Top Rated Attractions in Sydney

Built in 1858, the Observatory operated until the 1980s and gained an international reputation for its work. This elegant, sandstone complex is now part of the Powerhouse Museum. The permanent exhibition, by the light of the southern stars', is highly informative while there is also a temporary exhibition programme and associated events. On a clear night, the stars and planets are visible through a telescope and can be accessed via guided tours every evening throughout the year. Bookings are essential for this family-oriented activity. Admission price varies depending on time of day.

Opened in 1884, the Taronga Zoo was one of the first public zoos in New South Wales. Over the years, the zoo has undergone extensive renovation and redevelopment. It now features updated exhibits and even a Rainforest Trail, providing a unique insight into the majesty and wonder of the jungle homes of an amazing array of rare wildlife including Asian elephants, silvery gibbons, Francois langurs, Asian turtles, and fishing cats. Visitors must also check out their other fascinating precincts such as Reptile World, African Savannah and the Rainforest Aviary. The Taronga Zoo is continually building and updating its cultural and educational displays and precincts in order to provide the ultimate in family fun as well as wildlife education.

Occupying a superb site overlooking Darling Harbour, the seven core exhibitions displayed here represent the diversity of Australian maritime heritage covering such subjects as the Aboriginal presence, navigators, passengers, commerce and leisure. It is also possible to inspect HMAS Vampire and Onslow. A Welcome Wall pays tribute to more than six million people who have crossed the world to settle in Australia.

The ANZ Stadium, which is also referred to as Stadium Australia, was constructed in 1999 for use as the main stadium of the 2000 Summer Olympics. Aside from the Olympics, the multi-purpose stadium has also hosted events like the Rugby World Cup and the Bledisloe Cup, domestic and international cricket and football matches, as well as, concerts of popular music stars. The stadium has multiple unique features like its ability to change shape depending on the requirement of the sport being played, flexible seating, a semi-enclosed structure which ensures shade and comfort to each spectator irrespective of the field shape, eco-friendly features like rain-water harvesting, use of natural ventilation, environmentally safe construction materials and more.

Far above the maddening crowds, Sydney Tower or AMP Tower provides 360-degree views of Sydney’s gorgeous skyline. It takes just 40 seconds for the double-decker lifts to reach the 309-meter (1,014 feet) summit, where visitors can take advantage of guided tours. At 260 meters (853 feet), the glass Skywalk is a must-see for those who love panoramic views. A revolving vantage point that was opened in 2005 goes all the way around the tower, offering both a luxurious and memorable experience, as well as jaw-dropping bird’s eye views of Sydney. The revolving portion of the tower also houses a restaurant, making it a perfect romantic spot for couples to have a quiet meal with an amazing view.

Dating from 1857, Australian Museum, located in an imposing neo-classical stone building, encompasses the natural histories of Australia, Papua New Guinea and the Pacific region. Its diverse collections range from invertebrate and vertebrate zoology to mineralogy, paleontology and anthropology. While the dinosaurs perhaps attract most interest, visitors are lured back by the varied, temporary exhibition program. The shop is well stocked and there is a restaurant and cafe. This is a good place to take the family on a wet Sunday afternoon.