Sydney Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Sydney
This itinerary focuses on a balanced mix of free outdoor play and engaging indoor attractions, keeping family fun and budget in mind. Most activities are easily accessible via public transport or offer parking options.
Friday Evening - Family Fun
Friday, February 20Darling Quarter Play
Spend a day at the Darling Harbour Playground - the ultimate wonderland for every kid no matter what age! Features include giant slides, water play jets, balance ropes, climbing frames, swings, a sandpit with a sand digger, and a 21-meter flying fox.
It offers boundless opportunity for imagination to run wild.
Suitable for all ages (infants to teenagers), with challenging equipment for older kids and water play for younger ones. Plenty of shaded seating for parents and nearby cafes. Pack spare clothes for water play.
Easily accessible by foot from Wynyard or Town Hall stations, or light rail. Public parking available at Wilson Parking Darling Quarter, 1-11 Harbour St (paid). The area is pram-friendly.
Barangaroo Markets & Dinner
Wrap up your work week the right way at Barangaroo Markets.
Shop artisan gifts and soak up the good vibes. These monthly Friday markets feature food, gifts, and local vibes, offering a great atmosphere for a casual evening stroll and dinner.
Good for families looking for a relaxed evening. Kids can enjoy the lively atmosphere. A variety of food stalls cater to different tastes. Duration is flexible.
Short walk from Wynyard Station or Barangaroo Wharf (ferry). Paid parking options available nearby. Pram accessible.
Saturday - Adventure Day
Saturday, February 21Taronga Zoo Visit
Experience a wildlife adventure at Taronga Zoo, home to over 4,000 animals with a spectacular location on Sydney Harbour, overlooking Sydney Cove, the Harbour Bridge, and the Opera House.
Enjoy a wide range of visitor facilities, including cafes and picnic areas.
Suitable for all ages 3-12. Features include a Kids Play Area, various animal exhibits like the African Savannah, and educational keeper talks. Many exhibits are accessible by footpaths, ramps, lifts, and escalators. Strollers can be hired.
Access by ferry from Circular Quay is highly recommended for scenic views and direct access to the zoo's entrance. Paid parking is also available.
Zoo Picnic Lunch
Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the beautiful surroundings of Taronga Zoo.
The zoo offers numerous picnic areas and lawns, perfect for a relaxed family meal.
Bringing your own food and drinks is a budget-friendly option. Cafes and eateries are also available on site if preferred.
Within the zoo, no additional transportation needed.
Animal Shows & Talks
Continue your Taronga Zoo adventure by attending some of the popular keeper talks and shows.
Must-see presentations include the Free Flight Birds and Seals for the Wild, offering educational and entertaining insights into the animals.
Check the daily schedule upon arrival for exact timings. Keeper talks for giraffes, lions, koalas, and more are often available. Great for engaging curious minds and offering a break from walking.
Within the zoo, follow the map to presentation locations.
Circular Quay Stroll
Enjoy a leisurely evening stroll around Circular Quay, a major transport hub and scenic waterfront precinct.
Take in the iconic views of the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Perfect for unwinding after a busy day at the zoo. Kids can enjoy watching the ferries and street performers. Plenty of space to walk and relax. Duration is flexible.
If returning from Taronga Zoo by ferry, you will disembark directly at Circular Quay. Well-connected by trains, buses, and ferries. Very pram-friendly.
Sunday - Relaxed Day
Sunday, February 22SEA LIFE Aquarium Dive
Dive into Australia's marine world at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium.
Explore vibrant underwater worlds with family, with over 13,000 extraordinary creatures representing more than 700 unique species from Australia's diverse marine ecosystems. Highlights include the Penguin Expedition and Shark Valley.
Ideal for children aged 3-12, offering interactive exhibits and engaging encounters with marine life. Children under 2 enter for free. Budget for 2-3 hours.
Located in Darling Harbour, easily walkable from Town Hall or Wynyard stations. Paid parking is available at nearby car parks. The attraction is pram-friendly.
Darling Harbour Lunch
Enjoy a casual family lunch at one of the many family-friendly eateries around Darling Harbour or Darling Quarter.
There are dozens of options ranging from noodles and pizza to burgers, catering to picky eaters.
Choose from a wide array of cuisines to suit the family's preferences. Many places offer outdoor seating and kid-friendly menus. The area is lively and pleasant for a post-aquarium meal.
Within walking distance of SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium.
Royal Botanic Garden
Stroll through the Royal Botanic Garden, a green oasis in the heart of Sydney's CBD, offering a place of natural beauty for relaxation, education, and exploration.
Kids will love exploring nature's playground.
Free entry and pram-friendly paths make it ideal for families. Children can explore the Yellowwood Education Garden or simply enjoy the open spaces. It's perfect for a picnic with incredible views of the Sydney Opera House. Open until 8 PM in February.
Accessible by a pleasant walk from Circular Quay or Martin Place Station. Paid parking available nearby. Very pram-friendly with wide sealed paths.
This weekend itinerary for Sydney can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.