Mrs Macquarie's Chair (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Mrs Macquarie's Chair?
What makes it 81% Kids-Friendly: The grass lets children run and the Botanic Garden train and duck pond sit nearby, yet cliffs and unfenced seawall need supervision and there are no playgrounds, so overall still pleasant but not perfect.
Positives:
- Free entry: No ticket is required to enter the Chair or surrounding garden paths.
- Stroller-friendly: Wide paved paths make it easy to push strollers or wheelchairs.
Challenges:
- Limited shade: Sandstone bench offers no cover, so mid-day can be hot and sunny.
- Uneven surfaces: Sandstone and grass areas can be slippery when wet; watch toddlers closely.
What is Mrs Macquarie's Chair?
- A sandstone seat carved by convict labour in 1810–1811 for Governor Macquarie’s wife, Mrs Elizabeth Macquarie
- Carved directly into the rocky sandstone point at the edge of Sydney Harbour within the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney
- A heritage-listed colonial-era landmark exemplifying early 19th-century craftsmanship
What is so special about Mrs Macquarie's Chair for with kids?
- Panoramic views of Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge from a historic sandstone seat.
- Large open lawns for kids to run, play games or fly kites.
- Nearby duck pond for feeding ducks and spotting eels.
- Calyx rainforest exhibit offers a cool, hands-on indoor experience.
- Free volunteer-led garden walks highlight Aboriginal stories and plant lore.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for the Chair, lawn play, duck pond and Calyx exhibit without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Mrs Macquarie's Chair
Picnic on the sandstone Chair:
Bring snacks and sit on the carved bench for panoramic Opera House and Harbour Bridge views.
Tip: Arrive before noon for cooler shade and fewer visitors.
Play on the grassy lawn:
Let kids run, fly kites or kick a ball on the open grass behind the Chair with harbor backdrop.
Tip: Pack a lightweight ball or kite to keep kids engaged.
Visit the duck pond:
Walk to the nearby pond to feed ducks and spot eels under the lilies.
Tip: Bring breadcrumbs in a sealed bag to feed the ducks safely.
Explore the Calyx rainforest:
Step into a cool indoor rainforest exhibit with hands-on panels and native plant displays.
Tip: Donate A$5–A$10 at the entrance to support the garden’s programs.
Join a free garden walk:
Attend the volunteer-led tour at 10:30am to learn Aboriginal stories and plant info.
Tip: Meet 5 minutes early near the Garden Shop to secure a spot.
When is the best time to visit Mrs Macquarie's Chair (Sydney, Australia)?
In summer bring hats, sunscreen and water bottles. In winter wear layers and windproof jackets.
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Reviews of Mrs Macquarie's Chair (Sydney)
Nicole Muñoz Acevedo
ICONIC PLACE What better place to watch the sunset? This of course, close to the city but not so close, is a place surrounded by the water of the Pacific Ocean and the green lung that delivers one of the best spots in Sydney in my opinion. We have nearby toilets, water fountains, a wide coastal street for those who love to walk, run or just lie on the grass.
Ravindu Wattuhewa
A must-visit spot for breathtaking views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. The best time to go is at sunset when the colors light up the sky and the landmarks shine in the golden hour glow 🌅
Lou
Best sunset, fireworks view-point in Sydney. Opera house and Harbour bridge will be shot on your footage. if you are planning to visit this place for new year fireworks, you'd better come 4~5hours before the event. if you are a traveler, this is a must visit place : )
Nataliia Semenenko
Probably one of the best views in Sydney is in here. People say that it’s perfect for sunset views of The Opera House - and I totally believe it. On the other hand, I’ve been here in the morning, and it was so incredibly awesome. This is a historical site with its stories and histories. It attracts tourists and can become a little too crowded, but there are still secluded places around - just if ...
Orçun Ortaköylü
This point and the area is probably the best for sunset in Sydney. 🌅 If you are coming from Opera House direction, you need to get through Royal Botanical Gardens. Unfortunately the gardens close before sunset. It is hard to reach here by navigation. I will share my walkthrough to get to here around sunset. 1. Navigate to "State Library of New South Wales" by walking. When you see or get close ...
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Opal card transport | AUD 13.5 |
| Ice creams | AUD 20 |
| Calyx donation | AUD 8 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 41.5 |
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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How to Maximize Your Visit to Mrs Macquarie's Chair
- Time it with sunrise: Visit early to catch cooler temperatures and empty paths.
- Combine with Opera House: Walk from the Opera House through the Botanic Garden for a full morning route.
Map of Mrs Macquarie's Chair
Address: Mrs Macquaries Rd, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
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About Mrs Macquarie's Chair
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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