Things to do in Sydney over the school holidays

This is it, parents! You made it to the end of yet another full school year, and your reward is a full six weeks of uninterrupted quality time with your children.

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While it’s easy to fall into the trap of staying in your little suburban Sydney bubbles, Greater Sydney is always chockablock with exciting things to do.

So drag the kids away from the screens, grab your coats, and prepare to make some core memories. 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.

Currently showing is Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru, featuring over 200 ancient artefacts and an immersive look into one of the world’s most fascinating civilisations. It’s a ticketed exhibition, but well worth it if your kids are into history or love exploring different cultures.

Also on now is Future Now, an interactive exhibition that looks at what the world could look like in years to come – from new tech and cities to how we’ll live, work and play.

Nature lovers might enjoy Wildlife Photographer of the Year 59, a collection of striking images from around the world, capturing animals, landscapes and powerful moments in nature.

Outside the exhibitions, the museum’s permanent galleries are always a hit, with dinosaurs, megafauna, insects, and plenty of hands-on science to explore.

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)

Powerhouse Museum

For those seeking a hands-on experience, Powerhouse Museum in Ultimo offers exciting exhibits on science, design, and technology, with plenty of interactive displays to keep curious minds engaged.

With changing exhibits and interactive activities, kids can dive into everything from space exploration to eco-friendly inventions. It’s the perfect spot for little explorers and future inventors to have fun while learning.

Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris St, Ultimo NSW 2007, Australia

When: Open year-round; special school holiday programs are available during NSW school break periods

Cost: Admission fees vary; children under 16 enter free, while some workshops and special exhibits may have additional costs (check the website for details)

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. These school holidays, it’s packed with incredible shows, workshops and free events for kids of all ages – from toddlers through to teens. Here’s what’s on:

• Dog Man: The Musical (Ages 8+) – Back by popular demand. This laugh-out-loud stage show brings Dav Pilkey’s bestselling book to life with music, heart and hilarious antics. 11–27 April | Playhouse
• Mimi’s Symphony with Justine Clarke (Ages 3+) – A joyful sing-along adventure with live orchestra, introducing kids to musical instruments through the story of a little magpie. 12–13 April | Studio
• You Are Here (Ages 2+) – A beautifully sensory-rich production from Denmark using music, storytelling and gentle visuals to help little ones explore the world around them. 19–24 April | Utzon Room
• Korean Street Arts – Dance and Breaking (All ages) – Don’t miss this free outdoor event as two world-class Korean crews take over the Forecourt with jaw-dropping breakdance, street dance and parkour. 12–17 April | Forecourt | Free
• Dance Mania Workshop (Ages 9–11) – A two-day dance intensive where kids will learn ballet, hip hop, capoeira and contemporary, finishing with a performance for friends and family. 16–17 April | Centre for Creativity
• A-Run Crew’s Breaking Masterclass (Ages 16+) – A high-energy breakdancing workshop with Korea’s A-Run Crew, covering everything from Toprock to Power Moves. All levels welcome! 13 April | Centre for Creativity | Free (ticketed)
• Make-Believe Masters: Putting on a Show (Ages 12–16) – Go behind the scenes with award-winning designer Isabel Hudson to learn how stage shows come to life – from sets to costumes. 24 April | Centre for Creativity
• Architecture Club: Home Renovation (Ages 12+ with adult) – Explore sustainable design inspired by the Opera House’s architecture in this hands-on family workshop. 5 April | Centre for Creativity

Book early – these sessions fill up fast!

Family-friendly events and family fun

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Darling Harbour Precinct

Darling Harbour is packed with activities to keep the kids entertained during the summer 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 new 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 these school holidays:

• Explore new exhibitions – Discover Ultimate Depth and the stunning Ocean Photographer of the Year exhibition.
• Get crafty in Kids on Deck – Join creative workshops and science experiments in the museum’s maker space.
• Hands-on discovery – Touch real marine specimens and quirky artefacts at the Cabinet of Curiosities.
• Climb aboard historic vessels – Step inside ships and submarines from Australia’s rich maritime history.
• Chill in the Deep Sea Lounge – Enjoy collaborative artmaking, shadow play, and film screenings in this relaxing, ocean-themed space.
• Follow the Sea Country Activity Trail – An interactive trail for curious young explorers to learn through play.
• Meet the Seabin Ocean Health Lab – Discover kid-friendly innovations in ocean clean-up technology.
• Deep Ocean Dive n Draw – Take a virtual dive beneath the waves, then join an artist-led drawing session inspired by the deep sea.
• Bubble-icious outdoor performances – Delightful pop-up fun for all ages.
• Under 5s tours – Engaging storytelling and sensory exploration designed especially for littlies.
• Underwater drones, creative play and more – Explore the ocean like never before with tech-based activities and marine-themed fun.

From history to science, art to adventure, the Maritime Museum can be a full day out that the whole family will love.

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 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, it really is the best. With literally thousands of things to do, for all ages and budgets, there is no excuse for staying in your bubble. Get out there and explore.

There’s nothing like Sydney in autumn for making happy childhood memories!