27 Things to Do In Sydney When Your Parents Are Visiting You!
WONDERING WHAT ARE THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN SYDNEY WITH PARENTS?
I know how stressful planning an itinerary can be, especially when it’s for your parents! My folks have visited me in Sydney a few times, and after they’ve ticked off the iconic sights like the Opera House and Harbour Bridge… the big question is: what’s next?
But don’t worry! I’ve discovered plenty of fun, relaxed, and even Instagram-worthy things to do in Sydney with parents. From stunning beaches to beautiful gardens and must-do day trips, there’s no shortage of ways to make their visit special.
With fresh ideas to help your parents fall a little more in love with Sydney, here are 27 tried-and-tested things to do in Sydney with your parents, plus a bunch of personal tips I’ve picked up along the way!
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– Best accommodation site: Agoda.com
– Book day tours here: GetYourGuide.com
– Purchase Travel Insurance here: SafetyWing
– Cheapest Car Rental: DiscoverCars
My Top Recommendations:
– A Guided Tour of Sydney Opera House!
– Experience Australian Wildlife at Toranga Zoo!
– Darling Habour Attractions Combo Pass
– An All-Inclusive Blue Mountains Day Trip From Sydney!
Best Things To Do In Sydney With Parents
First things first—if you don’t have a car, I highly recommend renting one, especially if your parents have trouble walking long distances and if you’re planning any day trips. The platform we use and recommend is Discover Cars. They compare prices of all local and international companies to show you the best deal. Super easy!
If you’re in the city though, public transport is convenient, and here are some of my go-to activities that are easily accessible:
1. Tour The Sydney Opera House
Sydney Opera House deserves its spot at #1 on the list of things to do in Sydney with parents! While your parents have likely seen the Opera House countless times in photos and movies, nothing quite compares to experiencing it in person.
For parents who appreciate architecture and design (like mine do!), I highly recommend booking a guided tour, where they take you to various rooms, share stories about its construction, innovative design, and the vision of architect Jørn Utzon!
Check prices and availability here
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I recommend visiting in the morning as it’s usually quieter then, and the lighting is perfect for photos. You can later follow up your tour with a relaxing coffee at Opera Bar – the views of the harbor from here are incredible.
2. Take Your Parents to the Taronga Zoo!
If you and your parents love animals, a visit to Taronga Zoo is an absolute must! Not only will you enjoy some of the best views of Sydney Harbour, but you’ll also get to meet over 4,000 animals from all over the world. Imagine watching giraffes wander around, with the Opera House in the background!
Taronga offers guided tours, which are a great way to learn more about the animals and their habitats. If you’re going to visit just one zoo, make it this one.
Check prices and availability here
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For anyone who isn’t up for walking around all day, you can rent an electric cart for $45. Moreover, downloading the Zoo Map app helps you plan the most efficient route to avoid extra walking!
3. Explore the Grounds of Alexandria!
Ready to visit one of Sydney’s most Instagrammable dining spots? Grounds of Alexandria, featuring lush greenery, fairy lights, vintage details, and seasonal installations that transform the venue into something magical all year round, is a place that’s just as fun to explore as it is to eat at!
The venue is divided into multiple areas, including the café, garden, bakery, and even a charming little farmyard where kids (and adults) can meet resident animals like goats, pigs, and chickens.
Check prices and availability here
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Weekends get super busy, so if you’re coming then, try to arrive before 10 am or after 2 pm to avoid the crowds!
4. Candlelight Concert
Treat your parents to an unforgettable night at a Candlelight Concert, where iconic soundtracks come to life in the soft glow of hundreds of flickering candles. Held at stunning venues like St Stephen’s Uniting Church and the Sydney Masonic Centre, the atmosphere is as magical as the music itself. This is one of the best things to do in Sydney at night, especially with parents who enjoy music.
Check prices and availability here
5. Madame Tussauds
Step into the spotlight with your family at Madame Tussauds Sydney, where you can strike a pose alongside incredibly lifelike wax figures of your favourite celebrities, athletes, and world leaders. From Marvel superheroes to music icons and historical legends, it’s a fun, interactive experience that feels like a VIP meet-and-greet.
With themed zones, cool photo ops, and even immersive experiences like the VR zone, you can easily spend a fun afternoon with your parents here!
Check prices and availability here
6. See Stunning Views from the Sydney Tower Eye
Take your parents to the Sydney Tower Eye for breathtaking views of the city. If you have not clicked enough photos already, the observation deck is an ideal spot for family photos. The whole family can then devour a delicious meal at the restaurant while overlooking the skyline!
Go for the observation session an hour before sunset so you can experience the day, dusk and night city views! If you’re not doing the Sydney Bridge Climb, how about walking 268 meters above the city? Check out our reel to see what we’re talking about!
7. Take them to Mosaic Lamp Making if they feel artsy!
If your parents enjoy arts and crafts, join a Mosaic Lamp Making workshop! Everyone will enjoy quality time together while creating masterpieces!
In this 2.5-hour workshop, the material will be provided by the hosts! As you craft your own beautiful Turkish mosaic lamps, you’ll sip Turkish teas & enjoy local Turkish food! You can carry the pieces along with you.
Check prices and availability here
8. Head to the Australian Museum!
For a dose of culture and education, head to the Australian Museum. This attraction showcases Australia’s natural history and indigenous cultures through fascinating exhibits. It’s an enriching experience that’s suitable for all ages.
Check prices and availability here
9. See panoramic harbour views from Pylon Lookout!
The Pylon Lookout is located at the Sydney Harbour Bridge and has fascinating exhibits explaining the bridge’s history and construction. Climb to the top for the stunning views of the Sydney skyline and harbor!
The tickets cost around $30 for adults! If your parents are scared of heights, there is the Pylon Museum to learn the history from!
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While there are places to rest while climbing, with over 200 steps and no lift, we only recommend this for younger/ fit parents!
Check prices and availability here
10. Jump on all kinds of public transport!
Make them feel like kids again! Hop on to ferries, trains, light rails & even metros! Sydney public transport offers a unique experience with some of the most beautiful train station views (like the Circular Quay), routes across the harbor to Milsons Point, and a ferry to Manly!
11. Art Gallery of New South Wales
If your parents are art enthusiasts, they will love the Art Gallery of New South Wales. With an impressive collection of Australian and international art, the gallery hosts various exhibitions and events throughout the year. Admission is free for the permanent collection, and if you are looking for things to do in Sydney at night, Art After Hours is just perfect to visit every Wednesday night!
Check prices and availability here
12. Shop at Pitt Street!
Head to Pitt Street, one of Sydney’s busiest shopping streets. Here, you can explore high-end shops, local boutiques, and busy markets. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in Sydney’s shopping culture.
Shop around the afternoon to avoid too much crowd! David Jones has the best rest areas and clean bathrooms!
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The customer service desk is very helpful, if you ever need a cab but can’t book it yourself, they will do that for you!
13. Trip to Blue Mountains
If you’re looking for an incredible day trip from Sydney, I highly recommend visiting the Blue Mountains! Just a 90-minute drive from the CBD, this World Heritage-listed region offers some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in all of New South Wales.
Be sure to check out our guide to Scenic World, where you can ride the world’s steepest passenger railway, soar above the forest in the Southern Hemisphere’s largest aerial cable car, and stroll along one of Australia’s longest elevated rainforest boardwalks!
UNLIMITED DAY DISCOVERY PASS
Get your Scenic World Unlimited 1-Day Discovery Pass HERE!
PS – Go on weekdays & avoid the school/public holidays to ditch the crowd.
14. Didn’t like Pitt Street? Do Some Shopping at DFO!
For some retail therapy & budget-friendly shopping (parents’ favourite), visit DFO (Direct Factory Outlet) at Homebush.
At DFO, you’ll find branded fashion, homewares, & more at discounted prices. These outlets sell last season’s stock, overstock items, or slightly imperfect goods, so you can score up to 70% off retail prices.
15. Go on a Trip to Port Stephens!
Nestled along the stunning coastline of New South Wales, Port Stephens is a coastal haven filled with adventure activities, pristine beaches, lively marine life, and breathtaking natural beauty, making it one of the most popular weekend getaways from Sydney! See our Port Stephens guide here to plan your trip!
If you haven’t been to the zoo already, you can feed kangaroos, wallabies, attend the Koala talk at Oakvale Wildlife Park, and if your parents are up for it, feed and pet stingrays and sharks at Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounters.
16. Explore Unique Attractions At Darling Harbour
The Sydney Attractions Pass was one of our favorite passes during my parents trip. It gave us seamless access to top spots like SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, Madame Tussauds, and the Sydney Tower Eye — all bundled into one convenient pass. Not only did it save us money, but it also made planning our days so much easier, letting us explore at our own pace over a few days without the hassle of separate tickets.
17. Shop for affordable souvenirs at Paddy’s Market
At the ground level, under Market City in Sydney CBD, there is a specialty market with a mix of souvenir stores, dupes, t-shirts, etc. These are likely not all made in Australia, but are worth visiting based on what you are looking for!
18. Ferry and sunset at Manly Beach
A trip to Manly Beach with your parents is a must-do, especially if you take the scenic ferry ride from Circular Quay — one of the most beautiful ferry routes in Sydney. As you cruise past the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, the views are absolutely breathtaking and you can even check out Manly Wormhole or shop at the Manly weekend markets while you’re here!
Free Things to Do With Your Parents In Sydney
We know that parents everywhere are mindful of their budgets, and saving money is key! So, here is a list of 8 free activities to enjoy in Sydney:
19. Visit The Royal Botanical Gardens
Visit the Royal Botanic Garden, a tranquil oasis in the heart of Sydney. I have seen the most unique typeofplants here and plus the incredible view ofth eOera & the harbour are just unmissable. I highly recommend spendnguality time with your parents by packing a picnic to enjoy among the greenery.
This is a perfect activity to do in the morning with parents! I think they would love to kick off the day with the aroma of flowers & their plush colors.
20. Explore The Rocks
Explore The Rocks, one of Sydney’s oldest neighbourhoods. Here, you will find historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and a lively market on weekends. If you are here o n a weekends, htheRocks Markets are something look forward too!
I recommend coming here for a nice hearty dinner and some beer! For a guided tour of the place, check the Ghost Tour or a free tour at The Rock!
21. Go on a FREE Sydney Walking Tour
Try out free walking tours from I’m Free Sydney (a trusted source working since 2009!). They do not cost a dime, as they work on a pay-what-you-feel basis.
You can choose from their various walking tours such as Sydney Sights Free Walking Tour, The Rocks Free Walking Tours, or one of their private tours. Even being locals ourselves, we found some unique gems through their tour!
22. Enjoy an Evening at Circular Quay
End your trip with an evening at Circular Quay, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge lit up at night. Consider dining at one of the waterfront restaurants for a memorable farewell dinner.
23. See the city from Berry’s Bay Lookout
If you want to see a picture-perfect view of the city without the crowds, come to the north side of the city to see the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the city skyline from this hidden gem! Don’t forget to stop by Grumpy Baker when you’re on this side of town.
Or you can even head to Observatory Hill near the Rocks to enjoy a sunrise or sunset and spend some quality time enjoying the cityscape.
24. Bondi Beach and Bondi Icebergs
No trip to Sydney is complete without a visit to Bondi Beach. Take a long walk along the beach and enjoy the sun and surf.
Don’t forget to check out the famous Bondi Icebergs Club, where you can grab a meal with an ocean view and catch a sunset at Dudley Page Reserve (which offers one of the best sunset views in the whole city!)
25. Walk the Coogee to Bondi Coastal Trail
Experience one of Sydney’s best coastal walks by taking the Coogee to Bondi Coastal Walk. This trail stretches for about six kilometers and has breathtaking views of the coastline, beaches, and cliffside landscapes.
It’s a perfect way to enjoy the outdoors with your parents. If you want to try something shorter, the Cremorne Point Walk is a great alternative closer to the city (however, no beaches on this trail!).
26. Visit the Sydney Fish Market
If your parents like seafood, then take them to the Sydney Fish Market! They can sample fresh seafood, enjoy a meal at one of the many eateries, and learn about sustainable fishing practices. It’s a unique culinary experience that your parents will love!
27. Explore Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden
Just a 10-minute walk from Milsons Point Railway Station in North Sydney, there’s a beautiful green oasis waiting for you and your parents to discover! Wendy’s Secret Garden was lovingly created as a heartfelt gift for her husband, and for the past 23 years, it has been quietly overlooking Lavender Bay. It’s completely free to visit, and as you wander through, you’ll find yourself surrounded by towering Bangalow palm trees. If you make your way to the far eastern end, you’ll come across a magnificent Port Jackson fig stretching its branches wide.
FAQs: Best Things To Do In Sydney With Parents
Now that you know what the best places in and around Sydney are to travel with parents, let’s look at some of the common questions!
1. What are the most fun things to do in and around Sydney?
Well, everything we listed above is a fun thing to do in Sydney! However, we do have parent-favorite picks like sunset dinner at Opera Bar, Taronga Zoo (especially the Australian wildlife section), Blue Mountains day trip, Grounds of Alexandria brunch, and walking around the city!
2. What are the best things I can do in Sydney for free?
There are plenty of free experiences in Sydney! Relax at Bondi Beach, stroll through the Royal Botanic Garden, or check out the Art Gallery of NSW and Museum of Contemporary Art, both have free entries to their collections.
3. What are the best things to do in Sydney on weekends?
Weekends in Sydney are perfect for exploring places like The Rocks for history and markets, or Circular Quay for iconic views.
Weekends are also perfect for taking road trips to nearby places, like Port Stephens or the Blue Mountains!
Accommodation In Sydney
Your parents are coming over & your apartment is too small? Check out our recommendations:
- Luxury:Park Hyatt Sydney at 7 Hickson Road, Circular Quay, has beautiful views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. It features spacious rooms with elegant, contemporary décor, high-end amenities, and outstanding service, a dining Room, spa, and take a dip in the rooftop pool.
- Mid-range: Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney located at 11 Jamison Street, in the heart of Sydney’s central business district (CBD), has contemporary rooms with modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi, an indoor heated pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant.
- Budget: Ibis Sydney is a great option for budget travelers in Sydney! It is very close to the airport and major attractions like Darling Harbor, Sydney Sea Aquarium, Royal Botanical Gardens, and more!
The Wrap-Up: Things to Do In Sydney With Parents
Now that you are all caught up with the best things to do in Sydney with your parents, go ahead and plan your itinerary & make your parents’ visit a memorable one. But make sure to make the itinerary quite flexible, especially if your parents are international visitors!
Enjoy the time with your family in Sydney!
DM us on Instagram if you have any more questions!
