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10 Things to do in Surry Hills for Families

A family outing to Sydney’s Surry Hills is an adventure on its own. However, before you go exploring this cool inner city enclave we thought we’d share a few tips for families. Then your crew will be ready to navigate the streets, discover the best eats and have a bunch of fun along the way.

Vintage Shopping

Vintage Shopping

Credit: Destination, NSW

Who doesn’t love to dress up? Surry Hills is filled with cute retro themed boutiques like Paris Texas and other kitsch stores. But, Cream on Crown is by far the best vintage on the block! Stop in, rummage through the ample stock and score neat old-school jackets, cute blouses, collectable patches and more. Note: the cowboy boot collection here is full wild west style.

 Top Notch Pub Grub

Top Notch Pub Grub
Credit: Cricketers Arms Hotel

Yum and yum. The lunch served up at the Cricketers Arms Hotel is full and hearty pub fare. Think $15 steak and chips, $10 nachos and of course an outstanding chicken parmi special daily. This hotel is a Sydney institution and attracts a mixed crowd from all backgrounds.

Surry Hills Art Scene

Surry Hills Art Scene

Credit: Destination, NSW

The Brett Whiteley Studio is a must see. The large converted warehouse is home to a vast collection of the artists’ extensive works. It also features a glimpse into the deceased artist's life. With unfinished paintings, creative memos, reference books and art equipment all on display for the public. Owned and operated by the Art Gallery of NSW it’s worth checking out, even if briefly.

Dinner at Longrain

Dinner at Longrain

Credit: Destination, NSW

Since the family is out and about in the Surry Hills zone, it would be foolish not to reserve a table at the always impressive Longrain restaurant. This award-winning, high-end Thai restaurant is guaranteed to dish up a host of family favourite dishes to share. Tip: book well in advance to secure your spot.


Prince Alfred Park

This large landscaped outdoor park is a haven for families both local and from abroad. The outdoor pool is heated all year round and is excellent for fitness and fun. There’s also tennis courts, a playground and bbqs available for guest use. Come rest and recharge in the sun at Prince Alfred Park.

The Golden Age Cinema

Naturally, it depends how old the children in your family are, but a trip to the Golden Age Cinema for a cult and/or classic movie screening could well be suitable for the entire tribe. This art deco themed establishment is located at 80 Commonwealth Street, Surry Hills and is a top way to spend a few hours. Catch a flick on the big screen before your Longrain dinner perhaps?

Belvoir St Theatre

Belvoir St Theatre

Credit: Belvoir St Theatre

Continuing on with our Surry Hills family entertainment suggestions may we introduce to you the highly acclaimed Belvoir St Theatre. In operation for over 30 years, the theatre has featured some of Australia’s greatest actors, playwrights and designers throughout the ages. Inspect the ‘what’s on’ guide on their website and take the family to see an enthralling live show that they will remember forever.


MakMak Macarons

MakMak Macarons

Credit: MakMak Macarons

Learn the fine art of making Macarons at one of Australia’s best baking classes. A delightful activity the whole family is destined to enjoy. Follow the process and guidance of your expert teacher and watch as the ingredients mix to create and make the most decadent sweet morsels you ever did taste.

Surry Hills Markets

It’s always a lovely day at the Surry Hills Markets. The atmosphere is pleasant and the stalls are varied. An easy way to pass the time outside with the family. Visitors of all ilks are bound to find something they like fossicking here.

Chur Burger Bar

Chur Burger Bar

Credit: Chur Burger Bar

Chur Burger rounds out our top list of 10 family-friendly things to do in Surry Hills. These burgers are a proper gourmet serve! Their fresh tacos are primo and the fries are next level crunchy goodness too. Plus, the staff are super nice. Must try item: the Notorious P.I.G burger.

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