Top Attractions And Things To Do In Circular Quay Sydney
Circular Quay is a lively spot between the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge in New South Wales. It’s full of attractions and experiences for everyone. From enjoying top performances at the Opera House or a harbour cruise to cocktails at sundown.
It doesn’t matter if you love culture, food, or just want to enjoy the harbour view. Circular Quay has it all. It’s easy to get to by public transport, like ferries to Manly and Taronga Zoo and It’s the best place to start exploring Sydney.
Better still, get a Sydney Attraction pass and start making the most of this wonderful city!
Key Takeaways
- Circular Quay is situated between the Sydney Opera House, Royal Botanic Garden, and Sydney Harbour Bridge, making it a prime sightseeing location.
- The Sydney Opera House, a UNESCO World Heritage site, hosts world-class performances and attracts over 8 million visitors annually.
- Circular Quay serves as Sydney’s main ferry terminal, connecting visitors to various destinations and accommodating approximately 16 million passenger boardings each year.
- The area boasts a diverse range of dining options, from casual eateries to fine-dining restaurants, with a customer return rate of around 70%.
- Circular Quay hosts approximately 1,500 events per year, including the spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks display, which draws thousands of spectators.
- Sydney Attraction passes can save you up to 50% on top attractions and events.
Explore the Iconic Sydney Opera House
No visit to Sydney is complete without seeing the Sydney Opera House. This architectural wonder is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s known for its stunning design and cultural events.
The Opera House hosts over 1,500 events every year. It welcomes more than 10 million visitors annually. You can enjoy opera, ballet, rock concerts, and comedy shows here.
Take a Guided Tour of the Opera House
For a deeper understanding of the Sydney Opera House, take a guided tour. The “Behind the Scenes” tour is very popular. It lets you see areas not open to the public.
On the tour, you’ll learn about the Opera House’s history and architecture. You’ll also hear about the challenges faced during its construction.
| Tour | Duration | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Behind the Scenes | 2.5 hours | Backstage access, history, and architecture |
| Guided Walking Tour | 1 hour | Exterior and interior spaces, history |
| Backstage Breakfast Tour | 1.5 hours | Early morning access, breakfast, backstage areas |
Attend a World-Class Performance
The Sydney Opera House has seven venues for different shows. You can see classical music, opera, dance, and theatre here. Check the website to see what’s on during your visit.
Dine at the Acclaimed Bennelong Restaurant
Bennelong is the Opera House’s top restaurant. It’s inside one of the iconic white sails. The menu features the best of Australian food and wine.
The restaurant’s design and harbour views make it perfect for special occasions. There are also other dining options like the Opera Kitchen. After dinner, visit the Opera Bar for cocktails and live music.
Stroll Through the Royal Botanic Garden
Escape the city’s noise and find peace in the Royal Botanic Garden. This 29-hectare oasis is in Sydney’s heart. It’s Australia’s oldest botanic garden, perfect for nature and history fans.
Walk through the gardens and see native and exotic plants. The Calyx is a must-see, with the biggest green wall in the southern hemisphere. It changes its displays every year. The Rose Garden is a colourful spot, blooming from September to May.
| Attraction | Highlights |
|---|---|
| The Calyx | Largest vertical floral display in the Southern Hemisphere |
| Guided Tours | Available Monday to Friday at 10:30 AM and 1 PM |
| Mrs Macquarie’s Chair | Iconic viewpoint of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge |
| Gardens Shop | Gifts, honey from the Gardens’ hives, seed packets |
| Growing Friends Nursery | Selection of native, exotic, rare, and endangered plants |
Walk from Farm Cove to Mrs Macquarie’s Chair for harbour views. Enjoy a picnic or eat at Busby’s Bar, Farmcove Eatery, or the Botanic House.
The Royal Botanic Garden is a natural and cultural gem. See opera shows or join free guided walks. They run regularly throughout the week, and are usually on Monday to Friday at 10:30 AM and 1 PM.
Discover the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia
Dive into the world of contemporary art at the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia (MCA). It’s in The Rocks, a historic area. The museum welcomes about 600,000 visitors each year. It has over 4,000 works by artists from Australia and around the world.
The MCA shows around 30 exhibitions every year. These include works by both famous and new artists. About half of these shows are free, making art more accessible. The museum also reaches about 20,000 students yearly, helping them appreciate contemporary art.
Admire the Thought-Provoking Exhibitions
At the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, you’ll see amazing exhibitions. They feature painting, sculpture, photography, video, and more. The MCA highlights both Australian and international artists sharing different views and ideas.
Participate in Interactive Workshops and Events
Get closer to contemporary art through the museum’s workshops and events. The MCA has artist talks, panel discussions, and hands-on workshops. These activities let you learn about art-making and meet artists and fans.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Annual Visitors | 600,000 |
| Collection Size | Over 4,000 works |
| Yearly Exhibitions | Around 30 |
| Free Exhibitions | Approximately 50% |
| Students Reached Through Educational Programs | 20,000 yearly |
The Museum of Contemporary Art Australia also has a great café. It gets 4.5-star reviews from visitors. The museum’s website is very popular, with over 700,000 visitors a year. This shows how much people love contemporary art.
Embark on a Harbour Cruise
See the stunning Sydney Harbour on a cruise that fits your taste. You can pick from calm sightseeing trips or exciting jet boat rides. Enjoy views of the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and the city skyline.
For a calm trip, try a scenic cruise. These cruises last about 90 minutes to 2 hours. They give you plenty of time to take in the sights. You can also choose a tall ship cruise for a more laid-back vibe.
Experience the Beauty of Sydney Harbour
Sydney Harbour cruises are for all sorts of events. Whether it’s a romantic evening, a family day out, or a work event, there’s a cruise for you. Some popular choices include:
- Lunch and dinner cruises with tasty meals and drinks
- Whale-watching tours to see these amazing creatures
- Dolphin cruises to watch playful dolphins
- Kayaking and paddle boarding for exercise and views
- Snorkelling tours to see the harbour’s marine life
Many travellers say taking a harbour cruise is highly recommended.
Get Your Adrenaline Pumping on a Jet Boat Ride
Jet boat rides are for those who love a thrill. These fast rides offer amazing views and fun spins and jumps. You’ll zip around the harbour, seeing famous sights while having a blast.
Every cruise offers great service from a friendly crew. Many cruises also have fun activities, like mast climbing on tall ships. It makes your harbour trip even more enjoyable.
Things To Do In Circular Quay for Food Lovers
Circular Quay is just 10 minutes by train from Sydney’s CBD. It’s famous for landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. It also has a wide variety of places to eat, from casual spots to fancy restaurants.
Savour Fresh Seafood at Searock Grill
For fresh seafood lovers, Searock Grill is a top choice. It’s known for its top-quality seafood dishes. With great views of the harbour, it’s the ideal venue for couples on a romantic evening.
Indulge in Japanese Cuisine at Yukis At The Quay
Yukis At The Quay is perfect for Japanese food fans. It serves authentic Japanese dishes with great care. You can try sushi, sashimi, or ramen here.
Other great places to eat in Circular Quay include:
- Cafe Sydney: This cafe on Customs House’s rooftop is famous for its harbour views and seasonal menu.
- Quay: This fine-dining restaurant is known for its innovative dishes and top Australian ingredients.
- Bennelong: Inside the Sydney Opera House, Bennelong offers sophisticated Australian food in a unique setting.
- The Squire’s Landing: This place serves fresh seafood and has craft beers brewed on-site.
For a quick snack or a casual meal, Circular Quay has many cafes and eateries. Joe & The Juice, Zafferano Caffé Mediterraneo, and Pablo & Rusty’s Coffee Roasters are some of them. The Gateway food court has over 25 fast food options.
Whether you’re after a fancy meal or a quick bite, Circular Quay has something for everyone. Its wide range of restaurants and cafes meets all tastes and preferences.
Witness the Spectacular New Year’s Eve Fireworks Display
Circular Quay is the best place to celebrate the new year. Sydney’s famous fireworks display is a must-see. Over 1 million people will watch along the harbour. Make sure to book a spot early at places like Mrs. Macquaries Point or the Sydney Opera House for the best views.
Plan your visit carefully to avoid crowds. The Sydney Opera House area was full by 12:19pm last year. It opens at 7am on New Year’s Eve. Barangaroo Reserve opens at 12pm. There are over 30 spots to watch the fireworks across the city.
As you wait, enjoy the lively atmosphere. The fireworks customarily start at 9pm, with a 20-minute show at midnight. You’ll see 9 tonnes of fireworks light up the sky after 4,500 hours of preparation.
Sip Cocktails at Opera Bar
At the Sydney Opera House, visit the Opera Bar for a drink. It offers amazing harbour views. Relax and enjoy the festive vibe while you count down to midnight.
Use Sydney Trains’ extra services to get there easily. They’ll run over 1,000 extra trains. Roads in the city centre will close early, so plan your journey.
| Vantage Point | Opening Time | Key Information |
|---|---|---|
| Mrs. Macquaries Point | Early morning | One of the quickest spots to fill up |
| Sydney Opera House | 7am | Reached capacity at 12:19pm last year |
| Barangaroo Reserve | 12pm | Offers stunning views of the harbour |
| Blues Point | Varies | Less crowded but requires planning |
| Hickson Road Reserve | Varies | Alcohol-free, family-friendly atmosphere |
If you get the chance, don’t miss the New Year’s Eve fireworks in Circular Quay. It’s a night of spectacular fireworks, great views, and the perfect way to start the new year!
Unwind at Waterfront Bars and Pubs
Ready for a break from Circular Quay’s sights? Head to the waterfront bars and pubs. They’re perfect for relaxing, enjoying a drink, and taking in the harbour views.
Circular Quay has over 20 waterfront bars within a five-minute walk of Circular Quay Station. You can find a spot for a casual pint or a crafted cocktail. Prices vary, but look out for happy hour deals and discounts on your Iventure card.
Enjoy Outdoor Dining with Stunning Harbour Views
For a memorable meal, try one of Circular Quay’s outdoor dining spots. These restaurants offer stunning harbour views. Some top fine dining options include:
- Quay
- Aria
- Bennelong
- The Dining Room at Park Hyatt
Looking for something more affordable? There are many casual spots along the water with tasty food and drinks at reasonable prices. Look out for discounted time slots and locations a little more off the beaten track.
Sample Local Brews at The Squire’s Landing
Beer lovers should check out The Squire’s Landing at the Overseas Passenger Terminal. It offers local brews and seasonal craft beers, along with pub favourites. Enjoy your drink and meal while taking in views of the Sydney Opera House and the harbour in bars such as:
- The Glenmore
- Hyde Hacienda
- Cruise Bar
- Bar Ombré Rooftop
Explore History In The Heart Of Sydney
Discover Sydney’s rich history at two UNESCO World Heritage sites: Cockatoo Island and Hyde Park Barracks. These places show the city’s colonial past and the lives of early convicts. They played a big role in Sydney’s early days.
Take A Daytrip To Cockatoo Island
Go on a day trip to Cockatoo Island, a former prison and shipyard. See the prison buildings, workshops, and historic houses. Learn about the hard life of the convicts here. Cockatoo Island played a key role in British history as a convict penal settlement from 1839 to 1869.
British authorities used it to house and punish reoffending convicts. The island’s shipbuilding facilities later supported the Royal Navy, making it a significant site in Australia’s colonial and maritime history. The island also has amazing views of Sydney Harbour. It’s great for a picnic or a walk.
Experience History At Hyde Park Barracks
Visit Hyde Park Barracks, a convict museum. It shows how convicts built colonial Sydney. It was designed by convict architect Francis Greenway during Governor Macquarie’s tenure, was originally built to house 600 convicts but at times held around 1,400.
Enclosed by a stone perimeter wall, the site features a central barracks building and seven associated structures. The three-storey Georgian-style brick barracks boast a timber-shingled gabled roof and a pediment honouring Governor Macquarie’s contribution. A prominent central clock stands as a reminder of the strict discipline and control imposed on the convicts.
Now, it has interactive exhibits. They show the daily life, work, and punishments of the convicts. It’s a great way to understand Sydney’s early days.
| UNESCO World Heritage Site | Key Features | Distance from Circular Quay |
|---|---|---|
| Cockatoo Island | Former penal establishment and shipyard, historic buildings, harbour views | 30-minute ferry ride |
| Hyde Park Barracks | Former convict barracks, interactive exhibits, convict history | 15-minute walk |
Cockatoo Island and Hyde Park Barracks are key to British, Australian and Sydney’s history. They are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Whether you visit Cockatoo Island or Hyde Park Barracks, you’ll have a memorable time in Sydney.
ADGE Hotel & Residences – Your Stylish Base for Exploring Circular Quay
Make ADGE Hotel & Residences your stylish home base when exploring Circular Quay. This award-winning boutique accommodation Sydney offers luxurious accommodation, and is the perfect starting place, for your Sydney adventure.
ADGE Hotel & Residences have 254 rooms and suites, each designed for your comfort and style. From the moment you enter, you’ll feel the chic ambience. It combines modern design with timeless elegance.
| Room Type | Features |
|---|---|
| Standard Room | Queen bed, en suite bathroom, mini-bar |
| Deluxe Room | King bed, city views, spacious living area |
| Executive Suite | Separate bedroom and living room, kitchenette, balcony |
Enjoy the hotel’s top-notch amenities. There’s a rooftop pool with city views, a fitness centre, and a trendy restaurant. Its location in Surry Hills means you’re close to Circular Quay’s best attractions.
- Explore the architectural marvel of the Sydney Opera House
- Stroll through the tranquil Royal Botanic Garden
- Discover thought-provoking exhibitions at the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia
- Embark on a thrilling harbour cruise or jet boat ride
After a day of adventure, relax at ADGE Hotel & Residences and unwind. It’s perfect for solo travellers, couples, or families. Our gold-standard customer service and beautifully designed boutique hotel ensure an unforgettable stay in Sydney.
Conclusion
Circular Quay is a top spot in Sydney, full of things to see and do. You can visit the Sydney Opera House, which gets 8 million visitors a year. Or, you can climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge, a thrill for 3.5 million people.
The Rocks district is rich in history, with over 160 sites to explore. You can also check out weekend markets with 200 local artisans and food sellers. Art lovers will enjoy the Museum of Contemporary Art, which welcomes 300,000 visitors each year.
New Year’s Eve fireworks here are a sight to behold, attracting 1.5 million people. It’s one of the biggest gatherings in the world. With over 100 shops, cafes, and restaurants, Circular Quay is a bustling place.
It’s not just a tourist spot but also boosts Sydney’s economy by billions each year. So, spend at least 3-5 days here to see everything. A visit to Circular Quay will give you memories you’ll always treasure.
FAQ
What are the must-see attractions in Circular Quay?
Circular Quay is famous for landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. You can also visit The Rocks and the Royal Botanic Garden. Don’t miss the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia and the stunning harbour views.
How can I experience the Sydney Opera House?
You can see the Sydney Opera House in many ways. Take a guided tour to see behind the scenes and learn its history. You can also watch a performance or dine at Bennelong Restaurant.
What can I do at the Royal Botanic Garden?
The Royal Botanic Garden is a peaceful place for a stroll or a picnic. You can also walk along the harbour from Farm Cove to Mrs Macquaries Chair. Don’t miss The Calyx and the Harbour opera shows.
What exhibitions can I find at the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia?
The Museum of Contemporary Art Australia in The Rocks features local and international art. You can see the artworks and join in workshops and events.
What’s the best way to explore Sydney Harbour?
Sydney Harbour is best seen on a cruise. Choose from guided walks, tall ships, and dinner cruises. For excitement, try a jet boat ride with spins and jumps.
Where can I find the best dining options in Circular Quay?
Circular Quay has many dining spots, from casual to fine dining. Try Searock Grill for seafood and steaks. For Japanese food with Opera House views, go to Yukis At The Quay. For fine dining, visit Cafe Sydney, Quay, Aria, and Bennelong.
What’s the best spot to watch the New Year’s Eve fireworks in Sydney?
Circular Quay is the best place to see Sydney’s New Year’s Eve fireworks. Get there early for great views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. Enjoy the countdown with a drink at Opera Bar.
Where can I grab a drink with a view in Circular Quay?
Circular Quay has many bars and pubs with spectacular views. Try Cruise Bar and Hyde Hacienda for outdoor dining. The Squire’s Landing offers local craft beer.
What are some historical sites to visit near Circular Quay?
Explore Sydney’s history at Cockatoo Island and Hyde Park Barracks. Cockatoo Island is a former penal establishment. Hyde Park Barracks is a convict museum.
Where should I stay when visiting Circular Quay?
Stay at ADGE Hotel & Residences in Surry Hills for a stylish stay. This boutique hotel offers 254 rooms and suites. It’s perfect for a chic and comfortable stay in Sydney.