And just as one lot of school holidays finishes, you already need to start planning what to do with your children for the next lot. After all, after a 10 week school term full of drop-offs, pick-ups, packing lunch boxes and running around to swimming lessons and soccer games - it's important to cherish the holidays as dedicated bonding time with the kids (plus celebrate with a wine or two once they head to bed).
Sydney is always one of the most active locations to spend the school holiday period, and as usual there are new shows, exhibitions, experiences and activities being announced weekly. We will keep this list up to date, so check back to see any new things that may make this July school holidays a memorable one for your family.
Now - 21st July
Step in to a whole new world as you explore the lane ways of the Grounds of Alexandria lit with golden charm to celebrate Disney's latest movie, Aladdin. The Grounds of Alexandria has transformed into a wonderful world inspired by Agrabah, a fictitious port city of mystique and enchantment where anything is possible, even magic lamps.
Perhaps try one of their Aladdin themed treats, like the 'Friend Like Me Tea', the 'Jafar Cake' or the '3 Wishes Dessert Board' - all set to send your taste buds on a magic carpet ride of vibrant flavors.
28 June – 21st July
Although it is no longer beach weather, Bondi Beach should still be at the to of your bucket-list during any Sydney stay. Lucky for us, buses stop right out the front of the hotel with direct access to the iconic beachside location. And while this is great in summer, it is also a bonus in winter as opening today is a magical ice skating rink overlooking the beautiful shoreline.
The rink is open for both the young and young at heart - and don't fret if you think you may have lost your talents, for $8 you can hire a penguin friend to help you balance on the ice.
Children's tickets start at just $12 per session, or a family of four can test their skills for only $69 per session.
5 July – 22 July
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas at Luna Park Sydney these July holidays as Winterfest returns!
The magical Ice-Skating rink is back so you can watch as the snow falls over the rink while you spin, twist and glide. Ice-skating is included part of a Luna Park Unlimited Rides Pass, so you can skate on the ice as many times as you want during your visit!
Plus there is going to be a very special guest this year - Santa is in Park to spread the Christmas cheer all throughout Winterfest. Be sure to say hello to the jolly fellow as he roams the park every day of Winterfest before snapping a photo with the iconic backdrop of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House.
13 July – 21 July
If your children like playdates, jumping in muddy puddles and a certain piggy family - the Pepper Pig Playdate is not to be missed. Kids can ride Grandpa's Train, sing and dance with Pepper & George and wander around the world of Pepper Pig in this immersive experience.
Tickets can be purchased from Ticketek here, with prices starting from $44.90 each or $144.90 for a family pass.
6 July – 21 July
Have you ever wondered what it is like behind the scenes of the iconic Sydney Opera House? The Junior Adventure Tour is filled with interactive activities and games for the whole family: explore with our expert guides, and inspire your inner performer to become a Sydney Opera House star. This tour pulls back the curtain (literally) on the secrets of the Opera House, including secret stage markings, mysterious props and dress-ups galore.
Standard tickets start at $22 per child, and children must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets can be purchased from the Sydney Opera House website here.
17 July – 21 July
Put on your Mickey Mouse ears and get ready to sing in your seats, as Disney on Ice returns with all of our favourite characters and tunes from Disney classics and newly released films. This year Mickey is accompanied by his friends Anna & Elsa, Moana & Maui, Dory, and the Toy Story gang!
Tickets start at $33 per person, and can be purchased from the Ticketek website here.
8 July – 19 July
Cookie decorating, honey making, silent discos - need we say more? The Grounds has it all these school holidays with several workshops each week to keep the kids entertained and educated.
Tickets to each workshop are around $20 per child. See the full schedule of activities here and start planning your families trip to The Grounds of Alexandria.
Open every day
Looking for fun activities close to our hotel? Let the kids jump out all of their energy at Sky Zone in Alexandria - just one suburb over from us in Mascot!
Sky Zone is an indoor trampoline park, with more than 100 interconnected trampolines that let you literally bounce off the walls. Practice your tricks without your fears to hold you back. Big fun, soft landings.
Want to have the climb of your life? Check out Sky Climb – Sky Zone’s very own indoor rock climbing arena. Clip on your safety harness and start climbing one of our 30 indoor climbing walls. It’s Sydney’s best indoor climbing area and it’s suitable for all ages.
Fun starts from only $18 per person for either the trampoline park or climbing wall. For full pricing list see here.
