Lesser-Known Things to Do in Sydney, Australia

It is no hidden datum that Sydney has several brilliant sights and landmarks up its alley which are equally popular among both tourists and locals. If you at some point think that you have ticked off all the boxes and successfully explored all that this city has to offer, it’s still very unlikely. Below, we have created a list of the lesser known things to do in Sydney, Australia for those who think that they have conquered all that has to be seen and done in the city.

Badu Mangroves

Inside the Sydney Olympic Park end-to-end to the Homebush Bay, lie the glorious Badu Mangroves. Historically, not much importance was given to the mangroves as they were thought of as merely extraneous. However, over the years this changed and their significance for the ecosystem has been given its due.

The Badu Mangroves also came about through a similar story. Left behind during the land reclamation projects involving Homebush Bay, this ecosystem was subsequently restored and is now thriving featuring many flora and fauna species.

The mangroves are circled by a water bird sanctuary and parkland housing a unique selection of ducks, pelicans, and small songbirds. 

Interestingly, you can also spot some of the shipwrecks just a few distances off the shore including the famous SS Ayrfield. Moreover, a series of boardwalks within the mangroves give the visitors a chance to enjoy and absorb its captivating beauty and ecosystems without doing any harm to the foliage. Several picnic spots lined towards the south accessible via both wheelchairs and strollers are another plus point for the tourists and locals alike. 

Harbour Bridge Pylon Lookout

Amidst the popularity and craze of Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb, Harbour Bridge Pylon Lookout has through the years taken a backseat. This does not necessarily mean that this spot has nothing special to offer but quite the contrary. Hidden inside one of the four pylons of the bridge, the museum poses an exquisite bird’s-eye view over Sydney Harbour in just a fraction of the price as compared to the bridge.  

Wendy’s Secret Garden

Seldom times do you find places that struck a chord within you. Maybe this place was meant to do just that. After losing her husband, Wendy Whitely decided to honor his memory and turn an empty piece of land into a space that can be relished by all. Turning ruins into a heavenly abode, Wendy Whitely found a way to channel her grief. Hidden inside the Lavender Bay, this memorial site has quite literally a sense of reawakening. Featuring luscious greenery and ample sitting space, this secret garden is a sure-shot picnic spot. Bring along your food and friends and enjoy a placid weekend.

Forgotten Songs

Whenever art and activism join forces something striking and unique is borne out of it. In 2009, as part of Sydney Laneway Temporary, artist Michael Thomas Hill designed this piece of art in an attempt to shed light on the negative impacts surrounding urbanization and climate change along with paying homage to the different native birds living in the area which were subsequently forced out from the city after European settlement. 

A total of 180 birdcages commemorating the call of 50 different birds suspended above the alleyway, hidden down a stairway off Martin Palace, Angel Place is certainly an aesthetic masterpiece. 

Bondi Surf Lessons

If you have never stood up on a surfboard, now is the time. This thriller sport is the perfect way to step out of your comfort zone and have an experience of a lifetime. Beginner-friendly gear and accommodating instructors make it easy for anyone to leap over those waves. 

Queenscliff Tunnel

This one is for the tough adventure-seeking lot. Listen to me when I say, this rock climbing experience has to be one of a kind. Queenscliff Tunnel, at times known as Manly Wormhole, cut through the rock of Queenscliff Head is a 40-meter long straight right at the junction of the two beaches (Queenscliff Beach and Freshwater Beach) featuring pink-hued sunsets over the glistening water. So what are you waiting for? Fly into Sydney and get the chance to experience all the things that it has to offer.

Karting in Eastern Creek

Go-karting is always a fun option to explore when it comes to indoor activities. But what if we told you that this experience has been made bigger and better for you? Now all the karting lovers can get a chance to spin around in a qualified 13HP kart topping over 100 km per hour right in Sydney’s Premier Karting Park in Eastern Creek.

Shipwrecks of Homebush Bay

Beauty has a way of being found in the most unexpected of places. For instance, with the death of an old shipwreck yard, Homebush Bay eventually became the ultimate abode of the abundant wreckage left behind. It is apparent how there and its surrounding has accepted it and taken the uninhibited freighters to be their own resulting in their rebirth. And this is how the name ‘floating forest’ came to be. Spend some time strolling around Wentworth Point and gazing at the dreamy sunsets this sunken treasure has to offer.

Paddington Garden Reservoirs

Trust Sydney to find glory in all its ruins. Like many other places born out of relics of history, this hidden gem is no different. Paddington Reservoir Gardens integrating into the anterior Paddington Reservoir below Oxford Street was launched in 2009 and has since then become an attention-grabbing amalgamation of an exquisite sunken garden bed and wide boardwalk erected all around it. 

Bagging the title of a state heritage-listed site, its architectural design combined with contemporary elements makes it a remarkable example of urban renaissance. For this reason, it is often paralleled with the primordial Baths of Rome and the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. Easily accessible by bus, the entry to the gardens is free with an option to visit the Paddington Markets situated around. Take my word for it, and head over to this masterpiece right now, you certainly wouldn’t be disappointed.