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Things to do in Sydney When It’s Raining
Rain, rain, go away! We have to have it but when it goes on for days it can be very dreary. Whether you are a local or a visitor, here are some things to do in Sydney when it’s raining.
SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium
What better way to escape the rain than go and look at more water? SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium is a fantastic way to spend any day, but on a rainy day visiting the Aquarium will certainly keep you amused for hours. You will be able to gaze upon sharks, stingrays, fish, turtles and amazing colourful fish and coral. If you are a lover of penguins, like I am, you can get a Penguin Passport and get up close and personal with these delightful creatures. If you can’t afford the Penguin Passport then you can still get to witness these fabulous little beauties as you take a slow boat ride through the penguin enclosure. It’s a great experience and will certainly keep the kids amused.
iFLYdownunder in Penrith
This isn’t a cheap day out if you have a family but it is an experience that you will always remember, well I certainly do. You need to go west for this adventure out in Penrith, so on a rainy day that will pass some time! Be prepared when you first enter the wind tunnel it’s a little confronting, it was for me anyway, I felt a little suffocated but just relax and enjoy the experience because it really is amazing. You can read about my experience in more detail here and the video above is of a very shocked Deb Carr after she was whisked up to the top of the tunnel without being told that was going to happen (at about 01:17). Keep an eye open for the people watching in the red and blue suits.
The Calyx Royal Botanical Gardens
You will need an umbrella for this one but only to get through the gardens to the Calyx where it’s warm and cosy inside! The Calyx is a wonderful display of flowers and vegetation and has different exhibitions throughout the year. You will be amazed at the colourful displays that adorn the walls and garden beds. As well, you will find information relevant to each display throughout your walk. There’s plenty to learn at the Calyx and you can also enjoy a cup of coffee and snack. Just check the website prior to going down in the rain to see what’s on. Admission is free but gold coin donation is greatly appreciated. If you are keen after visiting the Calyx take a walk down to the Royal Botanical restaurant or café and the Gardens shop.
Take a Guided Tour of the QVB
The QVB is a magnificent building in the CBD. On a raining day in Sydney you can book in for a guided tour. I did the chocolate door when it was available at the time, but just check on the website what tours are on offer. At time of writing there is a High Tea tour. You will be surprised at the history you will learn about the QVB on one of these guided tours. Fees apply.
Visit the White Rabbit Gallery
If you haven’t been to the White Rabbit Gallery now is our chance on a rainy day in Sydney. This amazing gallery showcases exceptional creative art and craft. You won’t find anything ordinary at this Gallery! On display you will discover painting, photography, sculpture, video art, drawing and installations. There is also a gift shop and teahouse. The White Rabbit Gallery is close to Central Park shopping centre, which is another great place to visit on a rainy day in Sydney. Admission is free. If you can’t make it down to the White Rabbit Gallery check out some of the exhibition videos here and grab some popcorn and snuggle up and enjoy on your Sydney rainy day.
Take the Ferry to Manly
No I’m not kidding! Just check for interruptions before you go in case the seas are too high and the ferry is cancelled. There’s something fun about being on the Manly Ferry as it goes past the Heads on a rainy day. If you are prone to sea sickness you might want to rethink this idea though. Once in Manly you can find a great pub, café or restaurant to have something to eat. I highly recommend Hugo’s on Manly Wharf. It’s been a favourite of my family since it first opened and you won’t get wet because it’s right on the wharf!
Enjoy High Tea
A great pick me up on a rainy day is to indulge in High Tea! There are plenty of great venues that offer this experience. I have personally enjoyed High Tea at a number of venues in Sydney you can read about them here.
Go Watch a Movie at Palace Cinemas
The Palace Cinemas in Central Park offer a great comfortable venue to watch a movie and also grab a bite to eat or something to drink. With13 screens, multiple lounges and bar areas, a wine wall and a beer hall the cinema represents a transformation of the traditional cinema-going experience.
