Things to do in Sydney over the school holidays

This is it, parents! You have finally dragged yourself through to the end of term 3!

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Your reward is two whole weeks without having to pack lunchboxes and wash uniforms. The bad news, is that you now have two whole weeks to fill with fun and snacks. 

Fortunately for us, there are a HEAP of really fun and exciting things that you can do these school holidays to not only keep you and the kids happy and busy, but you might even make some core memories and the kids may even learn something! (Just don’t tell them if it’s ‘educational’!)

So drag the kids away from the screens, grab your suncream and drink bottles, and prepare to smash out the holiday fun. From free school holiday activities in the park to some must-see shows and events – this round-up doesn’t miss a thing.

Top indoor activities in Sydney

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While we might think of Sydney as an ‘outdoorsy’ kind of city, we still have loads of indoor options for rainy-day fun that will keep the kiddos (and grown-ups) entertained.

Australian Museum

The Australian Museum (which is free to enter) is a great option for a day out these school holidays. They have a selection of always on free exhibits that kids love (think dinosaurs, giant taxidermy animals, and national historial treasures).

‘RELICS: A New World Rises’ is the current paid exhibit at the museum. It features vintage objects reimagined as miniature LEGO® Brick worlds, created by the LEGO® Masters winners. This is absolutely made for school holiday fun with kids loving the LEGO®, and the grown-ups loving the opportunity to talk about ‘the olden days’. 

And on top of all that, the Australian Museum has a heap of incredible School Holiday workshops including Stop Motion Workshops, Scientist for a Day, and a fun Kangaroo Trail. Check it out here.

Where: Australian Museum, 1 William St, Sydney NSW 2010, Australia
When: Year-round
Cost: Free entry (some exhibitions are ticketed)

Art Gallery of New South Wales

Over at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, budding artists will love the interactive children’s programs and workshops that bring art to life.

The gallery is free, but you can also book into one of the age-appropriate holiday workshops or visit one of the craft workshops with your child to make an artwork to take home.

Where: Art Gallery of New South Wales, Art Gallery Rd, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

When: Open year-round; check holiday schedules for children’s workshops during school breaks

Cost: Free entry; workshops may have additional costs (check the website for specific workshop fees)

Bounce Inc

If your kid won’t stay still and you need to get them out of the house, take them to Bounce Inc at one of the multiple locations across Sydney. They have something for everyone, with miniBounce for the little ones and oodles of activities to keep the big kids happy too.

They also have school holiday sessions available so you can drop the kids off and escape for a few hours. Some activities even have discounts or free entry for children when accompanied by a paying adult.

Where: Multiple locations across Sydney, including Alexandria, Blacktown, and North Ryde

When: Open year-round; school holiday sessions available during NSW school breaks

Cost: Prices vary by session and location; some activities offer discounts or free entry for children when accompanied by a paying adult (check website for details)

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Top outdoor activities in Sydney

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BridgeClimb Sydney

We don’t really need to sell this one – it’s the Sydney Harbour Bridge, after all. BridgeClimb Sydney takes you all the way up near the Australian Flag, 134 metres above sea level, for breathtaking views of the city skyline and stunning harbour below.

You can hear fascinating stories about the bridge’s construction and Sydney’s history while snapping photos from vantage points accessible only to climbers. It’s sure to become a core memory for kids and adults alike.

Where: Sydney Harbour Bridge, 3 Cumberland St, The Rocks NSW 2000

When: Australia Open year-round, with climbs available at various times throughout the day; morning or twilight climbs offer especially stunning views

Cost: Prices vary by climb type and time; family packages are available (check website for specific pricing)

Centennial Park

Another classic Sydney option is to head to Centennial Park! Pack the bikes or the scooters to burn some energy, zip around the paths amongst the Port Jackson Figs, and grab a coffee or babycino on the go. Or pack a picnic and explore the wonderful Ian Potter Children’s Wild Play Garden. It’s fabulous fun for the whole family.

You can also make the most of one of the comprehensive holiday program options available!

Where: Centennial Park, Grand Dr, Centennial Park NSW 2021, Australia

When: Open year-round; school holiday programs are available during NSW school breaks

Cost: Free entry; some holiday programs may have additional fees (check website for details)

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Cultural and educational school holiday activities

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Sydney Opera House school holidays

The Sydney Opera House isn’t just for tourists. As always, they have a packed school holiday program including incredible shows, workshops and free events for kids of all ages – from toddlers through to teens. Here’s what’s on:

• Murmur (Ages 4+) – Making its Australian debut, this genre-blending show fuses circus, sound art and physical theatre. A multi-sensory adventure where everyday objects become instruments and the audience helps shape the soundscape. 1–8 October | The Studio
• Moss Piglet (Ages 5+) – A visually rich production that brings the microscopic world of tardigrades to life through puppetry, movement and live video. From petri dishes to outer space, kids will explore one of Earth’s most fascinating creatures. 27–28 September | The Studio
• Mario the Maker Magician (Ages 4+) – A high-energy mix of magic, DIY science, robotics and vaudeville. Recently seen on Sesame Street and The Tonight Show, Mario’s message of creativity and resilience inspires while entertaining. 2–12 October | The Playhouse
• What the Ocean Said (Ages 4+) – A gentle storytelling experience where kids relax in a sea of pillows and follow a humpback whale through sound, light and projection. Introduces children to mindfulness through immersive theatre. 11–12 October | Centre for Creativity

Book early – these sessions fill up fast!

Play! Kids Festival

Still looking for something a little bit magical and different? Head down to South Sydney for the Play! Kids Festival which is the region’s biggest kids performing arts festival, returning these school holidays to The Pavilion Performing Arts Centre in Sutherland. Running from 1–5 October, the program is packed with live shows, interactive workshops and hands-on fun for kids of all ages.

There will be high energy shows like The Box Show by Junkyard Beats, the puppet spectacular Shark Dive by Erth, and a headline show from ARIA Award-winner Emma Memma, whose Dance Island Party will have little ones twirling with joy. There’s also a magical musical adventure with IMAGINE LIVE, based on Alison Lester’s beloved book Imagine.

Outside the theatre, families can dive into creative dance and art workshops, join in daily storytime, or enjoy free foyer games and colouring competitions. 

Where: The Pavilion Performing Arts Centre, 30 Eton St, Sutherland NSW
When: 1–5 October 2025; daily activities from 8.45am, performances at 10am and 1pm
Cost: Performances from $29; Play! Pass $50; workshops from $15; free daily activities also available (see website for full program: thepavilionarts.au/play)

Family-friendly events and family fun

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IAC 2025 Space Day powered by LEGO® Play

Got a space-obsessed kid (or adult) at home? Then Christmas has come early for them at the IAC 2025 Space Day powered by LEGO® Play – on in Darling Harbour for one day only this October school holidays. On Friday 3 October, the precinct will be transformed into an intergalactic playground packed with astronaut meet-and-greets, rocket-building workshops, LEGO® space zones, science shows and live space-themed performances.

It’s part of IAC 2025 Space Week, the world’s biggest space event – and it’s all completely free. You’ll even get the chance to meet Australia’s first female astronaut, Katherine Bennell-Pegg, along with a stellar cast of international space leaders.

This event is sure to be a total winner for both parents and kids. It’s a family-friendly celebration of curiosity and creativity, and it’s a must for little future astronauts, science lovers and LEGO® builders alike.

Where: Darling Harbour Precinct, Sydney
When: Friday 3 October 2025 (one-day-only event)
Cost: Free entry (registration required; check event website for updates)

Other things on in the Darling Harbour Precinct

Darling Harbour is packed with activities to keep the kids entertained during the school holidays, with something to suit every budget.

You can stop by Madame Tussauds or WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo for some hands-on fun and unforgettable moments, or spend some time at the Darling Harbour Playground. With water features, climbing frames, and plenty of shaded spots, it’s the perfect place for kids to burn off energy while parents take a breather.

If it’s a rainy day, you can escape the heat at the huge IMAX theatre. It’s an immersive big-screen experience the whole family can enjoy, showing the biggest (literally) blockbusters.

Or, if you’re looking for something a bit more low-key with a bit of culture, you can venture into the Chinese Garden of Friendship at the southern end of Darling Harbour and immerse your family in the peaceful Chinese garden sanctuary.

Where: Darling Harbour Precinct, Sydney

When: Open daily; special activities and events available throughout the summer school holidays

Cost: Prices vary by activity; check individual websites for details

Entertainment Quarter

Still haven’t found the perfect school holiday activity? Take a trip to the EQ in Moore Park, where you’ll find something to keep the kids entertained. On Wednesdays and Saturdays, explore the market square for flowers, artisan gifts and fresh produce, while the kids hit the all-ages playground.

There is also a gaming zone at B Lucky & Sons, and Hyper Karting, Bowling, and Fly Motion Bungee Trampoline action! The EQ is the perfect place to stave off the holiday boredom for adults and children alike.

Where: Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park, Sydney

When: Open daily; market days on Wednesdays and Saturdays

Cost: Prices vary by activity; check individual websites for details

Unique Sydney experiences

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Australian National Maritime Museum

Dive into a full day of wonder with interactive exhibitions, hands-on workshops, creative play, and immersive maritime experiences for kids of all ages.

Here’s what’s on between 28 September – 12 October 2025:

• Kids on Deck – Drop into the maker space for creative workshops, experiments, and art inspired by marine science and Indigenous navigation traditions.
• Cabinet of Curiosities – Touch real and replica marine specimens, fossils, and mysterious ocean artefacts.
• Climb aboard historic vessels – Step into ships and submarines in the museum fleet and explore life at sea.
• Deep Sea Lounge – Relax with shadow play, collaborative art, film screenings, and storytelling in this immersive, ocean-themed chill zone. 
• Sea Country Activity Trail – Follow a hands-on trail through galleries celebrating First Nations’ connections to sea country; collect stamps and learn stories. 
• Underwater Drone Challenges – Try your hand at piloting underwater drones, explore harbour habitats, and compete in fun missions.
• Deep Ocean Dive & Draw – Dive virtually beneath the waves via video, then join artist‑led drawing or storytelling sessions inspired by marine life. 
• Splashing Science Circus – Science meets spectacle: catch bubbling experiments, performers, and water-themed demonstrations (on selected days).
• Under‑5s Tours, bubble performances & more – From sensory storytelling to outdoor bubble shows, there’s something for the littlies too.

From ocean science to creative play to immersive exhibitions, the Maritime Museum has heaps of brilliant school holiday activities to try, whether the weather holds or not.

Where: Australian National Maritime Museum, 2 Murray St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

When: Open daily, 10 am–5 pm; ideal for school holiday visits

Cost: General entry is free for kids under 16; tickets for special exhibitions, activities, and experiences may have additional costs

Luna Park

Want to make some core memories? Head to Luna Park in Milsons Point, where the kids can let their imagination run wild. From the terrifying roller coasters to the vintage charm of Coney Island, there’s something for everyone.

The park’s fun atmosphere and stunning views of Sydney Harbour make it a memorable outing for the whole family.

Don’t forget to snap a photo under the famous smiling face entrance!

When: Luna Park Sydney, 1 Olympic Dr, Milsons Point NSW 2061, Australia

Where: Open daily during school holidays; check the website for specific hours and ride schedules

Cost: Entry is free; ride passes start at $42.50 for kids and $62.50 for adults (online prices)

Sea LIFE Sydney Aquarium

When in doubt, go for a walk among the fish at Sea LIFE Aquarium in Darling Harbour. Featuring over 4,000 animals from over 300 different species, the SEA LIFE aquarium challenges you to have a single dull moment. Especially when you stop by Pig, their rescue Dugong.

Little kids will love the Penguin Expedition Boat Ride, which is a raft ride that lets you get up close to a colony of king and gentoo penguins for interactive experiences.

Where: Sea LIFE Sydney Aquarium, 1-5 Wheat Rd, Darling Harbour NSW 2000, Australia

When: Open daily, 10 am–5 pm (last entry at 4 pm)

Cost: Tickets start at $44.80 for adults and $34.80 for children (online prices; discounts available for family passes)

Royal Botanic Gardens

Looking for some free outdoor options? The Royal Botanic Gardens are perfect for a picnic – or even just a family-friendly walk alongside Sydney’s stunning harbour. Catch public transport (or even a good old Many Ferry) over to Circular Quay and wander up the hill to explore the historical gardens.

You can also check out their school holiday program on their website, which includes interactive workshops, educational activities and performances.

Where: Royal Botanic Gardens, Mrs Macquaries Rd, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

When: Open daily; school holiday programs available during NSW school breaks

Cost: Free entry; workshops and holiday programs may have additional costs (check website for details)

Museum of Contemporary Art Australia

Artistic kids will have tiny love hearts in their eyes as they walk through the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Daring colours, bold shapes, performance art, and interactive exhibitions make this art gallery a total delight for kids. (Even if they find some of the pieces confusing, they’ll at least be entertained).

Where: Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, 140 George St, The Rocks NSW 2000

When: Open year-round; check for special exhibitions and school holiday programs for added fun

Cost: Free general admission; some special exhibitions may have entry fees

Taronga Zoo and Sydney Zoo

You know what will never get old? The zoo.

Whether you’re closer to the Taronga or Western Sydney side of the city, there’s a vibrant, entertaining, and educational zoo experience waiting for you and little animal lovers.

Zoos are also a perfect opportunity for kids to learn more about the natural world and feed their curious minds when school isn’t around. It’s more important than ever for us to show our kids everything to love about the natural world, and why we need to protect it.

Where:

• Taronga Zoo: Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman NSW 2088
• Western Sydney Zoo: 700 Great Western Hwy, Bungarribee NSW 2767

When: Open year-round; ideal during the school holidays for a fun, educational outing

Cost:

• Taronga Zoo: From $45.90 for adults, $27.90 for children (4–15 years), under 4 free
• Western Sydney Zoo: From $44.99 for adults, $22.99 for children (3–15 years), under 3 free

Wrapping it up

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While we Sydneysiders love to have a moan about our city, there really is nothing like Spring time in Sydney. With literally thousands of things to do, for all ages and budgets, there is no excuse for staying in your little bubble. Get out there and explore and enjoy the sunshine (hopefully)!