Father's Day on every budget
Heads up – it’s almost Father’s Day. Sunday 3 September is the date to celebrate the big man in our life, hopefully without burning a big hole in our pocket. If finances are tight – and let’s face it, whose aren’t this year? – no worries. We’ve got pocket-friendly ways to make dad's day sparkle, from breakfast with koalas to ramen feasts.
Free
Sparkling Skies
Kick off Father’s Day early with fireworks in Cockle Bay Wharf on Saturday night (8.30 pm, Saturday 2 September), maybe followed by a bite or beer with a view. Follow it up with brekkie in bed in the morning and you’re golden.
Picnic Time Out
Pack up some sandwiches and dad’s favourite foods and have a picnic in beautiful Tumbalong Park. If you’ve got little ones you might want to also head over to the Darling Harbour Children’s Playground, where kids can scamper and slide while dad has a break.
Cool Public Spaces
Take dad on a stroll along The Goods Line, a thoughtfully designed park and green space running from Railway Square to Darling Harbour. There’re free ping-pong tables and picnic spots.
$
A Chinese Garden Getaway
Dive into an urban oasis at the Chinese Garden of Friendship, where Sydney's bustle meets serene traditional Chinese design. This quiet corner is a gem of relaxation and reflection – perfect for some quality time with dad. If you’ve got the funds, The Gardens by Lotus does bottomless Yum Cha on weekends.
A Lens into Nature
Is dad an animal lover or outdoor dude? Then he’ll love being taken to the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition at the Australian National Maritime Museum. Experience the world's wonders through 100+ captivating images telling nature’s most intriguing stories.
Powerhouse Museum
Or maybe Dad’s a science nerd? If so, he’ll love a trip to the Powerhouse Museum in Ultimo to discover technologies and ideas that have changed the world.
Ramen Revelries
Spoil dad with slurpy, delicious and affordable Hakata-style Tonkotsu ramen at Hakatamon Ramen. If you fancy something different, they've got karaage chicken, katsu curry, and more to tingle those tastebuds.
Cheap Eats
There’re loads of great spots to treat dad to a feed that’s both tasty and cheap at Darling Harbour. Check out these ideas for great takeaway spots or grab a bite in at Betty’s Burgers, Fishbowl (The Exchange), Guzman Y Gomez or Pancakes on The Rocks – Darling Square.
$$$
Koala Mornings and Brekkies
Kick off the day by munching with the munchkins—koalas that is! Breakfast with Koalas at WILDLIFE Sydney Zoo tickets aren’t dirt-cheap, but they pack a real punch for your dollar that’s bound to delight Dad. Enjoy zoo admission, a guided tour, buffet breakfast plus refreshments, keeper talk plus a souvenir photo. One word: Unforgettable.
A Hero's Feast
Got a few extra quid for the old man? Shower him with a Father’s Day Feast and Trim package at Pumphouse Sydney complete with a free trim, whiskey tasting, and 3-course lunch, because every hero deserves some fine dining.