Skip to main content

Places worth discovering

Things to Do

Find attractions, experiences and places to visit. Events remain the best way to see what is happening on a particular date.

Looking for a dated event? Explore Events

1643 places

Explore local places

Chinatown gates on Dixon Street, Sydney
Image credit: Destination NSW

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Dixon Street

Dixon Street is a pedestrian mall located on Dixon Street in Haymarket, between Hay Street and Goulburn Street. Originally it was a timber storage yard and after Chinese people began to move into Haymarket in the 1920s, Chinese people started using the site as a place to set up cook shops and to cater for the suburban Chinese market gardeners who came to the city to sell their produce. Gradually, more restaurants, grocery stores, butchers and fruit and vegetable shops were opened to meet the needs of the Chinese population concentrated in the city area. Today, this is the iconic street of Chinatown Sydney, is where you will find many great Asian eateries and local goods.

Sydney NSW

0.1 km away

View place
Darling Square

Shopping and Markets

Darling Square

The new urban neighbourhood with big ideas on how to live, connect, relax, work and play. Darling Square is a playground of innovative food, fashion, culture and experience, connecting Ultimo, Darling Harbour and Haymarket. Darling Square is home to three distinct precincts. Steam Mill Lane is a mini eat street packed with restaurants and bars, from quick bites and innovative food to healthy lunches. Little Hay street is a hub for eating, drinking and good times, fusing the vibrant energy of Darling Square with the colourful culture of Chinatown. The striking Exchange Building is wrapped in 20km of pale accoya timber strips. Inside you'll find a modern marketplace, the Makers Dozen, the brand new Darling Square Library and innovation hub Ideas Lab. There are more than 50 places to eat and drink in Darling Square, as well as homewares stores, spas and beauty salons, hairdressers and essential stores.

Haymarket NSW

0.2 km away

View place
Tufting Workshop
Image credit: Zhou Fang

Entertainment Venues

TUTU Studio

TUTU Studio offers a range of hands-on workshops to dive into art and craft in the most fun way possible! With two locations—one in Chinatown and another in Chatswood. At TUTU Studio, explore exciting workshops like tufting, where you can create custom rugs, bags, and cushions, or make eco-friendly Jesmonite art pieces with terrazzo chips and pearls. Design your own sterling silver rings or enjoy messy splatter and glass painting for a burst of colour. TUTU Studio is also perfect for celebrating special moments. Whether it's a birthday, a hens party, or team-building event, they can host groups of 10 to 30 for a memorable, creative experience.

Sydney NSW

0.2 km away

View place
Photo Signature Haymarket

Entertainment Venues

Photo Signature Haymarket

Photo Signature is a prominent self-photo booth brand originating from South Korea. Renowned for its innovative approach to capturing moments, the brand has established itself as a leader in the photo booth industry. The essence of Photo Signature lies in providing individuals with a unique and personalised experience in creating memorable photographs. The brand’s photo booths are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, offering a wide range of customisation options to users. From choosing backgrounds to adding creative elements. Photo Signature allows individuals to express their creativity and style in each snapshot. The booths are designed to be user-friendly, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for users of all ages. Photo Signature has become synonymous with capturing not just pictures but moments filled with personality and emotion. The brand’s success in South Korea is attributed to its commitment to delivering high-quality, fun, and interactive photo experiences.

Haymarket NSW

0.2 km away

View place
The Playground, Darling Quarter

Parks and Gardens

The Kids Playground at Darling Quarter

Does your local playground have a 21-metre flying fox? Didn't think so! How about a water play area with pumps and water buckets? Thought not! The Darling Quarter's Kids Playground is one of Australia's best. Water games, climbing ropes, swings, slides and flying foxes will keep toddlers and teens entertained for hours. It's fun, thrilling and best of all free!

Darling Harbour NSW

0.3 km away

View place
Judges House Sydney

Amusement and Theme Parks

Judges House Sydney

The City of Sydney Community walking tour gives you a taste of Sydney’s diverse culture, from China Town to the Spanish Quarter. A heritage highlight on the walk is the house built for the NSW Chief Justice, Judge Dowling. From housing the well-to-do it became the City Night Refuge and Soup Kitchen, providing relief to the cities poorest for over 100 years. As you are on the Community Heritage Walk you may notice something unusual about the building - it is one of the last remaining free-standing buildings in Sydney.

Sydney NSW

0.3 km away

View place
Paddy's Markets, Chinatown

Shopping and Markets

Paddy’s Markets at Haymarket

Paddy's has held a central place in Sydney's history for over 150 years. Paddy's Markets, Sydney's biggest markets have a wide variety of stalls; food, fashion, gifts and gadgets in a true market atmosphere. A bustling market in the heart of the City and right beside Chinatown offering a variety of lunchtime takeaway or eat-in food options that are sure to have you coming back for more. Paddy's Haymarket is for the curious of mind and also for those who are budget-conscious. It operates like a traditional market and offers imported and local women's fashion, kid's clothes, hair accessories, jewellery as well as gifts, souvenirs, gadgets, and lots more. For food lovers, Paddy's Haymarket is the place to be for fresh fruit and vegetables. The markets at Haymarket have been the home for growers and producers for over a century. Come and try it for yourself! For seafood lovers, there is plenty of fresh fish, prawns and the best catch of the day. Paddy's is a market that has something for everyone and even a library of music, art and books to enjoy. Paddy's Haymarket is a must for tourists who are looking for Australian souvenirs and cheap gifts that are fair dinkum Aussie.

Haymarket NSW

0.3 km away

View place
Escape This - Sydney CBD

Amusement and Theme Parks

Escape This - Sydney CBD

Behind these doors... welcome to Sydney's best-rated, most talked about escape rooms, playing across totally immersive, family-friendly adventure and horror themes. For groups of two to eight players, from ages 9+, these escape rooms promise an hour-long, adrenaline pumping adventure like none other! Dare you enter? See what all the fuss is about, book your escape today!

Sydney NSW

0.3 km away

View place
Nufoto
Image credit: Nu Pty Ltd

Shopping and Markets

Nufoto

Experience the Korean photobooth phenomenon in Sydney. Nufoto brings the wildly popular Korean-style photobooth experience to Sydney, offering visitors a fun and Instagram-worthy activity unlike any traditional photo booth. Every shot is perfected through carefully calibrated camera settings that deliver the signature soft, flattering aesthetic Korean photobooths are famous for worldwide. Perfect for: Solo travellers wanting frame-worthy memories. Friends looking for a fun group activity. Couples seeking romantic keepsakes. Anyone who wants more than just phone snapshots. Walk away with instant prints that capture your Sydney adventure in style. It's not just photos, it's an experience that turns a moment into a tangible memory you'll treasure long after your trip ends.

Sydney NSW

0.3 km away

View place
Capitol Square
Image credit: Capitol Square

Shopping and Markets

Capitol Square

Capitol Square is a unique combination of business, retailing, hospitality, restaurant, recreation and special functions facilities. The project was developed by the principal investor, First Scope Development Pty Limited as a major component of the Capitol Theatre Heritage precinct. The project restored a heavily degraded group of historic buildings on the site of the Colony’s original markets. The early town’s Hay Market was situated on the site, a name which is retained today for the larger Chinatown precinct of the city.

Sydney NSW

0.4 km away

View place
The Metro Theatre

Entertainment Venues

The Metro Theatre

Ascend the stairs from George Street in the central business district and you’re transported into another world. The Metro Theatre, otherwise known as The Metro, is an important part of Sydney’s live music scene. All genres have been represented here, from heavy metal to indie to alternative bands. It’s championed local acts such as You Am I, Eskimo Joe and Alex Lloyd, as well as international artists who play here just before they hit the big-time, some of who have included Pink and Robbie Williams. There are two separate performance spaces, but the larger of the two, The Forum (also known as The Metro) holds about 1000 people and is where the majority of the acts play. The Lair is the more intimate venue. The Metro is just steps away from Town Hall station, making it easy to get to.

Sydney NSW

0.4 km away

View place
Entermission Sydney

Amusement and Theme Parks

Entermission Sydney

Looking for an unforgettable day of fun? Entermission Sydney is a thrilling virtual reality escape room destination in the heart of Sydney. Choose from more than 20 action packed virtual reality escape rooms featuring free roam, hand tracking and seated experiences. Perfect for families, friends, birthdays and team adventures. Take on the virtual reality challenge rooms and compete for the highest scores across a range of exciting challenges. Experience Floor is Lava, a fast paced physical challenge where players race, jump and dodge across a digital floor. Test accuracy with the newly launched Hammer Throwing experience. Take aim, throw the hammer and compete for the highest score. Whether it is a birthday celebration, team activity or fun day out, Entermission Sydney offers an exciting mix of virtual reality and physical experiences for groups of all kinds.

Sydney NSW

0.4 km away

View place
Archetypes: 30 Years of 4A (installation view), 2026
Image credit: 4A Centre for Contemporary Asian Art

Galleries, Museums and Collections

4A Centre for Contemporary Asian Art

4A Centre for Contemporary Asian Art (4A) is an independent not-for-profit contemporary art organisation located in the heart of Haymarket, Sydney. Since 1996, 4A has been one of Australia's leading organisations for Asian contemporary art, supporting artists and fostering cross-cultural dialogue between Australia and Asia through exhibitions, commissions, performances and public programs. Visitors can experience contemporary exhibitions, artist talks, live performances, film screenings and culturally diverse community events. Located within Sydney's Haymarket precinct, 4A creates accessible and socially engaged cultural experiences that connect contemporary art with local communities, younger audiences and international creative exchange. 4A is easily accessible by train, light rail, bus and bicycle, with nearby parking also available.

Haymarket NSW

0.4 km away

View place
Powerhouse Museum and Sydney city skyline at night

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Powerhouse Ultimo

PLEASE NOTE: Powerhouse Ultimo is temporarily closed as it undergoes a significant heritage revitalisation. Powerhouse Parramatta is under construction and is due to open in 2025 or 2026. Powerhouse will continue to present programs at Powerhouse Castle Hill and Sydney Observatory during this time. Powerhouse is the largest museum group in Australia. It sits at the intersection of art, design, science and technology, and plays a critical role in engaging communities with contemporary ideas and issues. It is the custodian of more than half a million objects of national and international significance that is considered one of the finest and most diverse collections in Australia. Established in 1879, its venues include Powerhouse Ultimo, Sydney Observatory, Powerhouse Castle Hill and Powerhouse Parramatta. Since its inception, Powerhouse Museum has been connected to community and industry. In August 2024, the museum group launched Powerhouse Food: Producers, a monthly event taking you behind the scenes of Western Sydney's farms, factories, restaurants and neighbourhoods. Taste a set menu based around the flavours of the world of insects, see the workings and stories of Sydney's markets on location, hunt for truffles, and explore Harris Park's Little India with a local expert.

Ultimo NSW

0.4 km away

View place
soul-catcher-horror-escape-room-sydney-room-51
Image credit: Cubic Escape Room Sydney

Amusement and Theme Parks

Cubic Escape Room Sydney

Cubic Escape Room is located in Haymarket, in the heart of Sydney's CBD, offering immersive indoor escape room experiences. Featuring four unique room categories that cater to all preferences—from mystery to heartwarming stories, from challenging puzzles to beginner-friendly options, and even a cinematic experience with live actors. It's a perfect choice for parties with family and friends, as well as group activities for businesses and all kinds of teams!

Haymarket NSW

0.5 km away

View place
ICC Sydney's Convention Centre

Entertainment Venues

ICC Sydney

ICC Sydney is Australia’s leading convention, exhibition and entertainment precinct. Distinguished by its striking design, state-of-the-art technology and an enviable array of amenities, ICC Sydney stands apart as a symbol of excellence. Situated at the intersection of Sydney’s academic, cultural and technology precincts, ICC Sydney affords delegates, exhibitors and visitors convenient access to Australia’s most cosmopolitan city. The emerging financial, dining and retail precinct of Barangaroo is nearby; there are numerous galleries, theatres and concert halls within easy reach; and the bustling city centre is only a short walk away. Managed by a uniquely talented team, ICC Sydney is well-placed to deliver extraordinary experiences every time. Whether you are organising a convention for thousands or a more intimate corporate event, their team will go out of their way to deliver a truly memorable event. But ICC Sydney is more than a landmark venue. ICC Sydney functions as an incubator for ideas, a champion of change and an advocate for community. Through the Legacy Program, they give clients the opportunity to contribute to the city’s cultural capital—and advance the social and sustainability objectives of their events—in real and meaningful ways. Whatever you’re planning, you’ll find success at ICC Sydney.

Darling Harbour NSW

0.6 km away

View place
Sydney Harbour Runners
Image credit: Sydney Harbour Runners

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Sydney Harbour Runners

Sydney Harbour Runners is a community of runners that meet weekly on Tuesday nights from 6:00pm at the Cockle Bay Wharf Bird Fountain at Darling Harbour. The group offers two distance options: a short 6-kilometre - 8-kilometre course or a long course around 11 kilometre - 13 kilometres. This free club makes for a social outing too, with post-run meals and drink specials in nearby venues.

Sydney NSW

0.6 km away

View place
Australian Black Opal Ring with Diamonds
Image credit: Australian Opal Cutters Pty Ltd

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Australian Opal Cutters

Australian Opal Cutters is one of Sydney's leading Australian opal destinations, offering visitors the opportunity to discover, learn about and purchase genuine Australian opals directly from a fourth-generation family business established in 1967. Located in the heart of Sydney's CBD, they specialise exclusively in natural Australian opals and handcrafted opal jewellery. Visitors can explore one of Australia's largest collections of certified Australian opals and opal jewellery, including Black Opal from Lightning Ridge, Boulder Opal from Queensland, Crystal Opal and White Opal. Their experienced team explains how opals are mined, graded, valued and crafted into fine jewellery, while our on-site workshop showcases traditional opal cutting and jewellery manufacturing. Whether you're looking for a unique Australian souvenir, an engagement ring, investment-quality opal, custom-designed jewellery, or simply want to experience Australia's most famous gemstone, Australian Opal Cutters offers an authentic and educational visitor experience. Guests can browse thousands of genuine Australian opals, learn about Australia's opal mining heritage, and work with their jewellers to create a personalised piece that will last a lifetime. Conveniently located near Town Hall Station, Australian Opal Cutters is recognised by visitors from around the world as one of Sydney's premier destinations for genuine Australian opals, custom jewellery and expert opal knowledge.

Sydney NSW

0.6 km away

View place
Books Kinokuniya Sydney

Shopping and Markets

Books Kinokuniya Sydney

Books Kinokuniya Sydney (pronounced key-no-ku-knee-ya) is an oasis for bibliophiles in the heart of the Sydney CBD. With over 300,000 books on offer, they're home to Australia's largest range of English, Japanese and Chinese titles. Their spacious, tranquil environment—filled with natural light—and their friendly, knowledgeable staff make Kinokuniya a truly unique bookstore experience. Their extensive range includes the best in new, classic and cult literature, history, current affairs, manga, graphic novels, art, design, cookbooks, travel and children's books. Their staff are always happy to help you find your next great read. Come visit them today and discover Sydney's largest bookstore — proof that real bookstores still exist!

Sydney NSW

0.7 km away

View place
Yininmadyemi Thou Didst Let Fall

Landmarks and Buildings

Yininmadyemi Thou Didst Let Fall

Yininmadyemi Thou Didst Let Fall is a significant new sculptural artwork by Aboriginal artist Tony Albert to acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men and women who served in the nation’s military. The artwork is composed of four standing bullets and three fallen shells. The bullet is a universal signifier for conflict. The arrangement of the bullets, with some standing and some fallen, represents those who survived and those who were sacrificed. The artwork also references the circumstances faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander service men and women when they returned to Australia. They were treated differently from their white Australian comrades who were given land for their service while Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people were still having their land taken away. Hyde Park South has been chosen as the location for the artwork due to its status and historical significance. The site was once a ritual contest ground, a crossroads for traditional walking trails, and an important site for ceremony, gathering and camping. It is also home to the ANZAC Memorial.

Sydney NSW

0.7 km away

View place
Sofitel SPA Darling Harbour
Image credit: Sofitel SPA Darling Harbour

Spas and Retreats

Sofitel Spa Darling Harbour

Sofitel Spa Darling Harbour is a discreet sanctuary from daily activities, centrally located in the heart of Sydney’s Darling Harbour and steps away from the central business district. Their commitment to well-being focuses on a sensorial journey with the seasons for a holistic yet indulgent sojourn. Guests commence their wellness journey on entry, welcomed with a calming palette of soft timbers, sandstone and marble finishes, and Australian-made furnishings. With seven spacious treatment rooms, including two suites beautifully designed by award-winning design firm PikeWithers, one of which features a bespoke bath overlooking Darling Harbour. The two-level space is ‘quintessentially Sydney’ featuring sandstone-inspired tiles and marble accents that resemble Sydney Harbour. Awaken your senses, view the extensive menu and experiences available at Sofitel Spa Darling Harbour, and allow their team to support your wellness journey.

Sydney NSW

0.7 km away

View place
Guests enjoying the view from the Sydney Tower Eye Observation Deck
Image credit: Merlin Entertainments Group

Landmarks and Buildings

Sydney Tower Eye

Ascend to the top of Sydney's tallest structure and uncover breathtaking 360° views from the iconic Sydney Tower Eye, located in the very heart of the city. Step onto the newly reimagined Observation Deck, perched 250 metres above the bustling streets, and take in panoramic vistas stretching up to 80km, from Sydney Harbour Bridge and Hyde Park to the distant Blue Mountains. Feeling adventurous? Take your visit to the next level on SKYWALK, an exhillarating open-air experience where you'll walk on two glass platforms 268 metres above ground. Hosted by knowledgable guides who'll share fascinating insights about the city below, and capture your photo against the city skyline. Enhance your visit with immersive extras like the VR Tower Coaster, or upgrade your day with a VIP SKYWALK Experience. Whether you're a first-time visitor to Sydney or a local looking to rediscover your city, the Sydney Tower Eye is a must-do attraction that promises unforgettable views and moments.

Sydney NSW

0.7 km away

View place
Thea Anamara Perkins: Dreaming

Galleries, Museums and Collections

N.Smith Gallery

N.Smith Gallery is a contemporary art gallery located in Sydney, Australia, that currently represents more than 20 artists and collectives, offering curatorial, collection, and management service advice to museums, corporate, foundations and private clients. The gallery has been home to culturally-significant exhibitions across a variety of media and genres, and has facilitated and participated in projects across Australia, Japan, Singapore, Germany, France, UK, and the USA. In 2021, N.Smith opened the eponymous gallery on Napier Street, Paddington in an old Greek church community hall. In 2024 during the opening week of the Biennale of Sydney, Smith relocated the gallery from Paddington to the vibrant Surry Hills, expanding the gallery’s footprint and ambition. Dedicated to living artists, the gallery has and is fostering the careers of some of the most influential artists working today, and plans to maintain long-term representation of the artists they work with.

Surry Hills NSW

0.7 km away

View place
Queen Victoria Building outside view
Image credit: Vicinity Centres

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Queen Victoria Building

The Queen Victoria Building (QVB) is a five level shopping centre occupying an entire block of George Street in the heart of Sydney's CBD. The historical building is Sydney's most iconic and prestigious shopping destination, attracting millions of local and international visitors each year. Home to leading Australian and international designers, the shopping centre houses over 140 fashion boutiques, jewellery shops, specialty stores, cafes and restaurants. Opened in 1898, the QVB is rich in history and architectural splendour, displaying elaborate Romanesque architectural features, glorious stained glass windows, and magnificent light filled atriums. The dominant feature is the mighty centre dome, which during the Christmas shopping season, is occupied by a giant Christmas tree, a must see for any visitor. To learn more about the building's story of creation, near destruction and modern way preservation, book the QVB History Tour with one of the expert guides.

Sydney NSW

0.7 km away

View place

What is happening now?

Search dated events, markets, live music, sport and community activities.

Explore Events

Planning by place?

Use Things to Do for attractions and experiences that are not tied to one event date.