Good Wholesome Fun: Things to Do with the Family in Sydney

Sydney dazzles with sunshine, postcard-perfect surf and enough family-friendly activities to exhaust even the most energetic kids (and their caffeine-fuelled parents).  

Here's how to nail the perfect day of family fun in Sydney. 

Crown Sydney: Not Just for the Grown-ups 

Crown Sydney’s precinct buzzes with events and pop-ups year-round, perfect for curious minds and fidgety feet. Local or tourist, Crown's got you sorted for family entertainment. 

From cultural festivals and school holiday madness to arty installations and live shows, something's always happening. And the best bit? It's all under one roof.

Family staycation in Sydney = holiday vibes without the airport queues 

Why endure a long-haul flight when a Sydney staycation feels like you've jetted off somewhere exotic?

Crown Towers in Sydney boasts spacious rooms, jaw-dropping views and amenities that'll make the kids think they've landed in a movie. 

The infinity pool is a spectacular highlight for kids and adults alike, while parents can sneak in a cheeky spa treatment or sunset beverage. 

Keep an eye out for special offers with exclusive hotel deals and holiday packages for the whole family. 

Family dining to please every palate 

Dining out with kids? Easy done. Crown is home to a variety of family-friendly restaurants in Sydney that welcome little tastebuds with open arms. 

Woodcut offers a relaxed vibe with its open kitchen (nothing hides fussy eating like a bit of culinary theatre). Think smoky woodfired meats, fresh seafood and a dedicated menu for kids. 

Epicurean is buffet heaven. Let the little one choose their own adventure from an array of global cuisines including Japanese, Chinese, Indian, Italian and more. Oh, and the best bit: a decadent dessert bar. 

a'Mare dishes up Italian classics (because what kid doesn't demolish pasta and calamari?) in a setting fancy enough for parents but relaxed enough for the odd spilled drink. 

Infinity pool paradise 

Nothing says "we're not at home cleaning the bathroom" like a relaxing day by the pool. Crown Sydney's infinity pool (the only one in the city) is surrounded by secluded cabanas, plush day beds and wet pool decks. 

It's the perfect spot for kids to burn off some energy while you pretend to read a book while actually scrolling on your phone. Win-win. 

Family Fun in Barangaroo 

A hop, skip and jump from Crown lies Barangaroo itself – a waterfront wonderland packed with family activities. Once upon a time, it was just a working port. Now? One of Sydney's coolest urban playgrounds. 

From sprawling parks to wildlife encounters, Barangaroo dishes up family entertainment galore. 

Picnic perfection at Barangaroo Reserve 

Fresh air, salt-tinged breezes and hectares of green space: Barangaroo Reserve was practically designed for picnics. Throw down a blanket, grab a bite to eat and soak up those world-class harbour views. 

Perfect for families needing a breather – toddlers can nap, parents can zone out and teenagers can mope at an appropriate distance while still remaining in sight. 

Get your game on at Harbour Park 

Let the kids run amok at Harbour Park, Barangaroo's outdoor play zone. There's a spacious children's playground, handball courts, open fields and fitness equipment for parents feeling guilty about that second dessert at Epicurean. 

Whether it's a spontaneous footy kick-around or some monkey bar action, this is where Sydney family fun gets properly physical and everyone sleeps well afterwards. 

Jump into the deep end at Marrinawi Cove

Tucked away near Barangaroo Reserve lies Marrinawi Cove, a hidden gem where brave souls can take a dip in Sydney Harbour without the usual tourist crowds. It's completely natural, home to native flora, aquatic wildlife and magnificent sculpted sandstone. 

It's the perfect summer spot for families to cool off, chill out and play amateur marine biologist, all against that unbeatable Sydney Harbour backdrop. 

SEA LIFE and WILD LIFE adventures 

A short stroll from Barangaroo, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo bring Australia's wildlife right into the city centre. 

Say hi to kangaroos, meet a platypus or wander through the Great Barrier Reef exhibit. It’s educational, engaging and a sure-fire hit during school holidays. If you're planning a family day out in Sydney CBD, this one's a must. 

Whether you're checking in for a few days or just tackling a day trip, Sydney is packed with family-friendly activities for every age. 

From Crown Sydney's offerings to Barangaroo's outdoor escapades, this is a city where kids can be kids – and parents can actually enjoy themselves too. Miracle! 

So round up your tribe and head out for some unforgettable Sydney family adventures.