Things to do in Western Sydney: 41 Family Favourites

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Looking for things to do in Western Sydney? You've come to the right place! 

Sydney is loaded with exciting attractions, and one particular destination holds the lion's share. Western Sydney is a mecca for adventurous families looking to soak up fun-filled experiences, animal adventures, delicious cuisines, nature escapes and plenty more. With so many attractions in Western Sydney, trust us when we say you'll never get bored!

Whether you're looking to explore unchartered territory less than an hour outside the Sydney CBD, or you're keen to rediscover your own backyard, we've got 41 highlights of Western Sydney we know you'll love.

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Things to do in Western Sydney: 41 Family Favourites

1. iFly Penrith: Indoor Skydiving

iFly Penrith
Experience the thrill of skydiving at iFly Penrith.


Discover one of the top things to do in Western Sydney with iFly Penrith's indoor skydiving, an exhilarating experience suitable for ages three and up.

Choose from various flight packages, including the popular iFly Value, and soar in the wind tunnel under the guidance of a dedicated instructor.

Open daily until late, this adventure offers a unique blend of thrill and safety, making it a must-do activity in Western Sydney.

Location: 123 Mulgoa Rd, Penrith

2. Treetop Adventures: Aerial Challenges

Treetop Adventures
Swing through the trees at Treetop Adventures.



Embark on a treetop adventure with over 100 challenges and 20 flying foxes catering to all ages. 

Treetop Adventure Park offers an eco-friendly, award-winning natural playground with special courses for younger kids and varying levels of difficulty to suit everyone.

Book your 2.5-hour session and enjoy zip-lining, climbing, and swinging through the trees, with safety training and equipment provided for a thrilling yet secure experience in the great outdoors.

Location: Western Sydney Parklands

3. Go Karting: High-Speed Thrills

Go Karting
Feel the adrenaline rush with Go Karting.

 

Do you feel the need for speed? If you're looking for things to do in Western Sydney with a touch of adrenalin, you can't go past go-karting

The Picton Karting Track offers a high-speed racing experience with three x 10-minute intervals for individuals aged 14 and above. Challenge your friends and family on one of the best tracks in Australia.

Location: Eastern Creek

4. Segway in Sydney Olympic Park: Glide and Explore

Segway in Sydney Olympic Park
Discover Sydney Olympic Park on a Segway.

 

Segway in Sydney Olympic Park offers a unique way to explore the iconic Sydney Olympic Park.

Glide effortlessly on all-terrain two-wheeled vehicles, exploring old bunkers and heritage-listed buildings while learning about their rich history. Suitable for everyone above 10 years of age, this Segway adventure offers a blend of fun, education, and adventure, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

With morning and afternoon sessions available, don your helmet, master the basics under expert guidance, and set off on a thrilling journey through Sydney's iconic park. Book online for a smooth ride into the past, filled with smiles and discoveries.

Location: Sydney Olympic Park

5. Electric Picnic Boat Hire: Serene Waterways

Electric Picnic Boat Hire
Relax on the water with Electric Picnic Boat Hire.


Set sail on a family-friendly adventure with Electric Picnic Boat Hire along the Parramatta River. With options for one-, two-, or three-hour hires, it's the perfect outing for families of all sizes. No boating license is needed, so even the littlest captains can take the helm under supervision.

Pack a picnic, bring along your furry family members, and enjoy quality time together surrounded by the stunning views of the Parramatta River. It's an ideal way to create lasting memories with your loved ones. Ready for your family's nautical escapade? 

Location: Various locations in Sydney

6. Hawkesbury River Jet Ski Tour: Waterborne Adventure

Hawkesbury River Jet Ski Tour
Thrill-seekers will love the Hawkesbury River Jet Ski Tour.

 

Hawkesbury River Jet Ski Tour offers a 90-minute adrenaline-pumping adventure on the Hawkesbury River.

Suitable for individuals aged seven and above, it's a thrilling way to explore the river's beauty.

Location: Hawkesbury River

Want to find your next adventure? Head to Experience Oz today.
 

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7. Immerse Yourself in History at the Museum of Fire

Things to do in Western Sydney
Museum of Fire in Penrith.


Calling all fire engine fans! Kids love exploring the Museum of Fire in Penrith and learning all about the history of firefighting.

Discover vintage fire engines, interactive displays, and educational exhibits that will captivate both kids and adults.

Location: 1 Museum Dr, Penrith

8. Spend the Day at Nurragingy Reserve

Things to do in Western Sydney
The bridge at Chang Lai Yuan Chinese Gardens. Image via Destination NSW.


Nurragingy Reserve is a picturesque park in Blacktown that's perfect for a family picnic or outing. 

Explore the stunning gardens, enjoy a barbecue, wander through the picturesque Chang Lai Yuan Chinese Gardens, or simply relax amidst the tranquil surroundings. Kids will love the many playgrounds within the grounds, including the Nurragingy Reserve Water Park and the brand-new Nurraging Reserve Playspace.

Location: Knox Road, Doonside

9. Catch a Flick at the Retro Skyline Drive-In Cinema

Skyline Drive-In Cinema
Grab a bite to eat at the retro diner at Skyline Drive In Blacktown.


One of the best things to do in Western Sydney for movie fans - get ready to experience the nostalgia of a traditional drive-in cinema at Skyline Drive-In Blacktown.

Snuggle up in the car and enjoy the latest blockbusters under the stars, and don't forget to grab a bite to eat at the retro diner. 

Location: Cricketers Arms Rd, Blacktown

10. Meet Some Animals at Sydney Zoo

Things to do in Western Sydney
An aerial view of Sydney Zoo.

 

Venture to Sydney's 'new' zoo, aka Sydney Zoo in Bungarribee and witness a diverse range of animals from all around the world.

The incredible zoo is one of our favourite things to do in Western Sydney, with interactive experiences, educational talks, wildlife encounters, Ferris Wheel rides and plenty more on offer. Make sure you check out their calendar for exciting special events. 

Location: 700 Great Western Hwy, Bungarribee

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11. Explore Parramatta Park

Parramatta Park
Paperbark Playground


Parramatta Park is a must-visit destination for families with loads of things to see and do.

Take a stroll through the lush gardens or cycle along the pathways, soak up the exquisite colours of the Wistaria Gardens, visit the Dairy and Rangers Cottages, wander through the many historic monuments, or take the kids for an energy-fuelled play at the popular playgrounds

Location: Cnr Pitt and Macquarie St, Parramatta

12. Visit Old Government House

Old Government House
Old Government House. Image via Destination NSW.


For things to do in Western Sydney with a historical touch, Old Government House is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a prized building in the West.

Take a guided tour to learn about its rich history and discover the beautiful gardens surrounding the historic house.

Location: Cnr Pitt and Macquarie St, Parramatta

13. Experience Thrills & Spills at Raging Waters Sydney

Raging Waters
Raging Waters


The iconic Raging Waters is one of the most popular things to do in Western Sydney when the temperatures soar.

Open during the warmer months of the year, Raging Waters is a fantastic water park for the whole family. Enjoy thrilling slides, lazy rivers, the famous H2GO Racers, beach waves, the Dinosaur Lagoon and plenty more. 

Location: 427 Reservoir Rd, Prospect 

14. Shop and Dine at Westfield Parramatta

Keen to indulge in little retail therapy? Westfield Parramatta is one of Sydney's largest shopping centres and a top attraction in the West.

Whether you're stopping in to shop at one of the many top-end boutiques, catch a movie, or get a bite to eat, a trip to Westfield Parramatta is an exhilarating experience.

Location: 159-175 Church St, Parramatta

15. Go for a Play

Fairfield Adventure Park
Fairfield Adventure Park


From Plough and Harrow Park in Abbotsbury to Livvi's Place Elara, Fairfield Adventure Park, Bungarribee Park, and the newly opened Nurragingy Reserve Playspace, the Western suburbs are chockful of awesome playgrounds to hit up with the kids on the weekend or anytime they need to use up all that energy! 

Check out 30 of our favourite playgrounds in the West.

16. To Market, to Market!

Speaking of shopping, Western Sydney is the destination for market shopping.

From the famous Blacktown Markets to Parklea Markets, Fairfield Markets, the Liverpool Growers & Foodies Market, and everyone's favourite Camden's Fresh Produce Market, there are plenty of places to stop off for your weekly haul of fresh produce and homemade treats.  

17. See at Show at Riverside Theatres

Riverside Theatres
Riverside Theatres. Image via Destination NSW.


Catch a family-friendly show or performance at the legendary Riverside Theatres.

From live theatre to dance and music events, there's always something captivating on offer at one of Sydney's favourite theatres.

Location: Corner Market and Church St, Parramatta

18. Spend a Day on the Farm at Calmsley Hill City Farm

Things to do in Western Sydney
Calmsley Hill City Farm's famous red tractor. Image via Destination NSW.


Looking for things to do in Western Sydney away from the hustle and bustle?

Escape to Calmsley Hill City Farm in Abbotsbury and immerse yourself in a true rural experience. Sydney's favourite city farm offers animal feedings, tractor rides, farm education, sheep shearing, kids' birthday parties, overnight camping and more. 

Location: 31 Darling St, Abbotsbury

19. Arcades Galore

Holey Moley
Holey Moley, Penrith


Challenge your family to a game of mini-golf, arcade games or bowling at the combined Holey Moley and Archie Brothers Cirque Electric in Penrith. 

The epic indoor arcade will keep families entertained for hours with nine holes of crazy indoor golf, nostalgic arcade games and tenpin bowling. Replenish your energy with delicious snacks and drinks before your next game.

Location: Shop MM102/585 High St, Penrith

20. Spook Yourself on a Ghost Tour

Ghost tours at Parramatta Gaol
Ghost tours at Parramatta Gaol.


One of the best things to do in Western Sydney for courageous families (aged 12 and above), why not join a Ghost Tour at Parramatta Gaol after dark?

You can learn about the city's haunted history as you explore the eerie streets and buildings, and you might even spot a ghost or two!

Check out more ghost tours in Sydney.

Location: O'Connell St, North Parramatta

21. Hop on a Ferry Ride

Parramatta Ferry
Parramatta River Ferry. Image via Destination NSW.


See Western Sydney from the water on an exciting ferry ride! Kids will love hopping aboard the Parramatta River Ferry, aka Sydney's first-ever ferry service, and travelling the Parramatta River waters all the way up to the harbour. 

Location: Parramatta River Ferry departs daily from Parramatta Wharf.

22. Make Some Waves at the Pool

Splasher's Playground Sydney Olympic Park
Splasher's Playground at Sydney Olympic Park.


Looking for indoor things to do in Western Sydney? Temperatures can soar pretty high during the summer months out west, which is why we're so thrilled to have so many amazing indoor pools to cool off in!

There are loads to take your pick on any day of the week, and here are a few of our favourite indoor pools and leisure centres:

Splasher's Playground
Ripples Leisure Centre
Fairfield City Leisure Centres
Epping Aquatic Centre
Blacktown Leisure Centre
Parramatta Aquatic Centre

23. Learn About Aboriginal Culture

Keen for the kids to learn about Australia's rich Aboriginal heritage? 

Visit the Muru Mittigar Cultural Centre to experience indigenous culture through guided tours, storytelling, and art workshops.

Location: 21 Guntawong Rd, Rouse Hill

24. Bounce it out at Flip Out

Flip Out
Flip Out


Bouncing it out at some of Sydney's largest indoor trampoline parks is one of our favourite things to do in Western Sydney.

Flip Out have locations dotted across the west, including Blacktown, Caringbah, Penrith, Villawood, and Revesby, for active kids to bounce their hearts out. Flip Out also run ninja classes, kids' birthday parties and more.  

Locations: multiple throughout the Western suburbs - visit the website to find a Flip Out near you.

25. Explore the Australian Botanic Garden

Things to do in Western Sydney
Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan.


Discover the wonders of nature at the Australian Botanic Garden in Mount Annan.

Covering over 400 hectares of natural woodland, stunning gardens and wide open spaces, the Australian Botanic Garden is a treasure trove of science, gardens, plants and horticulture.

A day out at the Australian Botanic Garden is always a good idea. You can take a leisurely walk through the stunning gardens, pack a picnic, or attend one of the many family-oriented events and workshops.

Location: Narellan Road, Mount Annan

26. Say Hi to PHIVE

PHIVE
The new Parramatta Library at PHIVE.


With a new library, community centre and cultural hub, PHIVE at Parramatta Square is a must-do on our list of the best things to do in Western Sydney.

Opened in 2023, PHIVE is a community hub in the heart of Parramatta for families to learn and engage with the community. Our favourite spot is undoubtedly the brand-new Parramatta Library, which boasts 65,000 books, a dedicated children's space, and modern parents' facilities. Check it out asap!

Location: 5 Parramatta Sq, Parramatta 

27. Indulge in a Food Safari on Eat Street

Eat Street
Eat Street Parramatta


Western Sydney is renowned for its delectable array of cuisines from all corners of the globe, and one spot that combines all these gastronomic flavours in one delicious spot is the famous Eat Street in Parramatta.

Let your tastebuds savour the flavours of pho, banh mi, Lebanese, Italian and more, and don't forget to finish it all off with a yummy dessert!

Location: 34-36 Albert St, North Parramatta

28. Visit Sydney Olympic Park

Sydney Olympic Park
Sydney Olympic Park


Experience the legacy of the 2000 Olympics at Sydney Olympic Park

A destination for entertainment, sports, dining, discovery, and family fun, Sydney Olympic Park has it all. Enjoy cycling, explore the giant Brickpit Ring Walk, traverse a centuries-old mangrove forest, grab a bite to eat, cool off at Splasher's Playground, go for a play at Blaxland Riverside Park, see a show at Qudos Bank Arena, have a gymnastics party and loads more.

Location: Olympic Boulevard Sydney Olympic Park

29. Get Creative at the Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre

Visit the Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre for a creative adventure where you can engage in art workshops, explore exhibitions, and enjoy family-friendly performances.

Location: 1 Powerhouse Rd, Casula

30. Unwind at Lake Parramatta Reserve

Lake Parramatta Reserve
Lake Parramatta Reserve


One of our favourite things to do in Western Sydney on a lazy afternoon is to escape the hustle and bustle of the city by visiting Lake Parramatta Reserve.

Take a refreshing dip, enjoy a family picnic, or explore the walking trails around the picturesque lake.

Location: 28 Bourke Street, North Parramatta 

31. Embrace Active Fun at Inflatable World Oz

Inflatable World Oz
Inflatable World Oz


Jump, bounce, and slide your way to laughter-filled memories at Inflatable World Oz.

The mega indoor play centre features a variety of inflatable structures and obstacle courses that guarantee hours of active fun for children of all ages. With multiple venues dotted throughout the west, Inflatable World Oz is the perfect rainy day activity or an energetic escape from the heat!

Locations: multiple throughout the Western suburbs - visit the website to find an Inflatable World Oz near you.

32. Get Your Adrenalin Going at Cables Wake Park

Cables Water Park
Cables Wake Park


Head to Cables Wake Park in Penrith for a day of water fun and adrenalin.

Try wakeboarding, kneeboarding, or even cable skiing—an exhilarating experience for water sports enthusiasts.

Location: 405 Jamison Rd, Penrith

Check out more things to do in Penrith.

33. Indulge Your Sweet Tooth at The Dessert Lab

The Dessert Lab Camden
The Dessert Lab, Camden


Satisfy your cravings for something sweet and oh-so-sugary at The Dessert Lab in Camden. 

The adorable cafe on Argyle Street peddles incredible desserts and other sugary concoctions for the masses. We highly recommend ordering their famous Dutch pancakes or mermaid waffles - yum!

Location: 1/125 Argyle St, Camden

For more, check out the best desserts in Parramatta.

34. Learn at the Experiment Farm Cottage

Experiment Farm Cottage
The Experiment Farm Cottage


Step back in time at the Experiment Farm Cottage, the site of Australia's first land grant.

Families can take a guided tour, explore the gardens, and learn about early Australian farming.

Location: 9 Ruse St, Harris Park

35. Step Inside a Tropical Rainforest at Auburn Botanic Gardens

Auburn Botanic Gardens
Auburn Botanic Gardens' Rainforest Garden.


The Auburn Botanic Gardens are an incredible place to visit at any time of the year.

One of our favourite spots is the lush Rainforest Garden where you can feel like you're deep inside a tropical rainforest right in the heart of bustling Western Sydney.

If you're visiting during spring, the Cherry Blossom Festival at Auburn Botanic Gardens is a top priority when it comes to things to do in Western Sydney. Usually held in August every year, the festival celebrates the iconic cherry blossoms that flower in the gardens, giving Sydneysiders a chance to experience a slice of Japan's prized cherry blossoms.

Location: Auburn Botanic Gardens, Chiswick Road, Auburn

36. Go for a Splash at Aquatopia

Things to do in Western Sydney
Aquatopia

 

Aquatopia Water Park at Prairiewood Leisure Centre is the ultimate destination for splash-tastic things to do in Western Sydney.

Kids and families can splash around on the 10- and 20-metre-high giant slides, climb the adventure aqua tower, make waves in the toddlers' pool, try out the Wave Rider bodyboard simulator, and splash all day in the new, gigantic 55-metre Wave Pool!

Location: Prairie Vale Rd and Moonlight Rd, Prairiewood 

37. Enjoy a Family Picnic by Parramatta River

Parramatta River
Parramatta River. Image via Destination NSW.


What's better than a leisurely family picnic by the picturesque Parramatta River on a lazy afternoon? 

Parramatta River stretches for 14 kilometres of gorgeous natural settings and reserves, all offering plenty of spots to lay out a picnic blanket with the family. 

38. Go for a Ride at the Largest BMX Hub in Australia

Wylde BMX and Mountain BikeTrail
Wylde BMX and Mountain BikeTrail


The Wylde BMX and Mountain Bike Trail is the largest BMX hub in Australia AND the biggest bike track in the Southern Hemisphere!

Located in Western Sydney's sprawling Parklands, the Wylde BMX and Mountain Bike Trail is adventure heaven for biking and scootering enthusiasts. The 86-hectare park has rides, jumps, loops, pump tracks, scooter zones and plenty more.

Location: Range Rd, Cecil Park

39. Play Laser Tag at Zone Bowling

Zone Bowling
Zone Bowling


Engage in an epic laser tag battle at Zone Bowling.

With 11 Zone Bowling locations to choose from and bowling, laser games, arcades and more to revel in, it's always a good time to team up with your family and friends and experience the thrill of laser tag in a futuristic arena!

Locations: multiple across Sydney - visit the website to find a Zone Bowling near you.

40. Immerse in all the Art at the Penrith Regional Gallery

Penrith Regional Gallery
Penrith Regional Gallery


Visit the Penrith Regional Gallery and immerse yourself in contemporary art and exhibitions.

Take part in interactive workshops, explore the sculpture garden, and ignite your family's artistic side.

Location: 86 River Rd, Emu Plains

41. Catch a Live Event

Parramatta Park
Parramatta Park during Sydney WorldPride.


The West's events calendar is a busy one, with loads of family events, kids' shows, live music, festivals and plenty more happening throughout the year.

More Things to do in Sydney

Picturesque Coastal Walks in Sydney
Sydney's Best Kid-friendly Museums
Where to go Fruit Picking in Sydney & Beyond
 

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