Top Things To Do in Sydney’s Darling Harbour
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Introduction
2. Top Attractions in Darling Harbour
3. Family Friendly Activities
4. Sydney Harbour Cruises
5. Cultural and Historic Sites
6. Dining and Shopping Options
7. Getting to Darling Harbour
8. Conclusion
9. FAQs
1. Introduction
A stroll through Darling Harbour quickly reveals why it’s one of Sydney’s top destinations for both visitors and locals. An incredible atmosphere, great hotels, museums, a buzzing nightlife, shops, restaurants, cafés, festivals... and all just a stone’s throw from the heart of Sydney!
There are simply so many things to do in Sydney's Darling Harbour. Home to the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, Madame Tussauds and the Australian National Maritime Museum, to name a few, this family-friendly place has a lively atmosphere, is easy to get to and get around, and captures the essence of all that’s great about this iconic part of Sydney.
2. Top Attractions in Darling Harbour
It’s a long list, but as a starting point...the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium is a firm favourite for visitors young and old to the Harbour, with its fascinating insight into life under the sea.
If you feel like rubbing shoulders with the stars, Madame Tussauds Sydney is the place for you - a world of waxwork that’s fun for the whole family.
Or for a fascinating look at the country’s sea-faring past, head to the ever-popular Australian National Maritime Museum, with its outstanding range of permanent exhibitions and interactive treats for both landlubbers and water babies.
And if you’re still looking for something to do, there’s an incredible, free fireworks display every Saturday night in the Harbour. What are you waiting for?
3.Family-Friendly Activities in Darling Harbour
If you’re wondering what to do in Darling Harbour, Sydney, with the kids, there are some great options. The Darling Quarter Kids Playground is known as one of the very best in the country and is a real treat for kids of all ages, with water features for splashing and playing in, brilliant swings, ropes, sandpits, and machines – it’s a kids’ paradise! Meanwhile, parents and carers can sit back and catch some rays or a well-deserved coffee from one of the many fabulous cafés and bars nearby. Everyone’s a winner!
The charming Carousel in Darling Harbour has been taking visitors for a ride for over a century. Imported to Australia in 1894, it’s Australia’s second oldest carousel, and after an eight-year refurbishment, it’s back, and more enchanting than ever. The ride is open during school holidays and on weekends, from 10 am to 5 pm.
4. Sydney Harbour Cruises
What better way to take in the beauty of Darling Harbour than with a cruise? There’s a whole range to choose from, all offering stunning views of Sydney’s incredible landmarks. Foodies can enjoy gourmet meals on a luxurious lunch or dinner cruise, or why not opt for a sightseeing cruise, a magical sunset cruise, a hop-on hop-off bus and boat tour. However you choose to cruise, this is a great way to enjoy Darling Harbour and everything it has to offer. There are a whole host of companies delivering cruise experiences, with departures from Darling Harbour or Circular Quay.
5. Cultural and Historical Sites
The Chinese Garden of Friendship, an oasis of calm and tranquillity in the heart of the city, is perhaps one of the peaceful things to do in Darling Harbour, Sydney. Inspired by Feng Shui as a symbol of the friendship between Sydney and Guangzhou, the garden is designed to have the perfect balance of plants, water, stone and architecture. The Garden also organises interactive events for adults and kids, such as Chinese Paper Cutting and Meditation and Movement. Check out the website to see what’s on.
ICC Sydney, the International Convention and Exhibition Centre, is one of Darling Harbour’s premier venues, boasting three theatres, more than 70 meeting rooms and two formal ballrooms in a stunning, state of the art building, opened in 2016. The ICC has quickly become a staple of Darling Harbour, delivering extraordinary events and experiences in its unbeatable riverside location.
Pyrmont Bridge, connecting the two banks of Darling Harbour cove, is one of the world’s oldest electrical swing-span bridges. In operation since 1902, the bridge is a symbol of Australia’s industrial heritage and allows larger vessels to enter this busy, working harbour. The City of Sydney Port Walking Tour is the perfect way to appreciate this feat of engineering and gain valuable insights into the history of Sydney as a port.
6. Dining and Shopping Options
Darling Harbour is an absolute paradise for foodies -it’s THE place to eat, drink and be merry. Whether you want to tuck in at some of Australia’s (and the world’s) premier eateries, refuel with the kids, or sip a cocktail and just take it all in, the possibilities are limitless. There’s something for every budget too, with plenty of affordable options.
If retail therapy is your thing, you’re in luck, as shopping is also one of the top things to do in Darling Harbour, Sydney. The Westfield Shopping Centre is a shopper’s paradise, with everything from high-street staples to designer treats, all under one roof. The Harbourside Shopping Centre and Pitt Street Mall are also fabulous options, with a wealth of stores, entertainment and dining options for the perfect day out.
7. Getting to Darling Harbour
It's easy to get to Darling Harbour by train, bus, bike, boat, car, rail or on foot – you can even take a water taxi! The Harbour is within easy walking distance of Town Hall Station (only 2km away), and from Circular Quay you can hop on the light rail or ferry. Make sure that you factor in extra time when there is a major event in Darling Harbour, Sydney, to avoid the crowds. Darling Harbour is generally accessible for anyone with mobility issues, and access to the precinct is mainly level from surrounding streets.
8.Conclusion
With so many things to do in Sydney, where do you start? Darling Harbour, as one of the world’s top tourist destinations, offers culture, entertainment, dining, and landmarks that are simply spectacular. Together with an impressive transport infrastructure and some of the country’s premier hotels in Darling Harbour, such as Oaks Sydney Goldsbrough Suites, this area is an unbeatable location for an unforgettable stay.
9. Darling Harbour FAQs
What are the top attractions in Darling Harbour?
Madame Tussauds, the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, Sydney Zoo, Darling Quarter Kids Playground and Australian National Maritime Museum are just a few of the top attractions in Darling Harbour.
What family-friendly activities are available in Darling Harbour?
The Darling Quarter Kids Playground, Carousel, Sydney Aquarium and Sydney Zoo with tons of interactive activities are just some of the family favourites in Darling Harbour. Kids also love the cruises!
Where can I dine and shop in Darling Harbour?
There are dining and shopping options all along the waterfront, with something for everyone, from fine dining options to cheap and cheerful. Or for everything under one roof, you can head to Pitt Street Mall.
Are there any unique entertainment options in Darling Harbour?
Check out the beautiful Chinese Garden of Friendship and the ICC International Convention Centre's huge range of entertainment options. A harbour cruise at sunset is another unique event in Darling Harbour, Sydney that's not to be missed.
How do I get to Darling Harbour?
Getting there is easy by train, light rail, taxi, bus, or even boat. Use an Opal card or tap on with your contactless option.
Can I combine tickets for multiple attractions in Darling Harbour?
Yes, the Sydney Big Ticket, Sydney Multi-Attraction Pass and Sydney Attraction Pass: Darling Harbour Experience Ticket are all great options for saving on entry to Darling Harbour attractions.
Are there any free activities in Darling Harbour?
Check out the Saturday night Firework Display, head to the Darling Quarter Playground with the kids or check the Australian National Maritime Museum, free in certain areas.
What is the best time to visit Darling Harbour to avoid crowds?
It’s always a good idea to avoid weekends and school holidays to beat the crowds. Generally, early mornings, until 11 am and after 8 pm are best if you want a quieter experience!
