People enjoying an indoor skydiving experience at iFly Downunder, Penrith in Sydney’s western suburbs.
Sydney Summer is all about beaches and barbecues, but what if you’re looking to beat the heat? There are plenty of fun things happening indoors too, from world-class exhibitions to zoos, rock climbing and even indoor skydiving.
Two outstanding international art exhibitions will be on show exclusively in Sydney as part of the Sydney International Art Series. At the Museum of Contemporary Art, acclaimed British artist Cornelia Parker turns everyday objects into unexpected and explosive installations, sculptures, drawings and films. Japan Supernatural at the Art Gallery of New South Wales celebrates the wildly imaginative spirit world of Japanese art with more than 180 magnificent works from artists like 19th century master Katsushika Hokusai and international art superstar Takashi Murakami.
A visitor exploring Cornelia Parker’s famous War Room
Captain Marvel has touched at Madam Tussauds alongside her fellow Marvel superheroes. As part of an all new augmented reality experience, fans can become their own superhero using body-tracking sensors. Step in front of a giant screen to see Captain Marvel’s insignia emerge on your chest and a fiery glow appear around you as you harness her incredible binary powers.
Rum has a chequered past in Sydney, but the team at Brix are determined to give it a makeover via a distillery, bar and restaurant. Just over a year old, the Surry Hills space offers tours, tastings and masterclasses. As well as their own house blends, more than 150 rums from around the world are available to try.
Rum tasting at Brix Distillers
Take a virtual reality Gruffalo tour to mark the 20th anniversary of the classic children’s picture book The Gruffalo. Families can embark on the Gruffalo Spotters Trail using a new augmented reality app to find their favourite characters from the book. You’ll be immersed in the Australian Outback and bring characters like Mouse, Snake and Fox to life.
Eat at The Paper Mill
Western Sydney has a new food destination – The Paper Mill. Set beside the Georges River in Liverpool, there are four different eateries under one roof with something to suit every budget and occasion. Choose from woodfired pizza, Lebanese charcoal chicken, woodfired meats (including lobster) or a dedicated dessert bar for after dinner treats.
Other exciting indoor activities include:
- Indoor skydiving in Penrith
- Axe throwing at Maniax in St Peters
- Pottery and screen printing workshop at Maker Space in Marrickville
- Swimming at indoor pools like Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre, Annette Kellerman Aquatic Centre, Cook Phillip Aquatic and Fitness Centre, and Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre
- Dumplings and Chinese art at White Rabbit Gallery in Chippendale
- Rock climbing and bouldering at St Peters and Villawood
- Aerial trapeze and indoor ice skating in Canterbury
- Broadway hit musicals Shrek and School of Rock
- Fascinating museums: Powerhouse Museum, Australian National Maritime Museum, Museum of Sydney
- Sydney Festival performances at Sydney Opera House, Roslyn Packer Theatre, Carriageworks and Riverside Theatre
- Summer festival sideshows at the Metro Theatre, Enmore Theatre, Oxford Art Factory, Giant Dwarf and The Horden Pavillion