Sydney sure knows how to put on a fireworks show. If you’re looking for a great, family-friendly vantage spot to take in the night sky-show, look no further – we have found some super spots for you.
The key to a successful family night out to watch fireworks, particularly on the days of big events like Australia Day and New Year’s Eve, is planning.
It’s likely that there will be thousands of families just like you with the same idea, so it makes sense to know where you are headed. Consider things like access points, food, toilets, transport etc and choose the vantage point that best suits your family’s needs.
Often there many road closures that will impact your journey, and very limited parking.
Most councils will strongly recommend that you leave your car at home and take advantage of public transport. In most cases it will be free on the night of big planned events.
However, it pays to be aware of delays to your trip home and make sure that you have what you need to make the wait comfortable with kids.
So, where are the best vantage spots to catch the fireworks in Sydney? Fear not, we’ve found some great spots for you and your family to take in the glowing night sky …
10 best free vantage spots to watch Sydney’s fireworks
Birchgrove Park, Grove St, Birchgrove open from 8am-1.30am: Crowds of up to 5000 are expected at tis popular family spot which has views over the Western side of Sydney Harbour Bridge. Toilets are available, however there are no accessible toilets. Expect road closures around this site. Image: Sydney Fireworks Getty Images
Bradfield Park, Alfred Street South, Milsons Point, 8am-1pm: Offering views of the western and eastern sides of Sydney Harbour Bridge, this site is known to get busy and congested. If you’re planning on watching as a group, it is best to travel together as you are unlikely to be able to find your way to each other once there. Toilets and food are available. Expect road closures around this site. Image: Sydney Fireworks Getty Images
Cremorne Point, 1pm – 1am: You’ll find partial views from here, thanks to the trees, however it is still a popular spot for families to set up and watch the sky light up. Toilets and food are available. Expect road closures around this site. Image: Sydney Fireworks Getty Images
Darling Harbour, 1pm – 1.30am: Easily accessible by public transport, this is a popular spot to catch the flame and fireworks shows every hour from 7pm on NYE. Crowds are always expected and the site will be closed once capacity is reached, so make sure to get there early and settle in for a wait. Toilets and food are available. Expect road closures around this site. Image: Getty Images
Elkington Park, Glassop Street, Balmain, 8.30am-1am: Popular for families, this vantage spot offers up views of the western side of Sydney Harbour Bridge. Toilets are available, however there are no accessible toilets. Expect road closures around this site. Image: Sydney Fireworks Getty Images
Manns Point, Prospect Street, Greenwich, 3.30pm-1.30am: A popular, family-friendly spot to catch the sky lit up for NYE. Great views over Darling Harbour and Barangaroo, and obstructed views of Sydney Harbour Bridge, this is a great spot to set up for the night. Toilets are available. Expect road closures around this site. Image: Sydney Fireworks Getty Images
Mort Bay Park, Cameron Street, Birchgrove, 8am-1.30am: If you want direct views of the western side of Sydney Harbour Bridge, this is a great, family-friendly spot to set up for the night. Toilets are available, however there are no accessible toilets. Expect road closures around this site. Image: Sydney Fireworks Getty Images
North Head, North Head, Manly, 5.30pm-12.20am: A little further out from the city, this relaxed spot is a perfect vantage point for families to take in glorious views of Sydney Harbour. Toilets are available. Expect road closures around this site. Image: Sydney Fireworks Getty Images
Pirrama Park, Pirrama Road, Pyrmont, 2pm – 1am: Accessible and family friendly – parks, food, space and more – this is a popular spot to take in views of the western side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and harbour. Toilets and food are available. Expect road closures around this site. Image: Sydney Fireworks Getty Images
Rose Bay Foreshore, Calendonia Road, Rose Bay, 2pm – 12.30am: This is a small spot, but still popular. Expect views of the city from afar and limited views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Toilets are available, however there are no accessible toilets. Expect road closures around this site. Image: Sydney Fireworks Getty Images
