10 Kids Activities of the Lower North Shore
Whether you’re trying to occupy, entertain or simply tire them out, the Lower North Shore (LNS) is brimming with fantastic parks, activities and programs to keep the little ones smiling. We’ve compiled our top 10 activities that will keep the little tikes in high spirits all day long.
Hayden Orpheum
A visit to Cremorne’s Hayden Orpheum is like taking a step back in time; kids will be awestruck at the old-world décor and if you plan ahead, you might catch a presentation of the original Wurlizter Pipe Organ in action. They often host special kids viewing, especially sing-a-long’s so keep an eye on their special events page.
380 Military Road, Cremorne
Greenwich Baths
Tucked away in Greenwich, this harbour beach is a local gem and a haven for local families, especially on a balmy day. The water is calm and great for kids and there are communal beach toys to play with, which saves you hauling your own up and down the hill. There is also a kiosk on-site that makes good coffee and food. #winning.
Albert Street, Greenwich
Balmoral Beach
This harbour beach has long been a family favourite, simply because it has it all. A great fenced-in playground right on the beach, calm waters with a netted swimming area, a promenade that’s perfect for scooting along, and plenty of green space to run around. And if all that wasn’t enough, the food option here is second to none – from Bottom of the Harbour to The Boathouse and Bathers Pavilion.
The Esplanade, Balmoral Beach
FootGolf @ Northbridge
Come 3pm, and Northbridge Golf Club turns into a FootGolf destination. New to the sport? It is a clever combo of soccer and golf, where a soccer ball replaces the golf ball and the aim is to complete the course in the fewest number of kicks possible – no caddy needed!
Sailors Bay Road, Northbridge
Luna Park
An oldie but a goodie, Luna Park is a guaranteed good time for the young ones to run riot from the fantastical world of Coney Island to the gravity defying spin of The Rotor. Mum and dad can watch on over a coffee while the kids give the dodgems a go, before all heading to the ferris wheel to take in unrivalled views of Sydney’s Harbor Bridge.
1 Olympic Drive, Milsons Point
Taronga Zoo
Overlooking Sydney Harbour is Mosman, Taronga Zoo is all but mandatory. Budding zoologists can get up close and personal with reptiles, seals, penguins, koalas and more during the Animal Encounters or daily animal shows. There is plenty of exhibits and enclosures to visit plus a variety of food options, so you needn’t worry about packing lunch.
Bradley’s Head Road, Mosman
Lane Cove National Park
Sitting on the edge of the LNS, Lane Cove National Park is an outdoor haven for getting back in touch with nature. Picnic and barbeque facilities are in abundance, as are the many walking and cycling trails. Get off the land and paddle your way around Lane Cove River to a more secluded part of the park.
Lady Game Drive, Chatswood West
Climb Fit
Located in a business park in St Leonards, this epic indoor rock climbing gym caters to children who are eager to soar to great heights. There is a dedicated kids wall but for the more adventurous, kids can conquer any of the challenges, from the 8.5-meter wall to an overhang. Climb Fit also caters well to holiday camps and kids parties.
Unit 4/12 Frederick Street, St Leonards
The Concourse
A cultural centre in the middle of Chatswood’s bustling shopping precinct, The Concourse regularly hosts family-friendly theatre. From The Wiggles to stories adapted for the stage (think The Treehouse Series and stories by Julia Donaldson and David Walliams). The Concourse is also surrounded by a public library and kid-friendly eateries. Perfect for a day out.
409 Victoria Avenue, Chatswood
Strike Bowling
An oldie, but a goodie. Strike in Chatswood offers high-energy sessions of bowling, laser-tag and karaoke. The family friendly venue serves plenty of kid-friendly food straight from their kitchen and helpful staff are more than happy to get the ball rolling if you have a kid’s party in mind.
65 Albert Avenue, Madarin Centre, Chatswood