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Things to do
Overview
Find out the inside story on accessible Sydney experiences around Circular Quay and the harbour. Discover the colonial heritage of The Rocks, be inspired by museums and art galleries, visit family-friendly attractions at Darling Harbour, catch a ferry to Manly and enjoy the panoramic views from Sydney Harbour National Park.
Arts and Culture
Enjoy Sydney's vibrant theatres, galleries and performing spaces which offer a range of accessible tours and programs.
Museum of Contemporary Art
Be inspired by the vibrant, changing exhibitions of contemporary art at the Museum of Contemporary Art, in the historic Rocks precinct.
Sydney Opera House
Visit the Sydney Opera House to see a performance, sip on a cocktail overlooking the harbour or take a backstage tour.
Art Gallery of New South Wales
Explore the Art Gallery of New South Wales and discover a treasure-trove of artistic and culinary excellence framed by magnificent views of Sydney Harbour.
Sydney Town Hall
As early as 1813 Governor Lachlan Macquarie floated the idea of a town hall for Sydney but it wasn’t for another 40 odd years before it began to take shape.
Customs House
Visit this fine heritage building right at Circular Quay for a unique 'city-lounge' experience.
Dendy Opera Quays
Catch a movie at Dendy Opera Quays, perfectly positioned on the promenade leading to the Opera House and overlooking spectacular Sydney Harbour.
The Rocks Discovery Museum
Step back in time at The Rocks Discovery Museum to learn about the area's intriguing and colourful past.
The Garrison Church
The first church built in Australia, the Garrison Church in The Rocks, is a fine example of early colonial architecture.
Conservatorium of Music
A magic castle sits on the hill overlooking the Royal Botanic Gardens and Government House.
Government House
Government House has been home to 27 Governors from 1846 to 1996, and the first 5 Governor-Generals from 1901 to 1914.
Hyde Park Barracks
The Hyde Park Barracks was designed by convict architect Francis Greenway and built in 1819 to house convict men and boys.
Justice and Police Museum
Visit Sydney's dark side of smuggling, theft and illegal immigration with a visit to three historic buildings comprising the Water Police Court (1856), Water Police Station and cells (1858) and Police Court building (1886).
The Macquarie St Historic Precinct
The Macquarie St Historic Precinct is named after Governor Lachlan Macquarie (1810–1821) who was instrumental in setting the course of development for the burgeoning colony.
Museum of Sydney
The Museum of Sydney is on the site of Australia's first Government House. The original building 1788, was a home and office for the colony's Governor, Arthur Phillip.
St Mary's Cathedral
St Mary's Cathedral represents the spiritual origins of the Catholic Church in Australia.
State Parliament House
A growing colony needed a hospital so Governor Macquarie in 1810 entered into an arrangement with a consortium of business men to build a hospital.
Outdoors
Enjoy Sydney's vibrant theatres, galleries and performing spaces which offer a range of accessible tours and programs.
Royal Botanic Gardens
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city without leaving it - just visit the Royal Botanic Gardens which provide magnificent views over Sydney Harbour.
North Head Lookout
For a spectacular birds-eye view of Sydney Harbour and the city skyline, make your way to North Head Lookout, just up the hill from Manly Beach.
The Rocks Self Guided Walking Tour
For the independent traveller who loves to get out and explore, this tour of the Rocks area is a must-do.
Bridge Climb and The Sydney Harbour Bridge Visitor Centre
One of Sydney's most popular visitor experiences: climb to the top of this famous structure that sits 134 metres above Sydney Harbour!
On The Harbour
Sydney Harbour is a playground for everyone, with a range of experiences from cruises to whale-watching and ferry rides.
Manly Ferry
Enjoy the sights and sounds of Sydney Harbour with a relaxing 30-minute ferry trip to Manly Beach.
Sydney Fish Market
The Sydney Fish Market, on the harbour, is one of Sydney's most interesting attractions.
Darling Harbour
Darling Harbour, just west of the city centre, is a popular waterfront destination, popular with Sydneysiders as well as visitors. Some of the city's most exciting attractions are here.
Chinese Garden of Friendship
The Chinese Gardens of Friendship at Darling Harbour are a peaceful refuge in the heart of Sydney.
Darling Harbour
Darling Harbour is a year-round venue for popular events and festivals that range from big spectaculars such as fireworks on New Years Day and Australia Day to jazz weekends and acrobatics.
Australian National Maritime Museum
Explore Australia's links with the sea in this purpose-built space right on the water's edge at Darling Harbour.
Powerhouse Museum
Located in a historic building that was once Ultimo Powerhouse, this popular museum showcases the best of human ingenuity.