Lesser Known Attractions and Things to do in Sydney
Traveling to Sydney for the first time? Looking for other activities to complete your weekend with some superbike action? If we were to put a comprehensive list of the best things to do in Sydney (outside of attending the ASBK round!), we might need a second round here to cover all of them – So where do we start? Let’s set some guidelines, we’ll focus on attractions that are lesser known. The Opera House, Harbour Bridge and Bondi Beach are all world-class places to visit, but you already knew that, let’s do a deep dive into Sydney and find some eye-catching, awe-inspiring attractions.
For a complete list of attractions, itineraries, food & drink and shopping in Sydney, continue to sydney.com and plan your weekend away today.
The Rocks
The Rocks is the birthplace of modern Sydney. With the arrival of European settlers in 1788, it was here that the convicts first set up house and shop. The best way to discover the area’s rich colonial history is on foot as you amble along cobbled streets and follow little laneways that house everything from markets to museums and galleries. Join The Rocks Walking Tours, which start at 6pm outside Cadman’s Cottage, before relaxing in one of the many historic pubs in the area such as The Fortune of War or The Glenmore.
Tribal Warrior
Cruise the most beautiful city harbour in Australia, and enjoy the relaxed and friendly company of your Aboriginal hosts and crew.
Embark on a two hour journey to hear the stories of the Cadigal, Guringai, Wangal, Gammeraigal and Wallumedegal. Learn the Aboriginal names and meanings of significant Sydney landmarks. Come ashore on an island in Sydney Harbour to an authentic Aboriginal cultural performance.
Sydney Harbour as you have never experienced it before. Travel its waters on their cultural harbour cruise.
You will be taken on a journey from pre-white settlement through our coastal lifestyle – uncovering traditional fishing methods and food gathering techniques. Discover the culture, meet the people and enjoy the sights of Sydney Harbour.
Established in 1998, Tribal Warrior operates Sydney’s only Aboriginal owned and operated Aboriginal cultural cruise.
Australian National Maritime Museum
Spectacularly located at the waterfront of Darling Harbour, the Maritime Museum is a distinctive indoor/outdoor attraction and great entertainment for the whole family.
The museum has one of the largest and most diverse in-water fleets in the world including the cold war submarine HMAS Onslow, naval destroyer HMAS Vampire, and the stunning replica of Captain Cook’s tall ship HMB Endeavour. Explore the danger and drama of military life at sea inside the interactive Action Stations experience; a high-tech immersive journey that shows the inner workings of the Royal Australian Navy like never before.
The museum also hosts six permanent galleries, an ever-changing program of temporary exhibitions, and a 3D cinema, ensuring that there is something for everyone.
When it’s time for a break they have a range of waterfront dining options for every taste and budget. Treat yourself at their family-friendly Ripples Cafe, enjoy something delicious from The Coffee Kiosk or picnic at their tables on the Waterfront Boardwalk.
The museum offers a range of facilities and services for people with disability, such as Auslan-interpreted programs for the Deaf community and programs such as descriptive touch tours for visitors with vision impairment. If you’re visiting with a group that has particular access requirements, please ring the booking office on 02 9298 3777 and staff can assist in planning your visit.
Sydney Motor Glider Flight Group
Soar like a bird! Sydney Motor Glider Flight Group is based at Camden Airport and can take you on a gliding adventure over the Sydney Basin and Blue Mountains. You will be provided with a comprehensive briefing before your flight by an experienced instructor who will show you how the controls work. Once airborne you can get “hands on” experience under the supervision of your instructor and of course you are also able to sit back, relax and enjoy the spectacular view!
As the name implies, motor gliders are self propelled gliders which can climb high and then the engine is switched off. The rest of the flight is done by riding the thermal air currents followed by a leisurely glide back to Camden airport. All introductory flights are done in favourable conditions and you can choose from a 45 or 60 minute flight time. After your first flight, if you decide to take further lessons, you will be guided through the process.
Sydney Motor Glider Flight Group is keen to encourage all ages and anyone with disabilities to come along and get involved. Please feel free to give them a call if you have any special needs.
Taronga Zoo Sydney
the award-winning Taronga Zoo is home to over 4,000 animals, including Australian native wildlife, as well as rare and endangered exotic animals. Overlooking the magnificent Sydney Harbour, Taronga Zoo is just 12 minutes from the city by ferry. Open 365 days a year, admission includes daily keeper talks and presentations.
Enjoy the Free-Flight Bird Presentation overlooking Sydney Harbour, featuring some of the world’s most spectacular birds and be delighted by the Daily Seal Presentation where Australian and Californian Sea-lions and the New Zealand Fur-seals will impress you with their grace and skill.
Challenge yourself on Taronga’s exciting sky high adventure, Wild Ropes. Tackle obstacles, cross suspension bridges and soar through the trees while enjoying breath-taking views of Sydney Harbour.
