Top 10 Best Things to Do with Young Children in Sydney, Australia

Tamir Rosenblum
5 days ago
3 min read

Sydney is a city that strikes the perfect balance between natural beauty, cultural richness, and family-friendly amenities. Whether you're traveling with toddlers or preschoolers, you'll find a variety of activities designed to keep young children engaged, active, and happy.

From wildlife encounters to gentle beach days, here's a thoughtfully curated list of top experiences for families with small children visiting Sydney.

1. Featherdale Wildlife Park

Located just outside the city, Featherdale offers a relaxed environment where children can see, and in some cases feed, Australia’s most iconic animals. Kangaroos, koalas, and wombats are just a few of the highlights. The park is stroller-accessible and designed for families to explore at their own pace.

Location: 217 Kildare Rd, Doonside NSW 2767, Australia

2. Centennial Parklands and the Choo Choo Train

This expansive green space is ideal for a calm morning or afternoon with young children. The miniature train ride is always a hit with toddlers, and the nearby Ian Potter Children’s WILD PLAY Garden features climbing structures, water play, and sensory activities, all in a beautifully landscaped setting.

3. Darling Quarter Playground

Located in Darling Harbour, this modern, well-equipped playground offers a wide variety of age-appropriate activities. Water features, sand areas, and climbing frames make it a great stop for younger kids, with plenty of cafés nearby for parents to relax.

Location: 1/25 Harbour St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

4. SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

Perfect for hot or rainy days, the aquarium provides a captivating indoor experience. Children can walk through glass tunnels surrounded by marine life, including sharks, stingrays, and colorful reef fish. The Penguin Expedition boat ride is especially enjoyable for younger audiences.

Location: 1-5 Wheat Rd, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

5. Sydney Tower Eye

Families with older toddlers may enjoy the panoramic views from Sydney’s tallest building. The observation deck offers interactive screens and family-friendly information about the city’s skyline, making it a light educational experience in addition to the excitement of the view.

Location: Westfield Sydney, Level 5/108 Market St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

6. Coogee and Clovelly Beaches

For a beach day with young children, Coogee and Clovelly are excellent choices. These beaches have calm, shallow water and are well-known for their family-friendly atmosphere. Nearby rock pools also offer safe spots for water play and exploration.

Locaion: Clovelly NSW 2031, Australia

7. Australian Museum

Newly renovated and centrally located, the Australian Museum includes an impressive dinosaur exhibit and hands-on science areas. It’s especially suitable for families with children aged 3 and up, offering both visual interest and interactive elements.

Location: 1 William St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010, Australia

8. Indoor Play Spaces and Museums

Monkey Mania: An indoor soft play center ideal for children under 6, with climbing zones, slides, and toddler-safe equipment.
Location : The Entertainment Quarter Car Park, 122 Lang Rd, Moore Park NSW 2021, Australia
Powerhouse Museum: Features science and design exhibits with interactive areas for younger children, including rotating activities and creative workshops.

Monkey Mania

9. Family Dining & Sweet Treats

Sydney offers a range of casual dining options that cater to families. For a treat, local favorites include:

Aqua S: Known for unique soft serve topped with fairy floss or popping candy — a fun photo opportunity as well as a dessert.
Location: 27/501 George St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Gelato Messina: A go-to for high-quality gelato with smaller cone options perfect for young children.

Aqua S, Sydney

10. Seasonal Events and Pop-Up Activities

Throughout the year, Sydney hosts a range of family-friendly festivals, markets, and public performances. Be sure to check local event calendars during your visit — activities such as outdoor movies, storytime sessions, or interactive exhibits are common in the city’s parks and cultural venues.