Top 10 Things to Do in North Sydney
“North Sydney is mostly known for it’s business district, considered by most as Sydney’s CBD north of the bridge. ”
Though this is true with suits flocking to the hub during the week, there is so much more to this suburb and surrounding area, including beautiful architecture, stunning hidden parks and world class harbour views.
The team at The Treehouse Hotel in North Sydney have curated a list of 10 of their favourite things to do in North Sydney, in no particular order.
1. Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden
Located in Lavender Bay, it is a beloved oasis in Sydney with some of the best harbour views.
Wendy and her renowned artist husband, the late Brett Whiteley, set up their family home in Lavender Bay in 1970 and lived there together for two decades. Brett painted many of his iconic Sydney Harbour pictures in the house.
“I didn’t know anything about horticulture when I started the garden. I just knew what I liked.”
-Wendy Whiteley
2. Luna Park
Stunning views of the harbour, exciting rides for kids and adults alike and family fun.
Sydney's Luna Park is a rare surviving amusement park featuring fantasy architecture in the Art Deco style of the 1930s.
The concept is based on the success of the first Luna Park which opened on Coney Island, New York in 1903. American entrepreneur Herman Phillips and others brought the idea to Australia and opened Luna Park in Melbourne in 1912 and Luna Park Glenelg, Adelaide in 1930.
3. Kirribilli Markets
The Kirribilli Markets were first held on January 21st 1976 in the back yard of the then newly opened Kirribilli Neighbourhood Centre. Today, The Kirribilli Markets is one of Sydney’s oldest and most popular Markets. Featuring over 220 stalls selling, New and recycled fashion and accessories, Emerging local Fashion Designers, Home and Gift wares, Arts and Craft, Jewellery, Plants, Gourmet foods and a whole lot more!
4. Ensemble Theatre
Based in Kirribilli, on the edge of Sydney Harbour, Ensemble Theatre is committed to performing and presenting the best of international plays, well-loved classics and new Australian works. Each season we pride ourselves on delivering powerful, memorable and engaging live theatre of the highest standard. Founded in 1958, Ensemble Theatre recently celebrated its 65th anniversary and is the longest continuously running professional theatre in Australia.
5. Coal Loader Centre for Sustainability
Located in Waverton, this is a gorgeous spot for a family picnic with nearby bush walks, bathrooms, stunning harbour views and a cafe to grab a bite to eat.
Learn the fascinating history of this ex-industrial and now state-of-the-art Centre for Sustainability. See the hidden treasures, hear the stories and be inspired.
6. Lunch or dinner at The Treehouse Hotel
One of North Sydney’s longest running restaurants and bars and a local neighbourhood gem. Catch live music on Thursday nights or enjoy a long lunch in the bustling mid week atmosphere.
7. May Gibbs Nutcote
Nutcote is the historic harbourside home of May Gibbs (1877-1969), Australia’s foremost children’s author and illustrator and best known today for her iconic story, The Complete Adventures of Snugglepot & Cuddlepie. Nutcote is located in Sydney’s Neutral Bay, visitors can enjoy the house museum, shop and cafe surrounded by delightful gardens.
8. Kayaking around Lavender Bay
Local company Sydney by Kayak offers a sunrise kayak around Lavender Bay with a coffee, the best way to see the area and an absolute must if you’re on the North Side.
Sydney by Kayak is an award-winning, family owned and operated kayak tour business. Since 2013 we have offered exclusive, small group kayak tours for locals, visitors and corporate organisations, on beautiful Sydney Harbour, Australia.
9. Picnic at Blues Point Reserve
One of North Sydney's most popular parks, Blues Point Reserve in McMahons Point features spectacular views of the city, the harbour and the bridge.
10. The Green Moustache
Enjoy drinks on the rooftop at Green Moustache. Sister restaurant to The Treehouse Hotel, the Green Moustache has a leafy oasis feel with a stunning rooftop overlooking North Sydney - great for afterwork drinks at golden hour.
