In this story:
Did you know that you can plant a bonsai in Redfern or stain colourful glass suncatchers in Dulwich Hill? It turns out there’s an abundance of hidden things to do in Sydney that are just waiting to be discovered.
Whether you’re a tourist exploring the city for the first time or a savvy local, our curated guide is your passport to uncovering some of the best Sydney activities on offer.
Repair handmade pottery with Kintsugi Australia
Let's start with an activity that not only fuels your creativity but also introduces you to an ancient art form—Japanese kintsugi! The wonderful folks at Kintsugi Australia offer this unique beginner's workshop located on King Street, where you can learn this centuries-old technique of repairing broken pottery. Instead of hiding the cracks, kintsugi embraces them by filling them with lacquer mixed with powdered gold. This art form symbolises resilience and finding beauty in imperfection—a concept we could all benefit from embracing!
Perfect for: Weekends when it’s raining outside, sentimental souls, and those looking for a fun date idea in Sydney.
To give kintsugi a go, it’s happening: Every day in July and August, with sessions between 10:30 am to 12 pm and 2 pm to 4 pm.
To get your caffeine fix before class… Head to Batch Espresso on 70 Pitt Street, just a five-minute walk from the studio. This local coffee shop is always bustling with people starting their day with a strong cappuccino or a green smoothie pick-me-up.
Design and make your own funky rug with TUTU Studio
Next up on our list is an activity that'll add a pop of colour and character not just to your weekend but also to your living space! TUTU Studio offers this fun rug making workshop in Haymarket, where you can design and create your own funky rug using a selection of over 50 colourful fabric yarns.
As soon as you step inside this cosy studio, you’ll be surrounded by a collection of fluffy tufted rugs waiting for you. You’ll even get a stunning view of the Chinese Friendship Gardens right outside the window!
“This was one of the most fun experiences I’ve had. We really enjoyed the process and the rug we made that came out of it!” - Josiah J.
You’ll get set up with some simple tools (a tufting gun and your frame), and after a quick demonstration, you’re off to paint with yarn! Spend a couple of hours indulging in quality time with yourself, or bring a friend or partner for double the fun. It's a great way to unleash your creative side while making something functional and aesthetic at the same time. Plus, you get to take home your own unique rug to display in your home, whether you put it on the wall as a main centrepiece in your room or feel the soft yarn underneath your feet after a hot shower—it’s up to you!
Perfect for: Friends trying to shake up their weekend and those looking for fun hidden things to do in Sydney before they’re no longer hidden!
To give tufting a go, it’s happening: Every day in July and August, from 10 am to 1 pm, 2 pm to 5 pm and 4 pm to 7 pm.
To add a dash of excitement to your evening… Head around the corner to Dixon Street and indulge in the best Korean food in town at Tiger Korean Pocha. The atmosphere is lively, giving off that authentic Korean pocha street vibe. The food isn’t only delicious; it’s also great value for money, with large portions and traditional sides to accompany every dish. Bring your friends, grab some drinks, and enjoy hearty comfort food. (We recommend the black bean noodles!)
Discover the art of stained glass with PidegoArt
Stained glass artistry might seem like something straight out of medieval times, but guess what? You too can try your hand at it with PidegoArt in Sydney’s inner west suburb, Dulwich Hill. This buzzing, down-to-earth suburb is proof there are plenty of creative things to do in Sydney.
Founder Hideko started her small business so she could share her passion for stained glass art. Step inside her naturally lit studio, surrounded by indoor plants and macrame pot hangers, and get ready to make some fun glass-stained art.
You’ll receive six pieces of stained glass, and you can design and solder your own beautiful suncatcher in the form of a star, a diamond or whatever other shape you like! It's a unique and relaxing activity that allows you to create beautiful pieces of art while learning about the rich history of this age-old craft.
Perfect for: Those looking for warm indoor activities and creatives who’d like to learn a new and enchanting skill!
To give stained glass art a go, it’s happening: Every day in July and August from 10 am to 2:30 pm, from 4 pm to 8:30 pm, and for a romantic date night that could follow an early dinner, from 6 pm to 10:30 pm.
To add some sunshine to your day… Grab a drink and snack before your session at Outfield Cafe near Yeo Park—it’s only a short eight-minute walk from the studio. Winter is chilly this year, so warm yourself up with a walk and a hot chai latte before heading in to make some magic!
Unwind and plant a bonsai with Merchant & Green
Looking for a relaxing activity this weekend? Exercise your green thumb! Local florist Merchant & Green is located on Bourke Street in Redfern, among the large leafy trees and quaint terrace houses, and offers a bonsai class for beginners.
Head down the back of the florist shopfront to take the class, where you’ll learn the art of planting and maintaining bonsai trees. With a collection of plants, ceramic vases and materials, you’ll get to unleash your inner Mr Miyagi and plant your own bonsai. Your teacher will be there to guide you along the way and give you tips on how to take care of it at home. Not only does it provide a serene escape from your daily routine, but it also gives you a living piece of art that you can take home!
This session left a lasting impression on Nicholas P., one of our community crafters:
“This class was a great introduction to what is probably going to become a hobby for many years to come.”
Perfect for: Those seeking a grounding and mindful experience, as well as anyone looking to try something new!
To give bonsai making a go, it’s happening: Selected dates from July 4th through to the 25th. As well as several dates from the 7th of August, through to the 23rd.
To find your next read after class… Walk nine minutes to TITLE Store in Surry Hills, a cosy vintage store filled with a curated collection of books and vinyls (from new and old).
Pick up a paintbrush and unleash your creativity with Atolya
Last on our list is watercolour painting with Atolya, a white-walled studio in Darlinghurst that aims to showcase its Turkish heritage through art. If you’ve never heard of Turkish watercolour painting, the friendly staff at Atolya are here to help! Their painting classes are perfect for beginners and experienced artists, where they provide all the materials and guidance needed for you to create your own masterpiece while having lots of fun along the way.
Sip on traditional tea, listen to the rich history of Turkish floral motifs and get ready to paint on a pre-drawn template. This should help you indulge in a few hours of mindful relaxation and creativity with your hands.
Perfect for: Something to do with your loved ones, or a sweet and fun date idea in Sydney!
To give watercolour painting a go, it’s happening: Every Friday from 6 pm to 7:30 pm and every Sunday from 2 pm to 3:30 pm in July and August.
To continue the relaxation after class… Head to Hyde Park House on the corner of William Street, a fun British-style pub that offers delicious food and drinks. At their Club Lounge, you can dine in and order at the bar or head to the Slims Rooftop and enjoy the views overlooking Hyde Park and sunny Sydney CBD.
So there you have it—five hidden things to do in Sydney that give you an entirely new perspective on your city. Whether it’s learning an ancient Japanese art form or creating your own stained glass window ornament, these hands-on, crafty activities will elevate next month’s plans!
6 years in business
Runs regularly
Sydney & Chatswood
1 to 15 guests
$160
