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Being bored in Sydney is like being hungry at a buffet—there are so many fun things to do in Sydney, the real problem is narrowing down your choices! But don’t worry, we’re here to help. From strolling along the waterfront in Circular Quay to finding the best eats in the Inner West or catching waves in Manly, the beauty of Sydney is its diversity. No matter your niche, there’s an activity for you!
Are you crafty, arty or an avid foodie? Find your happy place at a Sydney workshop! None of those things but looking for a unique experience? Pick up some new skills and try something you’ve never done before! Whether you're a local or just visiting the city, there’s no shortage of Sydney activities to fill your calendar. Let’s dive in.
Embrace traditional cultures in Chippendale
Broaden your horizons and support Indigenous-owned small businesses with a dot painting class in Chippendale. Led by Indigenous Australian artist Kabushka Ngemba, this isn’t your average paint and sip class—it’s a deep dive into First Nations culture. You’ll learn to understand the stories behind Indigenous art and have time to make your own dot painting. Kabushka will guide you through the history and techniques of dot painting, offering personal insights into the cultural significance of this ancient art form. Finish up the class with your own artwork to take home and a profound appreciation for the original custodians of this land. If you’re looking for things to do in Sydney that blend fun with experiencing culture, this is the workshop for you.
Join in on the fun: Selected weekend afternoons from 1pm to 3pm.
Why our community are loving it: “My son and I had a lovely couple of hours with Kabushka. The space was beautiful and it was very interesting to learn more about Indigenous people and their art. We came away very proud of what we had painted!" - Nicky R.
Other things to do in Chippendale
After your art class, continue your cultural exploration with a taste of Greece at Lukumades, where you can enjoy mouthwatering Greek doughnuts and coffee. It's the perfect spot for a sweet pick-me-up. There’s plenty of shopping around the area too if you want to squeeze more into your day.
Explore the streets of Inner Sydney
One of the best ways to get out and about in Sydney is with a photography class! After all, it’s essentially a walking tour that also shows you how to really see your city and capture all its beauty. This smartphone photography class will take you through the streets of Darlinghurst, one of the more beautiful areas in Sydney boasting elegant architecture and green spaces. The best part is, you don’t need an expensive camera to join! Simply grab your trusty smartphone and some walking shoes and try this fun activity. Becoming a tourist in your own backyard is one of the best ways experience our beautiful harbourside home in a new. light (No wonder photography classes are one of the popular things to do in Sydney for an unforgettable staycation!)
Join in on the fun: Selected Sunday afternoons from 1:30pm to 4:30pm.
Why our community are loving it: “I had such an amazing afternoon doing this course with Sarah. Our group was nice and small which meant great one-on-one tips and tricks. Whilst I’m familiar with some photography basics, I still learnt a lot of cool features I didn’t know my iPhone could do, as well as how to use some editing apps. Perfect value for money course.” - Rebecca H.
Other things to do in Inner Sydney
With so many cute cafes and restaurants in Darlinghurst, you’ll be spoiled for choice! And after a day of walking around the city, you’ll definitely need a pick-me-up. Start with a drink at The Royal Hotel Paddington for swanky cocktail lounge vibes then head over to dinner at Bootleg Italian for plant-based pasta. We recommend trying their homemade soda too!
Try sustainable crafts in Sydney’s Inner West
For a taste of Sydney’s cool, funky and alternative side, you’ll want to head to the Inner West. A furniture upcycling workshop in Summer Hill offers a quintessential experience. Bring a piece of furniture you’ve been meaning to do up and learn all the techniques you’ll need to transform it into a unique piece for your home. If you haven’t got anything to take in but you still want to get in on the upcycling action, you can always stop at the local Vinnies and find a unique piece. It’s the perfect indoor activity for rainy days in Sydney plus you’ll get morning and afternoon tea to keep you fueled. You’ll leave with the knowledge and inspiration to start your upcycling journey, making it ideal for sustainable folks or those looking for a side hustle.
Join in on the fun: The second and fourth Saturday of the month from 9:30am to 4pm.
Why our community are loving it: “I highly recommend this class. Deb is a warm, bubbly person and obviously enjoys teaching people how to upcycle furniture. The setting was great, the class was both fun and informative and the morning tea was delicious as well. I will definitely be booking another of Deb’s classes.” - Sue S.
Other things to do in the Inner West
Aside from its quirky and arty vibe, the Inner West is known for one other thing—good food. After you’ve wrapped up your class you’ll be spoiled for things to do and places to eat. For authentic Asian dishes in a casual yet upscale dining environment, you can’t go past Lotus Dumpling Bar in Summer Hill.
Get quirky with hot wax in the CBD
You’ve heard of candle making, you’ve heard of sculptures—so, why not combine the two? Well, this sculptural candle making in Sydney’s CBD does exactly that! Over two hours, you’ll create whimsical designs with wax and walk away with some super cute and unique handmade candles! And while you might not expect it, the best part is watching your creations slowly melt—it’s a gleeful exercise in destruction! This class is one of the best things to do in Sydney for adults who are just big kids at heart.
Join in on the fun: Monday to Sunday with three sessions offered from 12pm to 6pm.
Why our community are loving it: “Had a lovely evening making dessert candles. The teacher was wonderful, so friendly and helpful! Such a cute studio with a lot of materials to choose from.” - Amy D.
Other things to do in Sydney’s CBD
Making cute and colourful candles in Sydney may remind you of the playfulness of childhood but by the time your class is over, it will be time for dinner and getting serious about good food and wine. Walk 15 minutes down the road towards Wynyard Station and you’ll find Vini Divini Wine Lab serving mouthwatering Mediterranean small plates and boasting an extensive list of wines from around the world. The atmosphere is chic and the aesthetic is sophisticated old-school Italian yet it’s still a small and intimate space for relaxed drinks and nibbles.
Make tasty kimchi in Outer Sydney
Learn about gut health, probiotics and kimchi at this fermentation class in Schofields and start your journey towards healthy digestion! If you’re looking for fun things to do in Sydney’s North West, this class packs a flavour punch of nutrition. You’ll learn how to make your own kimchi—the benefits of which are nothing to wrinkle your nose at and get some hands-on practice with the fermentation process. With no nasties, this homemade kimchi can be much healthier than anything you’ll find at the supermarket. Plus you get to take what you make home with you! Your kitchen may suffer but your gut will thank you for it.
Join in on the fun: Days and times are mixed—the next class is September 11th from 6pm to 7:15pm.
Why our community are loving it: “Loved making this vegan kimchi! Kathryn shared her traditional recipe and I thoroughly enjoyed the hands-on experience. I can’t wait to taste it after it has fermented.” - Yolanda W.
Other things to do in Schofields
Start your day with a filling breakfast and a not overly gut-healthy but addictive and delicious cup of coffee at The Shed in Schofields to get you ready for your morning of pickling and fermenting.
From cultural workshops to culinary adventures, finding fun things to do in Sydney has never been easier! Whether you're looking to learn something new, explore different cultures or simply enjoy the city’s eclectic food scene, there’s something to be found in every corner of this iconic city. Banish boredom next month with these unique activities and try something new in Sydney.
