The Best Weekend Activities In Sydney, According To The Locals
Ready to have some fun?
Get ready to fall in love with your city all over again.
The second it hits 5pm on a Friday is the best moment of the week, because that means it’s the weekend. And now that Sydney is opening back up, we can actually get outside and explore on our Saturday and Sundays. What a concept!
And if you’re wondering how to make the most of your weekend, or just want to mix it up from your old routine, we’ve got you covered.
We recently asked you guys to send us love letters for your favourite local businesses in Sydney and you guys delivered some amazing shops, cafes, bars, and experiences.
So, we’ve rounded up some of the very best places you can go in the city to have an unforgettable weekend. This list has something chill, something adventurous, something delicious, and something luxurious so you can plan the perfect weekend, no matter what you’re in the mood for. We’ve also got some of the best places where you can get a fresh haircut or nail set before you venture back out into the world.
And, best of all, every place on this list is approved by the people who know best – you guys. Just be sure to check the opening times before you rush out the door in case some businesses are still opening back up.
Here are the best weekend activities in Sydney:
#1. Find a new outfit at Storeroom Vintage
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“Dear Storeroom Vintage, your cool retro clothes take me back to the good old times.” – Matthew
Your weekend shopping spree is covered at Storeroom Vintage. Stocking the kind of threads that have come roaring back into style again, it’s got a huge range of cool shirts, jackets, sweaters, and accessories.
You might also find designer gear here, with the shop’s website regularly listing Gucci, Fendi, Christian Dior, and Versace, among others.
Address: 316-318 Crown St, Surry Hills
#2. Refresh your reading list at Berkelouw
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“Dear Berkelouw Books, you’re a city oasis of floorboard-creaking quiet. The second-hand books section upstairs always hides a gourmet brain snack.” – Nate
With the largest collection of rare and old books in Australia, Berkelouw is a lit nerd’s best dream. But it also stocks new releases across a huge range of genres, from sci-fi to fantasy and philosophy to psychology.
Address: 19 Oxford St, Paddington
#3. Find your dream K-Pop merch at Kpopfriends
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“Dear Kpopfriends, you’re the only place other than my bed that I can spend hours in. You’re the reason I love K-Pop so proudly.” – Lydia
Order all of the merch, music, and artworks from your favourite K-Pop bands at this store in the CBD. Keep an eye on the store’s Instagram to see what it has in stock, but expect lots of BTS, Blackpink, Twice, and NCT.
Address: Shop 5/743-755 George St, Sydney
#4. Get a fresh set at Ayu Nail Art
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“Dear Ayu Nail Art, when I walk in feeling “bleh” you make me feel like a new person.” – Lindsay
Take a peak at this salon’s Instagram to see why it’s one of the locals’ favourite places. Whether you want something simple, something abstract, or nails that have the galaxy painted on them, you’ll walk out feeling like a work of art.
Address: Shop 9, Level 1/368 Sussex St, Sydney
#5. Get a bouquet at Poho Flowers
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“Dear Poho Flowers, nothing beats your signature bouquet. Your flowers make my day.” – Nikke
If your weekend involves a birthday or date night, this florist has the thoughtful surprises covered.
Choose from arrangements of seasonable pastel blooms, bouquets of native and local flowers, potted orchids, and flower-scented Ayu candles.
The arrangements are stunning and you can add hand-made chocolates, candles, wine, or champagne to your order for that extra special touch.
Address: 2/117 Macleay St, Potts Point
#6. Get pampered at Guilles Salon
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“Dear Guilles Salon, you’re the most inclusive salon and run by the sweetest woman.” – Michelle
If you’re all about natural haircare products but still want a bold new look, book an appointment here. Guilles Salon chooses its products carefully and uses lots of sustainable and low-toxin products, including ammonia-free colours.
Address: 30-34 Wilson St, Newtown
#7. Solve a crime at The Cipher Room
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“Dear The Cipher Room, you’ve brought us joy, bonding, birthday excitement, and some of our favourite memories.” – Therese
The Marlowe Hotel at The Cipher Room is widely regarded as one of the best escape rooms in Sydney. The room is decorated entirely in black and white so it’s like stepping into your own film noir adventure.
You and your friends will be tasked with breaking into the hotel to retrieve incriminating documents for your client, and you’ll end up uncovering more than just a simple blackmail case.
Address: 640 King St, Newtown
#8. Find something precious at Sarah & Sebastian
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“Dear Sarah & Sebastian, you’re the one! Please don’t tell my wallet or boyfriend.” – Samantha
The necklaces, rings, earrings, and bracelets at Sarah & Sebastian are thoughtfully minimalist and made-to-order.
You can even get pierced here or bring in your old jewellery to be repaired and cleaned.
Address: 261/265 Oxford St, Paddington
* Responses have been edited for length and clarity.
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Ready to rediscover Sydney? Check out what’s happening and fall in love with your city all over again.
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(Lead image courtesy of City of Sydney)