Things to do in the Eastern Suburbs with kids

Weekends as a family. If you play your cards right, they're the best thing ever. If you get a little slack, they all look the same. Pushing them on that same old swing, nagging them to put that device down. If you're in the same-old-same-old situation—you need new family fun. That’s where we come in. Your pal for organising family fun.

In this blog post, we’re inspiring the mums and dads of Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs. From a mystery picnic to a kayak under the bridge, ziplines, wildlife parks, go karts and so much more! There’s not much that can’t be organised in a few easy clicks with Experience Oz.

Here are just a few of the family-friendly things to do in the Eastern Suburbs and surroundings. Treat the kids. Then book in something special that calls for a babysitter.

There's a lot to be said for staying close to home—and not just saving cash on petrol. Local experiences are a chance to reconnect with your place in the world and appreciate where you live. Near home, you can even rally friends together to make the experience more special. Stay near the Eastern Suburbs and your family time will be fun and easy. These are just some of our favourite things to do when you stick around Sydney with kids…

Imagine a tasty food-filled journey with your family but having no idea what was in store. That’s the joy of a mystery picnic at The Rocks. Round up the kids and prepare to indulge in gourmet grub while uncovering this historic area. Complete with games, clues and conversation starters, this is sure to break up your routine and bring joy and connection back to your weekends.

Weekends need watersports. For the best kind with kids, head to Sydney Harbour for a kayaking experience. Paddle along the iconic waterfront and lap up stunning views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. All while your arms get toned and your kids get tired (what a combo!). Whether you're a family of pro paddle boarders or you’re all giving it a shot for the first time, you’ll feel safe and capable with our guides. Soak up the sun, feel the sea breeze on your face, and see the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney from a whole new angle.

Of the 4,000+ things to do on our site, stand-up paddle boarding lessons in Manly is one to do on repeat. Escape the big smoke and head to the Northern Beaches where you can switch into holiday mode without the huge journey. These private stand-up paddle board lessons allow you and your rugrats a chance to explore the waters of Manly while learning the basics of this activity from expert instructors. The whole family will enjoy gliding across the water and feeling at one with nature—total bliss.

Feel like you've worn out all that the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney has to offer? Or just got itchy feet and want to explore further afield? These are the family experiences you need. From the Blue Mountains to the Illawarra right up to the Central Coast, there are incredible things to do within easy reach—no flight, no huge car journey. A few rounds of Eye Spy and you’ll have thrills, fun and natural wonders that feel a world away.

Taking a break from the city doesn’t always mean slowing down. In fact, it could mean going faster than ever if you head to Picton for a day of go karting. A great way to reconnect with teens who are nudging away from time with mum and dad (sob!). Zoom around the track as you battle it out against family for the title of champ.

Available for ages 3 and up, TreeTop Adventure Park on the Central Coast is the definition of family-friendly fun. A chance to be brave and be amongst nature, this aerial playground offers heaps of courses for the whole family. Find your flexibility, strength and balance as you navigate rope bridges, zip lines, and Tarzan swings, all while breathing in views of the forest. Yes please.

Kids need bragging rights to lift their game in the school playground? Conquering the highest zipline in Australia should do the trick! A great excuse to visit the scenic Illawarra, this activity consists of tree platforms, suspension bridges and cable zip lines. Book with Experience Oz and be guided by trained and experienced Zipline Tour Guides who will escort you round a 1.5km walk through the treetops reaching some 30 metres above the ground.

There’s a bucket list experience right here in our backyard—riding the world's steepest railway line! But that's just the beginning. A Scenic World Pass in the Blue Mountains gives your family access to World Heritage-listed views, walking through dense rainforest and over elevated boardwalks that will help you admire the unique flora and fauna of the area. Best of all, you can access the Skyway and Cableway along with the Railway! A whole lot of fun in one easy ticket.

With bars, galleries, dining and events, the Eastern Suburbs is heaven for us adults. But for whole family adventures, you sometimes need to think outside the box. Let Experience Oz take the guessing away—you’ll soon find there's no shortage of ways to make memories near home.