24 Cheap Things to do in Sydney in 2024

Looking for budget-friendly fun in Sydney? Look no further! We've got the ultimate list of cheap thrills around the city that won't break the bank. Whether you're into historical jaunts, outdoor adventures, or just some good old-fashioned shopping, Sydney has plenty to offer without demanding much from your purse. 

From icy escapades to historic rides, the best cheap things to do in Sydney are here to keep your days packed without emptying your wallet!

24 Cheap Things to do in Sydney in 2024

1. Chill Out on Ice

Slide on over to Macquarie Ice Rink between 4 pm and 5 pm daily for a cool $19 skate session, skates included!

Price: $19

Location: Macquarie Shopping Centre, Waterloo Rd, North Ryde

2. Time Travel on Trams

Board the Sydney Tramway Museum and journey through time for just $20 (adults) and $15 (kids).

Price: from $15

Location: 2 Pitt St, Loftus 

RELATED:
30 Free Things to do in Sydney

3. Defy Gravity

Experience Australia's first real-life Upside Down House at House Down Under for surreal snaps at just $19 a visit.

Price: $19

Location: Market Ln, Rouse Hill 

4. Diner Deals

Looking for cheap eats in Sydney? Feast at The Soda Factory with delicious Americana eats for just $1 during their weekly promotions. What a steal!

Price: from $1

Location: 16 Wentworth Ave, Surry Hills

5. Musical Freebies

Enjoy free breathtaking performances by the stars of tomorrow at Sydney Conservatorium of Music's lunchtime sessions. Head on over to NSW Parliament's Fountain Court on Macquarie Street for the free Bicentenary Concert Series. 

Price: free

Location: 6 Macquarie St, Sydney

6. Night Market Nibbles

Explore the vibrant Chinatown Night Markets every Friday from 4 pm where admission is free and the bites are cheap!

Price: free entry

Location: Dixon Street, Chinatown

7. Serene Strolls

Step into a serene slice of tranquillity at the Chinese Garden of Friendship, where Sydney and Guangzhou forged a lush, leafy testament to their bond back in 1986. This hidden gem in the heart of the city offers a peaceful escape with its flowing waterfalls, exotic plants, and traditional pavilions, all designed to mirror the classic private gardens of the Ming Dynasty. Entry is a steal at just $12 for adults and $8 for kids.

Price: $12 per adult and $8 per child

Location: Darling Harbour

8. Cycle the Scenery

Rent a Cruiser Bike from Manly Bike Tours and hit the beaches for just $22 per hour.

Price: $22 per hour

Location: Shop 7/54 West Esplanade, Manly

9. Historic Explorations

Discover Sydney's hidden historical gem with a picturesque tour of Bare Island Fort. Nestled in the scenic La Perouse area of Kamay Botany Bay National Park, this intriguing fort offers a deep dive into the past with its fascinating military history and stunning coastal views. Tours run every Sunday at 1.30 pm, 2.30 pm, and 3.30 pm for just $15 a pop.

Price: $15

Location: Bare Island Rd, La Perouse

10. Dive In

Swim a few laps at the heated Prince Alfred Park Pool for a splashy $7.50.

Price: $7.50

Location: 105 Chalmers St, Surry Hills

Discover more of Sydney's best swimming pools.

11. Sky-High Fireworks

Watch Darling Harbour light up every Saturday during summer at 9 pm for free and fabulous fireworks!

Price: free

Location: Darling Harbour

12. Art on a Dime

Get cultured with free exhibitions at Sydney’s best art galleries, including at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA), and Art Gallery of New South Wales.

Price: free entry

13. Fishy Delights

Grab some fresh fish and chips at the famous Sydney Fish Markets starting from just $10.

Price: $10

Location: Corner Pyrmont Bridge Rd and Bank St, Pyrmont

14. Museum Hopping

Dive into a world of discovery without spending a dime at some of Sydney's kid-friendly museums. Museums of History NSW offers a whopping 12 venues where the whole family can explore for free. From 10 am to 5 pm, the Sydney Observatory opens its doors at no cost, letting you peer into the cosmos and beyond. For a dose of local lore, The Rocks Discovery Museum also welcomes visitors free of charge. Don't miss out on the Powerhouse Museum, where interactive and engaging exhibits await to spark young imaginations.

*Please note that the Powerhouse Museum (Ultimo) will be closed for three years from February 2024 for building and conservation work.* Powerhouse will continue their programs at Powerhouse Castle Hill and Sydney Observatory during this time.

Price: free entry

Explore more of Sydney's Kid-friendly Museums.

15. All Aboard

Ok, so this one is a little way out of town but trust us, the kids will love it! Take a heritage train ride at the NSW Rail Museum for $10 for adults and $5 for kids.

Price: $10 for adults; $5 for kids

Location: 10 Barbour Rd, Thirlmere

16. Lighthouse Views

Add a pop of colour to your list of cheap things to do in Sydney and check out the city's sweetest spot, the 'lollipop lighthouse' at Hornby Lighthouse. This iconic beacon has been brightening up Sydney's coastline since 1858 with its distinctive red and white stripes. Perfect for sunny days, the views here are unbeatable. You can park for free at Camp Cove Car Park, though there's a small $8 national park entry fee to consider. 

Price: $8

Location: S Head Heritage Trail, Watsons Bay

But wait, there are plenty more lighthouses you can visit in Sydney!

17. Miniature Railway Adventures

Another cheap thing to do in Sydney for train enthusiasts, you can ride the adorable Nurragingy Miniature Railway for just $4 on select Sundays.

Price: $4

Location: 38 Knox Rd, Doonside 

18. Garden Wonders

Unlock a lush paradise in the heart of the city with just a gold coin donation at the Royal Botanic Gardens. This sprawling cultural oasis is the ultimate escape for picnics, play, and a bit of plant-based wonder. Stretch your legs over 30 hectares of vibrant gardens, where you can get lost among exotic plants and local wildlife, or just kick back and enjoy the natural light show through the treetops.

Price: gold coin donation

Location: Mrs Macquaries Rd, Sydney

19. Pedal Through the Parklands

See the sights while getting some exercise on a free bike tour. It's free to hire a bike to cycle around historic Centennial Parklands with complementary fresh air and amazing scenery.

Price: free

Location: Grand Drive, Centennial Park

20. Ferry Sights

Hop on the Circular Quay to Manly ferry and unlock some of Sydney's most iconic sights without breaking the bank. For just $9.90, this scenic voyage offers front-row seats to the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and the stunning shoreline.

Price: $9.90

Check out more fun ferry rides the kids will love.

21. Thrift Shop Scores

Ditch the high street prices and dive into Sydney's vibrant op shop scene for some serious treasure hunting. From retro gems to high-end steals, these thrift shops are your go-to for fashion that doesn’t cost the earth.

Check out the PM Store in Dulwich Hill, a local favourite brimming with unique finds. For the denim lovers and vintage sports gear enthusiasts, UTURN in Punchbowl is a gold mine. Luxe lovers, head to Vinnies in Mosman where high-quality fabrics and luxury items abound at bargain prices. Don't forget the quaint St Luke's Church Op Shop in Enmore; it’s small but packed with vintage goodies that promise style without the sting. For those who want it all under one roof, Salvos in Minchinbury is the ultimate thrifty mecca for everything from chic décor to wardrobe essentials. And you've got to check out the new Savers Thrift Store opening in Sydney in 2024!

22. Do the Bridge Walk for Less

Skip the $200 Bridge Climb and enjoy the Harbour Bridge Pylon Lookout for just $13.

Price: $13

Location: Sydney Harbour Bridge, The Rocks

Lawn Bowl Laughs

Grab the fam and head to Clovelly Lawn Bowls for an afternoon of laid-back, barefoot fun. Kick off your shoes and roll into some friendly competition with lawn bowls by the seaside, all for just $12. 

Price: $12 

Location: 1 Ocean St, Clovelly

Walk With Wisdom

Step off the beaten path and connect with the land on an Indigenous guided walking tour at Dharawal National Park. For just $15, you can immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty of this sacred site, led by knowledgeable Indigenous guides.

Price: $15

Location: End of Victoria Rd, Wedderburn

More Things to do in Sydney

Our Kid-friendly Guide to Sydney's Inner West
The Best Picnic Spots in Sydney
Sydney's Top FREE Water Play Parks
 

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