The Best School Holiday Activities in Sydney this Summer to Keep the Kids Entertained
This round-up of the best school holiday activities in Sydney will keep the whole family happy.
Is it just us, or do the school holidays roll around quicker every term? Blink, and we're suddenly at the end of the year, and the summer school holidays are fast approaching. Stretching from December til the end of January (and in some cases, early February, depending on specific schools), the summer holidays can feel like they go on forever.
Like most parents, you're probably scrambling for fun school holiday activities in Sydney to keep your kiddos entertained during the big break.
Thankfully, in our bustling harbour city, we're never short of options, from festive-themed workshops to interactive exhibitions and fun family outings you've never thought of. Keep reading as we wrap up the best school holiday activities for kids in Sydney this summer.
School Holiday Activities in Sydney: Summer 2025
Unleash Their Inner Thespian with a Short Course at NIDA
Looking for an exciting way to spark creativity and build confidence this summer? NIDA's short courses for kids are designed for a range of age groups, from kindergarten to year six; these fun and engaging workshops are a great way to keep young minds active over the holidays.
From acting and storytelling to movement and improvisation, there's a course that suits every interest and skill level. Led by NIDA’s expert tutors, kids will develop new skills, make friends, and, most importantly, have fun.
December-January, see the full schedule here
NIDA, 215 Anzac Parade, Kensington
Enjoy an Interactive Art Installation at Carriageworks
Explore Creature, an interactive art installation at Carriageworks that celebrates nature and technology. This immersive experience invites visitors of all ages to explore Australia's diverse habitats through 360-degree projections.
In a 30-minute sensory journey, interact with playful kangaroos, wombats, and more. Dive into creativity, emotions, and environmental connections.
Running until December 15, the installation is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays
Suitable for children of all ages
245 Wilson Street, Eveleigh
Run Wild at Ninja Kids' Summer Holiday Workshops
Watch the Beloved Stars of Bluey Come to Life in a Brand-New Play
Explore Art, Create & Play at the Art Gallery of NSW's Hive Festival
URBNSURF for the Mini-Shredders
Are your kids surfers or keen to learn how to hang ten? Urbnsurf's artificial wave pool provides safe and gentle waves that are perfect for those learning to play in the waves.
For the school holidays, it will hold two family-friendly activities: Surf In The Bays ($39), where children can learn to surf, and Boog In The Bays ($39), which helps build confidence on a bodyboard. Both activities are ideal for beginners looking to develop their skills in the water.
From $39 per person
15 Hill Road, Sydney Olympic Park
Go to a FREE Baby Music Class in Darling Harbour
Rhythm n Bubs is an engaging free music event for children aged 1-5 at Darling Harbour's Playground Lawn. Buba will enjoy a musical sing-along and fun percussion led by talented music educators. Perfect for sparking young imaginations and fostering a love for music, this family-friendly series offers joyful learning through sound.
Every Wednesday, 10:30-11:15 AM
In the event of wet weather, the session will be held at ARA Darling Quarter Theatre, 3/1-25 Harbour Street,
Playground Lawn (behind the Children's Playground), Darling Quarter
Go to a Magical Fairy Workshop
High Tea with Santa at the QVB's Iconic Tea Rooms
Want to get up close and personal with Father Christmas? Head to The Tea Room at QVB for a festive experience like no other. Enjoy a Christmas-themed traditional high tea expertly crafted by executive chef Rob Crichton, surrounded by the glow of sparkling chandeliers.
A professional photographer will be there to capture all your magical moments with Santa. Plus, don't forget to stop by the QVB's iconic three-storey Christmas Tree for a sound and light show, too.
Adult/Teenager (13+ years): $95.00, Child (1–12 years): $75.00 (includes GST and booking fees), children under one FREE
Saturday, November 9 until Christmas Eve, 24 December (selected days and times), tickets here
Level 3, Market Street, end of the Queen Victoria Building
Wundrful World of Christmas: A Journey to the North Pole
Go on a magical adventure to the snow-filled North Pole with the Wundrful World of Christmas immersive tour. Step through the enchanted Wundr Door and explore a winter wonderland with your elf pilot. Discover reindeer in their paddock, watch Santa’s elves hard at work in the workshop, and enjoy sweet treats prepared by Mrs. Claus herself.
This mixed-reality walking tour features animated characters brought to life with cutting-edge CGI technology, interactive sets, and live actors. End your visit at the North Pole Post Office, where you can send your wish list to Santa and snap a family Christmas photo.
Tickets start from $35 for adults and $25 for children, price varies depending on booking time, available here
November 8-December 24
Wunder Store, 31 Markets Street, Sydney
Enjoy Loads of Adventures at Immersive Gamebox Sydney
Challenge friends and family at Immersive Gamebox Sydney, the latest high-tech attraction, where your body becomes the controller. With 14 immersive games to choose from, including the new Escape AI, an escape-room adventure set in a digital realm, there’s something for everyone. Family-friendly options like Tetris, PAW Patrol, Angry Birds, and Ghostbusters offer hours of interactive fun for all ages.
From $60
Aquarium Wharf, Sydney
Reach New Heights at Sydney Tower Eye with a SKYWALK Adventure
Experience breathtaking 360-degree views of Sydney from the Sydney Tower Eye, the city’s highest observation deck. At 250 metres above the ground, you can admire iconic landmarks and the stunning Sydney Harbour.
For the thrill-seeking child, families can step outside on the SKYWALK, Sydney’s highest outdoor experience. This adrenaline-pumping walk offers an unforgettable perspective of the skyline.
From $95 per adult, $70 per child
Westfield Sydney, Level 5/108 Market Street, Sydney
Check Out Luna Park's Illuminating Attraction: LITE BRITE
After the great success of Sonic Neon, Luna Park is once again introducing a fun new addition. The new immersive experience, LITE BRITE: Worlds of Wonder, is a 40-minute cinematic journey that will take you through three themed worlds. Illuminated by thousands of colourful lights, you'll travel through deep ocean, dinosaur-filled rainforests and straight into the future in an experience filled with wonder and delight.
From $15
Monday-Wednesday, Friday-Sunday, multiple sessions
1 Olympic Drive, Milsons Point
Take a Coding Course at Code Camp
Code Camp offers engaging holiday programs for kids aged 5-13 across Australia. Their camps blend fun and learning, allowing children to create their own games, program robots, or explore digital design. Popular programs include Little Coders for younger children and Spark Coding for those starting their coding journey. With qualified teachers and hands-on activities, Code Camp ensures a memorable experience that combines creativity and technology.
Various locations across Sydney
From $390
For more information and to book, head here
Explore, Dine & Play at Manufactor
Dive into a World of Fun with the Stay, Sea & Play Package
Get Arty at Splatter Paint
Emrabce your child's inner artist during the school holidays with an exhilarating session at Splatter Paint. Throw on a smock and goggles, grab a brush, and let the creativity flow onto the canvas. With one and two-hour sessions on offer, kids can enjoy a creative journey filled with fun and self-expression. Guardians must accompany children under five.
Level 2/78 Spring Street, Bondi Junction
Active and Creative Kids vouchers accepted
From $59, bookings essential
Burn Some Energy at the All-Ages Playground in the City
Who doesn't love a school holiday activity that doesn't cost a cent? Enter the beyond-impressive Darling Harbour Kids' playground in the heart of the city. Parents can pick up a coffee nearby and watch from the sidelines as the kids zoom down the 21-metre flying fox, build sandcastles, whiz down the massive slide, navigate the webbed ropes and cap it all off with a splash in the water play area.
And, if you're keen to mix up your usual park spot, check out our edit of the best parks in Sydney. From Freshwater Beach's newest playground to incredible set-ups in the suburbs, we've unearthed them all.
1-25 Harbour Street, Darling Quarter, Darling Harbour
Enjoy an Immersive Sporting Experience
SportsPlus at Canterbury League Clubs is the perfect school holiday activity for all ages. With over ten interactive and immersive sports simulations across our three different lanes, there's an experience for everyone, no matter their age. From virtual darts to cricket and golf, your kids will be challenged in a fun and unique way. Worked up an appetite during your session? The venue also has a delicious pub-style food menu.
26 Bridge Road, Belmore
Catch a Show at the Sydney Opera House
For the theatre-loving kid, the Sydney Opera House has a packed calendar of brilliant shows and workshops, including Elf the Musical. Based on the iconic film, this heartwarming adaptation spectacularly brings the beloved holiday classic to life.
In January, the sweet play Josephine Wants to Dance will be running. It follows the story of a kangaroo who is determined to become a ballerina.
Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney
More information and to book, head here
Pat a Furry Friend at the Golden Ridge Animal Farm
A trip to the iconic Golden Ridge Farm will be a school holiday activity they'll remember for years to come. This family-run farm lets kids get up close and personal with its beautiful animals, including baby chicks, fluffy ducklings, and baby rabbits. Kids can also try their hand at milking the dairy cow and being led on a guided horse ride. They also offer a vacation care program for extended stays and tours.
686 Old Northern Road, Dural
Adults $25.00, children $25.00, children under one must be booked in but are free
Enjoyed our edit of the best school holiday activities in Sydney? Why not have a read of our round-up of the most family-friendly neighbourhoods in Sydney? Then check out our explainer on how to style your kids' bedroom.
