There’s something about trains that never fails to delight kids—instant entertainment on wheels. Whether you’ve got a little trainspotter in the family or you just need a low-effort, high-fun day out, these train trips for kids from Sydney’s North Shore will keep everyone smiling (and moving!). From playgrounds and parks to ferries and fish and chips, this is your ultimate guide to easy adventures by rail.
Looking for a fun, easy day out with the kids? Hop on a train from Sydney’s North Shore and discover 20 exciting destinations perfect for family adventures!
Whether you’re after nearby escapes, splashing good times by the water, nature-filled outings with epic playgrounds, or indoor fun when the weather turns sour, we’ve got you covered.
These handpicked spots are all accessible by train, making them simple, stress-free, and full of variety. So pack a backpack, grab your Opal card, and get ready to explore—you’ll be amazed at how many kid-friendly gems are just a train ride away!
To help plan your train journey, click here for the Transport NSW Trip Planner.
Nearby North Shore train trips
1. Milsons Point – Luna Park & Wendy’s Secret Garden
There’s lots to explore around Milsoons Point! Located just north of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, pose under the iconic Luna Park face, let the kids run wild at Bradfield Park playground, then explore the magical paths of Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden nearby. Stop for a bite to eat at one of the many cafes in Kirribilli. If it’s the weekend, you won’t be able to miss the Kirribilli Markets!
2. Macquarie University – Timezone, Ice Rink & Playground
Get off the train at Macquarie University – it’s the closest station to Macquarie Centre, which has everything you need for a fun day out: Timezone, an ice skating rink, indoor playgrounds and family-friendly food options. Perfect for rainy days or reward outings. You can even grab a crazy shake at The Missing Piece.
3. Turramurra to Wahroonga (walk between stations) – Park Picnic
Get the train to Wahroonga for a lovely day in the outdoors. Wahroonga Park has a shaded, fenced playground, open lawns and bike paths. Grab a coffee from one of the many village cafés and enjoy a relaxed stroll (or ride for the kids) back to Turramurra. Chargrill Charlie’s is a popular spot for a takeaway lunch!
4. St Leonards – Crows Nest Treats & Toy Shopping
Wadanggari Park, St Leonards
Get off the train at St Leonards and visit the new Wadanggari Park, a fabulous new adventure playground (where you can actually watch the trains). Wander up to Crows Nest for lots of kid-friendly cafes, toy shops, bookshops and homewares. You can also try out the new Metro line and get off at Crows Nest!
5. Mount Kuring-Gai – Bushwalk to Apple Tree Bay
Apple Tree Bay picnic spot
Fancy a bushwalk? Hop off at Mount Kuring-Gai for a scenic 2.5-hour bushwalk through Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park down to Apple Tree Bay at Bobbin Head, which is perfect for a picnic by the water. It’s about 5km one way (2.5 hours), so you’ll need to be fit for this one! You’ll need to be able to make the return trip or organise someone to pick you up. Pack plenty of water!
Waterside adventures
6. Circular Quay – Ferries, Fountains & Harbour Views
Circular Quay. Image: therocks.com
Catch the train straight to Circular Quay and explore Sydney’s sparkling harbour. Kids can watch ferries, visit the MCA, and splash around in the Barangaroo fountains. Add a gelato and you’re set.
7. Meadowbank + Ferry to the City – Two Adventures in One
Take the train to Meadowbank, then jump on the ferry to Circular Quay for a riverside ride. Great way to double the fun!
8. Woy Woy – Pelicans, Boats, and Fish & Chips
Woy Woy’s wharf area is perfect for families. Watch the pelicans, take a gentle foreshore walk and enjoy lunch at Fishermen’s Wharf. There are often ice cream vans and plenty of space to roam.
9. Rhodes – Brays Bay Playground + IKEA Pit Stop
Play at Brays Bay Reserve, a fun foreshore park with paths, equipment, and water views, and then cross to IKEA for lunch and cheap treats.
10. Gosford – Foreshore Walk & Picnic Spots
Leagues Club Park, Gosford
Walk the path along the water, explore the regional gallery, or bring scooters for a glide around the parklands. There’s also the Central Coast Stadium for sports fans, or head to Leagues Club Park Gosford.
Nature & playgrounds
11. Thornleigh – Brickpit Park Ninja Course & Waterplay
Brickpit Park
Just one stop from Hornsby, Brickpit Park has been transformed into a district-level playground with a junior ninja warrior course, waterplay area and climbing nets. Perfect for a quick local adventure without the hassle.
12. Asquith – Storey Park Playground & Scooter Circuit
One of the best train trips for kids on the North Shore is to jump off at Asquith and walk to Storey Park, a shaded playground with slides, spinners, trampolines, and a flat scooter circuit. There’s also a fenced toddler zone and BBQ facilities, so pack snacks and settle in.
13. Berry Island (Wollstonecraft) – Bushwalk + Harbour Views
Berry Island offers a flat, easy bushwalk loop with cultural heritage signs, harbour views and a hidden fenced playground.
14. Parramatta – Water Playground, Riverwalk & Scooter Paths
Visit Parramatta Park’s fantastic water play area, walk or scoot along the riverside paths, or picnic by the playgrounds near the ferry terminal.
15. Wentworth Falls – Blue Mountains Village Vibe
Perfect for a special day out in the Blue Mountains. Walk to the falls lookout, grab a bite at a local café, or browse the little bookshops and galleries.
Rainy day train trips to indoor attractions for kids
16. Redfern – Carriageworks Markets
Carriageworks Markets
Experience the essence of Sydney’s culinary scene at the weekly Carriageworks Farmers Market, a beloved institution showcasing the freshest seasonal produce and artisanal delights from local growers and producers across NSW. From farm-fresh vegetables to freshly cut flowers, our market offers a cornucopia of delights for discerning food enthusiasts. Every Saturday, 8am-1pm
17. Museum Station – Dinosaurs & Discovery
Visit the Australian Museum for dinosaur skeletons, interactive science exhibits and rotating kids’ programs. Kids under 16 enter free, and it’s right above the station!
18. Central Station – Historic Terminal + Light Rail to Chinatown
Paddy’s Markets are located under Market City
Explore the historic Grand Concourse, hop on the light rail to Chinatown, or head into Paddy’s Markets for souvenir hunting and fun food options.
19. Penrith – Gallery, Riverside & Café Culture
The Penrith Regional Gallery often has family-friendly exhibitions. Follow it up with a riverside walk and milkshakes at one of the many local cafés.
20. Newcastle – Beach, Museum & Light Rail
Ready for a big day out? Catch the train to Newcastle! Make a full day of it: walk the beach promenade, ride the light rail, visit the Newcastle Museum, or grab lunch on Darby Street.
