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

August 10, 2020 / Outdoor Play, Sydney, Sydney Life / 0 comment

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.

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.

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.

Historical Sydney: La Perouse and Bare Island

August 3, 2020 / Historical Sydney, Sydney / 0 comment

Historical Sydney: La Perouse and Bare Island

La Perouse is located on the north headland of Kamay Botany Bay National Park. The headland is an historic part of Sydney as well as a place to enjoy stunning beaches, explore rock pools and spot wildlife.

Named for the French explorer Jean-François de Galaup – the Comte de la Perouse – who arrived a few days after the First Fleet, La Perouse is steeped in Aboriginal and colonial history.

The Indigenous community have had strong ties to the headland for centuries. To learn more about the Aboriginal history of la Perouse, take an Indigenous-led Kadoo Tour, with Tim Ella of the Dharawal–Yuin people. The tours in Kamay Botany Bay National Park include stories of the local indigenous population, the chance to try bush tucker and experience a ‘Welcome to Country’ ceremony.

La Perouse is also where Captain Arthur Phillip’s First Fleet initially landed in 1788, before deciding on Sydney Cove. The La Perouse Museum, housed inside the heritage-listed Cable Station, has exhibits on the voyage of Comte de la Perouse as well as local Aboriginal stories.

Nearby Bare Island is home to the 1880s-built Bare Island Fort, built to protect Sydney from the Russians and since used as a retirement home for WWI veterans and film set for the Tom Cruise film Mission: Impossible 2. To see inside the fort, you need to book a guided tour of Bare Island, which runs on Sundays. Tickets can be booked online, at the island’s gate or La Perouse Museum. Check upcoming tour dates and book tickets here.

The Blak Markets also run on Bare Island four times a year, featuring traditional Aboriginal dance performances, indigenous arts and craft stalls as well as local bush tucker. Find upcoming market dates here.

The sea life in the water around Bare Island is bountiful, making it a popular spot for scuba diving, snorkelling and fishing. Also for sea birds to make an appearance while they contemplate catching dinner.

At the base of the island is a large, flat rock shelf, popular with families for its rock pools.

For a bit of exercise, take the Henry Head walking track on the headland, a 4km return trail to Endeavour Lighthouse and World War II battlements. For breathtaking ocean views, walk to Cape Banks.

The beaches of La Perouse are absolutely stunning as well as extremely calm thanks to their sheltered location.

Read more about visiting the La Perouse beaches.

There is plenty of space on the headland to spread out a picnic blanket and bring your own lunch, however, we absolutely love the Boatshed, perched overlooking Frenchmans Bay.

There are public bathrooms available near Frenchmans Bay and also near the start of the walk to Congwong Beach.

La Perouse is easily accessed by public transport, with direct buses from the city centre. The route from the CBD will take you through inner city Surry Hills, through Randwick and Kingsford before getting to beachside Maroubra, Malabar and Little Bay.

If you drive, be aware that it’s a popular spot and parking can be hard to find.

Exploring the past at Sydney’s Hyde Park Barracks

February 21, 2020 / Historical Sydney, Sydney / 0 comment

The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Hyde Park Barracks is a cutting-edge museum that brings Sydney’s past to life through a series of innovative and immersive experiences.

Built in 1819 by convict labour under the commission of Governor Lachlan Macquarie, the Hyde Park Barracks were originally designed as a place to house up to 600 male convicts.

The Barracks, over time, have also been an immigration depot, asylum, law courts, government offices hospital and mint. It is now a museum and cafe and one of 11 Australian convict sites inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Hyde Park Barracks reopened in February 2020 after an $18 million renovation. The new experience at the Barracks allows visitors to authentically experience life in the past with a series of immersive activations and groundbreaking audio technology.

Allow at leat 90 minutes to experience the full guided audio tour, which involves an audio device and attached headphones. There is very little written information around the Barracks, so the best way to enjoy the experience and take away as much as possible is by following the audio tour.

The tour takes visitors around the various parts of the Barracks and gives a mixture of information, recreated sounds and stories of the people who found themselves living here for a time.

There is no need to look for numbers on walls to press “play” in this tour – the clever technology senses when the visitor leaves one room and enters another so cuts off the section it is playing from one room and starts on the next as soon as it is entered. It makes for a seamless and easy experience.

There are over 4000 original artefacts on display throughout the tour, from the 100,000 personal and precious fragments that were recovered from beneath the floorboards during the first renovation of the Barracks.

These are items that had been left behind or stashed for safekeeping by convicts, women and court workers now tell a riveting story of life in the Barracks. As visitors walk through the audio tour, the stories of these artefacts become the voices of people, bringing their experiences to life in a sometimes confronting fashion that can’t be looked away from or ignored.

The Aboriginal history of the barracks is also brought to light and life as part of the renovation, with the complete story of this piece of Australia’s history finally being told.

Coinciding with the reopening of the Hyde Park Barracks, Sydney Living Museums and the City of Sydney’s Art & About program are presenting untitled (maraong manaóuwi), a major site-specific installation by Wiradjuri/Kamilaroi artist Jonathan Jones in the courtyard surrounding the central Barracks building.

This mesmerising installation looks at the symbols of the emu footprint and English broad arrow as a way of understanding history and cultural relations. There are over 2000 symbols covering the 2500sqm of the HYde Park Barracks courtyard, designed to be churned up and destroyed underfoot as visitors engage with it.

The bathrooms have also been renovated and now visitors have access to brand-new bathrooms that include a large family room with change table and nursing chair.

The new disabled toilet includes a shower.

Accessibility was an important part of the renovation, with the aim to make the new experience accessible to all people abilities.

A new elevator was installed inside the three-floor Barracks central building, plus a series of ramps and courtyard matting that makes it easy for wheelchairs to traverse the gravel courtyard.

Two additional audio tours are in development. One for families that gives a more kid-friendly version of the tour and one that provides an accessible tour through the experience.

Hyde Park Barracks
Queens Square, Macquarie Street Sydney
Phone: +61 2 8239 2288
Hours: Daily, 10am-5pm
https://hydeparkbarracks.sydneylivingmuseums.com.au/

Additional images thanks to Sydney Living Museums.

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.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

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.

A day at the Australian Museum

March 5, 2019 / Indoor Play, Museums, Sydney, Sydney Life / 0 comment

A day at the Australian Museum

When it opened in 1897, The Australian Museum became the first museum in Australia, with an international reputation in the fields of natural history and anthropology.

The museum’s dinosaur exhibition, containing 10 complete dinosaur skeletons and eight life-sized models is very popular with kids.

The dedicated Kidspace area is a hit with littles aged five and under (as well as the slightly bigger kids who still like to sneak in!). It’s full of nature-themed toys and games.

The Search & Discover public research centre is a hit with older kids. The permanent exhibition has a recommend time of one hour to see everything, however we have easily spent a lot longer than this in the single room, exploring all of the specimens and activities on offer.

Hundreds of objects, animals, minerals and fossils at your fingertips in this interactive, hands-on learning space, plus a colony of stick insects on display.

If you visit on a Tuesday morning you can watch the museum staff changing their leaves and help keep an eye peeled for escapees!

Kids can touch and interact with museum objects such as their easy-to-use microscopes. Those with assignments or a passion for science will enjoy the vast selection of identification guides, information sheets and books (including pictures books) that cover all areas of the museum’s areas of expertise; zoology, geology and anthropology. Books extend to other topics including botany, astronomy and general science.

The specimen drawers were a hit with my future naturalist. The neatly arranged drawers hold a wealth of specimens letting curious minds get up close to tiny creatures.

Other permanent exhibitions at the Australian museum include Surviving Australia, Pacific Spirit, Dinosaurs, Birds of Australia, First Australians Galleries and the latest addition, Wild Planet.

The dinosaur exhibition features the world’s first anatomically correct model of a T-Rex – a dissected 11-metre long replica created for the documentary, T-Rex Autopsy.

Wild Planet features nature’s giants such as an elephant, rhinoceros, giraffe, lion, tiger and bear as well as a wealth of other smaller animals.

Head to the cafe on level four for a bite to eat. They have cute kids meals and basic meals for adults, with a stunning view of Sydney.

Check out the museum’s calendar for upcoming events. Keep the museum top of mind for things to do in school holidays in Sydney as they always run excellent science-focussed programs.

Australian Museum
1 William St, Sydney
Hours: Daily, 9:30am-5pm.
Online

Mary O’Brien Reserve, Zetland, Sydney

November 14, 2018 / Outdoor Play, Playgrounds, Sydney, Sydney Life / 0 comment

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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.

The best places to stop on a Sydney to Brisbane drive

September 19, 2018 / Australia, Brisbane, Central Coast, Coffs Harbour, Gold Coast, Newcastle, NSW, Queensland, Sydney, Travel / 0 comment

The iconic Sydney to Brisbane drive is a breathtaking 920km, or 10 hour, road trip past some of the most beautiful towns and peaceful beaches Australia’s coastline has to offer. While you can do the drive in a single day, why not spread it out over a few days or even weeks, and soak up the pristine beaches, delectable cafes and fascinating history that is on offer throughout the Sydney to Brisbane road trip.

The best places to stop on a Sydney to Brisbane drive

Central Coast

The Central Coast is only an hours drive north of Sydney, and is home to beautiful beaches and delightful cafes. Set aside a few days if you can to visit beaches and seaside towns like Copacabana, Macmasters Beach, Terrigal and Avoca Beach. We loved visiting the Australian Reptile Park in Gosford, and have often enjoyed the daily pelican feeding at The Entrance.

Read more about things to do on the Central Coast here.

Newcastle

The industrial and coastal city has so much to offer. We love Newcastle’s gorgeous beaches, delicious cafes and stunning ocean baths. You can also visit historic Fort Scratchley, the Newcastle Museum and Nobbys Lighthouse.

Read more about things to do in Newcastle here.

Port Stephens

Located 2 1/2 hours drive north of Sydney, the area has a stunning 26 beautiful beaches and bays to explore. Port Stephens is renowned for whale and dolphin watching, sand dunes and gourmet restaurants.

Read more about things to do in Port Stephens here.

Port Macquarie

Located four hours drive north of Sydney and six hours south of Brisbane, Port Macquarie is a seaside town at the mouth of the Hastings River. It’s a gorgeous spot to spend a few days enjoying the beaches, wildlife and penal colony history.

Visit the Port Macquarie’s Historic Courthouse that was built in 1869 and is located in the town centre. Read more about historic and cultural attractions in Port Macquarie here.

We loved the colourful graffiti rocks on the break wall that stretches down to the very popular Town Beach. Along the walk we spotted plenty of dolphins frolicking in the bay.

Town Beach has modern bathroom and shower facilities, grassy areas, picnic facilities, a skate park, kiosk, an outdoor gym and a modern playground.

We also loved Mrs York’s Garden, a peaceful spot with lovely water views. Read more about Mrs York’s Garden here.

Other popular attractions in the area include the 19th-century Tacking Point Lighthouse, whale watching, Billabong Zoo, the Koala Hospital and the hand-painted giant koala sculptures on the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail.

Dining at the Pancake Place is an absolute must. They serve up delicious pancakes and crepes for breakfast, lunch and dinner!

Coffs Harbour

Coffs Harbour is halfway between Sydney and Brisbane, making it a popular stop on the quintessential coastal road trip. While the mid north coast town might be just a convenient place to stay a night or two for those making the longer journey, we were pleasantly surprised to find so many things to do in Coffs Harbour, and would recommend it for a holiday destination.

Read more about things to do in Coffs Harbour here.

Yamba

Around 7.5 hours north of Sydney and 3 1/4 hours south of Brisbane, Yamba is a quiet little gem with beautiful beaches, fresh seafood and stunning national parks surrounding it. We loved the chilled out vibe in this little seaside town and its excellent cafes.

Take a dip in the usually calm waters of Main Beach, or try the ocean pool at its south end if the waves are choppy.

Stroll up a bit further to Turner’s Beach where you’ll find a rock shelf and the South Break Wall, plus a path and steps that lead up to the Lighthouse. We spotted pods of dolphins in the water from the break wall.

The Lighthouse, built in 1955, offers gorgeous views up and down the coast.

Ballina

Located roughly 8.5 hours north of Sydney and 2 hours south of Brisbane, Ballina is an old school seaside town that’s a great base for exploring the local attractions. Check out the local beaches, take a river cruise or enjoy a kayaking tour if you like being on the water. The town is close to Broadwater and Bunjalong National Parks for nature-lovers.

We highly enjoyed Ballina’s Big Prawn, which was built in 1989 and given a $400,000 makeover in 2013. It’s located adjacent to Bunnings Warehouse in River Street.

While in Ballina we stayed at the Ballina Homestead Motel and highly recommend it.

Read more about things to do in Ballina here.

Lennox Head

A 10 minute drive north from Ballina is Lennox Head, a charming little seaside village with oodles of charm. We loved the beautiful 7 Mile Beach and strolling the main street with its boutiques and cafes. There’s a great playground for kids in the park near the beach.

We enjoyed the most delicious Italian dinner at the supremely kid-friendly Quattro Classic Lennox Head and homemade gelato from gelato from Lennox Gelato & Coffee Co. They had chilli gelato on the menu but we weren’t game to try it!

Byron Bay

8.5 hours north of Sydney and 2 hours south of Brisbane lies the ever-popular Byron Bay. Once a hippy town Byron has of late attracted more of an upmarket, hipster clientele, and the hotels, restaurants and shops have started to reflect the new visitors. The vibe is still relaxed, but the town has started to get a whole lot trendier!

Byron Bay has plenty of natural attractions on offer, including stunning beaches included Main Beach, Clarkes, Wategoes and Little Wategoes. The later is Australia’s easternmost beach. Main Beach has an excellent playground for kids.

There are also plenty of bushwalks in hinterland rainforest, coastal trails and loads of wildlife to spot.

We love visiting Cape Byron, the easternmost point of the mainland of Australia and home to Australia’s most powerful lighthouse.

Take the easy 4km Byron Bay Lighthouse walk (parking is available if you prefer to drive) and look out for marine life in the Cape Byron Marine Park below. Dolphins, turtles, rays and whales can all be spotted – we were lucky enough to see a few whales.

The Cape Byron Lighthouse and lighthouse keepers cottages were built in 1901. Light food and drinks are available.

We highly enjoyed dining at Bayleaf Cafe, which really embodies how far Byron has come and what its future might hold. Delicious, fresh food, beautifully prepared and creatively presented, in a buzzy cafe with open windows and tables spilling out onto the footpath.

To get a real feel for the spiritual side of Byron Bay, visit the Crystal Castle and Shambhala Gardens. The gardens are speckled with the beautiful crystals and statues that pay tribute to various spiritualities around the world, including the largest stone Blessing Buddha in Australia. Our daughter loves crystals, so we visited to see the world’s tallest geode pair. We really enjoyed the gardens but thought it was an extremely expensive outing for what it was.

We found the accommodation in Byron Bay to be double the price of neighbouring towns, so opted to stay in nearby Coolangatta instead.

Find more things to do in Byron Bay here.

Gold Coast

Queensland’s Gold Coast is a family-friendly stretch of coast lined with spectacular beaches, famous theme parks and lush hinterland rainforests.

Coolangatta

9 hours north of Sydney and 1 1/4 hour south of Brisbane, Coolangatta is the southernmost suburb of the Gold Coast, just over the NSW border. It was named after the schooner Coolangatta, which in 1846 was wrecked there.

Coolangatta is only a short drive from Surfers Paradise but it feels like a different world. The town has a relaxed vibe to it and a stunning beach so that when combined with its excellent restaurants and hotels, makes for the perfect Gold Coast destination in our opinion.

Kids will love the excellent, shaded playground just across from the main strip of restaurants and the wide path that runs along the beach for scooting.

Sunset at Snapper Rocks is incredible. If you visit during winter you might see whales passing by like we did.

We dined at O Sushi which had a huge variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes including haloumi skewers. Gelato Messina is not to be missed.

While in Coolangatta we stayed at the Greenmount Beach Hotel, which was an excellent budget find.

Currumbin

Currumbin is famous for the beautiful Currumbin Creek waterway that offers sheltered conditions for swimming and watersports – Tallebudgera Creek is particularly popular with the locals.

You’ll also find the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary in this peaceful beach suburb. Arrive at8am to participate in their daily free lorikeet feeding.

Read more about visiting Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary here.

Burleigh Heads

The relaxed vibe in Burleigh, as the locals call it, gives it an entirely different feel to its neighbouring beaches to the north. While you can see the Surfers Paradise high rises in the distance, it feels like a whole world away.

The beach is protected and calm, making it popular with families. We loved climbing rocks and trees at the south end and sitting on the headland and watching surfers showing off their moves.

We dined at the excellent Paddock Bakery in the neighbouring suburb of Miami. With its relaxed vibe and pretty, tasty food, it’s an iconic Gold Coast cafe well worth the visit.

Broadbeach

Getting further into the bustling centre of the Gold Coast, Broadbeach has a wide variety of cafes, restaurants, boutiques and accommodation choices, with a family-friendly vibe. It’s a great base for a Gold Coast holiday if you’re after plenty of things to do and see. Broadbeach also has a beautiful beach, large playground for kids, and the Pacific Fair Shopping Centre.

We stayed at the Crowne Plaza Surfer Paradise, which was located halfway between Broadbeach and Surfers Paradise.

Read more about our stay at the Crowne Plaza Surfers Paradise here.

Surfers Paradise

Surfers is a hotspot for tourists visiting the Gold Coast. The iconic Surfers Paradise Beach and its sign draw in overseas visitors while the nightlife attracts school leavers. There are loads of attractions in Surfers Paradise that make it a great spot to stay if you’re keen to do and see the sights, especially with older kids. Attractions include SkyPoint Observation Deck, Infinity Attraction, Ripley’s Believe It Or Not and Timezone.

Surfers Paradise is also where you’ll find all of the Gold Coast’s theme parks.

Read about things to do on the Gold Coast with kids here.

The Sydney to Gold Coast drive is one of our favourite holidays trips to make, and often we will stop here rather than proceeding on to Brisbane. The Sydney to Gold Coast road trip is around 9.5 hours drive, or 848km.

Brisbane

The capital city of Queensland, Brisbane is a 10 hour drive from Sydney. It’s a vibrant city, filled with art, music, restaurants, man-made beaches and the beautiful river that runs through the middle.

In Brisbane, we stayed at the Novotel Brisbane, which we highly recommend.

Read about our stay at the Novotel Brisbane here.

Read about things to do in Brisbane with kids here.

And thats it! The Sydney to Brisbane drive is an epic journey through some of Australia’s most beautiful scenery. I highly recommend taking your time to see the sights along the way.

Where To Find Cheap Parking In The Sydney CBD

May 17, 2018 / CBD, Sydney / 0 comment

Where To Find Cheap Parking in the Sydney CBD

Finding cheap parking in Sydney is like a competitive sport. The city is littered with parking stations and metered parking zones, but they are not made equal. Some are cheaper than others and some are in sneaky locations that not many people know about. While I prefer to take public transport where possible, I will often drive into the city for events at night and on weekends when I have the kid in tow. Over the years I’ve found what I think are best places for cheap parking in Sydney CBD.

Note: these great rates are for after 5pm and weekends. During the week the Sydney CBD parking prices are outrageous so I never take the car.

The best early bird parking options are the Sydney Opera House and Darling Square car parks. See below for more details.

I highly recommend booking parking in parking stations in advance where possible (called “Book a Bay” on the websites) as they are almost always a few dollars cheaper when you book online. I have noted with each parking station if they do not offer an added discount when booking online.

While the prices below were correct at time of writing this article they are subject to change, so please check the website before going if you are concerned about price increases.

Attractions: Museum of Contemporary Art, Vivid Sydney CBD

Location: Circular Quay, The Rocks

There are three parking garages that have decent evening rates from 5pm Mon-Fri. Note: Sat & Sun are much pricer, although they are available at a discount when booked in advance through the websites below.

Gateway Car Park
25 Reiby Pl, Sydney
Night: Mon – Fri $15.00
Entry after 5pm, exit before 6am following day
Weekend: Sat – Sun $20.00

Online

155 George St Car Park
155 George Street, The Rocks

Night: Mon – Fri $15.00
Entry after 5pm and exit before close.
Weekend: Sat – Sun $20.00
Online

Clocktower Car Park
55 Harrington Street, The Rocks

Night: Mon – Fri $10.00
Entry after 5pm, exit before car park closes
Weekend: Sat – Sun $25.00

Online

Attractions: SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, Madam Tussauds Sydney

Location: Darling Harbour

Car Park: Darling Park Car Park
201 Sussex Street, Sydney

Night: Mon – Wed $10.00, Thurs – Fri $12.00
Entry after 5pm, exit before 6am the next day
Weekend: Sat – Sun $12.00
Online

Attractions: Darling Quarter playground, Monkey Baa Theatre

Location: Darling Quarter

Darling Quarter Car Park
1-11 Harbour Street, Sydney

Night: Mon – Wed $12.00, Thu – Fri $15.00, Sat – Sun $12.00
Entry after 5pm, exit before 6am the next day
Weekend: Sat – Sun $15.00
Online

Attraction: Maritime Museum, Star City Casino, Lyric Theatre

Location: Pyrmont

The Star
80 Pyrmont Street, Pyrmont

This parking garage has odd hours as it’s underneath a casino, so read carefully! The best rates are during the day.

11:00pm to 5:00pm
Monday to Thursday: $15
Friday to Sunday: $20
Public Holiday: $20

5:00pm to 11:00pm
Monday to Thursday: $20
Friday to Sunday: $25
Public Holiday: $25

No discounts available online

Online

Attractions: QVB and shopping

Location: CBD Centre

QVB Car Park
I suggest parking here after 5pm only. Weekends are not discounted.
Night: Sun – Wed $12.00, Thu – Sat $15.00
Entry after 5:00pm & exit before car park closes

No discount available online.

Online

Citipark Car Park
431 Kent Street, Sydney

Night: Mon – Wed $9.00, Thu – Fri $12.00, Sat – Sun $9.00
Entry after 5pm, exit before 6am the next day
Weekend: Sat – Sun $12.00

Online

Attraction: Seeing a show at the Capitol Theatre

Location: CBD near Central Station

Goulburn Street Car Park
101 Goulburn Street, Sydney

Night: Mon – Fri after 5pm $10
Weekends:Sat, Sun & public holidays $12.00

No discount available online
Online

Attraction: Sydney Tower Eye, Pitt Street shopping, AGNSW, Royal Botanic Gardens

Location: The Domain

The Domain Car Park
St Mary’s Road, Sydney

Night: Mon – Fri $12.00
Entry after 5pm, exit before 12am
Weekend: Sat – Sun $12.00

Online

Attraction: Barangaroo

Location: Barangaroo

Barangaroo Reserve Car Park
Towns Place, Sydney

Night: Mon – Fri $10.00
Entry after 5pm, exit before 12am
Weekend: Sat – Sun $12.00

Online

Attraction: ICC Sydney Theatre, Powerhouse Museum, Chinese Garden of Friendship

Location: Darling Square

Darling Square Car Park
Zollner Circuit, Haymarket

Cheapest parking in the city and best early bird parking rate. My number one find for cheap parking in Sydney CBD.

Early Bird: Mon – Fri $16.00
Entry between 6am & 9.30am, exit between 3pm & 7pm
Night: Mon – Sun $3.00, Event Night* $19.00
Entry after 5pm, exit before 6am following day
Weekend: Sat – Sun $9.00, Event Day* $19.00

Online

Attraction: Chinatown, Sydney’s Paddy’s Markets

Location: Chinatown

Market City Car Park
2 Quay Street, Haymarket
Night: Sun-Thur $11.00, Fri-Sat $13.00
Entry after 5pm
No discounted weekend day parking

Online

Attraction: Sydney Opera House

Location: Bennelong Point

They have an amazing early bird day rate and weekend rates, but evenings are expensive. Book a Bay online for a good discount. We often park here for shows on weekends and it’s a great deal – one of my best finds for cheap parking Sydney CBD.

Early Bird: Mon – Fri $16.00
Entry between 6am and 10am, exit between 3pm and 7:30pm
Not valid Public Holidays

Weekend: Sat – Sun $15.00

Online

Have I missed anything? Please tell me if You have a cheap parking in Sydney CBD find that I can add to the list.

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.

16 Things To Do In Sydney On A Rainy Day (Or a Stinking Hot One!)

March 26, 2018 / Indoor Play, Museums, Sydney, Sydney Life / 0 comment

Sydney is known for it’s beautiful harbour and the great outdoors. But what to do when it’s too wet to go out, or there’s a heatwave, and all you want to do is find entertainment indoors? This list of things to do in Sydney on a rainy day will help you beat the bad weather blues.

17 Things To Do In Sydney On A Rainy Day (Or A Stinking Hot One!)

See a movie

Is there anything more relaxing than cozying up watching the latest flicks on the big screen? Check movie times at a cinema near you by clicking here.

Image credit: Event Cinemas

Watch a live show

Check out what’s on at the Sydney Opera House, the Capitol Theatre, Sydney Lyric Theatre or Parramatta Riverside Theatre. Each venue shows for all ages and demographics.

Check out the Monkey Baa Theatre Company for shows the kids will love.

Image credit: Daniel Boud

Zap and chase at laser tag

Dashing through the dark with neon lights and laser guns sound like fun? Team up and challenge your friends and family to a game of laser tag.

M9 Laser Skirmish at Darling Harbour, laser tag at AMF (various locations), laser tag at Kingpin Bowling (North Strathfield and Darling Harbour), Laser Siege (Turrella), laser tag at Strike Bowling (various locations)

Indoor skydive with iFLY

See what it feels like to fly without jumping out of a plane at iFly in Penrith (second location coming soon to Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park. Anyone aged 3 and up can iFly!

Let the wind take you higher in an state-of-the-art, fully-controlled, ultra-safe vertical wind tunnel.

How does it work? Just lean into the wind inside our giant glass tunnel and a column of air lifts you up! You’ll float effortlessly into flight, guided by qualified instructors.

Get more info on iFLY here.

Image courtesy of iFLY.

Strike it lucky at ten pin bowling

Retro fun all across Sydney. Challenge the whole family to a game of ten pin bowling.

Check out locations and prices at AMF Bowling (various locations) Ten Pin City (Lidcome), Strike Bowling (various locations), King Pin Bowling (various locations).

Find your inner Pac-man playing arcade games

Go old school with classic and new arcade games. From air hockey to dodgem cars and a bit of Street Fighter, there’s something for everyone to play.

Find arcade games at Playtime (various venues) and Archie Bros Cirque Electric at Alexandria for a circus-themed arcade extravaganza.

Tee off at mini putt putt

Putt putt has gone upmarket with mini golf courses that have a bar serving drinks and cocktails. Holey Moley turns traditional putt putt into a multi-sensory labyrinth of unique holes that’ll keep you on your toes across the craziest round of golf you’ve ever played. Choose between 9, 18 or 27 holes, or try karaoke at one of Holey Moley’s three Sydney locations: Newtown, Darlinghurst or Castle Towers.

Putt Planet in Miranda is indoor miniature golf course is travel themed and accessible, so a great option for strollers or wheelchairs. The theme of the mini golf course is a trip to Mombasa, with a plane at the entrance symbolising the start of your journey.

The Putt Planet website says, “Discover another time and place when you board your Putt Planet flight from Miranda to Mombasa. Putt through the bustling market places, homes and even the sewers of Old Mombasa whilst exploring this ancient doorway to Eastern Africa. We’ve put a roof over the charming streets and laneways so any time is a good time to visit; the weather is always fine!”

Get more info on Putt Planet.

Burn off steam at an indoor play centre

Kids going bananas? Take them to an indoor play centre to run out their crazies. There are plenty all around Sydney to choose from!

Check out this list of indoor play centres in Sydney to find one near you.

Bounce the day away at a trampolining centre

Visit an indoor trampolining centre to literally bounce your cares away. Check each centre to see that facilities they have for kids before taking little ones – some have special toddler times available.

Find a trampolining centre in Sydney on this handy list of indoor play spaces.

Test your agility indoor rock climbing

Kids and adults can all enjoy scampering up walls at indoor rock climbing centres. Start at the easiest level and work your way up to pro. Kids can try the beginner walls or special areas designed just for little ones.

Find an indoor rock climbing gym in Sydney on this handy list of indoor play spaces.

Channel Your Inner Ninja

Try one of several ninja courses or parkour centres popping up all over Sydney. They’re suitable for kids (generally over aged 5) and adults – why should kids have all the fun?

Find a ninja gym or parkour centre in Sydney on this handy list of indoor play spaces.

Spend the day at an art gallery or museum

Enjoy the peaceful calm of one of Sydney’s excellent museums and art galleries. All are extremely kid-friendly as well as having top-notch exhibitions year-round.

Check out this list of Sydney’s art galleries and museums to find one near you.

Take a dip in an aquatic centre

It may seem counter intuitive but rainy days are perfect for getting even wetter indoors! Swim some laps and take kids to splash in the water features of these excellent centres all across Sydney.

Check out this list of aquatic centres in Sydney to find one near you.

Get your Tonya Harding out ice skating

Trying to twirl on ice is the perfect way to forget miserable weather outdoors. Spend a few hours getting exercise as well as having fun working on your triple axel.

Check out this list of ice skating rinks in Sydney to find one near you.

Image courtesy of Macquarie Ice Rink.

Dine in style with a high tea

A rainy miserable day is the perfect excuse to eat something delicious! Take your mind off the weather by dining on scones, finger sandwiches and delectable pastries.

Check this list of high tea venues in Sydney to find the right one for you.

Read a good book at a library

Head to the stunning State Library of NSW to check out their exhibitions or read a book. Established in 1862 it’s the oldest library in Australia. I personally love the idea of reading when it’s raining, so a library always tops my list of things to do in Sydney on a rainy day!

Get more info on visiting the State Library of NSW here.

You could also visit your local library! Check this site for the City of Sydney libraries and locations. You can also visit here to find the location of every library in NSW.

Find your inner Picasso while plaster painting

Little and big kids will love painting up a masterpiece at one of these plaster painting studios across Sydney. Candyland Playhouse even offers ceramic painting, which is where the art work is baked in a kiln after being painted.

Check out your nearest plaster painting venue: Little Plaster House (Bella Vista), Candyland Playhouse (Hawkesbury) who offer plaster and ceramic painting, Plaster Painting Studios (Moore Park), Plaster Master Fun (North Bondi), The Little Plaster Shop (Concord).

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.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney here.

26 Of The Best Museums In Sydney

March 26, 2018 / CBD, Indoor Play, Museums, Sydney, Sydney Life / 0 comment

Sydney is renowned for it’s natural beauty, but it’s also full of history and culture. We love to spend our weekends learning about art, anthropology and archaeology, particularly when the weather is not so favourable outside. Check out the best museums in Sydney below.

The Best Museums In Sydney

Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA)

Wander through galleries of exciting modern art from leading Australian and international artists at the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia (MCA). Grab a coffee at the rooftop cafe and sculpture terrace and enjoy the stunning harbour view.

The MCA runs lots of free and small donation activities for kids throughout the year too, from their monthly Sunday Family Fun Days to a drop in activity room and school holiday crafts.

MCA
The Rocks
General Admission is free
australianmuseum.net.au

Australian National Maritime Museum (ANMM)

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”.

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.

Australian National Maritime Museum
2 Murray St, Sydney
anmm.gov.au

Art Gallery of NSW (AGNSW)

Stroll through five levels of masterpieces including an extensive collection of Aboriginal art, European masters, Asian art and visiting exhibitions. The general galleries at the Art Gallery of NSW (AGNSW) are all free to enter.

Children can use online booklets to explore artworks or download free audio tours that have been created just for kids. The AGNSW frequently runs free activities for kids on Sundays and school holidays.

Get info on visiting the AGNSW with kids here.

Art Gallery of NSW
The Domain
General Admission is free
artgallery.nsw.gov.au

Australian Museum (currently closed for renovations)

The oldest museum in Australia, The Australian Museum has excellent exhibitions focusing on natural history and anthropology.

When it opened in 1897, The Australian Museum became the first museum in Australia, with an international reputation in the fields of natural history and anthropology. The museum’s dinosaur exhibition, containing 10 complete dinosaur skeletons and eight life-sized models is very popular with kids.

The dedicated Kidspace area is a hit with littles aged five and under (as well as the slightly bigger kids who still like to sneak in!) while older kids will love the Search & Discover research centre.

The Australian Museum also runs family-focussed programs year round for kids aged 9 months and up. School aged kids always have a large range of science-based activities to choose from during the school holidays.

Read more about visiting the Australian Museum here.

Australian Museum
1 William St, Sydney
Admission required a fee
australianmuseum.net.au

The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS)

The MAAS is Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. Their venues include Powerhouse Museum, Sydney Observatory and Discovery Centre.

Powerhouse Museum

An interactive art and science museum located in Ultimo.

The museum’s collection encompasses science, technology, design and decorative arts, engineering, architecture, health and medicine, fashion and contemporary culture.

Locomotive No. 1, the first steam locomotive to haul a passenger train in New South Wales, is a popular drawcard just inside the museum’s entrance, as is the ever-popular interactive Wiggles Exhibition. More on the Wiggles exhibition here.

Throughout the year the Powerhouse Museum hosts temporary exhibitions plus a wide range of kid-focussed activities and workshops with a strong focus on science and coding, particularly during the school holidays. The focus on science and technology in a very family-friendly environment makes the Powerhouse Museum a top choice for things to do with kids in Sydney. Check out their calendar for upcoming events.

Powerhouse Museum
500 Harris St, Ultimo
maas.museum/powerhouse-museum

Sydney Observatory

Located in The Rocks, the hill is is a gorgeous spot for a picnic with a view, as well as being home to the Sydney Observatory, a heritage-listed museum and public observatory. The Sydney Observatory runs and family tours and activities throughout the year which are perfect for mini star gazers.

Sydney Observatory
1003 Upper Fort St, Millers Point
maas.museum/sydney-observatory

Museums Discovery Centre (MDC)

Inside the Museums Discovery Centre you’ll find millions of treasures and the opportunity to learn about museum collecting, conservation and research practices.

Museums Discovery Centre
172 Showground Rd, Castle Hill
maas.museum/museums-discovery-centre

Museum of Sydney

Located on the site of the first Government House of NSW, the Museum of Sydney tells the story of Sydney’s history and its people.

The Museum of Sydney offers family-friendly exhibitions and programs year-round (check what’s on here) and kids eat free with each adult meal purchased at the downstairs restaurant, The Governors Kitchen.

Image credit: Edge of Trees Photograph (c) Brett Boardman

Museum of Sydney
Cnr Phillip and Bridge Streets, Sydney
sydneylivingmuseums.com.au/museum-of-sydney

NSW Rail Museum

Bring your locomotive-loving kids to get up close to trains at the NSW Rail Museum in the historic town of Thirlmere. Since 1975 this little town has been home to a large collection of NSW’s railway heritage, including over 100 vehicles that move on a railway including locomotives, railroad cars and more.

Get info on visiting the NSW Rail Museum here.

NSW Rail Museum
10 Barbour Rd, Thirlmere
https://www.nswrailmuseum.com.au/

Sydney Bus Museum

The 100-year-old Leichhardt Tramshed is home to a vast collection of historic buses, open to the public every first and third Sunday of the month. Jump aboard a vintage double-decker bus over the ANZAC Bridge to the Queen Victoria Building in the CBD and back again.

Sydney Bus Museum
25 Derbyshire Rd, Leichhardt
sydneybusmuseum.info

Museum of Fire

Enjoy exhibits focusing on fire safety and firefighting and explore historic fire trucks at the Museum of Fire in Penrith.

Junior firefighters will enjoy puzzles, dress-ups, fire safety activities and computer games.

Museum of Fire
1 Museum Dr, Penrith
museumoffire.com.au

Image credit: Destination NSW Adam Hollingsworth

Sydney Jewish Museum

The Sydney Jewish Museum is dedicated to the documentation of the Holocaust and the history of the Jewish people in Australia.

Sydney Jewish Museum
148 Darlinghurst Rd, Darlinghurst
sydneyjewishmuseum.com.au

Justice and Police Museum

Housed inside the sandstone buildings that contained the original Water Police Court (1856), Water Police Station (1858) and the Police Court (1885), the Justice and Police Museum features 1890s holding cells, offices, charge room and courts, forensic evidence, historic weapons and forensic photography.

The Justice and Police Museum runs family-friendly programs throughout the year for kids to learn about the law, hear true life tales and take park in mock trials. Get info on events here.

Justice and Police Museum
Phillip St & Albert St, Sydney
sydneylivingmuseums.com.au/justice-police-museum

Image credit: Police Station Charge Room, Justice & Police Museum

Hyde Park Barracks Museum

The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Hyde Park Barracks is a cutting-edge museum that brings Sydney’s past to life through a series of innovative and immersive experiences.

Built in 1819 by convict labour under the commission of Governor Lachlan Macquarie, the Hyde Park Barracks were originally designed as a place to house up to 600 male convicts.

The Hyde Park Barracks runs family-friendly programs year-round to engage children in its history. Get info on upcoming events here.

Find out more about visiting the Hyde Park Barracks Museum here.

Casula Powerhouse

Located in South West Sydney, the Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre is a place to experience the arts including performances and exhibitions. As well as featuring six galleries with rotating exhibitions, the Powerhouse also has a pair of three-story decommissioned tanks that are open to the public as legal graffiti spaces.

The Casula Powerhouse runs family-friendly art programs throughout the year. Check out their upcoming events and workshops here.

Casula Powerhouse
1 Powerhouse Road, Casula
casulapowerhouse.com

Image credit: Casula Powerhouse

The Rocks Discovery Museum

Rocks Discovery Museum, a free museum located inside a restored 1850s sandstone warehouse with an interactive kids corner upstairs, or grab one of the best scones in Sydney at The Tea Cosy (their kids’ Devonshire tea is adorable and delicious).

The Rocks Discovery Museum
Kendall Ln, The Rocks
therocks.com/things-to-do/the-rocks-discovery-museum

The Big Dig Archaeology Education Centre

The Big Dig Cumberland Street Archaeological Site is a heritage-listed archaeological site in The Rocks. The centre is part of Sydney Harbour YHA,, and while it is no longer an “active” excavation site, it does facilitate hands-on archaeology educational experiences and opens the archaeological site to the public.

The general public are welcome to visit the Big Dig site during daylight hours. This visit is best in conjunction with The Rocks Discovery Museum, where significant finds from the site are displayed.

The Big Dig Archaeology Education Centre
110 Cumberland St, Sydney
thebigdig.com.au

Savannah Place

Built in 1844, Savannah Place is a heritage-listed former grocery store and workers’ cottages. The terrace of four houses was built by Irish immigrants, home to more than 100 families over 150 years.

Savannah Place is now a historic house museum, telling the stories of the people who called this place and this neighbourhood home.

Savannah Place
58/64 Gloucester St, The Rocks
https://sydneylivingmuseums.com.au/susannah-place

White Rabbit Collection

Stroll through four floors of one of the world’s largest and most significant collections of contemporary Chinese art. There is also a tranquil street-level Tea House to enjoy.

Rea more about visiting the White Rabbit Art Gallery.

White Rabbit
30 Balfour Street, Chippendale
whiterabbitcollection.org

Elizabeth Farm

Built in 1973 for John and Elizabeth Macarthur, Elizabeth Farm is one of the oldest homes in Australia. Inside the house you’ll find reproductions of furnishings and objects that belonged to the home’s original owners. Wander the recreated 1930s garden or enjoy a Devonshire tea at the tea room. The scones are some of the best we have ever tasted.

Elizabeth Farm runs year-round family tours and programs to engage kids in the history of the property and introduce them to what life was like during the early 19th century. Kids will get a kick out of trying to do the laundry in a tub, throwing quoits or doing some craft. Get info on upcoming events and programs here.

Elizabeth Farm
70 Alice St, Rosehill
sydneylivingmuseums.com.au/elizabeth-farm

Vaucluse House

Vaucluse House was built in 1803 and was once owned by William Charles Wentworth, father of the Australian Constitution. It’s one of Sydney’s few remaining 19th-century mansions that is still surrounded by its ten hectares of original gardens and grounds.

Take a tour through the house for a glimpse of what life was life for the families who once lived there, stroll around the beautiful gardens and enjoy a high tea at the tea rooms.

Vaucluse House runs year-round family-friendly programs to immerse kids in colonial life. Get info on events here.

Get more info on high tea at Vaucluse House here.

Vaucluse House
69A Wentworth Rd, Vaucluse
sydneylivingmuseums.com.au/vaucluse-house

Carriageworks

Carriageworks is the largest multi-arts centre in Australia. The centre is free to enter and see the contemporary works commissioned for the space by Australian and International artists. The works displayed inside the Carriageworks are usually ambitious and monumental in size, and are always inclusive.

This is an excellent venue for wheelchairs and strollers. The Carriageworks also contains a theatre where shows are held, often with a family-focus.

Carriageworks
245 Wilson St, Eveleigh
https://carriageworks.com.au

Museums Outside of Sydney

Early Start Discovery Space (Wollongong)

This is one just for the kids! The Early Start Learning Space is Sydney’s only dedicated children’s museum, so well worth the drive to Wollongong to visit.

Inside the museum, kids can let their imaginations run wild with interactive and engaging playful exhibits. Everything is designed to be touched!

Kids will particularly enjoy crawling through a giant stomach, constructing a house, acting on stage and captaining a ship among many other things.

Get more info on visiting the Early Start Discovery Space here.

Early Start Discovery Space
UOW Building 21 Early Start Facility
Keiraville, Wollongong
earlystartdiscoveryspace.edu.au

Space Science (Wollongong)

Science Space is the only dedicated science experience in NSW and is home to DIGISTAR 6, Australia’s most digitally advanced Planetarium.

The museum focuses on educating and inspiring through hands-on learning with over 100 interactive exhibits, science shows and workshops.

Space Science
Innovation Campus, 60 Squires Way, North Wollongong
sciencespace.com.au

Norman Lindsey Gallery and Museum (Blue Mountains)

I’ve been visiting Norman Lindsay Gallery at Faulconbridge for over 15 years and it always enchants. Norman Lindsey (1879-1969) was an Australian artist, cartoonist, and writer. His former home and studio have been turned into a gallery and museum run by the National Trust, showcasing his work and life.

We love to wander around the landscaped gardens and admire his sculptures, or wander through the gallery to see his beautiful paintings and etchings. Norman Lindsey is also the creator of the Magic Pudding. Visiting the gallery is a great introduction for kids to this Aussie masterpiece.

Get more info on visiting the Norman Lindsey Gallery and Museum here.

Norman Lindsey Gallery and Museum
14 Norman Lindsay Cres, Faulconbridge
normanlindsay.com.au

Bradman Museum and International Cricket Hall of Fame (Southern Highlands, Bowral)

Take a trip back to the glory days of cricket with a visit to the Bradman Museum and International Cricket Hall of Fame in the country town of Bowral in the NSW Southern Highlands.

The museum features state-of-the-art interactive exhibits and a large collection of cricket memorabilia. Adjacent to the park where the Bradman Museum is housed you’ll find a cricket-themed children’s playground.

Bradman Museum and International Cricket Hall of Fame
St Jude Street, Bowral
bradman.com.au

Image courtesy of DNSW.

More things to do in Sydney

Looking for more things to do in Sydney with kids? Head over here.

Find the best beaches to visit in Sydney here.

Get a list of free things to do in Sydney here.

Find the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney here.

Sydney Guide: Tips For First-time Visitors

November 13, 2017 / Sydney, Sydney Life / 0 comment

Welcome to Sydney! I’m thrilled you’re visiting my hometown. Sydney is a beautiful, safe city and there’s so much to do. This Sydney guide will help you navigate the city and enjoy your visit.

How to get around

Sydney has an extensive public transport system that includes trains, buses, ferries and light rail. If you’re in Sydney for a few says, buy an Opal card to use public transport – the one card gives you daily travel caps and enables you to use all four transport systems, plus lets you use the $2.50 per person Sunday cap. Taxis and Uber in Sydney are expensive so walking plus public transport are your best options.

Driving in Sydney

To see a lot of Sydney and its surrounds, it’s advisable to hire a car. International visitors may use a foreign driver’s licence in NSW. Note that all speed limits are strictly enforced with cameras and it is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol level of 0.05 per cent or higher, or to drive under the influence of illegal drugs.

When to visit

Sydney is the perfect year-round travel destination due to its temperate climate. It does, however, get extreme heat in summer (December to February). While the average maximum temperatures are around 26°C (78.8°F), it can reach over 40°C (104°f) during this time of year. Summer is also the most humid time of year to visit, with average humidity of 65%.

Winter (June – August) average maximum temperatures are around 16°C (60.8°F). Sydney’s highest rainfall is between March and June.

National Emergency Services

The national phone number for all emergency services in Australia, including ambulance, fire and police, is 000. You can dial Triple Zero within Australia from any fixed line, mobile phone, pay phone and certain Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services. If you have a GSM digital mobile phone, you can also dial the international standard emergency number 112.

Where to stay

For a short stay, hotels in the CBD particularly around Circular Quay and The Rocks will make it easy to get around as they’re close to public transport as well as main attractions. Darling Harbour is also a good choice particularly for families.

Get reviews on my fave hotels in Sydney: The Langham Sydney in The Rocks and the Shangri-La, Sydney.

For longer stays try renting a house or apartment on Stayz.com.au or airbnb.com.au.

Get hotel rates in Sydney from Booking.com or find special up-to-date deals below.

Booking.com