Sydney is a city of icons: the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, and, of course, the beaches. Yet, while these spots are attractive to lots of tourists, there’s another face to Sydney (believe us, this is also very interesting!).
In 2024, the city offers some great new entertainment options that go well beyond the standard tourist traps. Just like how these casinos are known for best payouts, our five unexpected activities are known for giving any visitor or native Sydneysider a whole new perspective on the city.
1. Hidden Laneways & Street Art Tour
The laneways of Sydney are a goldmine of street art that usually goes unnoticed. This is where areas such as Newtown, Surry Hills, and Redfern make for an ever-changing canvas, with walls coming alive with murals, graffiti, and installations.
Take a guided street art tour for a chance to see these hidden hotspots where artists express themselves freely and unhindered by the constraints of galleries. That’s why this is our №1 in the list of fun activities for adults in Sydney!
Reasons to Try It
- Interactive: Rather than simply appreciating art from a distance, you’ll be guided through some of the city’s best-kept urban art secrets. You can even find local cafes and shops that incorporate street art into their decor.
- Educational: These activities in Sydney 2024 provide lots of info about street art overall. You’ll learn about various styles, techniques, and the stories behind the artwork! The trips are guided by local artists who will give you an authentic perspective.
- Affordable option: Street art excursions usually cost between AU$30 and AU$50 per person and run for 2-3 hours. As you see, it is budget-friendly for people of all income levels.
2. Sydney Observatory
While Sydney may have its bright, pretty skyline, few take the time to appreciate one of its best-kept secrets: the starry night sky. The Sydney Observatory offers an unforgettable stargazing experience. While most people visit Bondi Beach for a quintessential look at the city or Circular Quay for an iconic outlook of the city, few think to glance upward at the stars above them.
The observatory was built as early as 1858. Now, it serves not only as a historical site but also as a place for all astronomy fans. Speaking of pricing, the cost of tickets ranges from AU$20 to AU$30 per person for each evening program (1.5 hours lasting).
Reasons to Try It
- Unique views: Being one of the best activities in Sydney, the observatory has one of the finest spots for stargazing. With powerful telescopes, it offers views of the night sky in phenomenal detail. You can view planets and stars that are far away.
- Historical significance: The observatory has had a fairly historical importance in the development of astronomy in Australia. This is where you can trace back the history behind this landmark and how it shaped Sydney’s scientific legacy.
- Family-friendly vibes: The observatory comes with educational programs and activities, which make it a great place for family visits. Kids will love the interactive displays, and they’ll learn about space in an engaging way.
3. Cooking Classes in Chinatown
Sydney’s Chinatown is a food haven, and here, you can even learn to cook! Sydney cooking schools, and especially those in Chinatown, have hands-on classes suitable for all tourists. From dumplings to noodles, sushi, or whatever, it is a top-tier experience in the culinary world.
As you understand, prices vary depending on the class and menu, in general – from AU$50 to AU$150. Moreover, many schools also offer group discounts, making them a great option for group activities for adults.
Reasons to Try It
- Hands-on learning: These classes offer the opportunity to learn new cooking techniques, more than what could be learned from a recipe book. Accomplished chefs walk the students through step-by-step preparation and presentation.
- Cultural immersion: Cooking workshops provide an increased awareness of the culture that surrounds the food in Australia. You will learn about traditional cooking processes and the origins of the dishes you are preparing.
- Interactive fun: Cooking classes are also a great social experience. You can participate with friends or meet new people who have the same interests as you (we mean food, of course). It is a fun way to spend a few hours, and you get to take home your culinary creations.
4. Sydney Fish Market
Are there any seafood fans? Visiting the market, you can pick up seafood at its freshest, learn about sustainable fishing, and even enjoy dishes prepared fresh at the on-site restaurants.
It’s a place for fun activities in Sydney that combines food education with environmental awareness, all with delicious meals available. In other words, no food enthusiast should leave Sydney without crossing the threshold to this exciting destination.
Reasons to Try It
- 100% fresh seafood: The Sydney Fish Market has some of the freshest seafood around. We mean both, whether you’re eating there or buying fish to cook at home. Prices range from AU$10 to AU$50 for individual items, of course, depending on the size and type of seafood.
- Educational vibes: Yes, there are the market’s interactive exhibits and knowledgeable speakers, so you can discover more about this industry overall and even sustainable fishing methods, especially in Australia.
- Dining together: Savour a variety of dining options in a community setting, ranging from sophisticated seafood platters to more casual fish & chips. It’s the ideal location for both solitary dining and social gatherings.
5. Trip to the Blue Mountains via the Scenic Skyway
The Blue Mountains are definitely a must-see for nature lovers, but the Scenic Skyway brings a fresh new spin to the old-day trip. A glass-floored cable car that carries visitors high above valleys and displays breathtaking views of the Blue Mountains, including the famous rock formations Three Sisters and Wentworth Falls.
The ride isn’t just about the views; it’s about the experience itself. It is part of the bigger adventure at Scenic World, where you can use walking trails and take a scenic railway ride to see the area’s beauty from different angles.
Reasons to Try It
- Top-notch views: One of the greatest ways to take in the Blue Mountains’ splendor from above is to ride the Scenic Skyway. You may enjoy an exciting aerial perspective of the valley below, thanks to the glass floors.
- Nature & adventure: Scenic World has a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking paths, a Scenic Railway, and a Cableway, in addition to the Skyway. Canyoning and abseiling are options for people who wish to come even more in touch with nature.
- Easy day trip: The Blue Mountains are quite accessible from Sydney, only a 90-minute drive away! It doesn’t matter what you like – outdoors or extreme sports, there is something for everyone! Adult admission to the Skyway is approximately AU$45; other attractions, such as the Scenic Railway, incur additional expenses.
Final Thoughts from Us
Sydney has a lot of fun activities for adults and kids that let you discover the city in new ways! You can check out secret streets covered in colorful art or take a cooking class in Chinatown. So, take a break from the usual tourist spots, try something new, and make your time in Sydney special!
