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School holidays are what kids dream about all term long. This leaves you, the parent or carer, with the task of finding the best activities to keep them entertained.
We've searched high and low for the best things to do whether you're out and about, at home or on an exciting day trip outside Sydney.
SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium Admission Tickets from Experience Oz
Inclusions: Entry to SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, home to over 13,000 aquatic animals with over 90 tanks, and a digital photo pass with 8 digital photos (valued at $26)
Location: SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium - Aquarium Pier, Darling Harbour, NSW 2000
2. Soak up the sun on a scenic Sydney Harbour cruise
Take in the sights and sounds of the city from the water. Little kids will love the adventure of climbing on board a boat or enjoying their favourite drinks on a high tea cruise.
High Tea Cruise on Sydney Harbour from RedBalloon
Inclusions: High tea cruise around Sydney Harbour, sweet and savoury selection of treats paired with a glass of bubbles, coffee and a selection of fine teas
Inclusions: 3 hour sailing cruise on a luxury yacht, where you can learn the fundamentals of sailing or just sit back and relax, enjoy the view of Sydney's historical attractions, luxury homes and beautiful bays and beaches.
Location: Sydney By Sail - 2 Murray St, Sydney, NSW 2000
3. Put the pedal to the metal with a go-karting experience
Just because they're too young to drive on the road doesn't mean they can't drive around a race track. Ideal for older kids, go-karting makes for a great activity when catching up with friends during the holidays.
Indoor Go Karting from Adrenaline
Inclusions: 2 sessions of 10-minute indoor karting, with training and track support, helmet hire and session statistics results sent to your email and Facebook
Location: Spitfire Paintball & Go Karts Sydney, 212 George St
Concord West NSW 2138
9HP Karting Challenge in Sydney (Ages 14+) from Experience Oz
Inclusions: 3 x 10 minute karting sessions on the race track, with safety training and debriefing, use of helmet, race suit, kart hire, and lap timesheet, provision of Track Driver’s Licence (valued $10) valid for 12 months with personal balaclava
For something unique, you can't go past a tour that gives you a glimpse of Sydney's past. If your kids like a good ghost story, watching the cricket or learning about Australian history, these activities will be right up their alley.
Behind the Scenes Tour of Sydney Cricket Ground from RedBalloon
Inclusions: 90-minute behind-the-scenes guided walking tour of the Sydney Cricket Ground, Members Pavilion and the SCG Museum
Location: Sydney Cricket Ground, Driver Ave, Moore Park NSW 2021, Australia
Inclusions: 90-minute leisurely walking tour with paranormal guides, where you get to learn spooky yet entertaining insights into Australia's largest city
There's no better way to get out and about with your kids than by seeing Sydney from the best vantage point. Flying over Sydney's best attractions is an experience your little ones won't forget.
Seaplane Flight over Sydney Harbour and Palm Beach from RedBalloon
Inclusions: 30 minute seaplane flight with experienced pilot over the iconic Harbour Bridge and Opera House
Race against the clock with your teammates to solve exciting clues and riddles to make it to the end before time runs out. This activity is perfect for kids who love problem solving.
90-minute Escape Room Experience from RedBalloon
Inclusions: 90-minute escape room experience for up to six people, with team photo
Inclusions: Sunset bicycle tour over Sydney landmarks from the beaches of Manly, return ferry ride from Manly, with historical and cultural commentary from an expert guide
Location: The Rocks, Sydney CBD, NSW
Cost: $149 per adult, $129 per child, $449 for family of 4 (2 kids, 2 adults)
Inclusions: 1.5 hours surfing lesson by professional and friendly surf instructor, with access to surfboard suited to your abilities and size and a wetsuit
Thrill seekers and water lovers will enjoy an adventurous jet boating experience on Sydney Harbour. Whether you want a packed day exploring Sydney or just need to fill in a few hours of fun, this is a great experience your kids will rave about.
Sydney Harbour Jet Boat Ride from RedBalloon
Inclusions: 35 minute jet boat ride with intensive safety briefing lead by a fun and entertaining guide
Inclusions: 30 to 45 minute ride aboard a the powerful Thunder Jet, with English-speaking guide, access to free storage service, life jacket and full length poncho
Location: Jetty 1, Circular Quay Eastern Pontoon, Sydney NSW
10. Get out on the water with a kayaking experience
For a fun day out, set your sights on a kayaking experience and explore some of the best hidden beaches that Sydney has to offer.
3 Beaches Kayak Tour with Lunch in Manly from RedBalloon
Inclusions: Four hour kayak hire, with all safety equipment, full safety briefing and paddling instruction by an experienced local guide, scenic walk up to Dobroyd Head, picnic lunch and refreshments and entry to Q Station Museum
Inclusions: Two hour guided kayaking adventure on Sydney Harbour, with kayaking demonstration and instruction by qualified local guides. Kayaks, paddle and life jacket included
Half Day Kayaking Central Coast, Sydney from Adrenaline
Inclusions: 2-3 hours kayaking tour, one hour north of Sydney to explore the upper reaches of Mangrove Creek or head down stream onto the magnificent Hawkesbury River system.
Clay and Sip Pottery Class for Date Night from Classbento
Inclusions: Two-hour intimate pottery wheel class for two lead by a friendly experienced teacher, with access to apron, pottery wheels, stoneware glaze, unlimited clay, stoneware fired pot per guest
Location: Print Paint Pot - 53 Dickson Avenue, Artarmon NSW
Inclusions: Learn to make delicious Korean tteok from scratch, with all the ingredients provided. Kids then get to eat the freshly cooked tteok and take home a gift box of tteok to share with family
Inclusions: Beginner-friendly pillar and container candle making class, with all materials, tools and equipment provided, along with book guide and extra notes. All the candles you make (one large candle glass, one 2 oz travel tin, 5 pillar candles) can be taken home
Location: Leichhardt, NSW (with specific address to be provided after booking)
Inclusions: Learn how to make the original and traditional butter croissant, with all ingredients and equipment provided, then take home all the croissants and Danish pastries you have made.
Attend a painting class or invite your kids' friends over for an art attack. These classes come with instructors to guide them through each step.
Paint Splash Experience For Adults and Kids from RedBalloon
Inclusions: 60 minute paint splash experience, with 40x50cm canvas, paints, tools and protective gear provided. Learn techniques to create a unique artwork and paint brushes.
Location: Rosebery, NSW (specific address to be provided after booking)
Inclusions: Learn the practical skills and techniques used in watercolour painting as taught by an art teacher. Create Individual artworks and get a watercolour kit valued at $85
Location: Rosebery, NSW (specific address to be provided after booking)
Spend some quality time with your kids and learn that new skill with them at a family class.
Beeswax Wraps and Food Pouches Workshop from Classbento
Inclusions: Learn how to craft eco-friendly, sustainable food pouches using anti-bacterial beeswax, then take home three different beeswax food wraps or pouches at the end of the lesson
Location: Granville, NSW (specific address to be provided after booking)
Clay and Sip Wheel Throwing Pottery Class from Classbento
Inclusions: Two-hour session on the foundations of wheel throwing and the stoneware ceramics process. Each person is provided an apron, use of professional Australian made pottery wheels, stoneware glaze, unlimited speckled stoneware clay balls, and bring home a fired stoneware pot at the end of the session
Needle Felting Class: Make a Dog Key Chain from Classbento
Inclusions: Two-hour beginner-friendly needle felting class where you can learn how to transform merino wool into a miniature face version of your pet as a cute keychain
Road trips you can take from Sydney during the school holidays
There's so much of New South Wales to see and the school holidays is the perfect time to explore.
The Blue Mountains
Distance from Sydney CBD: 1 hour by car, or 2 hours and 40 minutes by public transport.
The Blue Mountains is a popular spot for hiking, bushwalking and lookouts. If your kids love nature and the outdoors, we recommend doing a day trip to the Blue Mountains.
Blue Mountains Guided E-Bike Tour with Snacks and Drinks from RedBalloon
Inclusions: Half day guided e-bike tour, with transport from Glenbrook Station to the start location, Euroka campground. Includes use of e-bike, helmet and gloves, snacks and drinks, bike insurance (accidental damage), and National Park entry fees
Location: Glenbrook Precinct, Blue Mountains National Park NSW
Blue Mountains Explorer Bus Pass and Scenic World from RedBalloon
Inclusions: Unlimited travel for 1 day at 37 stops around Katoomba, Leura, Wentworth Falls, and more, with unlimited Discovery pass at Scenic World, guidebook including maps and walking guides, insightful live commentary and personal guide advice
Location: Bus departs from Katoomba, Blue Mountains and takes in 37 stops around Katoomba, Leura, and Wentworth Falls
Half Day Abseiling Experience from Katoomba from Klook
Inclusions: Rappel down Australia's world-famous Blue Mountains with a professional guide helping you every step of the way, with admission to Blue Mountains National Park, round-trip transfers to and from the meet up location, all necessary safety equipment and insurance as provided by the operator
Distance from Sydney CBD: 1 hour and 10 minutes by car, or 2 hours by public transport.
Known for its pristine beaches, adventure parks and coastal walks, a day trip to the Central Coast is the perfect way to spend a sunny day.
Horse Riding Guided Trail from RedBalloon
Inclusions: Two hour guided or free range horse riding adventure in Glenworth Valley, with training and safety session provided, along with helmet and a horse suited to your ability
High Ropes Climbing Course and Zipline Adventure from RedBalloon
Inclusions: Two and a half hours of treetop and ziplining fun for ages three to 75. Choose from 4 Junior Courses for 3 - 7yrs or 4 Adult Courses for 8 - 75yrs+. Safety training and equipment provided.
Location: Cumberland State Forest - 95 Castle Hill Rd, West Pennant Hills NSW
Cost: $39 for ages 3-7, $49 for ages 8-15, $59 for ages 16+
Distance from Sydney CBD: 3 hours by car, or 4 hours and 40 minutes by public transport.
Along the South Coast, you'll find calm bays, good whale watching spots and plenty of surf beaches. For a relaxing day out during the school break, the South Coast is the place to go.
Jervis Bay Dolphin Watching Cruise from RedBalloon
Inclusions: 1.5 hour cruise in Jervis Bay with live commentary provided by the captain, where you can discover the resident dolphins and explore the scenic bay
Location: Huskisson, South Coast NSW
Cost: $34 for ages 2-14, $47 for ages 15+, $135 for family of 4 (2 adults, 2 children
Inclusions: Half day guided kayak tour along the rugged coastline within the Batemans Bay Marine Park. With morning tea provided, with use of all equipment, life jacket and dry bag for your belongings
Cirque du Soleil Crystal with Premium Fan Experience tickets from $269 per person
Grab the Cirque du Soleil Crystal with Premium Fan Experience tickets at Luxury Escapes for only $269 per person. Available in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth.
Available on select dates until 15 December 2023 when you book your hotel and flights together. Destinations include Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, and Gold Coast. T&Cs apply.
Available from and to all locations on Let's Go Motorhomes rentals booked 90 days in advance. Minimum 7-day hire. Offer applicable for new bookings only. T&Cs apply.
Available on selected accommodations in Cairns, Port Douglas, Gold Coast, Whitsundays, Darwin, Melbourne, Sydney, Queenstown, Adelaide and Dubbo. Limited time offer. T&Cs, exclusions apply.
Enjoy mini golf with friends at Holey Moley. They have 9, 18, and 27 holes, plus karaoke and a food bar. Available in NSW, QLD, VIC, WA and SA. T&Cs apply.
Available when you spend a minimum of $250 on activities such as hot air balloon flights, rally driving, skydives, high teas and more. Destinations include Sydney, Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Melbourne, Perth and Hobart. T&Cs apply.
When are the school holidays in Sydney in 2023–24?
Term
Dates
Term 1 school holidays
10–21 April 2023
Term 2 school holidays
3–14 July 2023
Term 3 school holidays
25 September – 6 October 2023
Term 4 school holidays
20 December 2023 – 29 January 2024
Free school holiday activities in Sydney
Sign up for Rebel Rookies. This grassroots clinic lets 7-12 year olds learn football, AFL and rugby league - all in one day. Available to rebel Active members.
Visit a library or museum, such as the Museum of Contemporary Art or the State Library of NSW
Have a picnic at Centennial Park
Explore the Royal Botanic Garden
Learn about history at The Mint
Stroll through Sydney to see iconic attractions such as the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge
Courtney Edwards was an associate travel publisher at Finder. She has a Bachelor of Communication majoring in Journalism and sub-majoring in English from Western Sydney University and a Certificate II in Tourism.
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