The Rocks for Kids

Located at the foot of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, The Rocks is one of Sydney’s premier tourist destinations. With its amazing views, historical sandstone buildings and cobblestone streets, it is easy to see why visitors to our city are drawn to this historic location. But the Rocks isn’t just for tourists - there is plenty on offer for a day out with the family and Sydneysiders might be surprised to discover the many free activities for kids of all ages.

If you rock up to the Rocks without a plan, the Sydney Visitor Centre located in the Rocks Centre, on the corner of Argyle and Playfair streets is a great place to start. The staff are local experts who can pass on all the latest information on child-friendly activities in the area.

When you need a break from wandering the shop-lined streets, The Rocks offers many beautiful parks where active kids can play. While none of these parks offers play equipment, there is plenty of room to run and explore. These parks also boast beautiful spots to lay down a blanket and enjoy a picnic while taking in the harbour views. 

The Rocks Discovery Museum (3+) FREE: The Rocks Discovery Museum is a free, family-friendly museum, which immerses visitors in the history of the area- from pre-European days to the present.  The Museum is small and may not hold young ones’ interest for a long visit but admission is free and it’s a great way to get an overview of the Rocks’ fascinating past. All areas of the museum are accessible with a pram. 

Keep an eye on The Rocks website the next time you are looking for excellent school holiday ideas.

If you find yourself in the Rocks on a Friday, make sure you check out the Foodies Market. With a more local vibe than the huge weekend markets, you can pick up great produce, fresh flowers as well as artisan bread, olive oil and chocolate. On Saturdays and Sundays, The Rocks are home to the Weekend Markets – there are great stalls for kids’ clothes and toys the fairy shop is gorgeous and a magnet for little girls. With over 200 stalls, this may best suit mums with sleeping bubs in prams who can take the time to take it all in. Jack Mundy Place, The Rocks. Foodies Market: Fridays 10am-4pm, Weekend Market: Saturday and Sunday 10am-5pm. 

Ellaslist opinion: Before babies, The Rocks may have been enjoyed for its great pubs and fine dining but if you haven’t paid a visit post kids, you’ll be surprised at the great range of kid-friendly activities. A stroll along the cobblestoned paths which wind among original sandstones buildings is an excellent way to ignite your children’s interest in their city’s history. The location can’t be beaten and whether it is your destination or a stop on the way to the MCA or Opera House, you’ll find “a story around every corner” on your visit to The Rocks.

Getting There: The Rocks is an easy 10-minute stroll from Sydney’s CBD. The main entry point to The Rocks is via George Street. Visitors walking from Darling Harbour can also enter The Rocks via Hickson Road. If catching public transport, hop on the train or bus to Circular Quay and you are only a short walk away. There are a number of secure, conveniently located parking stations throughout The Rocks

Facilities: Pram access is fine but be prepared for bumpy cobblestones. Baby change facilities are available at Circular Quay and at many restaurants/cafes in the area. The Rocks has a great variety of child-friendly cafes and restaurants as well as excellent picnic spots.

Places to visit nearby: MCA, Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney Opera House, Museum of Sydney