By Laine Fullerton
In this story:
Looking for unique things to do in Sydney this weekend? If you’re new to Sydney, visiting, or simply want to explore more, then Surry Hills should be on your list of places to visit.
If you’ve ever wandered through Surry Hills on a Saturday morning, you’ll know what we mean when we describe it as buzzing. Cafes spill out onto the sidewalk, friends brunch, and families stroll. It’s no surprise people gather in this charming Sydney suburb—eye-catching murals adorn the likes of Bourke Street Bakery and popular art galleries are dotted through backstreets. If you look a little closer, there’s even more happening than meets the eye.
Wondering what to do in Surry Hills? We’re here to guide you through the top little-known things to do in Surry Hills to take your weekend up a notch!
Do mornings differently with a…
Barista and Coffee Art Class on Elizabeth Street
Ready to revive your morning brew? Head south from Sydney’s Central Station to Surry Hills’ long-stretching Elizabeth Street, and within a short five-minute walk, you’ll find yourself at Coffee School.
Here you’ll spend the morning getting equipped with basic barista skills before exploring more in-depth coffee techniques like how to pour silky-smooth latte art designs. You’ll leave feeling energised and maybe even ready to tackle more creative Surry Hills activities.
“We had a great time at the class! The instructor explained everything clearly, and I learnt so much. We got to do a load of different coffees, practising and getting better each time. Highly recommended for coffee enthusiasts.” - Andrew Z.
Pottery Mug Making Class on Riley Street
Tucked on the corner between Riley and Ann Street, you’ll find ceramics studio imakesculptures. Set inside your typical two-storey terrace, this brightly lit studio is the perfect place to discover the slow art of pottery.
Your teacher, Irina, is there to guide you through the mindful process of making your own mug—from clay hand-building to adding colour to the piece. Finish up feeling both relaxed and excited to pick up your fully functional mug in a few weeks, perhaps another chance to explore more of this charming suburb, ticking off more must-see Surry Hills institutions.
Drift into the afternoon with a…
Fluid Art and Stress Release Workshop on Elizabeth Street
Create + Make sits neatly beside Drink & Draw and is only a short, straight walk from Blybo’s Lebanese restaurant. You’ll walk into the low-key creative space and feel instantly ready to get messy and lose sight of perfectionism.
Explore the beauty of unpredictability as vibrant colours blend and form unique patterns on either a small canvas or your own plywood coasters. Get in the flow and let the stress melt away as you chat with friends, share laughs and forget about your responsibilities for a solid hour.
You’ll get to pick up one or two of your own pieces, but not before they have some time to dry in the studio. Not to worry, this gives you the perfect chance to check out more of Sydney's hidden gems.
Tea Blending Workshop on Flinders Street
Enjoy a peaceful twenty-minute walk exploring more of Surry Hills, travelling over to Bourke St and eventually rounding a corner to Flinders Street, where you’ll find Provider Studio’s light-filled space to sit back and indulge in even more relaxation.
Grab a friend and get ready to create a custom tea blend specific to your wellness needs. You’ll be guided on getting in touch with your senses to blend your own tea with a wide selection of different botanical ingredients, including Sencha, Lemon Myrtle, Rose, Lavender, and more. Along the way, your instructor, Diana, will explain the therapeutic benefits of the ingredients, helping you decide what your teas will be. Enjoy nibbles (and, of course, tea!) over two hours, during which you’ll create two of your own personal blends to take home and keep the calm going.
After these two sessions, you’ll be well and truly free of worry, and the only thing on your mind will be ‘what else is there to do in Surry Hills?’ So, how about a bite to eat?
6 years in business
Runs regularly
Chatswood & Sydney
1 to 15 guests
$160
Traditional Pasta Making Class on Riley Street
Head over to a homely Italian restaurant, Pasta Emilia. It’s hard to miss the eye-catching red-and-white painted logo out the front and welcoming wooden doors adorned with arch-shaped greenery.
Your senses will quickly transport you as you step inside this cosy space, ready to roll up your sleeves and learn the secrets of pasta making from long-time experts. After the making is done, sit down and enjoy the fruits of your labour with a complimentary glass of organic wine. Your wine glass may end up empty, but your cup (and tummy) will be happily full!
“Great class, such a fun experience with plenty of laughs. The teacher was very helpful, and the lunch was great with a nice glass of wine. Couldn’t wait to get home and start my own fresh pasta making.” - Catherine M.
Now that you’re feeling fuelled, what’s on for the evening?
Toast the evening with a…
Painting the Nude Workshop on Riley Street
Back on Riley Street, take the stairs to TAP Gallery, Sydney’s longest-running community art space. Here they run evening painting classes with a live model, so you can learn how to capture the human form with a paintbrush.
Set amongst an ever-changing art gallery environment, you’ll find no shortage of creative inspiration. Pair the experiences with nibbles, DYO drinks and a few friends, and when the night is done, you’ll be able to rave to others about what to do in Surry Hills.
“Such a great and fun evening. My girlfriends and I all went and were so excited by the experience that we're already looking at booking the next one in.” - Jorydyn J.
If you have some more adventure in you, continue for a final toast to this endearing Sydney suburb.
Cocktail Making Class with Tapas and Pizza on Elizabeth Street
Li’l Darlin’ is a sweet tooth’s paradise, and you’ll find this fairytale-like bar back on Elizabeth Street, just a short stroll from Central Station. The best part? This cosy bar offers more than your regular drink service.
Pick your favourite drink from their candy-infused cocktail menu—think glasses rimmed with hundreds and thousands, gummy ‘bear-tinis’ and fairy floss garnishings—and the friendly bartenders will take you through how to whip up the drink yourself. Or, challenge them with a personal request of your own!
After all the shaking, stirring and straining, sit down and enjoy a feast of tapas and pizza, the perfect complement to your cocktail.
There you have it! Surry Hills is brimming with exciting things to do, and now you’re ready to explore its best-kept secrets.
