Food & Drink

8 Incredible Experiences For Kids During Vivid Sydney That You’ll Love Too

By Phoebe Youl

A glowing koala as part of the Vivid Sydney exhibition

Currently in the weeds of planning a family trip during the Sydney Vivid festival? Don't worry, we have you covered! While the 23 days and nights in which Vivid lights up Sydney is arguably one of the most beautiful times to get out and about and soak up everything the city has to offer, knowing exactly where to start and what is worth booking for your family can be a challenge. 

As part of Vivid Sydney’s biggest-ever program running from Friday 26 May to Saturday 17 June, Destination NSW and attraction partner Experience Oz are offering up a huge selection of family-friendly attractions and events that have all been designed to help you and your family have the ultimate extraordinary Sydney experience.  

Whether you're looking to keep your kiddos entertained, trying to keep the whole family happy or you're planning the trip of a lifetime, below we’ve pulled together a list of eight attractions, perfect for the entire family to enjoy. From after-dark harbour cruises to 360-Vivid views and one very special Koala-accompanied breakfast, keep reading below for our top picks. 

Vivid Sydney Jet Boating Cruise

Oz Jetboating | The Eastern Pontoon, Sydney

If you’re looking for both a unique and scenic way to experience Vivid Sydney, then this bespoke harbour tour will tick every box. The perfect way to escape the crowds, this 30-minute long jet boat cruise will give you and your family unmatched views of the incredible Vivid lights, city skyline and iconic Sydney landmarks such as the Opera House, Harbour Bridge and Luna Park. Spaces are limited so be sure to book this truly magical experience

Ultimate Sydney Attractions Pass

Madame Tussauds | WILD LIFE Sydney | SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium | Sydney Tower Eye

Trying to decide between the best of Sydney’s family-friendly attractions? Do it all with the Ultimate Sydney Experience Pass. Designed to help you leave no sightseeing stone unturned, this smart pass will grant your family admission to five of Sydney’s most essential attractions for a single low price. With entry to the Sydney Tower Eye, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and Madame Tussauds Sydney included, you can be assured that every family member will walk away with an unforgettable experience. Learn more and book your pass online here

Big Bus Sydney And Bondi Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Big Bus Tours | Corner George Street & Alfred Street, Circular Quay

If you’d prefer to avoid crowded public transport and instead travel in scenic style, the Big Bus Sydney And Bondi Hop-On Hop-Off Tour was made with you in mind! With two scenic routes on offer and recorded commentary available in eight different languages, this ticket will grant you easy access to all of Sydney’s must-see sights. Each tour runs for approximately 90 minutes with regular buses scheduled throughout the day, however, you can hop on and off to explore Sydney at your own pace. Book tickets online here

Taronga Zoo Entry And Return Ferry Combo

Captain Cook Cruises Sydney | Circular Quay Wharf 6

Make your family outing to Taronga Zoo a seamless and enjoyable experience with this ultra-convenient pass. Covering both your entry to Taronga Zoo and a short return ferry ride from Circular Quay, your family will be able to take in both the wonderful residents of the zoo and the spectacular views of Sydney Harbour in one easy trip. The reliable timetable has frequent ferries departing both Circular Quay and Taronga Zoo, so you can be sure you’ll never be left stranded or waiting too long. Book your tickets here today!

Vivid Sydney SKYWALK At Night

Sydney Tower SKYWALK | Westfield Sydney

If you’re looking for an activity that will keep both you and your tween and teen children happy, then look no further than this night tour of Sydney’s Tower Eye. Suitable for adults and children aged 10 years and up, this exciting night tour of Sydney’s Tower Eye will have you standing high amongst the skyscrapers as you enjoy 360-degree views of Vivid Sydney and all of sparkly Sydney Habour. Each family member will also get to add their bit of Vivid flair, with light-up bracelets and accessories on offer. Click here to learn more and secure this unforgettable experience

Aboriginal Heritage Sydney Walking Tour

Dreamtime Southern X | 10 George Street, The Rocks

This fascinating 90-minute walking tour will allow you and your family to explore Sydney’s Aboriginal culture, while you develop an understanding of the ancient Dreamtime as it applies to the Indigenous culture and identity. Suitable for all ages, during the leisurely walk your guide will pass on their ancient wisdom, educating you to see Sydney from a whole new perspective. Don’t forget your walking shoes and book this incredible experience online here.

Breakfast With The Koalas At WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo

WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo | Aquarium Wharf, 1-5 Wheat Road, Darling Harbour

Give your family the gift of a truly memorable experience with this adorable Koala breakfast. Kicking off bright and early, you’ll get to meet some of Australia’s cutest and cuddliest animals and learn about all aspects of Koala life, while enjoying a delicious buffet-style breakfast. You’ll also get to walk away with a complimentary group or individual photo with your new koala friend to mark the incredible occasion. Want to learn more about this one-of-a-kind experience? Click here to book online or learn more

Vivid Sydney Night Photography Workshop

Photo Workshop Australia | 14 Circular Quay East

Got a budding photographer on your hands? This interactive night photography course will take you and your kiddo’s into the heart of the city, teaching them new camera skills, whilst they capture incredible images of the Sydney city skyline and Vivid lights. Class sizes are kept purposely small to guarantee personalised attention that will allow your budding photographer to walk away from the workshop feeling inspired and ready to put their new skills to the test. Learn more and buy tickets here.

Keen to make the most of your family's time during Vivid Sydney? Head to the Experience Oz website here to learn more about all of the events and experiences they have to offer. 

Image credit: Destination NSW

Editor's note: Urban List editors independently select and write about stuff we love and think you'll like too. Urban List has affiliate partnerships, so we get revenue from your purchases. Additionally, this article is sponsored by Experience Oz and proudly endorsed by Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here.

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