Welcome weary parents, to the ultimate survival guide for conquering this school holidays in Sydney! As the leaves turn golden and the air crisps up, it’s time to enjoy fun activities that Sydney has to offer to keep your kids entertained this April school holidays. From thrilling outdoor escapades to captivating indoor wonders, I’ve got you covered. So, fasten your seatbelts (both literally and figuratively), and let’s dive into the best school holiday activities Sydney has to offer!
- Steam Train Rides
All aboard for a nostalgic train ride through the scenic countryside! Treat your locomotive enthusiasts to an unforgettable journey on one of Sydney’s vintage trains. NSW Train museum is open this school holidays with steam and railmotor train rides for a unique and memorable experience that will delight train lovers of all ages. There’ll be games, Lego and lots of activities as well for a whole day of fun that your kids will love.
2. Head to the Theatre
Immerse yourself in the magic of live theatre with a family-friendly show that will captivate audiences of all ages. Western Sydney Parklands and Centennial Parklands have the interactive tale of Little Red Riding Hood. The Seymour Centre has lots on with the Harry Potter parody Potted Potter and magical musical adaptions of the very popular Room on the Broom and The Gruffalo’s Child.
Additionally you could treat the family to tickets to the circus. The Riverside Theatre has the Flying Fruit Fly Circus and Circus The Show is on at the Entertainment Quarter. If your kids are into BMX, basketball, breakdancing, beatboxing, acrobatics or drumming show then check out 360 Allstars. Another great option is ‘I wish…’ an acrobatic show that’s on at the Sydney Opera House which is perfect for children aged 4-8 years.
3. The Great Outdoors
Next up is Ku-Ring-Gai Wildflower Garden which has whole day and half-day programs as well as experiences for the whole family including guided animal walks, twilight safaris, and campfire experiences. If your child is active and loves a challenge then you need to check out Wild Kids – The Obstacle Course. Children aged 5-12 years will work with their team to build an obstacle course and try each other’s as well. This is to be held at Lilyfield and Lizard Log, Western Sydney Parklands. Lane Cove Bush Kids has lots of outdoor activities to choose from that will keep them busy too.
4. Let’s Cook
Put your aprons on and let’s get cooking. A great option is being hosted by Kids Giving Back in Parramatta and Paddington. Your kids can help give back with a cooking class that will prepare meals for those doing it tough. There’s an option for children aged 5-7 and another for children over 12. It’s a really great way to teach kids about helping others in an age appropriate and meaningful way. Alternatively, Penrith Panthers has a pizza and cupcakes cooking class on the 24th of April.
5. Get Crafty
Give your kids the opportunity to unleash their creativity and let their imagination soar. From pottery painting to DIY art projects, there are plenty of workshops and classes available throughout Sydney where you can get crafty together. At Eden Gardens they can complete a paint, pot and plant project or check out your local Bunnings where the kids can make their own Autumn Canvas Art.
6. Your Local Library
Dive into the magical world of books and storytelling with a visit to your local library. Many libraries in Sydney host special events and activities during the school holidays, including Storytime sessions, craft workshops, and author readings. It’s a fantastic way to instill a love of reading in your kids while enjoying some quality time together as a family. There’s Dinosaur Craft at Eastwood Library, native craft at Northbridge Library, a Pamper Party at Randwick City Library and even a petting zoo at Woollahra Library.
7. A Day in the Mountains
Spend a day at the beautiful Blue Mountains. Start off at Scenic World and hop on the world’s steepest train or the steepest aerial cable car in the Southern Hemisphere. Spot dinosaurs at Dinosaur Valley and then head to Aunty Ed’s for the best burgers and shakes. After dinner do the spectacular Katoomba Falls Night-Lit Walk before heading home.
8. A Day in the City
Darling Harbour has a lot happening this school holidays so here’s a quick rundown. ‘Move, Groove, Darling‘ is a five-day festival with activities, workshops, events, and parties that will get your kiddos moving. Watch a movie on the big screen at IMAX then head to the playground for the rest of the afternoon. Another option is to visit the NSW Art Gallery which has free entry and most of the workshops don’t require a booking and are free as well!
9. Kidz Fest
Kidz Fest is on at the Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park. There will be live entertainment with daily Paw Patrol shows, performances, a petting zoo, carnival games, rides, show bags and more. EQ markets will also be on every Wednesday and Saturday from 8am – 2pm. The EQ also has a cinema, playground, arcade, hyperkarts, bowling and laser tag, so there’s heaps around to keep everyone happy.
10. The Zoo
Kids Go Free April is on at Featherdale. Cozzie livs are impacting all of us so take advantage of two kids (3-15 years old) visiting free with every paying adult ($37.80) all throughout April. Alternatively, Sydney Zoo has Bluey live interactive daily shows that are free with your zoo ticket.
Looking for more?
- Parramatta Council has huge range of active sessions from NRL, Ultimate Frisbee, Netball, Hip Hop, Basketball to Skateboarding. Get in quick to secure a spot!
- For farms check out Golden Ridge Animal Farm or Calmsley Hill
- The 16th of April is Family Fun Day at Kellyville Pets with balloon twisting sessions, face painting, roaming pets and yummy donuts.
- Free outdoor cinema series in Parramatta
- Fire Engine rides at the Museum of Fire
- Barefoot Bowls at St Mary’s Diggers
- Luna Park which has Sonic Neon on too. It’s an immersive interactive light display. You can grab your tickets here.
- Sydney Maritime Museum
- Tuff Nutterz – Australia’s biggest inflatable obstacle course
- Watsons Bay Hotel has school holiday activities on every Monday, Wednesday and Friday
- Penrith Panthers has a free magician show and lots of other activities too
- Kids candle workshop at Castle Hill RSL
- The Museum of Contemporary Art has free school holiday activities
- Australian Museum’s Dinosaur World also has free entry
- Enjoy 9 holes of mini golf at Holey Moley for $12 per person
- There a few tickets left to Build a Bear at Eastpoint Food Fair in Edgecliff for $5
- Use your Active and Creative Kids Voucher at Little Plaster House
- Top Ryde has Dinosaur themed activities including a Pat and Chat Reptile Show
And there you have it, fellow parents – a jam-packed itinerary of the best school holiday activities Sydney has to offer! Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures or leisurely outings amidst nature, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, gather your troops, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime. Happy holidays!
About the Author
Hi there! I’m Corrina, a mum of two boys and a Maternity, Newborn and Family Photographer in Sydney. If you’ve been putting off family photos because you’re too busy or aren’t sure where to start, get in touch and we’ll get the ball rolling. Life doesn’t wait so schedule your session. Your photography experience with me will be relaxed, natural and fun. Together we’ll capture the chapter of life that you’re in with your loved ones so you have precious memories to enjoy for a lifetime.
