Curator’s statement
Basking under the surprisingly mild New South Wales sun and wedged between countless harbors lies Sydney, a city offering a relaxed lifestyle on the precipice of adventure. Touchdown at SYD offers a breathtaking panoramic preview of sheer metropolitan beauty, a welcome sight after what was probably the longest flight of your life. Whether you’re cruising the harbor, taking a road trip to an Australian animal sanctuary, or wandering through the Central Business District past a myriad of coffee shops, Sydney is a city that stays with you long after you have gone home.
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Things to do in Sydney
Beaches
Sydney is the embodiment of what it means to be a coastal city. With that in mind, the world, or the city rather, is your oyster when it comes to finding a beach that matches your vibe. Looking for the greatest hits with a bustling atmosphere and endless food and drink options? Head to Manly or Bondi Beach (check out the Bondi Icebergs Pool for a truly unique swimming experience right on the shoreline.) Prefer a quiet, laid-back afternoon? Dart for Milk, Shark, or Hermit Beach instead. Whether you choose the ocean or the harbor inlets, Sydney offers endless ways to kick back and enjoy the gorgeous Australian weather.
Circular Quay
If you’re visiting Sydney, the Opera House will already be on your radar, so I do not need to convince you to check it out. After you’ve taken your rite-of-passage lap around the vibrant Opera House, grab a drink below at Opera Bar. Staring at a UNESCO World Heritage Site while sipping an ice-cold pint of Tooheys Extra Dry during golden hour is an experience that cannot be beaten. Continue your walk after your drink and head to the Royal Botanic Garden, a radiant green space with over 27,000 types of plants. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a kookaburra, a bird so fluffy it could be mistaken for a plush toy. Finally, be sure to admire the architecture of St. Mary’s Cathedral, located just south of the garden and adjacent to Hyde Park. Australia is not the oldest country in the world, but this church’s sheer elegance will transport you back in time.
Animal sanctuaries
Much of the lore of Australia derives from the unique animals that call this continent home and cannot be found anywhere else in the world. As with any major city, it can be a tall task to find these beasts right within the urban limits. Luckily, Sydney and its surrounding areas offer countless opportunities to see classic Aussie animals, including kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, dingoes, cassowaries, wombats, and crocodiles. My personal favorite was Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park, located about 40 minutes from downtown, which offers up-close encounters with koalas as well as hands-on feeding with the kangaroos and wallabies. Taronga Zoo and Sydney Zoo are also incredibly popular options to help you check off your Australian animal bucket list.
Cruise the harbors
There is nothing quite like taking in the ambiance of Sydney from the water. Sightseeing tours are great options if you would like to learn a thing or two, and they offer a nice way to decompress after some serious jet lag. Popular sites to see include the Harbour Bridge, Luna Park, and of course, the Sydney Opera House. There are plenty of tour operators, so be sure to compare prices for the best value. Ferries are also a main method of public transit in Sydney, so be sure to utilize them over rideshares or taxis whenever you can. There are numerous ports around the city, and they operate on such a regular schedule that you will never wait long. I took the ferry out to Manly Beach and can honestly say it was one of the most enjoyable commutes I have ever taken!
Day trip to the Blue Mountains
Sydney is an extremely green city, but if you’d like to venture further into remote nature, take a day trip to the Blue Mountains. In 2020, the region experienced deadly wildfires that destroyed much of the vegetation and wildlife. Luckily, thanks to a massive recovery effort, the local flora and fauna are making a flourishing comeback. Take advantage of the numerous canyon and waterfall hikes, and keep an eye out for cockatoos flying through the trees above. On a clear day, go enjoy the lookout that reveals the Three Sisters, a mountain structure shaped like three figures with some serious Australian lore.
Places to eat & drink in Sydney
The Caterpillar Club
For DJs, live music, and a killer overall aesthetic, The Caterpillar Club has you covered. The establishment features a moody atmosphere paired with walls stacked with vintage vinyl. Per the club’s website: “No laptops, no autoplay, just records and the people who know how to play them.”
Kingsleys Steakhouse
Hidden off King Street, Kingsleys skips the gimmicks to deliver high-quality ingredients and locally sourced meat. It’s remarkably well-priced for a Sydney CBD steakhouse, yet sacrifices nothing when it comes to flavor and freshness. Plus, they boast an impressive wine list with bottles spanning all across Australia and New Zealand.
Club Rose Bay
Taking a beach day on the eastern side of the harbor? Conclude your sunbathing with a visit to Club Rose Bay. Even on weekdays, this trendy spot fills up quickly thanks to its cozy, renovated interior and lively patio, complete with plenty of shade umbrellas and a pickleball court. Be sure to order the arancini to pair with one of their refreshing craft cocktails.
Nanjng Gourmet
Nanjing Gourmet may look unassuming, but it boasts the best soup dumplings in Sydney. Tucked right into the heart of Chinatown, it’s well worth a quick pop-in while you're exploring.
Super Bowl Chinese Restaurant
Super Bowl is another Chinatown gem, dishing out championship-level fried noodles. Snag a table outside so you can take in all the hustle and bustle of the area.
Need to know
Good coffee is practically impossible to avoid in Sydney. The city's coffee culture is thriving, with an abundance of local spots that will easily satisfy your caffeine fix. Skip the chains!
For whatever reason, chicken parm (parma per the Aussies) is a staple at Australian pubs. I asked a local why every place seemed to have it on the menu, and his reply was simple: “Because they’re good!” Be sure to order one when you're out in Sydney.
BridgeClimb Sydney offers an unforgettable experience where you can suit up and climb to the top of the Harbour Bridge. However, if you’re pressed for time or following a more budget-conscious itinerary, you can simply walk across the pedestrian walkway and still enjoy breathtaking views of the harbor.
Australia does not offer a visa on arrival for U.S. citizens. Before departing, be sure to download the AustralianETA app on your phone to submit your passport details and complete your application.
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