Some people say the best things in life are free, but we like to say the best things happen after dark. Scoff if you will, but even the brightest of days and the peachiest of sunsets lead to that thrill of adventure the air. You know the one we mean, the one with the “shall we…?” energy. And yes, you shall.
We’ve partnered with Samsung to give culture-seekers a taste of the best things to do in Sydney at night. The Samsung Galaxy S22 Series and its seriously impressive nighttime photography features are the perfect companions to late nights exploring the city. This is how memories are made, and kept, people. Make sure you keep an eye out for Samsung's murals while you're out and about—and capture them with its Galaxy S22 Series, of course.
Pop Into New Venues
There’s never a shortage of new openings in Sydney. Small bars with craft cocktails, curbside breweries with weird and wonderful beers, burger joints, ramen haunts, mini golf courses…the list goes on. Making the most of our city means keeping a finger on the pulse, which is where we come in. In October, you’ve simply got to check out Pleasures Playhouse, a very London-feeling “35 days of parties in an abandoned Chinatown cinema” with art, music, and plenty of dancing. Then there’s Surry Hills’ HQ Sydney, the now-official name for the area that houses local faves like Golden Age Cinema, Soda Factory, Alberto’s and more. Get down there for some seriously exciting events, including Summer Camp’s Lobby Residency at Ace Hotel.
Get Into The Galleries
Culture-cruising Sydney at night can take many forms, but gallery-hopping is a win for many reasons; less chance of school excursions blocking the way and the option of a wine or two on either side. For midweek wonders, there’s AGNSW Art After Hours every Wednesday, which is also free and comes with the option of a drink as you peruse or join one of the many experiences. On Thursdays, you’ve got Powerhouse Late, free as can be and teeming with talks, tours, music and more. Finally, you can check out the mostly-free MCA Late every Friday and get to know some of our city’s best creatives.
See The Stars At Sydney Observatory
There are few things more humbling, romantic and generally awe-inspiring than witnessing the vastness of the universe and the stars above us. The historical Sydney Observatory is just the place to do that, especially with its monthly Observatory Late program. On selected nights, you can stargaze or peep through the telescopes while listening to live music, sipping on wine and watching the world (and galaxy) go by.
Embrace Your Inner Child At Luna Park
Some people say “dance like no-one’s watching”, but we prefer the saying, “eat fairy floss and ride the dodgems like a queue of impatient children aren’t waiting”. Which you can do at Luna Park Sydney, because they’re open late Friday–Sunday for all of the nostalgic fun. Of course, no visit is complete without a ride on the Big Dipper, and daredevils will go nuts for the spinning Sledgehammer (pics or it didn’t happen). But, hey, if you’re happy to grab a corn dog, throw some balls in a clown’s mouth then loop around on the good old Freaky Frogs, that’s cool, too.
Be spoilt for choice at Entertainment Quarter
Once again, who says kids get to have all the fun? Not us, and not the overlords of Sydney’s Entertainment Quarter, where the fun is just kicking off when the sun goes down. Want some action? Get stuck into Hyper Karting and show your mates who really rules the road. Or, try your luck at B. Lucky & Sons’ neon-lit arcade. Want more? Flex your twinkle toes at Strike Bowling (you can put the bumpers up if you need to, it’s cool) or enjoy the on-stage antics at The Comedy Store.
Ready to take embrace Sydney's after-dark adventures? You can capture your after-dark mems with Samsung's Galaxy S22 Series. Its nightography feature takes killer snaps and videos in low light. To find out more, head over here.
Editor’s note: this article was produced in partnership with Samsung. Thank you for supporting the partners who make Urban List possible. To read our editorial policy, click here.
Images: Supplied.