There’s so much for families to do in Darling Harbour that you could spend days here, without venturing into Sydney’s CBD.
The bad news is that you can’t possibly see everything in one day – the good news is you’ll have to go back! Alternatively, book a family stay at one of Darling Harbour’s fantastic waterfront hotels.
Read on for the best things to do in Darling Harbour, as well as the top places to eat and stay as a family.
5 things to do in Darling Harbour with kids
Tip: If you’re planning on visiting two or more of Darling Harbour’s main attractions, you can save up to 22% on admission with a bundled Ultimate Sydney Attraction Pass.
SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium
Get up close to marine species from around the globe at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium. Stroll through the aquarium at your own pace and take in some of the amazing displays, including colour-changing jellyfish and adorable seahorses.
WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo
Have your pic taken with cuddly Australian animals such as koalas and quokkas at WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo. This inner-city attraction is home to a large range of native animals, including wombats, frogs, cassowaries, Tassie devils and three freshwater crocodiles.
Darling Quarter playground and park
The Darling Quarter Playground is simply huge, with a giant slide, a 21-metre-long flying fox and water features among its attractions. Darling Harbour is also home to the Chinese Gardens of Friendship, where you can walk along hidden pathways and see beautiful waterfalls, lakes, exotic plants and pavilions.
Madame Tussauds Wax Museum
Meet a few famous faces at Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, where you can take selfies with the 70 wax celebrities, sporting heroes, rock stars and politicians on display. Residents include Robert Irwin, Harry Styles and Taylor Swift.
Australian National Maritime Museum
Take time to stroll over the bridge and visit the Australian National Maritime Museum, where you can jump aboard tall ships, navy vessels, a cold war submarine and restored historic boats.
Family-friendly restaurants in Darling Harbour
Darling Square is home to a diverse choice of globally inspired eateries to suit all tastes and budgets. The Cockle Bay Wharf dining precinct is also full of restaurants and bars, so you will never be stuck for somewhere to eat.
Here are some of the best places to grab a bite:
The Ternary on Darling Harbour
100 Murray St, Pyrmont NSW
Novotel Sydney on Darling Harbour’s stylish restaurant, The Ternary, has stunning views of the city skyline. The harmonious indoor dining space connects to a sun-dappled terrace where you can feast on seasonal menus that include kid favourites. A buffet breakfast featuring hot and cold dishes is served until 10am, and includes barista-made coffee.
Pancakes on the Rocks - Darling Square
55 Tumbalong Bvd, Haymarket
As well as offering yummy pancakes (including ones with Nutella!), the menu at Pancakes on the Rocks features savoury crepes, gourmet pizza, beef and pork ribs, and a range of salads. As well as its original restaurant in The Rocks heritage district, it has locations at Darling Square, Northmead and Beverly Hills, NSW.
Blackbird Café
Wheat Road Balcony Level 1, Cockle Bay Wharf
Tuck into modern Australian cuisine at Blackbird Café, on the other side of the water at Cockle Bay Wharf.
Gelato Messina Darling Square
Shop 02/3 Little Hay St, Haymarket
For a sweet treat, head to Gelato Messina Darling Square, which claims to have the best gelato outside of Italy.
Casual dining at the International Convention Centre
14 Darling Dr, Sydney
Italian eatery Fratelli Fresh and Betty’s Burgers at the International Convention Centre are also worth checking out.
Where to stay in Darling Harbour with kids
Located right on the waterfront in the heart of the action, Novotel Sydney on Darling Harbour has more than 500 rooms. Roughly half of them are interconnected, which makes it a popular choice for families, although you can opt for a twin double bedroom if you all want to be in the same space. For the best views, treat yourself to one (or two) of the Executive Rooms, which offer incredible views over the Harbour.
As well as an outdoor pool, the hotel has a tennis court and a kids-only space where older children and teens can retreat for some parent-free time. Over 16s can take advantage of the on-site gym, while complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the property. The Convention light rail stop is right outside the hotel, so you can easily jump on board and head to Central Station.
All TVs are connected to Foxtel, so there’s plenty to keep you entertained when it’s time to crash after a long day of exploration, and perhaps indulge in the in-room dining offered. It’s also a great place to catch the Saturday night fireworks display that ignites the waterfront district.
The writer was a guest of Accor
Opening image: A family in front of the ferris wheel at Darling Harbour
