Taking place as the calendar flips from December 31 to January 1, Sydney’s spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks are a bucket list experience for many. From the Harbour Bridge to Bradleys Head to more hidden spots, the city leaves no stone unturned for the occasion. Even better, some of Sydney’s best and most popular sites are completely free for all, including places like Mrs Macquarie’s Point and the Royal Botanic Garden — so don’t miss out. Here are some of the best spots to see the New Year’s Eve fireworks in Sydney. Just remember: to secure a prime spot, you’ll need to head down early.
1. Sydney Opera House
It doesn’t get much better than the Sydney Opera House for a close view of the fireworks. With unobstructed views of the Harbour Bridge and an atmosphere that’s hard to match, it’s one of the best places to catch the fireworks display in all its glory. You can either claim a spot on the forecourt or opt for their ticketed event, House of Splendour NYE 2024. Either way, it promises to be an unforgettable evening.
2. Observatory Hill
Observatory Hill offers an incredible view of the western side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. From this vantage point, you’ll also enjoy a birds-eye view of the fireworks as the city lights up at the stroke of midnight. Entry is free and the closest station is Circular Quay. Keep an eye here for updates.
3. Royal Botanic Gardens
Visitors to the Royal Botanic Garden will be treated to four free vantage points that offer stunning views of the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, and the Sydney Harbour fireworks. For the best views, head to Mrs Macquarie’s Point and Fleet Steps or Tarpeian Lawn and Bennelong Lawn where you’ll have uninterrupted views of the fireworks. For more details, visit the official website.
4. Mrs Macquarie’s Chair
Mrs Macquarie’s Chair is one of Sydney’s most iconic New Year’s Eve vantage points. The Sydney landmark boasts sweeping harbour views and seats up to 10,000 people. While, usually a ticketed event, entry will be completely free this year. Food vendors will also be on-site selling light snacks and drinks. Get the details here.
5. Taronga Zoo
Perched beside Sydney Harbour, Taronga Zoo offers brilliant views of the city skyline. It’s the perfect spot for families to spend the day with food stalls on site and the option to BYO. Regular ferry and bus services are available making the travel their a breeze. Grab your tickets here.
6. The Rocks
The Rocks boasts several prime vantage points for excellent views of the fireworks. Plus, a number of restaurants and bars in the area are joining in the celebration with special offers to make your evening an extra memorable one. This year, all vantage points will be free. Get all the details on The Rocks’ website.
7. Hickson Road Reserve
With panoramic views of the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House, Hickson Road Reserve is a popular spot to see the fireworks with the entire harbour laid out before you. Situated at the base of the Harbour Bridge, you’ll have a front-row seat to the entire display. Entry to the spot is free this year and no tickets are required. Get more information here.
8. Blues Point
For a more underrated spot to see the fireworks, Blues Point offers gorgeous views of the western side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. Keep in mind, there’s no parking available here and the closest stations are North Sydney and Sydney Metro Victoria Cross. Food will be available on-site, or you can bring your own to enjoy the festivities.
9. Pirrama Park
Pirrama Park offers the perfect 3-in-1 deal: stunning views of the harbour, relatively fewer crowds and free entry. Picnics are welcome in this sunny spot so you can enjoy a leisurely day in the sun before the fireworks begin. This is an accessible, family-friendly site.
10. McKell Park
If you’re a fan of hidden gems like us, McKell Park in Darling Point is a must-see. This charming spot is perfect for a picnic and you can also enjoy a swim in the harbour via the sandstone steps for a refreshing start to the new year. Entry is free but this is a smaller site with a capacity of 1,000 so get in early.
11. Bradleys Head
Celebrating New Year’s Eve at Bradleys Head Amphitheatre is an excellent way to bid adieu to the year. The Instagram-worthy location provides excellent views of all the iconic Sydney landmarks. You’ll have to bring your own food and capacity is limited. This is a ticketed event, get your tickets here.
12. North Head, Manly
If you’re looking for something a little bit further from the city and away from the crowds, North Head is an excellent choice. You will enjoy clear views of the fireworks without the hassle of navigating large crowds or dealing with public transport afterwards. Entry is free and no tickets are required. Get more information here.
13. Cremorne Point
Cremorne Point tends to get a bit crowded owing to its popularity, but if you’re willing to navigate the crowds, the view is worth it. The area boasts beautifully maintained parks and gardens with views across the harbour to the Bridge and Opera House.
14. Darling Harbour
The NYE fireworks over Darling Harbour are absolutely stunning with many waterfront restaurants and bars along Cockle Bay Wharf, Harbourside Shopping Centre, King Street Wharf and Barangaroo joining in on the fun. Entry is free and it’s first come, first served so head there early. Read all about it here.
15. Bicentennial Park
Stretching along Rozelle Bay, Bicentennial Park offers lovely water views and a laidback atmosphere. The grassy spot is perfect for families looking for a more relaxed experience while enjoying the New Year’s Eve fireworks.
16. Dr Mary Booth Lookout Reserve
The Mary Booth Reserve is conveniently located near public transport with views of the Harbour Bridge spread out before you. It’s a highly sought-after spot and eager visitors often arrive early in the morning to claim their spot. As viewing is available on a first come first serve basis, be prepared for a bit of hustle to secure a spot. Entry is free, get the details here.
17. Circular Quay
The areas around Circular Quay that make for good viewing spots for the fireworks include the Circular Quay promenade, First Fleet Park, the Museum of Contemporary Art podium and the Tallawoladah lawn areas. Even better, they’re free to visit.
18. Cockatoo Island
Just a short ferry ride from Sydney, the beautiful Cockatoo Island offers a splendid setting for the NYE fireworks as the celebration unfolds for the night. Several overnight camping packages are also available if you want to extend your stay and make the most of your time.
Find all the packages here.
19. Lavender Bay Parklands
Lavender Bay is brimming with lush greenery, beautiful vantage points and stunning harbour views. Made up of Clark, Quibaree and Watt Parks, this is a famously romantic spot to view the New Year’s Eve fireworks. Entry is free; head here for more details.
Head to Transport for NSW and start planning your day.
Find more information about Sydney’s New Year’s Eve fireworks display and the more places around Sydney to catch them here.