Customs House (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Customs House?
What makes it 81% Kids-Friendly: Kids can walk the glass-floor model, join free storytime or makerspace sessions and use toilets with change tables; the small children’s zone and few hands-on exhibits cap the appeal.
Positives:
- Free entry: No admission fee makes it budget-friendly to explore with kids.
- Central location: Steps from Circular Quay ferries and harbor views for easy transport.
- Interactive exhibits: Hands-on displays keep children engaged and curious.
- Library amenities: Family seating and baby-change rooms in the library offer comfort.
Challenges:
- Weekend crowds: High foot traffic can lead to lines at popular exhibits.
- Stroller access: Narrow staircases and busy corridors can be tight with a stroller.
- Highchair availability: Limited highchairs at the rooftop café; reserve when booking.
- No dedicated nursing room: Parents may need to use quiet library corners for feeding.
What is Customs House?
- A landmark sandstone building, erected in 1885, that originally housed Sydney’s customs operations and government offices
- An exemplar of Victorian Italianate architecture showcasing a grand colonnade, clock tower and ornate detailing
- A civic centre that houses the City of Sydney library, a visitor information centre and rotating exhibition galleries
What is so special about Customs House for with kids?
- Free glass-floor city model that kids adore
- Library kids’ corner with storytime and play
- Bookable makerspace workshops for creative fun
- Close to Circular Quay ferries and The Rocks walking tours
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Free exhibits and activities fit into a half-day visit without tiring younger kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Customs House
Glass-floor Sydney model:
Walk over a scale model of downtown Sydney under a glass floor.
Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and let each child point out their favorite landmarks.
Library children’s area & storytime:
Borrow picture books or join Rhymetime sessions in the dedicated kids corner.
Tip: Check the library desk for storytime times and arrive 10 minutes early to claim seats.
Ideas Lab makerspace workshops:
Hands-on craft and building sessions for kids with all materials supplied.
Tip: Book free workshop slots online at least a week before your visit.
Helix staircase lookout:
Climb the spiral stairs for a top-down view of the atrium and city model.
Tip: Hold your child’s hand and proceed slowly on the narrow steps.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Customs House
- Visit weekdays: Come in the morning on a weekday for quieter galleries and easy workshop bookings.
- Pick up a map: Get a free walking-tour map at the info desk to plan a Rocks stroll.
- Use library Wi-Fi: Download the Culture Walks app on-site for a self-guided tour.
- Combine with ferry: Add a Circular Quay ferry ride for a fun harbor cruise experience.
Reviews of Customs House
Le Hoang Giap
Customs House is the kind of place that surprises you even if you have walked past it a hundred times on the way to Circular Quay. The sandstone façade looks suitably grand from outside, but step through the doors and the foyer opens into a bright atrium with a glass floor that reveals a detailed scale model of Sydney. You can spend ten minutes just tracing familiar streets with your eyes while fe...
bohg9999
“Customs House in Sydney is a historical building located in Circular Quay, now a vibrant public space and visitor information center. The building has a rich history, originally serving as a customs house where import duties were collected. It became the head office for customs operations in New South Wales in 1887 and continued in that role until 1990. Now, Customs House is a multi-faceted publi...
Anusha M
The building is lit up during vivid Sydney. There's continuous music and animation going on during vivid Sydney. We couldn't go inside this building, not much sure about this place.
Ankur Mehta
Nice calm place to relax. There is library for you to enjoy
H E
Amazing building with amazing staffs. I’ve been here almost every weekend, visiting Circular Quay and enjoying leisure activities. This place welcomes tourists from all backgrounds and cultures, and I wondered if there could be a quiet room for visitors to pause for a short prayer. I asked around but couldn’t find one. My suggestion is to provide a small space for this purpose. Thank you.
When is the best time to visit Customs House (Sydney, Australia)?
In summer school holidays, the library adds extra craft sessions. In winter evenings after 6 pm, the building’s facade lights create a festive glow.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Café snacks & drinks | AUD 60 |
| Children’s lunch menu at Café Sydney | AUD 30 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 90 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Customs House
Address: 31 Alfred St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
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About Customs House
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+61 2 9265 977910 BEST nearby Activities
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