The capital of New South Wales is a perfect family destination, with scores of toddler-to-teen-friendly attractions well within easy distance of each other. Check out some notable points of interest in Sydney that go above and beyond the call of duty to lure mum, dad and kids alike.
1. Taronga Zoo
Taronga Zoo is not only one of the best attractions in Sydney, but one of the best zoos in the world. The facility’s explicit emphasis on conservation and education makes it a great bet for little ones. Exotic animals help a huge deal of course and Taronga has them in spades, from sun bears to giant marine toads, binturongs to pygmy hippopotami.
2. Sydney Aquarium
A harbour city with a world class zoo should have a world class aquarium as well. Thankfully, Sydney Aquarium in Darling Harbour is that and much more. The most popular tourist attraction in Sydney is a magnet for schoolchildren and no wonder: the magnificent and colossal aquatic facility contains more exotic marine life than any other aquarium on the planet, bar none.
3. Sydney Wildlife World
Short on time and money to schlep the entire family across Australia to discover all the exquisite biodiversity the country has to offer? No problem. Sydney Wildlife World provides a remarkable shortcut, with no less than ten extraordinary zones that cover the wondrous kaleidoscope that is Down Under. Adjacent to Sydney Aquarium, this wildlife park is truly a nonpareil experience.
4. Chinese Garden of Friendship
A lush, serene oasis that spans Darling Harbour and Chinatown, the Chinese Garden of Friendship is ideal for a leisurely afternoon stroll and picnic. Replete with a Teahouse and traditional Chinese landscape architecture, the garden is a distinctive point of interest in Sydney and a good place for parents and kids to relax and recharge.
5. Powerhouse Museum
One of the premier science and design museums in the world, the Powerhouse Museum is a wondrous place to wow children of all ages. The Sydney landmark is perfect for kids but clearly fascinates adults as well; especially with a collection of objects that runs in excess of 400,000. With over 20,000 m2 of space, exhibits cover myriad topics like transportation, space, nuclear energy, decorative arts and musical instruments.
6. Sydney Fish Market
The second-biggest fish market in the world is a haven of family fun. Not only is Sydney Fish Market the ideal place to dine al fresco and shop for a cornucopia of delicious and exotic products, the port and wholesale market also provides unbelievable tours. Want to give your kids a practical, hands-on lesson about sustainable fish and seafood and witness a Dutch auction in person? Wake up super early, head to the fish market for breakfast and take the “Behind the Scenes Tour”. Your kids will love it.
7. Sydney Opera House
Another furtive tour children love takes place at the UNESCO World Heritage Sydney Opera House. While exclusive and somewhat expensive, the “Backstage Tour” provides the most intimate access possible to the Sydney icon. The 120 minute tour includes breakfast and allows a select number of visitors (8 per tour) to mingle in the orchestra pit, private backstage rooms and everywhere else behind the curtain. The “Essential Tour” is a more affordable alternative for those who just want to experience the grand interior of the Sydney Opera House.