Outdoors

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids.

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney.

Chase waterfalls in Sydney.

More things to do on the Central Coast.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Things to do in the Southern Highlands.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney.

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

Find the best ice cream and gelato in Sydney

Things to do in the Blue Mountains.

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.