Things To Do In Sydney: Explore These Secret Gardens With Kids

By Hayley Dean, ellaslist.

I love walking through gardens. They are such magical and peaceful places. I envy those with a green thumb and daydream that I can make my own backyard thrive just as easily. Kids seem to somehow appreciate their beauty too. They offer such a wonderful way to give your kids the gift of nature. Here are some great kid friendly gardens to visit with your young children under 6. Its important to note that many of these gardens are not particularly pram friendly which means a carrier is likely the best option for your smallest humans.

Camilia Gardens, Carringbah

Behind the big old metal gates lies a magical place. These gardens are stunning, especially when the flowers come into full bloom around July/August. Entry is Free. Kids and Adults alike will enjoy exploring the stone pathways. The teas room serves some of the best scones in Sydney but get in quick as they are usually sold out by morning tea.

Pram Friendly: No.

Address: President Ave, Caringbah South

Glades Bay Park, Gladesville (The Wulaba Track.)

One of Sydney’s best-kept secrets, this native Garden can by found off York Street in Gladesville. Follow the concrete path to the beginning of the track that connects into a metal board walk that meanders through scrub, gum tress and mangroves.

This (2km round trip) is rich in well preserved Wallumedegal (aboriginal) history with many traces of their life still available including hundreds of shells from meals, rock carvings and evidence of campsite tool making. These artefacts are thousands of years old and can be a little tricky to find so keep your eyes out for the council information signs.

Pram Friendly: No.

Address: York Street, Gladesville.

Sylvan Grove Native Gardens, Picnic Point

Tucked away in the middle of this unassuming suburban suburb lies a magnificent oasis of lush native gardens, gullies and trails. Put simply, this place is beautiful. 
A 1km round track, your little people will adored "hiking" through the bush and discovering new plants, wombat holes and the odd smurf or two. Best to pack your mozzie repellent here. It's free to visit and absolutely worth the trip down south.

Pram Friendly: No

Address: 7 Sylvan Grove, Picnic Point

Blackburn Gardens, Double Bay

Enchanting is the first word that comes to mind when you enter into these gardens. 
It’s a true secret paradise that lies behind stonewalls, next to the Woollahra library. The gardens lead down into the shark netted harbour side pool now known as Murray Rose Pool (formerly Redleaf Pool) and Seven Shillings Beach. The sundial, statues and flora will capture the imagination of your child’s curious mind.

Pram Friendly: Not really.

Address: New South Head Road, Double Bay

Chinese Garden of Friendship, Darling Harbour

A well known tourist attraction that worth visiting over and over again. It simply is an Oasis hidden behind the skyscrapers. It's easy to forget you're in Sydney CBD. Walk around, take in its beauty and relax in the teahouse. The kids might like to get dressed up in the traditional costumes or feed the fish. Free public programs and other events, including school holiday programs, are offered throughout the year. 

Pram Friendly: No.

Address: Pier Street, Darling Harbour (South End).

Auburn Botanic Gardens

Most well know for the Japanese Gardens that live within its boundaries, the almost 10 hectares of gardens includes the solemn reflection pool, a memorial to the war in Gallipoli, Rose gardens, a playground, a free wildlife animal park, two lakes, a waterfall, duck pond, Avery and a Rainforest. There is just so much to see and do here so plan to stay the day and enjoy the lunch on the picnic tables and BBQ’s available onsite.

Pram Friendly: In some sections only.

Address: Chisholm Rd & Chiswick Rd, Auburn