There’s something about catching up with friends that always starts with the same question: “So, what do we do?” You could grab a coffee or hit the usual bar, but sometimes, it’s fun to shake things up a bit.
Sydney makes that easy. It’s the kind of city where your casual plans can turn into interesting tales to remember. You could be climbing to the top of the Harbour Bridge, stumbling through an archery session, or dressing up for a sunset dinner cruise. There are always things to do in Sydney with friends.
Over the past few years, I’ve tried a mix of these experiences – some planned, some spontaneous. I’ve done the calm and scenic dinner cruise in Sydney with my older friends, gone axe-throwing with a group of loud, slightly competitive colleagues, and tagged along with younger friends for indoor gym climbing (which totally humbled me, by the way).
And then there are the stories I’ve heard – of birthday celebrations that ended in surprise bullseyes at archery, or friends who started the night bowling and ended it dancing. That’s the beauty of Sydney; it gives you options and all you have to do is show up!
Dinner Cruise
One of the most memorable evenings I’ve had was on a dinner cruise in Sydney.. It was my friend’s 40th, and we wanted something a little more special than the usual dinner-and-drinks setup. So, we booked a dinner cruise – and let me tell you, it was such a different experience. The city lights sparkling, music in the background, and your closest mates all in one place—it felt like our little world.
So, if you’re looking for a relaxing night out and wish to spend time talking, dining, and drinking, a dinner cruise on Sydney Harbour is the ultimate choice. You could choose from a sleek and stylish catamaran, a luxury glass boat, or a vintage paddlewheeler, among others.
Harbour Bridge Climb
Okay, this one is for the thrill-seekers and bucket-listers, especially if you’re in your 20s or early 30s. I finally did this with a bunch of school friends who were visiting from overseas, and WoW! Climbing that iconic arch while the sun dips below the horizon? Unreal.
There are many climb options – morning, twilight, night climbs – and you can pick your route depending on your energy levels. My top pick? The evening climb. Watching the city lights come on as the harbour skies turn into twilight hues from that high up was something else. It’s a bit of a splurge, but so worth it. Plus, there’s something about doing it with friends that makes the experience even more special.
Indoor Climbing Gym
Yes, don’t be surprised, another climbing activity—but only this time, it is an indoor activity. This experience is rock climbing re-lived (minus the real rocks!). It’s a great activity to do with friends – one that really humbled me and made me join the gym.
Try this out at the ‘Sydney Indoor Climbing Gym’ in St. Peters (Unwin Bridge Road). You could choose from two different climbing options: one with the ropes and one without (aka bouldering). Climbing with the ropes is comparatively much easier; there are, however, easy-to-hard levels you can choose from.
But hey, if you wanna flex in front of your friends, bouldering is the way to go. But keep in mind: bouldering is also the easiest way to get humiliated in front of your friends. But what’s a fun day out, without a little mockery and laughter!
Axe Throwing
We’ve all had our goosebump moments while watching Ragnar Lothbrok in The Vikings, Jack Torrance in The Shining, and Patrick Bateman in American Psycho—all mastering the art of wielding an axe. Ever thought that it should’ve been you? Give it a try with your friends, it’s a great way to let off steam. You’ll quickly realise that there’s something incredibly satisfying about hurling sharp objects at inanimate targets!
If you want to amp up the fun, work in a drinking game – every time someone misses the board, they take a shot of whatever’s available – coffee, beer or something stronger, perhaps 🙂 My top pick for Axe Throwing is at this fancy place called ‘Kiss My Axe’. You could also do it at ‘Maniax Axe Throwing’.
Archery
Ever wondered what it’s like to be Robin Hood? Well, stop wondering— grab a bow and arrow, and take aim with your friends at the Sydney Olympic Park. Time to see if you’re Robin Hood or a borin’ noob (just kidding!).
There is a dedicated Archery Centre at the park that offers training sessions for beginners (Bronze Arrow session). It’s a fun activity where the gang can have a good time. And if any of your friends are celebrating their birthday, this venue also allows you to host birthday parties! So, forget cutting cakes— take aim and hit a bullseye! You can also do archery with your friends at Bondi, with the lovely view of the beach.
Bowling
Another simple, but memorable, activity you can do with your friends is bowling. I recently went bowling in Darling Harbour (a place called ‘Strike Bowling’) with a mix of work friends (in their 20s to 40s), and we had such a blast. It began as one game, just friendly fire; and we added a second because things got a little competitive. Then we brought in some more competitiveness where the losing team had to buy dinner for the whole gang! What a night that was – you should give it a try sometimes!
So, how will your ‘friends time’ unfold? Will it be an adrenaline-rich activity or a tranquil and memorable one? Whatever your choice is, Sydney always delivers what you desire. So, gather your gang and create unforgettable Sydney memories.
Author Bio – Amanda Clark
A Sydney-based travel writer who loves chasing experiences that defy expectations – especially when great food and entertainment are part of the mix. From unforgettable hits to unexpected flops, I share real stories to keep the adventure honest and fun for everyone!