Sydney is a fantastic city for those of us who enjoy a drink or two. From bars and clubs to rooftops and bottomless brunches, plenty of things can keep your thirst quenched. But what if you’re in the mood for some sober fun?
If you’re looking to have a bit of an alcohol detox, and want weekend plans that don’t end in a hangover, then you have come to the right place. Here are our top picks of alcohol-free things to do in Sydney.
1. Candlelight Concert
Spend an evening surrounded by thousands of candles, as you listen to classical music played by professional musicians. The Candlelight Concert series takes place in iconic venues throughout Sydney and includes a variety of musicians and genres. Whether you enjoy the grandeur of a full orchestra, the synchronicity of a string quartet, or the intimacy of a solo pianist, Candlelight events offer you the opportunity to experience them all and more.
2. Carmichael Manor Mystery
Take part in this murder mystery, where you will need to uncover the truth to avoid being stuck in the past forever. Join Father Patrick and his companions on an unforgettable journey as their quest for peace takes an unexpected turn, catapulting you back to the year 1919. Travel through time to the momentous day of October 31st, 1919, where the fate of Elspeth Carmichael’s impending marriage hangs in the balance.
3. Phoenix Collective Concert
Phoenix Collective is an Australian string quartet, known for captivating audiences all over Australia. The quartet has an exciting upcoming series of concerts, suitable for music enthusiasts of all ages. The concerts will be approximately 60 minutes long and tickets are only $50. Whether you’re a musicophile or just looking for a fun night out, these concerts are sure to be a hit!
4. Breakfast With Koalas
Tuck into a delicious breakfast at WILD LIFE zoo while Koalas perch in trees all around you. Then, be taken on a guided tour and learn valuable insights from the koala keepers. After that, you have free range to explore the rest of the exciting sights that the zoo has to offer.
5. Sunrise Kayaking With Breakfast
Start your day with a relaxing kayaking experience as the sun rises over Sydney Harbour. Paddle through the serene waters with the Sydney Opera House as your backdrop, and enjoy the cool morning air. After your kayaking excursion, you will get to treat yourself to a mouthwatering Aussie-style breakfast at the hip and happening Flying Bear Cafe.
6. Escape Hunt Sydney
Gather your team of 2-4 players and prepare to have your creativity and problem solving skills pushed to the limit! Escape Hunt has a range of themed rooms from beginner to advanced, featuring mind-bending experiences like Alice in Puzzleland and Wizard’s Quest. You will need to crack the intricate clues and win back your freedom before the time runs out!
7. Live At The Great
With an incredible lineup of musicians in one of the most spectacular venues in Australia, Live At The Great is something you’ll want to reserve tickets for. Live at The Great aims to bring world-class musicians to intimate venues, and their concerts are always an intriguing and emotional experience. The lineup for 2023 includes a variety of internationally acclaimed and award-winning musicians.
8. Sydney Harbour’s True Crime Cruise
Uncover the dark underbelly of Sydney’s history as you cruise into Sydney’s mysterious past. Aboard a boat sailing out of Sydney’s harbour, you will be treated to 2 hours of hidden secrets and intriguing mysteries. Explore the dark side of the city’s history on this time-travelling cruise through Sydney’s True Crime stories.
9. Altitude Tea Workshop
Enjoy this workshop where you will participate in a traditional tea ceremony using a Gongfu set. You will learn more about the philosophy of tea drinking and the wisdom behind the practice. The experience also includes a sampling of rare and exotic teas with 30+ varieties to choose from. You will learn tips on how to drink mindfully and appreciate the taste and aroma, forever changing the way you experience tea!
10. Underwater Nature Trail
An under-the-radar spot nestled quietly between Clovelly and Coogee Beach is the Gordons Bay Underwater Nature Trail. The sparkling turquoise bay is a prime spot for swimming, diving and snorkelling with clear, calm waters and lush native flora. The 600-metre-long trail is comparable to a walking track around the bay, except it’s all underwater. The trail comprises concrete-filled drums linked together by a chain with information about the local sea life displayed on steel plaques. The deepest point is 14 metres and the trail takes about 45 minutes to complete.
11. Coffee In Parramatta
Among the many trendy suburbs dotted across town, Parramatta is quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with. If you’re after a coffee or brunch spot, you don’t have to look further than this buzzing commercial corner of Sydney. From laneway cafes to art studio-styled cafes, themed bakeries and more, these outstanding spots are well worth a visit.
12. Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop
Join the experts at Art Masterclass and discover the techniques needed to decorate a mosaic lamp. You will be using a variety of coloured tiles and will be shown how to design breathtaking Islamic geometric patterns and lay them down. Once your masterpiece is finished, you’ll receive all the necessary materials and instructions to complete the final stage and grout or plaster your lamp at home.