Nestled conveniently at the city center, Central Studio Sydney offers an unparalleled gateway to the top attractions in town. Embark on an exciting journey with us and discover the top things to do in Sydney with our handy guide to the best activities around the area curated by our local hotel team.
ACTIVITIES
The Power House Museum
The Powerhouse Museum is a contemporary museum that focuses on a variety of disciplines including arts, design, science and technology. Dive into the world of creativity and innovation with their collection of over 500,000 items across history, decorative arts and space exploration. Whether you’re interested in Australia’s social history or technological innovations, there’s something here for someone across all ages. Definitely don’t miss out their Zero Gravity Space Lab, where you can experience what it is like to live and work in a weightless environment in space!
Operating hours:
Mon – Sun, 10 am – 5 pm
Thur, 10 am – 9 pm
Address: 500 Harris St, Ultimo NSW 2007
Directions: 10 min walk from Central Studio Sydney
SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium
As one of the world’s largest aquariums, the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium is a must-visit attraction for lovers of marine creatures and the blue sea. Housing a total of 13,000 animals from over 700 different species, the aquarium is home to 9 interactive zones, including the Jurassic Seas, Dugong Island, Sydney Harbour, and an exhibit showcasing the day and night on the Great Barrier Reef.
If visiting the aquarium is a tad too boring for you, the aquarium provides a variety of unique offerings, such as guided behind-the-scenes tours, group and private dining options, VR experiences, and even a shark diving experience without a cage for brave souls!
Operating hours: Mon – Sun, 10 am – 4 pm
Address: 1-5 Wheat Rd, Sydney NSW 2000
Directions: 25 min walk from Central Studio Sydney
Capitol Theatre
The Capitol Theatre is a heritage-listed theatre that has transformed over time. Due to its ornate interior, marble foyers and gilded ceilings, it has earned its reputation as one of Sydney’s most beautiful performing spaces. Over the years, the theatre has hosted a diverse range of world-class musicals and performances such as Broadway and West-end musicals. If you’re looking to watch a musical in Sydney, make sure to catch these upcoming musicals in 2024, such as Grease, Alice in Wonderland, Chicago and Shen Yun.
Operating hours: Please refer to the website
Address: 13 Campbell St, Haymarket NSW 2000
Directions: 10 min walk from Central Studio Sydney
Sydney Tower Eye
Standing at 309-metres tall, Sydney Tower Eye is the tallest building in Sydney, and the second-tallest observation tower in the Southern Hemisphere. On a clear day, you can catch all the iconic attractions in town, including the Blue Mountains, Darling Harbour, The Rocks, Sydney Harbour Bridge and Bondi Beach. For the adrenaline lovers, don’t miss out on the Skywalk, a 60-minute guided tour on the highest outdoor viewpoint, where you can step out into the open air on a metal walkway and glass platform.
Operating hours: Mon – Sun, 10 am – 7 pm
Address: Westfield Sydney, Level 5/108 Market St, Sydney NSW 2000
Directions: 25 min walk from Central Studio Sydney
Royal Botanic Garden Sydney
As Australia’s oldest botanical garden dating all the way back to 1816, this 30-hectare garden is located conveniently at the heart of the city and is home to a diverse variety of flora and fauna from around the world. With its brilliant botanical collection and conservatories, it has been named one of Sydney’s most alluring destinations. Embark on one of their guided tours and walks, such as the Aboriginal Harbour Heritage tour to learn about the history of Gadigal, or simply take a relaxing stroll or picnic amongst the picturesque nature landscape.
Operating hours: Mon – Sun, 7 am – 7:30 pm
Address: Mrs Macquaries Rd, Sydney NSW 2000
Directions: 20 min drive from Central Studio Sydney
EAT & DRINK
Spice Alley
Been longing that steamed hot bun or xiao long bao for ages? Spice Alley is the perfect place to go for a satisfying Asian food fix! This vibrant alleyway offers a diverse selection of hawker-style food at affordable prices. Take your taste buds on a journey through Japan, Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand and China, all within one bustling location. If you’re in the mood for a drink, stop by either Nomu Bar or Gin Lane for their collection of gins and cocktails. To top it off, each of the eateries offer vegetarian menus so there’s something for everyone 😉
Operating hours:
Sun – Wed, 11 am – 9:30 pm
Thur – Sat, 11 am – 10 pm
Address: Kensington St, Chippendale NSW 2008
Directions: 6 min walk from Central Studio Sydney
Saga Bar
If you’re a fan of the films Indiana Jones or Jumanji, you will easily recognise the familiar, exotic interior of Saga Bar that looks like it came right out of the movie set. Hidden behind a pair of wooden doors in an inconspicuous back alley, the bar’s unexpected jungle-themed interior sets itself apart as a truly one-in-a-kind themed bar experience. Apart from its distinctive interior, the bar also offers a menu combining African, Middle-Eastern and Southeast Asian cuisines bound to excite you, and a unique selection of cocktails created by a team of mixologists from around the globe.
Operating hours:
Mon, 4 pm – 10 pm
Tues – Thur, 4 pm – 10:30 pm
Fri, 3 pm – 11 pm
Sat, 12 pm– 11 pm
Sun, 12 pm – 10:30 pm
Address: 49 Goold St, Chippendale NSW 2008
Directions: 6 min walk from Central Studio Sydney
Gin Lane
Lovers of gin and tonic, you’re going to love this place – Gin Lane is one of Sydney’s most unique bars offering an impressive collection of over 150 gins. Housed in a restored 18th century terrace, this specialty gin bar boasts a cozy interior and is the perfect place for an intimate gathering with a few friends and family. Nothing like your usual bar fare, their drink menus are far from ordinary, with menus like the TNT served in test tubes, the Smoking Treasure Chest served in an actual treasure chest, and the Gunpowder Plot that is infused with gunpowder tea-spiked gin. They even have movie-inspired drink menus including Breaking Bad, GOT “Wildfire”, and Shazam! that offers a unique twist from the movies.
Operating hours:
Mon – Tues, 4:30 pm – 11:30 pm
Wed, 4:15 pm – 11:30 pm
Thur, 4 pm – 12 am
Fri, 2 pm – 12 am
Sat, 1 pm – 12 am
Sun, 3:15 pm – 11 pm
Address: 16A Kensington St, Chippendale NSW 2008
Directions: 6 min walk from Central Studio Sydney
Chin Chin
Think pink neon lights, loud disco music, mouthwatering Southeast Asian food and you’ll get Chin Chin, the sister outlet to the popular Melbourne restaurant. Housed inside the heritage-listed Griffiths Tea building, the Surry Hills outlet boasts an industrial warehouse interior and a pink neon bunny at the entrance, highlighting the restaurant’s unique personality. Their menus are second to none, featuring a delightful blend of Southeast Asian cuisine that is bound to leave you spoilt for choices. Opt for one of their ‘Feed Me’ set menus to get a taste of everything, and don’t miss out their cocktail bar, GoGo, to complete the night.
Operating hours:
Mon – Sat, 12 pm – 11 pm
Sun, 12 pm – 9 pm
Address: 69 Commonwealth St, Surry Hills NSW 2010
Directions: 15 min walk from Central Studio Sydney
SHOPPING
Broadway Shopping Centre
Broadway Shopping Centre is a shopping mecca housing more than 140 local and international brands giving you affordable access to the latest fashion, home goods, electronics and services. A popular option for families and students, you will find a 12-screen cinema complex, a kids’ play area and a massive 500-seat food court on top of the shops found there. Home to high street brands like Target, Kmart and Apple, it is the place to go for a quick shopping spree.
Operating hours:
Mon – Wed, 10 am – 7 pm
Thu, 10 am – 9 pm
Fri, 10 am – 7 pm
Sat, 9 am – 6 pm
Sun, 10 am – 6 pm
Address: 1 Bay St, Glebe NSW 2037
Directions: 15 min walk from Central Studio Sydney
Westfield Sydney
If you’re looking for a place to fulfil all your luxury shopping desires, head to Westfield Sydney. With over 280 stores and dining options, this mega mall houses world-class brands like Prada, Chanel and Gucci as well as other homegrown Australian brands. Don’t miss out their splendid dining options as well, ranging from upmarket drinking and dining venues to a massive food court. Located right beneath the Sydney Tower, visitors can look forward to a luxurious shopping escapade after taking in views of the city’s beautiful skyline.
Operating hours:
Mon – Wed, 9:30 am – 7 pm
Thur, 9:30 am – 9 pm
Fri – Sat, 9:30 am – 7 pm
Sun, 10 am – 7 pm
Address: Cnr Pitt St Mall and, Market St, Sydney NSW 2000
Directions: 20 min walk from Central Studio Sydney
Queen Victoria Building
With its Romanesque architecture design, stained glass windows and light-filled atriums, Queen Victoria Building stands out as a shopping destination like no other. Originally opened as a marketplace in 1898, it is now a heritage listed building known for its beautiful architecture, interior and rich history. At this 5-level mega mall, you can find a collection of leading Australian and international designer brands, ranging from Jimmy Choo, KENZO and Polo Ralph Lauren to smaller fashion boutiques and specialty stores. For an exquisite high tea experience, don’t forget to head to the iconic chandelier-lined Tea Room at the third level!
Operating hours:
Mon – Fri, 9 am – 6 pm
Sat – Sun, 10 am – 6 pm
Address: 455 George St, Sydney NSW 2000
Directions: 20 min walk from Central Studio Sydney
Link: https://www.qvb.com.au/
DFO Homebush
When it comes to shopping, there’s nothing better than getting a huge bang for the buck – DFO Homebush is Sydney’s leading retail factory outlet for both Australian and international luxury designer brands. Featuring 126 retail stores across two levels, you can find top brands like Nike, Lacoste, Hugo Boss and Furla among others running sales of up to 70%! To top it off, they have a multitude of dining choices with a 475-seat food court offering food from various cuisines, ensuring you a satisfying dining and shopping experience.
Operating hours:
10 am – 6 pm daily
Thur, 10 am – 8 pm
Address: 3-5 Underwood Rd, Homebush NSW 2140
Directions: 25 min drive from Central Studio Sydney
