Look, I love my long blacks and morning swims just as much as the next local, but if you ask me about Sydney, it’s really after dark when she really struts her stuff. I’m not talking about your run-of-the-mill dive bars and dance floors (no diss, they’ve got their time and place). I’m talking about experiences so flashy, so Sydney, the ones you whip out for date nights or just when you feel like doing something a little bit extra.
So, if you’re chasing after something that’s as magical as our city for your night out, here’s my list of the most unique Sydney nightlife experiences.
Go on Sydney’s only cabaret dinner cruise
Let’s boot things off with the longest running cabaret show on Sydney Harbour — the ‘Voyage of Love’. This one has it all, feathers, sequins, headdresses and a whole lotta glitter! Allow me to decode the dazzle.
You’re cruising on a grand red and white paddlewheeler with sparkly lights, past the unmistakable Opera House the the regal Harbour Bridge, tucking into a 3-course dinner and then BAM! The curtains are drawn, the stage is set and the spotlight is on! You’re hit with Showboat’s classic razzle-dazzle! A high-energy performance with toe-tapping dance numbers, dramatic vocals and countless ‘wow’ moments throughout! You won’t believe how fast three hours roll by on this dinner cruise!
I’ve been on the Showboat more times than I can recall (guilty as charged), it’s my go-to for showing off the city to visiting friends and fun birthdays; and every single time, I get down the boat like I just time-travelled to the golden era of cabaret and risqué from the early 1900s. Safe to say it’s one of the best Sydney Harbour night cruises around!
Sleepover at a zoooo!
Forget roosters, in Sydney you can wake up to Mufasa’s roar! Yes, this list is not just for groups looking for a fun night out in Sydney, it’s for families as well! The ‘Roar and Snore’ is one of the most unique experiences in Sydney, where you’ll spend the evening getting up close with elephants, lions, tigers, ‘roos and other wildlife before heading for some shut-eye in your safari-style camps. There’s also an exclusive night tour where you’ll meet the nocturnal wildlife and learn fun animal trivia! And if that doesn’t tickle your fancy, you’ll wake up to a brekkie with the giraffes, can opt for exclusive behind-the-cage experiences and complete zoo access for the rest of the day! Just imagine the school drop-off brag: “Oh yeah, we slept next to the lions this weekend.” Thank me later.
Go on a quest to spot Fairy Penguins
More wildlife? We’re here for it! But this one depends on the time of day, weather and mostly luck, so don’t get your hopes up way too high, yet. Some of Sydney’s best nightlife waddles in from the ocean wearing cute little tuxedos, the Fairy Penguins. Visit Manly at sunset between July to February to catch sight of these comical characters. They’re part of the last breeding colony on mainland NSW and if you’re patient (and respectful), you just might see them make their nightly trek home. There are volunteers around who can fill you in on all the penguin gossip. Just remember — no flash, no sneaky touching. Eyes only!
Catch a show at the Opera House
You’ve seen the shimmering sails of the Opera House by day, but by night? It’s a different beast. And it doesn’t matter if you’re a fan of drama, comedy, theatre, concerts, operas, ballet or jazz, they always have something for every taste. Make sure you check out the official website before strutting in.
The key is to make a full night of it, especially a date night! Come early for vinos and sunset selfies at the Opera Bar, then head in for a show that’ll feed your soul. It’s gonna be a full cultural moment, minus the stuffiness. Even if you’re not a theatre person like I am, I dare you to not be impressed!
Every moment counts in Sydney, so rather than counting sheep at your hotel or home, head out and let Sydney surprise you!