Adventure, baby!

Christine Knight

Christine is the editor of Adventure, Baby!

National Museum of Mathematics, New York

National Museum of Mathematics New York

The National Museum of Mathematics or MoMath is the only hands-on science center in Manhattan. Dedicated to mathematics, the museum explores math through dynamic exhibits and fun activities. You’ll never look at math the same way again!

National Museum of Mathematics New York

MoMath does a wonderful job of showcasing how mathematics is all around us, shaping the world we live in. The two floors of hands-on exhibits show that math can be fun and exciting, particularly helpful in helping foster a love of mathematics in kids.

National Museum of Mathematics New York

The museum is spread over two floors. You could easily spend a whole day here working on each exhibit – many of them with levels of complexity that make them appealing to both kids and adults.

National Museum of Mathematics New York

The exhibits explore concepts such as patterns, formulas, statistics, geometry, velocity, acceleration, parabolas, mathematical rules, fractal patterns and number probability.

National Museum of Mathematics New York

Note: this is not just a museum for kids! Adults who love math will really enjoy it, too. In fact, the lower level has an area that features complex puzzles that are geared towards adults.

National Museum of Mathematics New York

There is no cafe in the museum, but there are plenty right outside, including Eatily, and the excellent Madison Square Park and playground.

National Museum of Mathematics New York

National Museum of Mathematics New York

National Museum of Mathematics New York

National Museum of Mathematics New York

National Museum of Mathematics New York

National Museum of Mathematics New York

National Museum of Mathematics New York

National Museum of Mathematics New York

National Museum of Mathematics New York

National Museum of Mathematics New York

National Museum of Mathematics New York

National Museum of Mathematics New York

National Museum of Mathematics New York

National Museum of Mathematics New York
Hours: Daily, 10am-5pm
MoMath closes early the first Wednesday of every month, at 2:30 pm.
11 E 26th St, New York, NY 10010
momath.org

National Museum of Mathematics New York

An Art Deco Masterpiece: Empire State Building New York City

Empire State Building

The Empire State Building in Midtown Manhattan, is an Art Deco masterpiece. Built in 1931, the skyscraper is 102-stories tall and features the highest open-air observatory in New York City.

Empire State Building

Enter the lobby via the 34th street entrance and enjoy the beautiful art deco ceiling murals and two story model building, before catching the elevator to the 86th floor, home to the most famous observation deck in the world.

Empire State Building

There is a a green screen photo op before taking the elevator – we are always suckers and can’t resist.

Empire State Building

Be sure to take a look at the Dare To Dream Exhibit which tells the story of how the Empire State Building was built. The exhibit is on the 80th floor.

Empire State Building

The 86th Floor Observatory offers 360-degree views of New York and beyond. On a clear day you can see views of Central Park, The Hudson River and East River, The Brooklyn Bridge, Times Square and even the tiny The Statue of Liberty, way off in the distance.

Empire State Building

The high-powered binoculars were a massive hit for Cheese, who used them to a closer look at the streets below. The binoculars are free to use!

Empire State Building

Want to go even higher? An extra $20 USD will buy you a pass to the Empire State Building’s Top Deck, on the 102th floor.

Empire State Building

Tips for visiting with kids

Under 6 is free.

Arrive early! The Empire State Building is quietest between 8am-11am.

If you’re bringing a stroller, you’ll need to fold it before entering the elevator.

Ues the bathroom on the second floor before getting in line for the elevators.

Rug up on cold days: it can get extremely cold up there!

Buy tickets in advance to save lining up.

Visiting the Empire State Building is a fab idea if you’re in New York and jet lagged too. Make use of those morning hours! 

Empire State Building

Empire State Building

Empire State Building

Empire State Building

Empire State Building

Empire State Building

Empire State Building

Empire State Building

Empire State Building

Empire State Building
Hours: Daily, 8am-2am
20 W 34th St, New York, NY 10001
esbnyc.com

Top of the Rock at the Rockefeller Center, New York

Top of the Rock at the Rockefeller Center, New York

Top of the Rock Observatory sits at the top of the Rockefeller Center in the heart of New York City. From this incredible location, the Observatory offers breathtaking views of the city including the Empire State Building and Central Park.

The main entrance to Top of the Rock is on 50th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues. There is a red carpet out the front of the entrance – and usually a queue. If there is indeed a queue when you go, try the second entrance, located on the Concourse level of 30 Rockefeller Plaza.

Entry to the Top of the Rock is timed. The best way to get in with minimal queuing is to buy your ticker online in advance and select the day and time of your choice. Unscheduled tickets are also available but you will have to line up to exchange these for timed tickets at the box office and you might not be able to get in for a period of time if it’s a busy day.

After buying a ticket, all visitors must pass through the security checkpoint so be prepared for the scanners. No food and beverages allowed, however my water bottle and snacks were not mentioned and we were able to take them with us inside.

Once through security the queue winds through the mezzanine level, which is filled with information about the Rockefeller Center, its founder, John D. Rockefeller, Jr., and how the Top of the Rock began.

Top of the Rock at the Rockefeller Center, New York

Next is a photo-op against a green-screen to recreate the famous photo of construction workers eating lunch on a steel beam high above the city that was taken at the Rockefeller Center.

Before entering the Sky Shuttle to the Top, all visitors are ushered into a theatre to watch a short video presentation about the history of NBC and Rockefeller Center. We found the video interesting, particularly the parts featuring the annual Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree.

The Sky Shuttle to the Top takes less than a minute to travel up to 850 feet (260 meters) above street level to the 67th floor. Look up when you’re in the elevator – you’ll be glad you did!

Top of the Rock at the Rockefeller Center, New York

The Sky Shuttle brings visitors to the first of three observation floors. The 67th floor is largely indoors with two outdoor areas protected by high glass panels.

Top of the Rock at the Rockefeller Center, New York

On this floor you’ll find the Radiance Room, which absolutely enchanted Cheese.

Top of the Rock at the Rockefeller Center, New York

The room has a wall made up of glass panels that was created by Swarovski and contains crystals, fiber-optic lighting and lots of blown glass. It’s sparkly and mesmerising.

Top of the Rock at the Rockefeller Center, New York

Head up to the 69th floor next which is completely open with glass panels. On this floor you will find the Breezeway Room, an interactive colour experience.

Top of the Rock at the Rockefeller Center, New York

The final floor is the 70th, which has no glass or metal enclosures, so it’s the perfect spot for photos with no reflections.

On each of the 67th, 69th and 70th floors are binoculars that give a close-up view of various points of interest.

Top of the Rock at the Rockefeller Center, New York

Tips for visiting with kids

Under 6 is free.

Arrive early! The Top of the Rock is quietest between 8am-10am.

Rug up on cold days: it can get extremely cold up there!

Buy tickets in advance to save lining up.

Top of the Rock at the Rockefeller Center, New York

Top of the Rock at the Rockefeller Center, New York

Top of the Rock at the Rockefeller Center, New York

Top of the Rock at the Rockefeller Center, New York

Top of the Rock
Hours: Daily, 8am-Midnight
Last elevator up at 11:00pm
30 Rockefeller Plaza,
New York, NY 10112
1-877-692-7625
topoftherocknyc.com

Eloise Afternoon Tea at the Plaza Hotel, New York

Eloise Afternoon Tea at the Plaza Hotel, New York

A rawther fancy way to enjoy a day in New York City is with the Eloise afternoon tea at the Plaza Hotel.

Afternoon Tea at the Plaza Hotel, New York

The Plaza’s famous literary resident, Eloise, has a strong presence throughout the hotel, including the specially-themed children’s afternoon tea in The Palm Court. Other places to find Eloise at the Plaza are to visit the Eloise store on the underground level, or if the sky’s the limit, book the Eloise suite.

Afternoon Tea at the Plaza Hotel, New York

We booked the Eloise afternoon tea to indulge our city girl and she indeed did find it pink, pink, pink, and all too delightful.

Eloise Afternoon Tea at the Plaza Hotel, New York

The Eloise Afternoon Tea is served on exquisite china that has been hand-painted for The Plaza Hotel. It can be purchased from the gift shop downstairs if you want to take home a special souvenir.

Eloise Afternoon Tea at the Plaza Hotel, New York

Eloise Afternoon Tea at the Plaza Hotel

Sandwiches and savouries

Organic Devilled Egg Salad, Dill Pickle Relish, White Bread
Tuna Salad, Celery and Carrots, Wheat Bread
English Cucumber, Minted Goat Cheese Green Goddess, Rye Bread
Organic Peanut Butter and Jelly, Wheat Bread
Parisian Ham, Gruyere Cheese, Bavarian Mustard,
Pretzel Ficelle

Scones

Freshly Baked Warm Seasonal Scones with Double Devonshire Cream, Lemon Curd and Preserves

Pastries and sweets

Plaza Hotel Afternoon Tea

Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Rice Krispy Treat
Mandarin Orange and Milk Chocolate Éclair
Dulce de Leche Cup Cake, Mango and Lime Butter Cream
Seasonal Fruit Tart
Raspberry and Vanilla Cotton Candy
Graham Cracker Blueberry S’more
Dark Chocolate Fudge Brownie

Eloise Afternoon Tea at the Plaza Hotel, New York
Hot hot teas

Tropical Garden (a fruity infusion with pieces of mango, pineapple, papaya and peach)
Children’s Tea (a delicious fruit infusion with goji berries, papaya, and melon)
Rooibos des Vahinés (a delicious rooibos sprinkled with pieces of vanilla pods and almonds
Mélange du Cap (a delicious blend of rooibos with cocoa nibs and vanilla pods)

Quenchers

Cold Cold Pink Lemonade
Vanilla Iced Tea

Eloise Afternoon Tea at the Plaza Hotel, New York

Our diner chose the pink lemonade (delicious!!!) and the tropical garden tea. Her favourite selections from the amazing platter of treats were the giant cotton candy, seasonal fruit tart and rice krispy treat. Considering the amount and quality of food, I thought it was excellent value.

The Eloise Afternoon Tea was a massive hit with our 7-year-old. She loved the custom china and special items she received that we didn’t. The experience made her feel really special.

The Eloise Afternoon Tea is served 12:00pm – 5:00pm
$60 per child under 12 years of age

Adults can also enjoy an afternoon tea at the Plaza Hotel. Read about our Plaza Hotel afternoon tea experience here.

CONTACT
212-546-5300
palmcourt@fairmont.com

The Plaza
768 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019
Online theplazany.com

Afternoon Tea at the Plaza Hotel, New York

Afternoon Tea at the Plaza Hotel, New York

Afternoon Tea at the Plaza Hotel, New York

The Palm Court, inside the iconic Plaza Hotel, has been the place to enjoy afternoon tea in New York City for over 100 years. In my tea-loving opinion, an afternoon tea at the Plaza Hotel is an absolute must when visiting the Big Apple.

Afternoon Tea at the Plaza Hotel, New York

In 2013 The Palm Court was relaunched with a fresh look. With a design inspired by the lush greenery in nearby Central Park, the renovation incorporated potted plants, tall palm trees, trellis detailing and can accented furnishings into the classic space. The signature stained-glass dome harkens back to the original design of 1907.

Afternoon Tea at the Plaza Hotel, New York

Breakfast, afternoon tea, evening meals and cocktails are all served in The Palm Court, but it wouldn’t be a true New York experience if one didn’t try the famed afternoon tea.

We all wear our Sunday best to dine at the Plaza, even though the suggested dress code is smart casual. It’s a fun outing to get a little fancy, and the interior of the hotel is so fancy that it certainly warrants the special outfits!

Plaza Hotel Afternoon Tea

The Palm Court is a self contained dining area that feels like diners have been transported into a lush greenhouse. The atmosphere is cheerful and light, with plenty of groups and families enjoying an afternoon tea.

There are two afternoon teas on offer, the New Yorker Tea and the Champagne Tea. Our party chose the classic New Yorker Tea.

Afternoon Tea at the Plaza Hotel, New York

The New Yorker Tea Fall Menu

Sandwiches and savouries

Smoked salmon pumpernickel napoleon, chive, dill whipped cream cheese *
Organic devilled egg salad, dill pickle relish, white bread
Truffled chicken salad, black truffle aioli, celery, whole wheat bread *
English cucumber, minted goat cheese green goddess, rye bread
Herb roasted prime rib, horseradish cream, watercress, onion poppy brioche slider bun *
Parisian ham, gruyere cheese, Bavarian mustard, pretzel ficelle *

* I received vegetarian substitutes for these items. My Vegetarian tea below:

Afternoon Tea at the Plaza Hotel, New York
Scones

Freshly baked warm seasonal scones, with double Devonshire cream, lemon curd, preserves

Afternoon Tea at the Plaza Hotel, New York
Pastries and sweets

Passion & banana daiquiri baba, strawberry compote, Meyer’s rum
Mandarin orange, milk chocolate eclair
Extra bitter dark chocolate black forest tart, preserved cherry
Banana, caramel lime macaron
Seasonal fruit tart
Chocolate hazelnut Nutella bar
Key lime cheesecake, lemon curd, vanilla whipped cream

$75 per person.
Add a glass of champagne (NV Veuve Clicquot Brut, Reims or NV, Moët & Chandon Brut Rosé Impérial, Épernay, $90 pp)

As one expects from the Plaza Hotel, the food is excellent and service flawless. Extra jam,  cream and scones are brought when requested, and there is so much tea in our tea pots we couldn’t drink it all.

We couldn’t finish the sweets either, and they are boxed for us to take home.

Champagne Tea Fall Menu

Sandwiches and savouries

Herb roasted prime rib, horseradish cream, watercress, onion poppy brioche slider
Foie gras mousse, fig jam, toasted black walnuts, brioche crostini
Lobster roll, daikon sprouts, buttered potato roll
Golden beet canape, whipped goat cheese, toasted hazelnuts, balsamic pearls
Smoked salmon pumpernickel napoleon, chive & dill whipped cream cheese
Caviar blini three grams imperial ossetra ($21 supplemental)
Three grams kaluga ($29 supplemental)

Scones

Freshly baked warm seasonal scones, with double Devonshire cream, lemon curd, preserves

Pastries and sweets

Apple cider almond delice, bourbon spice jelly
Mandarin orange, milk chocolate éclair
Grapefruit mimosa mousse, citrus meringue, pistachio cake
Seasonal fruit tart
Pistachio chouqette, morello cherry preserve
Jasmine tea infused, dark chocolate macaron
Meyer lemon preserve, lemon & poppy seed cake, earl grey ganache

$95 per person, includes a glass of champagne (NV Veuve Clicquot Brut, Reims or NV, Moët & Chandon Brut Rosé Impérial, Épernay)
$125 per person with a glass of Krug

Afternoon tea is served Mon-Sun 12pm – 4:45pm (last seating is at 4:30pm)

Dining at The Plaza Hotel with kids? Check out their amazing Eloise Afternoon Tea here.

CONTACT
212-546-5300
palmcourt@fairmont.com

The Plaza
768 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019
Online theplazany.com

11 Fun Things To Do In Darling Harbour

The Best Things To Do In Darling Harbour, Sydney

11 Fun Things To Do In Darling Harbour

Darling Harbour is a recreational precinct in Sydney where you’ll find waterfront restaurants, wildlife, tall ships, one of the best playgrounds in Sydney and plenty more to entertain the kids in this one neighbourhood.

During school holidays there are usually plenty of free activities for kids in Darling Harbour. Check their calendar for upcoming events.

Image credit: Destination NSW

Australian National Maritime Museum

Australian National Maritime Museum
 

The Australian National Maritime Museum (ANMM) is Australia’s national centre for maritime collections, exhibitions, research and archaeology. Grab a free ticket from the front desk for admission into the permanent indoor galleries and under 5s play area “Mini Mariners”.

 
Australian National Maritime Museum

For entry into our fave spot, the “Kids on Deck” craft area, visiting exhibitions and the ships, a paid ticket is required. The ANMM runs lots of programs for kids  all year round including live shows, “Mini Mariners” for kids aged 2-5 and the cabinet of curiosity that contains all kinds of wonders for kids to touch, like the tooth of a blue whale. Check their calendar for upcoming events and look out for when Bailey, the museum dog, is scheduled to make an appearance.

Yots Cafe

Yots Cafe, Sydney via christineknight.me

Located underneath the Maritime Museum, Yots is a fab waterfront dining spot for families with its casual atmosphere, a special kids’ menu and colouring-in activities for kids. A giant Connect Four and building blocks also keeps them buys.

Read more about Yots Cafe here.

Sea Life Sydney Aquarium

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, Australia

Get up close to a more than 700 species of Australian aquatic life in 12 themed zones at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium. An impressive 13,000 animals live in the aquarium in six million litres of water, including dugongs, rays, tropical reef fish and sharks. A popular exhibit is Penguin Expedition, allowing guests to sail past a colony of King and Gentoo Penguins on a boat ride. The SEA LIFE aquarium is top kids attraction in Sydney and can get busy on public holidays and school holidays.

Get more info on Penguin Expedition and on SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium.

Image credit: Sydney Aquarium

Wild Life Sydney Zoo

Wild Life Sydney Zoo via christineknight.me

Meet iconic Australian animals at Wild Life Sydney Zoo. This small zoo is the perfect size to take young kids, and is easy to navigate with a wide, flat path, perfect for strollers. Get up close to the Cassowary, echidna, sugar gliders, koalas and kangaroos, plus a giant croc!

Get more info on Wild Life Sydney Zoo.

Madam Tussads Sydney

Madame Tussauds, Sydney, Australia

A wax museum where visitors can take a selfie with Barak Obama in the oval office, or shake it off with Taylor Swift. Aussie legends like Steve Irwin and Ned Kelly are also photo-ready.

Madam Tussads Sydney

The Justice League exhibition is especially fun, an immersive and interactive experience to make you feel like you’re in the movies with your favourite stars.

Get more info on visiting Madame Tussauds Sydney here.

Image courtesy of Madame Tussauds.

Chinese Garden of Friendship

Chinese Friendship Gardens Darling Harbour, Sydney, Australia

A calming place to let kids wander past waterfalls and exotic plants, through pavilions and up hidden pathways. Count the koi carp swimming in the lakes, try Chinese tea in the teahouse and dress up in traditional Chinese costumes* at the Chinese Garden of Friendship.
* For an additional fee

Get more tips on a day at the Chinese Garden of Friendship here

Darling Quarter Playground

A Day In The Darling Quarter #darlingharbour #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com

The most centrally-located Sydney playground features a 21-metre flying fox, water play area with pumps and buckets and plenty of slides, climbing structures and swings. It’s a must for kids visiting the city.

Get more info on the Darling Quarter Playground.

Harbourside Shopping Centre

Harbourside Shopping Centre, Darling Harbour, Sydney

A large shopping centre in Darling Harbour, Harbourside has plenty of family-friendly restaurants as well as a food court and shops. Kids will adore Caterpillar Lane, a free area for kids to play.

Fratelli Fresh

Fratelli Fresh, Darling Harbour

Our fave eatery in Darling Harbour! Fratelli Fresh is located underneath the new ICC and serves up plenty of Italian pizza and pasta faves in a family-friendly atmosphere.

Read more about Fratelli Fresh Darling Harbour here.

Dancing Brolgas, Cockle Bay Wharf

Cockle Bar Wharf, Darling Harbour, Sydney

This iconic fountain encircled by the Dancing Brolgas is a favourite spot for children to play in Cockle Bay Wharf, while their parents sit nearby at one of any waterfront dining options. The sculpture is by Australian artist Terrance Plowright.

Darling Harbour Woodward Water Feature

Darling Harbour, Sydney

Any child who grew up in Sydney will remember running up and down this spiral water feature, which has been enthralling kids since its completion in 1988.

More things to do in Sydney

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

Find things to do in Sydney for free here.

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

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney here.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney here.

Find the best high teas in Sydney here.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney here.

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

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney here.

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

Victoria Park, Sydney CBD

Victoria Park, Sydney CBD

Right in the middle of Sydney lies Victoria Park, a 9 hectare public park adjoining Sydney University.

Victoria Park features historic structures such as the entrance gates, Gardener’s Lodge, a Canadian totem pole and ornamental wooden bridge.

Victoria Park, Camperdown

Grass fields sprawl across the park and frame Lake Northam, a quiet space where you can find a secluded and peaceful spot under the shade of a nearby tree.

Victoria Park, Camperdown

There is the picturesque Lake Northram in the middle of the park with plenty of chairs around it for relaxing ad admiring the view. In spring, the jacaranda trees in the park come into full bloom.

Victoria Park, Camperdown

Beyond the lake is a modern playground with equipment for a variety of ages. The play area is partially shaded.

Victoria Park, Camperdown Victoria Park, Camperdown

There is a half basketball court nearby, and BBQ facilities.

Victoria Park, Camperdown

The park also features plenty of paths perfect for scooters or bike riding, wide expansive grassed areas and plenty of shade thanks to the trees.

Victoria Park, Camperdown

Victoria Park Pool also located within the park, featuring the 50m King George VI Memorial Swimming Pool and a shaded children’s wading pool with water deck. The pool also has a fully-equipped gymnasium, child minding crèche, swim shop and a café.

Victoria Park, Camperdown

Get to the park via bus along Parramatta Road and City Road, or catch the train to Central Station and walk. Car Parking is available – free two hour parking on the City Road entrance.

Victoria Park
Parramatta Rd, Broadway
cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/explore/facilities/parks/major-parks/victoria-park

Mary O’Brien Reserve, Zetland, Sydney

Mary O'Brien Reserve, Zetland

The high-density suburb of Zetland is home to an excellent park, Mary O’Brien Reserve. The park features two playgrounds including a water play area, a large green space, barbeques and a bike / scooter path.

Mary O’Brien Reserve has been a feature of Zetland since the 1960s and was named for a former member of Waterloo Council who championed a wide variety of charitable organisations for 50 years.

Mary O'Brien Reserve, Zetland

The park features two playgrounds. One is larger and for older kids and the other is smaller and for younger kids. Both playgrounds now have shade cloths.

Mary O'Brien Reserve, Zetland

Next to the playground for older kids is a splash park area featuring water jets. The water jets turn on when you step on a large button on the ground, ensuring water isn’t wasted when there are no kids to enjoy it.

The playground for older kids features a large climbing frame and large slide.

Mary O'Brien Reserve, Zetland

The playground for smaller kids features a smaller slide and some interactive features.

Mary O'Brien Reserve, Zetland

There are two barbeque areas in the park. One, near the playground, has some shade.

Mary O'Brien Reserve, Zetland

While there are no bathrooms in the park, there is a public library across the road where toilets may be used.

Mary O'Brien Reserve, Zetland

Mary O'Brien Reserve, Zetland

Outside the park is a wide path that can be used for bike riding or scooting.

Mary O’Brien Reserve
8 Tilford St & Joynton Ave, Zetland
http://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/explore/facilities/parks/playgrounds

More things to do in Sydney

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

Find things to do in Sydney for free here.

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

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney here.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney here.

Find the best high teas in Sydney here.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney here.

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

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney here.

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

Shopkins Afternoon Tea at The Langham Hotel Sydney

Shopkins Afternoon Tea at The Langham Hotel Sydney, Australia

Do you have a Shokins fan in the house? We do! I don’t know who was more excited to head to The Langham Sydney this weekend to check out the new Shopkins Afternoon Tea, me or the kid!

Shopkins Afternoon Tea at The Langham Hotel Sydney, Australia

The Langham is renowned for their excellent high tea (or afternoon tea), which is always elegantly served on tailor-made “Langham Rose” Wedgwood teaware made exclusively for the hotel.

Shopkins Afternoon Tea at The Langham Hotel Sydney, Australia

I love so much when hotels such as The Langham put on a special kids’ afternoon tea or kids high tea. They give families a chance to experience a high tea with the pressure off. No one expects kids to be perfectly behaved when the tea is especially put on for them! The kids’ high teas also give kids a chance to dress up in their fanciest outfits and spend quality time with their parents, while feeling very grown up and sophisticated.

Shopkins Afternoon Tea at The Langham Hotel Sydney, Australia

For a short time only, kids can get fancy and head to The Langham Sydney to enjoy the special Shopkins High Tea.

Shopkins Afternoon Tea at The Langham Hotel Sydney, Australia

The afternoon tea is adorably designed to feature beloved characters in sweet form! Kids will get such a kick out of trying a D’lish Donut, Twinkle Cupcake, Macca Roon, Suzie Slice, Molly Cake Pop and many more delicious treats.

Shopkins Afternoon Tea at The Langham Hotel Sydney, Australia

Kids are presented with a special Shopkins gift bag on arrival, which includes two special edition Shopkins, a Shopkins magazine and a Pikmi Pop.

Shopkins-themed colouring-in supplies are available, too. We didn’t need them because we brought our own Shopkins from home to play with.

Shopkins Afternoon Tea at The Langham Hotel Sydney, Australia

The really special moment of the high tea for most of the kids was the Shopkins character meet and greet (available between 1pm-4pm). We met Kooky Cookie when we entered the tea room and then again when she came around the room to each table to say, “Hello”.

Shopkins Afternoon Tea at The Langham Hotel Sydney, Australia

Kooky Cookie and her good natured minder entertained the kids for a solid half an hour with an impromptu dance party and answering some of the kids’ pressing questions. “Can Kooky do a cartwheel?”, “Can she stand on her head” and “Who took a bite out of her?” featured highly.

Shopkins Afternoon Tea at The Langham Hotel Sydney, Australia

Shopkins Afternoon Tea at The Langham Hotel Sydney, Australia

Savoury Snacks

Shopkins Afternoon Tea at The Langham Hotel Sydney, Australia

Cheesy Popcorn
Brioche cheese and beef slider *
Mushroom arancini, Napoli sauce
Mini cheese and smoked ham pizza *

* We received the following vegetarian substitutes:
Cucumber sandwich
Veggie burger
Mushroom sandwich

Something Sweet

Shopkins Afternoon Tea at The Langham Hotel Sydney, Australia

D’lish Vanilla Donut
Twinkle Strawberry Cupcake
Lemon Macca Roon
Suzie Chocolate Slice
Molly Raspberry Cake Pop
Yvonne Scones with homemade jam and cream

Shopkins Afternoon Tea at The Langham Hotel Sydney, Australia

Beverages

Shopkins Afternoon Tea at The Langham Hotel Sydney, Australia

Watermelon Melissa Sips (add’l $12)
Hot chocolate with marshmallows
Tea & coffee

Shopkins Afternoon Tea at The Langham Hotel Sydney, Australia

The food is delicious and absolutely suited to adults as well as the kids. I thoroughly enjoyed the fresh sandwiches on light, fluffy bread, little sliders, warm scones and mini pizzas.

Shopkins Afternoon Tea at The Langham Hotel Sydney, Australia

With our stomaches groaning we tried one of everything, including the sweets. They’re so delicate and delicious, and particularly adorable for this tea with the beautiful theming.

Shopkins Afternoon Tea at The Langham Hotel Sydney, Australia

For my tea I ordered an iced tea, which was delicious and refilled as part of the package. Cheese chose chamomile which was served in a delicate silver pot with real chamomile flowers inside, and later a hot chocolate.

Shopkins Afternoon Tea at The Langham Hotel Sydney, Australia

As always the tea never looks “that big” but we struggled to finish it all.

Shopkins Afternoon Tea at The Langham Hotel Sydney, Australia

Adults young at heart (ahem like me) can indulge in the Shopkins Afternoon Tea or choose to enjoy Palm Court’s Spring Afternoon Tea.

Shopkins Afternoon Tea at The Langham Hotel Sydney, Australia

The Shopkins Afternoon Tea is only available on Sunday 18th November

Session 1

12pm-2:30pm

Session 2

3pm-5:30pm

The Shopkins High Tea costs $45 per child includes Shopkins gift and activities and $80 per adult. $95 per adult includes glass of sparkling on arrival.

To make your booking or for any enquiries please contact Langham Service on +61 (2) 9256 2222 or email tlsyd.rsvn@langhamhotels.com
http://www.langhamhotels.com/en/the-langham/sydney/offers/dining-offers/shopkins-afternoon-tea/

We were hosted by The Langham Sydney. All opinions and cake-eating antics are our own. We genuinely love high tea at The Langham.

Darling Quarter Playground, Sydney

Darling Quarter Playground, Sydney
The Darling Quarter playground is one of the best playgrounds in Sydney. With a huge water play area, climbing ropes for big and little kids, swings, slides, and a flying fox, there’s enough to entertain (and wear out) kids for an entire day.

A Day In The Darling Quarter #darlingharbour #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com

The playground is fantastic for kids of all ages – note however that it is not contained and is in a very busy area, so keep a very close eye on your kids.

A Day In The Darling Quarter #darlingharbour #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com

Water scoop: turn the wheel, get wet!

A Day In The Darling Quarter #darlingharbour #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com

Lots of shade over rest and play areas.

A Day In The Darling Quarter #darlingharbour #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com

An Archimedes water screw!

A Day In The Darling Quarter #darlingharbour #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com

Three-metre high giant slide and supanova wheel.

A Day In The Darling Quarter #darlingharbour #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com

3D ring swing.

A Day In The Darling Quarter #darlingharbour #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com

10-metre high octanet.

A Day In The Darling Quarter #darlingharbour #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com

Baby ropes.

Darling Quarter, Darling Harbour, Sydney, Australia

21-metre long flying fox.

Darling Quarter, Darling Harbour, Sydney, Australia

There are bathrooms in the park as well as extra bathrooms that can be used at the nearby Lendlease Theatre.

Darling Quarter, Darling Harbour, Sydney, Australia

The old fountains that we used to love to play in have been given a facelift of late and have turned into a water feature that is also popular for wading in in summer.

There are plenty of food options in all directions – our fave is Fratelli Fresh.

Fratelli Fresh, Darling Harbour

Read more about Fratelli Fresh Darling Harbour here.

Darling Quarter Playground
1-25 Harbour Street, Sydney
Bathrooms: Several very clean bathrooms with change facilities.
Picnic tables: No
Shade cover: Partial (not over the water area)
Cafe: Yes
Skatepark: No
Off-street parking: No (Use the Darling Quarter Wilson car park)
Children’s playground: Yes
Water features: Yes
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Darling Quarter Playground, Sydney