Luna Park Sydney, Milsons PointCredit: Destination NSW
Kids enjoying fairy floss during a day out at Luna Park Sydney, Milsons Point
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Fill the school holidays with fun for the whole family in Sydney and across New South Wales this summer. From educational activities at leading cultural institutions to unforgettable road trips along the coast and adventures through country NSW, here’s some inspiration to help plan your journey.
Revel in Sydney’s summertime diversions
Feel your head spin with the variety of family entertainment options on offer in Sydney during school holidays. Immerse in a magical multimedia show, complete with colourful holograms, at Luna Park Sydney’s recently launched Dream Circus experience. Then emerge from the harbourside amusement park’s Immersive Big Top and step onto one of its signature rides for thrills of a more physical kind.
Give your budding performers and junior theatre buffs a taste of life in the creative arts with school-holiday classes and workshops at the Sydney Opera House. Encourage visual creativity with artmaking sessions in the Kids on deck maker space at the Australian National Maritime Museum at Darling Harbour, before the whole family explores the museum’s interactive displays and clambers onto the ships docked in the harbour’s waters.
If your kids have expressed an interest in working with animals in the future, they’ll love Taronga Zoo Sydney’s Junior Keepers program – children aged 8 to 11 can join a Taronga Keeper behind the scenes as they go about their day caring for some of the zoo’s native animals.
Burn off energy while learning how to surf in a controlled environment in URBNSurf’s wave pool at Sydney Olympic Park, a 20-minute drive from central Sydney. Bring your bikes to explore Sydney Olympic Park’s massive Bicentennial Park, gaze down into an old quarry filled with frogs on the Brickpit Ring Walk, or survey the ship graveyard hidden in the mangroves from the park’s shipwreck viewing platform.
Watch your younger kids’ faces light up at the incredible Planet Mino indoor play centres in Chatswood and the Northern Beaches suburb of Warringah – each play centre has an array of sensory experiences, including role-play zones and interactive augmented-reality walls. Or enjoy the more down-to-earth sensory experience of milking a cow and riding a tractor at Calmsley Hill City Farm in Abbotsbury, Western Sydney.
Taronga Zoo, Mosman Credit: Destination NSW
Family enjoying a giraffe encounter at Taronga Zoo in Mosman
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Taronga Zoo, Mosman Credit: Destination NSW
Family enjoying a giraffe encounter at Taronga Zoo in Mosman
Head to the mountains – and beyond
Go west on an epic road trip your family will be talking about long after school has started back again. Begin your western wanderings in the Blue Mountains, an hour’s drive from Sydney’s city centre, following walking trails to scenic outlooks throughout the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park.
Notice how everyone falls silent in awe as you descend into rainforest on Scenic World’s Scenic Railway – the world’s steepest passenger train – or travel high above a bushland valley on the Scenic Skyway outside the main Blue Mountains town of Katoomba.
Venture into the expanses of the plains beyond the Blue Mountains, making your way to the historic town of Bathurst. Imagine you’re in a epic motor race, albeit at a much more sedate pace, on the public road that becomes the Mount Panorama racing circuit a few eventful times each year, before soaking in the lore of the racetrack at the National Motor Racing Museum.
Push on west, stopping for a gourmet lunch in the epicurean haven of Orange, on your way to Dubbo’s safari-style Taronga Western Plains Zoo, home to rare and endangered animals from the African, Asian and Australian continents.
National Motor Racing Museum Credit: Destination NSW
Family enjoying The National Motor Racing Museum located at Murray’s Corner, Mount Panorama in Bathurst
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National Motor Racing Museum Credit: Destination NSW
Family enjoying The National Motor Racing Museum located at Murray’s Corner, Mount Panorama in Bathurst
Choose your own northern adventure
Make memories as the miles go by when you embark on a Legendary Pacific Coast road trip, following the Pacific Highway to the tourist hubs of Coffs Harbour, Byron Bay and Tweed Heads on the NSW North Coast.
Or stay closer to Sydney and enjoy a more sedate pace by holidaying on the Central Coast, seeking out aquatic adventures on Lake Macquarie, Australia’s largest coastal saltwater lake, and exploring the sea port of Newcastle, all within a two-hour drive north of Sydney.
Spend the day getting to know native Australian wildlife, from koalas and kangaroos to snakes and lizards, at Australian Reptile Park, on the Pacific Highway near the Central Coast town of Gosford. Slow down and attune to the beauty of the bush with Glenworth Valley Wilderness Adventures, also near Gosford, which offers horse riding, quad biking, kayaking and more in a heavenly wilderness setting.
Plunge into the waves at one of Newcastle’s surf beaches before checking out the military displays at the city’s Fort Scratchley Historical Site or swinging from ropes at Treetops Adventure Newcastle. Or venture north of Newcastle to Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary to meet wild koalas receiving treatment at the Port Stephens Koala Hospital.
Australian Reptile Park, Somersby Credit: Destination NSW
Australian Reptile Park located in Somersby on the Central Coast offers interactive animal experiences as well as close encounters with wildlife. Set in a natural bushland setting, the experiences include educational and entertaining shows.
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Australian Reptile Park, Somersby Credit: Destination NSW
Australian Reptile Park located in Somersby on the Central Coast offers interactive animal experiences as well as close encounters with wildlife. Set in a natural bushland setting, the experiences include educational and entertaining shows.
Cruise down south for family fun
Take your pick of countless beaches lining the NSW South Coast to make your base for carefree summer days relaxing by the water. In between swims, head inland for unforgettable outdoor adventures and animal encounters.
Get up close to native Australian wildlife and exotic animals at Symbio Wildlife Park in Helensburgh, a 70-minute drive south of Sydney, before following the epic Grand Pacific Drive down the coastline.
Cool off with a dip in the waves at Austinmer Beach or Thirroul, stop in the beachside city of Wollongong for lunch, or drop in to see an amazing collection of heritage aircraft brought back to life by the Historical Aircraft Restoration Society at HARS Aviation Museum, a 20-minute drive south of Wollongong.
Make a splash on the water rides at the Jamberoo Action Park, around a 10-minute drive inland from HARS Aviation Museum, or push on to Kiama to check out the beach town’s famous blowhole.
Symbio Wildlife Park, Helensburgh Credit: Destination NSW
The Symbio Wildlife Park in Helensburgh provided interactive animal experiences and an opportunity to explore the Conservation Splash Park Adventure Playground.
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Symbio Wildlife Park, Helensburgh Credit: Destination NSW
The Symbio Wildlife Park in Helensburgh provided interactive animal experiences and an opportunity to explore the Conservation Splash Park Adventure Playground.
Feast on experiences in the Riverina
See – and taste – for yourself why the Riverina is called the country’s food bowl when you cruise through the southwest NSW region’s seemingly endless farmland, passing countless citrus groves and fruit trees. Wow the finicky eaters as well as the foodies in your family as you stop in at charming country towns for a memorable meal or an indulgent snack, on your way to an immersive farm stay.
Connect your kids with the produce they usually only see in a supermarket by staying in a farmhouse at Catania Fruit Salad Farm outside of Griffith. And savour a punnet or two of the juicy strawberries you’ve just picked yourself at Bidgee Strawberries and Cream in Wagga Wagga, the Riverina’s largest town, before picking up home-made strawberry ice-cream and jam from the farmgate shop.
Inject a sense of unrestrained joy into the day by visiting Junee Licorice and Chocolate Factory, a wonderland of confectionary housed in an old flour mill in Junee, around a 30-minute drive from Wagga Wagga. Take a guided tour of the licorice and chocolate factory and take pride in watching your kids make their own giant chocolate freckle, before or after a hearty lunch at the in-house Millroom café.
Junee Licorice and Chocolate, Junee Credit: Destination NSW
Family-friendly tourist attraction located in Junee. Guided tours and chocolate tasting as well as hands on interactive chocolate experiences.
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Junee Licorice and Chocolate, Junee Credit: Destination NSW
Family-friendly tourist attraction located in Junee. Guided tours and chocolate tasting as well as hands on interactive chocolate experiences.
More Inspirational Stories
Sydney New Year's Eve, SydneyCredit: Keith McInnes
Spectacular 9pm Welcome to Country fireworks display across Sydney Harbour to celebrate the New Year
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The countdown is on for the biggest night of the year. As the clock strikes midnight on 31 December, more than one million people will gather around Sydney Harbour to ring in 2025. This year, experience Sydney at its summer best, spend the biggest night in the city, then wind down out of town.
Where to watch the fireworks
Observatory Hill
One of the highest points in the city, Observatory Hill is on the edge of The Rocks and is positioned straight at the Sydney Harbour Bridge – it’s probably the closest you can get to the bridge without being on it. Sensitive ears? Bring some ear plugs.
Free entry – no tickets required
Mrs Macquarie’s Point
This iconic NYE vantage point just next to the Royal Botanic Garden has spectacular views of Circular Quay, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and the barges that dot the water near the bridge. Here, there’s a real party atmosphere with pop-up bars and food trucks spread out around the point.
Free entry – no tickets required
NYE Pier Party
At Pier One Sydney Harbour‘s exclusive NYE Pier Party, you’ll be almost close enough to touch the fireworks. Tickets include a mouthwatering menu from food stalls along the pier, free flowing drinks and a set from famed Aussie singer-DJ Havana Brown.
Tickets from $549pp
Celebration New Year's Eve
The rooftop Sculpture Terrace at the Museum of Contemporary Art will transform into the city’s most spectacular LGBTQIA+ NYE celebration. From the rooftop setting, you’ll have a front row seat to the biggest night of the year, plus canapes, bottomless drinks, DJs and cabaret acts.
Tickets from $697pp
New Year's Eve Opera Gala at Sydney Opera House
This is a truly iconic Sydney celebration. Start the evening with drinks overlooking the harbour before heading inside for the Opera Gala Concert. Watch the 9pm fireworks during intermission then enjoy the rest of the show before the exclusive Midnight Party kicks off in the Northern Foyer. Expect incredible views of the fireworks, Champagne and a night of dancing.
Tickets from $199pp
Rooftop bars
Ring in the new year at one of Sydney’s glamorous rooftop bars where you can pair breathtaking views with live music, Champagne and a cocktail the colour of the fireworks. Aster at the top of the InterContinental Sydney has some of the best views in the city, looking out over the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. At the Shangri-La Hotel, marvel at the fireworks from the sky-high Altitude restaurant and Blu Bar. For fireworks views from Darling Harbour, get tickets to the festivities at Zephyr (DJ and saxophonist included) at the Hyatt Regency, Untied Barangaroo (featuring flowing frosé and a DJ set) and CIRQ at Crown Sydney (where you’ll join a masquerade soiree).
Tickets required
Lawn With A View, New Years Eve, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying a picnic in the Royal Botanic Gardens on New Years Eve at the Lawn With A View event
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Lawn With A View, New Years Eve, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying a picnic in the Royal Botanic Gardens on New Years Eve at the Lawn With A View event
Lawn With A View, New Years Eve, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying the fireworks display at the Lawn With A View event on New Years Eve in the Royal Botanic Gardens
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Lawn With A View, New Years Eve, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying the fireworks display at the Lawn With A View event on New Years Eve in the Royal Botanic Gardens
Watch the fireworks on the water
Harbour islands
Three of Sydney’s tiny harbour islands are prime vantage points for the NYE fireworks. Clark Island and Shark Island sit either side of Point Piper and have clear views of the harbour and the bridge. Goat Island is close to Balmain on the western side, so you’ll get to see the ‘back’ side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the firework barges. Entry is free though you’ll need to pay for the ferry transfers. You can bring your own food and alcohol.
(Note that these islands are sold out for NYE 2024 – remember to book early for 2025)
Cockatoo Island
Spend the night in the middle of the action on World Heritage-listed Cockatoo Island. Choose a pre-erected tent (or bring your own) on the Eastern Apron for stellar views of the harbour and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. You’ll also be able to see the explosives fire out of a fireworks barge just offshore.
Tickets from 514.42 for a four-person campsite
(Note that a minimum two-night stay applies – NYE guests will stay from Monday 30 December to Wednesday 1 January.)
Harbour cruises
The harbour will be dotted with hundreds of boats during the NYE celebrations, most illuminated with coloured lights and filled with excited revellers. Splash out on an indulgent multi-course dinner, free-flowing drinks and live music aboard the glass-walled Clearview, MV Vagabond Spirit or a Sydney Showboat ferry. Captain Cook Cruises offers a range of cruise options including a more budget-friendly evening where you can bring your own food and drink onboard.
Private charter
For a more exclusive experience, book a private charter boat to enjoy the countdown with your closest friends. Sydney Harbour Escapes, Sydney Harbour Specialists and Eastcoast Sailing have luxurious fleets available for hire. Prices start at around $3,000 and go up well over $100,000 for extra luxury options.
New Year's Eve Fireworks 2020, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Spectacular midnight fireworks display across Sydney Harbour to celebrate the start of 2021.
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New Year's Eve Fireworks 2020, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Spectacular midnight fireworks display across Sydney Harbour to celebrate the start of 2021.
New year, new adventures: ultimate summer getaways close to Sydney
When the fireworks have faded and the last Champagne cork has been popped, take the opportunity to discover the wonders that await just a short drive from the city. Get a taste of spectacular scenery on a day trip or stay away a little longer in unique hotels or bush camps on postcard beaches. Sparkling coastline scenes, lush forests, one-of-kind adventures and stylish stays await on the Central Coast, in Kiama and the Shoalhaven, and in the city of Newcastle.
Central Coast | 1 hours’ drive
North of Sydney, a necklace of jewel-like beaches is strung along the coast, backed by the untouched bushland of national parks. It’s a quintessential slice of the Aussie coastal lifestyle with characterful villages packed with waterside eats, world-class surf, and family adventure.
Things to do:
- Take a dip or learn to surf in the gentle waves of Terrigal Beach, follow the new boardwalk around the Haven, and try snorkelling or diving in the crystal clear water.
- Hop between the 41 beaches that stretch along 80 kilometres of coastline. Try Toowoon Bay for families, Soldiers Beach for surfing and North Avoca for dog-friendly adventures.
- Cruise around the oyster leases of the Hawkesbury River with Sydney Oyster Farm Tours, then get your waders on to sample a freshly shucked shellfish from a table in the water.
- Meet Elvis the crocodile and Hugo the Galapagos tortoise, then book in for a behind the scenes encounter at the Australian Reptile Park.
- Discover a new adventure in the lush Glenworth Valley – horse riding, quad biking, kayaking, abseiling, camping and more.
- Enjoy a romantic retreat at the five-star Bells at Killcare, a plush Hamptons-style retreat with private lodges boasting sunny rooftops and room service from Bells’ award-winning restaurant.
Terrigal Beach, Terrigal Credit: Destination Central Coast
Dolphins catching a wave at Terrigal Beach, Terrigal on the Central Coast of NSW.
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Terrigal Beach, Terrigal Credit: Destination Central Coast
Dolphins catching a wave at Terrigal Beach, Terrigal on the Central Coast of NSW.
Kiama & Shoalhaven | 2 hours’ drive
Part of the spectacular South Coast, these neighbouring regions sit south of Wollongong and promise golden beaches, legendary waves, charming villages and natural wonders. From the historic streets of Kiama – now home to galleries and small bars – to beautiful Huskisson, named Australia’s best Tiny Tourism Town for 2024, these areas made for meandering.
Things to do:
- Cruise alongside the bay’s 100 resident dolphins, on board, or in a boat’s boom net, an ocean adventure with Jervis Bay Wild.
- See ocean water crash through a rocky opening and explode up to 30 metres in the air at the Kiama Blowhole, the largest natural blowhole in the world.
- Savour native ingredients at one-hat restaurant Bangalay Dining, then check in to one of the breezy, luxury villas set among coastal sand forest.
- Sleep in style in the bush in one of Paperbark Camp’s stylish safari tents, where kangaroos and king parrots can be seen from the outdoor bathtubs.
Kiama Blowhole, Kiama Credit: Destination NSW
Water plume spouting from the Kiama blowhole.
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Kiama Blowhole, Kiama Credit: Destination NSW
Water plume spouting from the Kiama blowhole.
Newcastle | 2 hours’ drive
NSW’s second city, Newcastle was built on steel and shipping but today it’s better known for its thriving arts scene, creative community, delicious dining and photogenic ocean pools. Explore on foot, on two wheels or from the water, uncovering fascinating maritime history, vintage stores, tiny galleries and a buzzy night life.
Things to do:
- Take an adventure cruise with Coast XP, watching dolphins leap in your wake as you pass famed surf beaches, World War II forts and the bustling Newcastle Harbour.
- Join the locals for a beachside breakfast or a woodfired pizza on the rooftop of the always-popular Merewether Surfhouse.
- Toast the day with a drink at the city’s highest bar, Rooftop at QT. Sip unique cocktails or local Hunter wines while you take in the 180-degree views over the city.
- Wake to the sound of the waves at Noah’s on the Beach, a classy beachfront hotel. Choose an ocean facing room for that all important view and head out the front door for a sunrise surf.
- Splash out at Crystalbrook Kingsley, Newcastle’s first five-star hotel that has transformed the historic Council Administration Centre building. Don’t miss dinner with a view at the rooftop Roundhouse restaurant.
Merewether Baths, Newcastle Credit: Destination NSW
Young people enjoying a day at the Merewether Baths in Newcastle.
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Merewether Baths, Newcastle Credit: Destination NSW
Young people enjoying a day at the Merewether Baths in Newcastle.