If you’ve visited the Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney and loved it, a visit to its sister site in the Blue Mountains is well worth the drive. We love heading to the Mountains for a day trip or an overnighter and this trip will take you though the area’s classic little villages, perfect for a pit stop or B & B stay. The Garden itself is a fabulous place to spend a family day out. Here you’ll experience a wonderland of native and exotic plants that you won’t ever see in the big smoke and of course, there are the sensational Blue Mountain views.

This place is geared for families with special events for children during the year and especially during the school holidays. The garden runs regular Quests that will keep your little ones entertained navigating the maze like garden while teaching them about their surroundings. And little explorers will love the magical Laughing Children’s Garden, an interactive garden that will captivate children’s imagination for hours.

For a break from the outdoors, visit the World Heritage Exhibition Centre where kids of all ages can play in a virtual world of canyons, touch diverse forms of gum trees, wander through a slot canyon without getting their feet wet and experience a journey through the gigantic cliffs in a full surround sound theatre.

Best of all, this family adventure is FREE and guaranteed to leave the little ones weary at the end of the day!

Ellaslist Opinion: this really is a great way to spend some quality family time away from the distractions of the city. There are adventures galore for kids here from self and guided tours to a ramble around the children’s garden. And they all involve nothing but your child’s own imagination! Check the website for special family activities-especially during school holidays.

Admission: Free

Facilities: Very kid friendly restaurant, picnic areas with free electric barbecues, baby change facilities in Visitors Centre. There are a few steep hills and steps to avoid but plenty of flat ground and kid friendly walks.

Getting There: The Blue Mountains Botanic Garden is 105 km west of Sydney in the Blue Mountains, a two-hour drive from Sydney. By Car: follow Bells Line of Road from Richmond or Lithgow through the Blue Mountains. Mount Tomah is 40 km west of Richmond – look out for the signs. There is no public transport to the Garden.