15 Fun School Holiday Activities in Sydney
Sydney transforms into a playground of imagination and discovery during the school holidays, offering boundless adventures for its youngest residents and visitors.
From the artistic allure of the NSW Art Gallery to the exhilarating challenges of Ninja Parc, the city is brimming with activities that promise not just fun, but also innovative learning experiences.
Explore our handpicked selection of Sydney school holiday activities that cater to every interest and age group, ensuring your kids have an unforgettable break filled with creativity, adventure, and joy.
1. CREATURES OF AUSTRALIA – ALL AGES
Step into the enchanting world of Creatures of Australia, a ground-breaking interactive digital experience designed for families with young children. Marvel at towering kangaroos and colossal koalas, feeling tiny in their presence as you see the world from their perspective. Children will be captivated by the larger-than-life animals and the vibrant floor projections that pulse with life, from the depths of the ocean to the red sands of the Australian desert. The haunting whispers of the wind and the detailed flora and fauna create a sensory immersion that feels like stepping into another world.
Tickets $28 children $39 adults with under 3 years free. Learn more or book here.
2. PORTRAITS that POP at NSW Art Gallery – PRIMARY+
Monday 15 & Tuesday 16 July, 1.30pm
Unlock the doors of creativity and step into a world where art and imagination merge at the NSW Art Gallery. The “PORTRAITS that POP” workshop is a vibrant playground for young minds to explore their artistic talents alongside a grown-up companion. Here, the simple yet profound act of creating a self-portrait becomes an adventure in self-expression, blending collage and printmaking in an atmosphere that buzzes with enthusiasm and innovation. It’s not just an art class; it’s a bonding experience, a memory in the making, and a chance to see the world through a kaleidoscope of colors and textures.
Tickets from $35. Learn more and book here.
3. NINJA PARC SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAM – PRIMARY+
Weekdays from 9-12pm
Get the kids off the screens and moving their bodies this school holidays. Ninja Parc calls to the brave, the bold, and the spirited. It’s a place where children can unleash their inner ninja, navigating through obstacles that challenge their bodies and minds. This isn’t just about physical activity; it’s about igniting a spark of adventure, learning new skills, and overcoming challenges in a fun and dynamic environment.
Plus, the added bonus of a Ninja Parc headband makes every child feel like a true ninja warrior! It’s all about having fun! $55 per child – get 10% off when you book before 8 July. Book here.
4. SEAHORSE HOTEL – SEA LIFE Sydney
The Seahorse Hotel at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium is a magical dive into the underwater world of one of the ocean’s most fascinating creatures. This immersive experience isn’t just educational; it’s an enchanting journey that captivates the imagination of young explorers. As children follow the interactive trail, they become seahorse experts, learning about conservation and the aquarium’s breeding program. It’s a thoughtful adventure into the depths of the sea, blending learning with wonder in a way that only SEA LIFE can.
Tickets $38 Children $51 Adults. Get your tickets here.
5. EXPLORE THE ENCHANTED FOREST -ILLAWARRA FLY (All Ages)
High above the ground, nestled in the treetops, the Illawarra Fly Enchanted Forest awaits. This magical makeover of the forest is a dream come true for adventurers of all ages. This is a great activity to build a family day out around. With whimsical fairy villages and cheeky pixies hiding around every corner, it’s a place where imagination runs wild. The enchanting forest is not just a walk; it’s an adventure, a storybook come to life, where every step reveals new wonders and the natural world becomes a playground of discovery. Learn more and book here.
6. CANDLELIGHT: A TRIBUTE TO TAYLOR SWIFT (Tweens+)
Friday 19 July, 6.30pm or 8.30pm
For the tween and teen music enthusiasts, the Candlelight: A Tribute to Taylor Swift offers a mesmerizing experience under the soft glow of candlelight. This unique event showcases the music of Taylor Swift in a way that’s both innovative and intimate, performed by The Collective String Quartet. It’s a celebration of music, creativity, and the power of song to connect and inspire. This experience promises an evening of auditory delight, where Swift’s melodies take on a new life, leaving a lasting impression on young hearts and minds. Find out more and book to avoid missing this beautiful tribute.
7. JUNIOR ZOO KEEPER FOR A DAY – Featherdale (Tween)
9th, 15, 17th -9am to 3pm
The Junior Zoo Keeper for a Day program at Featherdale offers a rare glimpse into the world behind the scenes of a wildlife park. Guided by professional zookeepers, children embark on a journey of discovery, learning about animal care, conservation, and the intricate balance of ecosystems. This hands-on experience is more than just educational; it’s a heartwarming adventure that fosters a deep love and respect for nature. It’s an opportunity to walk in the shoes of a zookeeper, creating a connection with the animal kingdom that will be cherished for a lifetime.
Junior Zookeeper for a Day programme is fully supervised by a qualified Zookeeper. Tickets $199. Find out more and book here.
7. NATURE’S SUPERPOWERS – PARK SCIENCE
Ever wondered how nature inspires the world’s most incredible scientific innovations? Park Science at Centennial Parklands is your child’s gateway to discovering nature’s superpowers. This hands-on program dives into the world of biomimicry, where children learn how lessons from nature have led to amazing scientific breakthroughs like airplanes inspired by birds. Through teamwork, problem-solving, and a dose of creativity, kids will invent their own nature-inspired creations. It’s a fascinating journey into the wonders of the natural world and the innovations it inspires, perfect for young scientists and curious minds alike. Bookings are essential, book here.
8. WINTER PARK – DARLING HARBOUR (All Ages)
Thursday 18 to Sunday 21 July
Step into a winter wonderland like no other at Darling Harbour’s Winter Park. For four magical days, the coolest season is turned on its head with heart-pounding gaming zones, adventure-filled outdoor movie sessions, and the wildly creative Winter Slime Workshop. And when the sun sets, the fun doesn’t stop. Live music and kid-friendly entertainment light up the night, keeping the energy high and the spirits bright. It’s a free festival that promises endless fun and a perfect opportunity for families to make the most of the winter school holidays. Learn more about Winter Park a FREE 4 Day Festival For Kids.
9. HOUSE DOWN UNDER – Rouse Hill (All Ages)
Australia’s first inverted house experience has arrived at Rouse Hill, offering a brilliant circuit breaker for the whole family! Whether you’re keen to nail a fun family portrait or want to let the kids activate their imagination, this optical illusion attraction promises endless entertainment. An immersive experience that’s not for the faint-hearted, House Down Under ensures snap-happy fun. Charge up your phone, book your ticket, and get ready for a unique adventure in Sydney! Book now.
10. MINI KARTING – HYPER KARTING (Kindy + Primary)
Experience Australia’s longest indoor electric go-kart track at Hyper Karting, located in the heart of Sydney’s CBD. With sessions priced at just $19, this mini track offers serious fun for young racers. Discover karting reimagined in Sydney, complete with arcade games and plenty of space to sit and watch or catch up on a little work. Spark your engines at Hyper Karting, learn more and book.
11. LEARN TO SKATE – ICE ZOO (All Ages)
Get a head start on skating lessons or just grab some tips to look good in front of friends at Ice Zoo. These fun half-hour classes for children run during the School Holidays in Holiday Mega Sessions from 9 am to 11:30 am. Designed for all skill levels, young skaters can learn the basics or refine their technique in both Figure Skating and Ice Hockey. Just $35 per session. Book here
12. KIDS ON DECK – WILD WONDERS – AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM
Be inspired by wondrous wildlife with Kids On Deck at the Australian National Maritime Museum, where art-making and experiments bring the whole family together. Create your own cute-as wild critter pom poms, decorate a whale mobile, weave a ghostnet jellyfish sculpture, or recycle bottle caps into new creations like bubble wands and carabiners using the plastic recycling machine. So much to see and do as you join in bubbly experiments, explore the microscopic marvels of plankton, or dress up as your favourite aquatic creature. This engaging activity is available daily during school holidays from 10:30 am to 4 pm, included in the See it All Ticket ($15 for children, $25 for adults). More info
13. TUFF NUTTERZ – CENTENNIAL PARK
Thursday 11-21 July from 9am to 4:45pm
Keen to get those bodies moving? Tuff Nutterz is our pick of the bunch! A fantastic family-friendly event that promises a day filled with fun and excitement for everyone. The event features Australia’s biggest inflatable obstacle course, which is sure to provide an exhilarating experience for both kids and adults alike. Get your tickets here.
14. SYDNEY HIGHLIGHTS BIKE TOUR
Looking for an active adventure that lets you tick off Sydney’s incredible sights in no time? If you’re new to Sydney or surrounding regions, why not hit the pedals for a 2.5-hour Sydney Highlights Bike Tour, perfect for families who want to enjoy their time and create unforgettable memories together! It’s a fun-filled loop through and past all the must-see icons Sydney Opera House, Circular Quay, Barangaroo, Darling Harbour, China Town, Anzac Memorial, Hyde Park, and Mrs Macquarie’s Chair. Learn more here.
15. iFLY SYDNEY – PENRITH
If you are looking for a special treat, one that thrills your tween or teen, this has to be right up there! Perhaps your child already saying they want to do skydiving when they turn 16 or 18? Then this is the place to start. Let them take flight with an exhilarating flight session with qualified instructor with friends and family watching and cheering on as they watch on in the 365 degree glass tunnel. Discover and book here.
Sydney’s school holidays are a treasure trove of experiences, each offering a unique blend of fun, learning, and adventure. Whether your child is an aspiring artist, a budding biologist, or an adventurous spirit, there’s something in Sydney to ignite their passion and curiosity. Ready, set, go! Time to explore, and make this school holiday a journey of discovery and joy that your kids will remember forever.
