Here’s Why the Art Gallery of New South Wales is One of ellaslist’s Favourite Places

Fellow parents will know the comforting value of having a couple of failsafe, go-to destinations to hit up with your kids on the days when making fresh, far-flung plans feels a little out of reach.

The Art Gallery of New South Wales will always be that place for me, and my memories of days spent there with my girls will forever live rent-free in my head and heart.

It's important to note from the top that this gallery isn’t just for art enthusiasts; it’s a calm, welcoming space where kids, parents, and everyone in between can come and have a great time, with no deep knowledge of art required. Oh, and did we mention that it’s completely and utterly free?

As the Director of ellaslist, it’s safe to say I’ve been to and experienced more than my fair share of exciting destinations in Sydney. Here’s why I keep coming back to the Art Gallery time and time again and why—mic drop moment—it’s my absolute favourite place in Sydney.

Here’s Why the Art Gallery of New South Wales is One of ellaslist’s Favourite Places

A Place of Calm Amidst the Chaos of Parenting

To me, the Art Gallery of NSW offers a little bit of everything: a place to take a breather, laugh, explore, and find some quiet moments amidst the busyness (read: chaos) of family life.

I started taking my two girls to the Art Gallery of NSW as babies, and it has remained a haven for us as a family ever since. Throughout the toddler and preschool years and up to the preteen stage we’re at now, a visit to the Art Gallery has never let me down.

Nestled in the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney and with easy access to public transport routes, it’s the perfect location for inner-Sydney families to while away a day in one of the city’s most iconic locations (and perfectly poised amongst plenty of gorgeous trees for if you need to step outside with little ones—been there, done that.)

I can vividly remember multiple occasions when I’d felt the day slipping away from me, so I bundled my girls, at various ages and stages, into the car and salvaged the afternoon with a trip to the Art Gallery of NSW.

It’s got glass elevators! Escalators! A cafe with plenty of kid-friendly options! An incredible gift shop! Staff that really get children and are willing to help at every turn! Need I go on?! 

Endless Entertainment for Little Ones

From toddlers to teens, kids find plenty of reasons to love the gallery. The bright colours and unique displays are visually engaging for younger children, while parents appreciate the shady, cool refuge from the Aussie sun. Even babies have room to roam freely, and the library is stocked with play areas, offering a screen-free place to unwind and disconnect.

I have many fond memories of creating scavenger hunt lists with my girls, where we’d come up with lists of things to find in the gallery on the way there and then see who could tick off their list. With every visit, I have always found that regardless of whether we stay a long time or a short time, whether the kids 'behave' or don't, whether you really look at the art or whether you use the time to take a reset, everyone is always welcome at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. 

Exceptional Accessibility and Inclusivity

The Art Gallery goes above and beyond to make sure everyone feels comfortable. I, as a neurodivergent adult along with one of my children, adore the quiet, peaceful areas to retreat into if and when I need a break. The gallery staff is trained in the Sunflower Program, offering additional support for those with non-visible disabilities, which helps make the visit stress-free for everyone.

No day in a parent’s life is complete without thinking about, making or packing snacks—and the Art Gallery of NSW makes this a breeze for parents. While there are kid-friendly indoor and outdoor cafes offering fantastic dining options for little ones, particularly kids’ lunch packs, they also welcome you bringing in your own food and snacks from home to keep hunger (and hanger) at bay. 

Exciting Activities Year-Round

The Art Gallery of NSW continually offers something fresh and exciting to experience. From a variety of hands-on activities during the school holidays to themed workshops, kids and parents alike find plenty to spark their creativity.

For slightly older kids, there’s Art After Dark, a dynamic program that includes cinema screenings, live music, and more. And with both traditional and contemporary art collections, as well as digital art installations that screen-loving kids find fascinating, there’s something here for everyone.

More Than Just an Art Gallery

With scenic views of the surrounding greenery and open spaces to wander, the Art Gallery creates a soothing environment for both adults and children. And the extraordinary friendliness of the staff means there’s always someone on hand to help or answer questions. For younger kids, themed activities are often available, allowing parents to join in the fun alongside their little ones.

Whether you’re looking for homewares inspiration (the gift shop has you covered), a new destination for a family day out or a safe space to be with your kids when everyone starts climbing the walls at home, the Art Gallery of New South Wales serves as a reminder that art is for everyone.

It doesn’t matter why you go, or what you “get” from a visit, the point is simply to go and be.

The Details

The Art Gallery of New South Wales is located at Art Gallery Rd, on the eastern side of Sydney's CBD, next to the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. It's open daily from 10 am – 5 pm, until 10 pm on Wednesdays and closed on Christmas Day and Easter Friday. Admission is completely FREE.

For more information, visit The Art Gallery of New South Wales. Race you there! 

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