Sydney is known for its world-famous landmarks such as Bondi Beach, the Sydney Opera House, Royal Botanic Garden and Taronga Zoo. These destinations are fun for the whole family to enjoy the great outdoors under the warm sun, but what happens when it starts raining?
Whether you’re a Sydney local or a tourist, having your plans ruined by an unexpected downpour will dampen much more than your mood – especially when kids are involved.
Where are Sydney’s best indoor kids activities on a rainy day?
Luckily, there are plenty of things to do on a rainy day in Sydney that provide the perfect opportunities to run around, jump, bounce, climb, and even fly, all while the wet and miserable rain pours down outside.
Here are our top indoor kids destinations in Sydney to ensure the rain doesn’t spoil your family’s day out:
For a truly magical indoor experience, The Australian Museum of Magical Arts in Darlinghurst is a must-see destination in Sydney, whether it’s pouring rain or clear skies.
Celebrating the wonder of magic, children are guided by a magician on an immersive journey through the history of magic. They will experience first-hand how a magic show is orchestrated, getting an up-close look at the various documents, objects (and secrets) used to create the many illusions seen in magic shows throughout the world.
The museum is also filled with a variety of secret passageways hidden inside its walls, sparking curiosity and inviting discovery. Maybe your kids will stumble upon the prison cell Houdini escaped from (and find out how he did it), or maybe they will find a cute bunny they can snuggle up with. Anything is possible in the world of magic!
Website: https://sydneymuseums.com.au
Address: 91 Riley St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010
With nine interactive habitat zones, Sea Life Sydney Aquarium is one of the most incredible ways for children (and adults) to explore and learn about the unique creatures that live in our oceans.
As a favourite among kids, the Penguin Expedition gives them a front-row seat to watch adorable Gentoo and King penguins waddle and splash around. There’s a Discovery Rockpool where they can touch and interact with a variety of sea stars, shells and even shark eggs!
Speaking of sharks, the underwater tunnels of Shark Valley are perfect for the more adventurous. With Wobbegong sharks, Grey Nurse sharks and massive Smooth stingrays swimming directly above you, it’s an immersive experience like no other.
Website: https://www.visitsealife.com/sydney
Address: 1-5 Wheat Rd, Sydney NSW 2000
It may not snow in Sydney, but that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on one of the best winter activities: ice skating!
Strap on a pair of ice skates and spend the day gliding across the indoor Macquarie Ice Rink. If your family hasn’t been before, they offer a Learn to Skate Program that is designed to teach the basics of skating such as balance, turning, gliding and more.
It’s a great way to spend a fun day with the family, no matter what the weather forecast says. If your kids take their ice skating seriously, there are also fun activities including ice hockey, speed skating and more.
Website: https://www.macquarieicerink.com.au
Address: Corner of Herring Road and Waterloo Rd, North Ryde NSW 2113
The Archie Brother Cirque Electriq in Alexandria is the ultimate destination for a sensory overload, with all the glowing neon lights and sounds you would experience at a circus, but indoors.
Their arcade games feature Dance Dance Revolution for those wanting to hit the dance floor, the classic Mario Kart, and a selection of prize games so you can take home a souvenir (if you’re skilled enough).
With laser tag, bowling, simulated thrill rides, bumper cars, virtual reality games and more, make sure to clear up your schedule if you want to get through it all in one day.
Website: https://www.archiebrothers.com.au/locations/alexandria
Address: 75 O’Riordan St, Alexandria NSW 2015
Jumping out of a plane might not sound like a kid-friendly day out, but at iFLY Downunder in Penrith, your family can experience the fun of skydiving without having to face their fear of heights.
As one of the largest indoor skydiving facilities in the Southern Hemisphere, it’s perfect for families who are wanting a more action-packed way to spend their day out. It’s fun and safe for ages three and up, and their 365-degree glass tunnel lets you cheer on your family from a front-row seat.
Make a booking today and strap in for the ultimate indoor adventure!
Website: https://www.iflyworld.com.au/locations/sydney
Address: 123 Mulgoa Rd, Penrith NSW 2750
If your family prefers their feet firmly on the ground, then Monkey Mania indoor play centre in Penrith RSL is another great indoor destination for when it’s raining outside.
As one of the best indoor playgrounds Sydney has to offer, your kids will have a ball scaling climbing structures, bouncing on inflatable jumping castles, playing in their gun/cannon foam ball pit, slipping down their slides and more. Parents can also enjoy their favourite cup of coffee and a bite to eat at the indoor kitchen/café.
Entry entitles your kids to a full day of unlimited play, and the only requirement is that children wear socks when playing on the equipment, although Monkey Mania does sell socks if you find yourself needing to pick up a pair.
Website: https://monkeymania.com.au/penrith.html
Address: 8 Tindale St, Penrith NSW 2750
It’s hard to find someone who doesn’t love a good game of putt-putt golf. Located in Darlinghurst, Holey Moley Golf Club is a giant playground that provides fun for the whole family.
They offer a large selection of uniquely themed mini-golf courses to test your skills. Your family can enjoy putting their way through themed putt-putt courses such as mazes, a Monopoly board, bedrooms, a money machine and more.
With fun packages to choose from including 9 holes, 18 holes or 27 holes, Holey Moley Golf Club is a great indoor destination for the kids when it’s raining, whether it’s for the full day or for a couple of hours.
Website: https://www.holeymoley.com.au/locations/darlinghurst
Address: 82-94 Darlinghurst Rd, Potts Point NSW 2011
Just because it’s raining outside, doesn’t mean your family has to miss out on a fun, action-packed day. Treat the family to some of these fun indoor kids activities in Sydney and discover the many exciting destinations that are waiting around every corner.
When the weather clears up and you feel like enjoying the fresh air while taking in the beautiful sites around Sydney with your family, then check out our top picks of the best nature walks in and around the Sydney CBD.
