
Sydney can be quite pricey with larger-than-life hotels and opulent dining experiences only scratching the surface of what the city offers. But if you’re watching your wallet, finding enjoyable activities without spending all your hard-earned money can be a challenge. We’ve put together a list of totally free things to do in Sydney this spring which includes everything from public attractions to exploring the natural beauty of the city, free exhibitions and vibrant outdoor events. It turns out some of the most memorable experiences in the city won’t cost you a thing.
1. Check out Sculpture by the Sea
One of Sydney’s biggest cultural events takes place in spring and it’s completely free to visit. The world’s largest outdoor sculpture exhibition returns from October 18 to November 4 spotlighting Indian artists and even artists who first displayed their works at the exhibition’s 1997 debut. Find stunning artworks peppered across the scenic 2km Bondi to Tamarama coastal walk and enjoy Sydney’s stunning coastline without spending a penny. Find more details on the Sculpture by the Sea website.
2. Catch a free movie under the stars
The Rocks’ Laneway Cinema is returning for its 2024 spring-summer season and it’s bringing dreamy movie nights to the historic neighbourhood for the next couple of months. A bunch of exciting movies will screen at the outdoor cinema including Christmas classics as we inch closer to the festive season. If you haven’t been, the screenings take place every Wednesday from 7pm with bean bags and deck chairs provided and it’s totally free, no catch at all. There are also a number of eateries in the vicinity including P’Nut Street Noodles, Pancakes on the Rocks and The Doss House. Head here to see the full line-up for November.
3. Join a free run club
If you want to start working on your summer body but don’t know where to start, consider joining Darling Harbour’s free run club. Held every Monday from 7.15am to 8.15 am, the club is suitable for runners of all levels from beginners to seasoned athletes. Along with a chance to improve your fitness in a supportive environment, you’ll also enjoy stunning waterfront views as you run. Plus, it’s a great way to meet new friends and be part of a community that shares your goals. Find more information here.
4. Enjoy free Latin nights in the city
Palm Grove is the place to be for Sydney’s Latin dance lovers every Friday night. From October 18 to December 6, everyone is invited to dance to Latin beats from salsa and bachata to mambo, completely free of cost. Whether you’re planning a romantic evening or a lively night out with friends, it’s the perfect opportunity to get moving and have some fun. Find more information here.
5. Get fit with free yoga at The Rocks
The Rocks offers a fantastic opportunity to kickstart your fitness journey with free yoga classes every Sunday at 8.30am and 9.30am if you’re looking to relax, rejuvenate, and find your flow. Aside from being completely free, you really can’t beat the location, they take place literally under the Sydney Harbour Bridge and you don’t have to shell out a single penny. Yoga mats are not provided at the venue so remember to BYO and no experience is required to follow along. Head here for the details.
6. Discover a historic ghost town
There are plenty of spooky ghost tours around Sydney but if you’d rather save your money, there’s another option to get your thrills ahead of Halloween. NSW is home to a number of historic ghost towns that are now abandoned without a trace of human life. The deserted places might not be *actually* haunted but they sure are creepy if you’re into kind of thing. Make your way out of town to these ghost towns that are well worth the drive out of Sydney.
7. Enjoy a free museum day
If you’re looking to get your art and culture fix, there are heaps of exhibitions and art shows to choose from that are free to visit. This season, check out the adorable Little Sydney Lives Exhibition 2024 at Customs House or see over 70 works including prints, artist’s books, sketchbooks and printing plates from across celebrated Australian landscape painter Peter Kingston’s career. There are many more to choose from, take your pick here.
8. Explore a hidden waterfall
The best things about Sydney and its surroundings are the natural landscapes and the endless opportunities to get one with nature. If you’re looking to save some money and beat the heat, make your way to one of the many wonderful waterfalls in and around Sydney. One spot we recommend is just a 90-minute drive from the CBD and it lights up with glow worms after dark. Read all about it here.
9. Wander through a Sydney garden or park
Get your fill of spring flowers at one of Sydney’s many parks and gardens. There are many to explore but some of our very favourites include the picturesque Wendy’s Secret Garden and Australia’s oldest park in the heart of the CBD — Hyde Park. There’s also the peaceful Auburn Botanic Gardens if you want to see Cherry Blossoms and the Royal Botanic Garden with all the city views.
10. Cool off at the beach
This one’s a no-brainer and an all-year favourite for Sydneysiders but with the weather getting increasingly warmer there’s no better time to hit the beach. And if you don’t know where to start in a city with over 100 beaches, we’re here to help. For the picture-perfect harbour view, head to the secluded Milk Beach, to get the beach all to yourself to make your way to the unique Washaway Beach which tends to disappear at high tide. And if you want to get out of town, there are a number of pristine white sand beaches to explore plus some which even sparkle with bioluminescence every now and then. Find more here.
Some of the best things to do in Sydney really are free and there’s so much more to explore including underwater nature trails, secret tunnels and haunted towns.