Amidst this expensive city we call home, there is still hope, because some things in life are still free!
Here’s your guide to an activity-filled weekend, no wallet required. Yes that right, save your pennies for more important things. Like your daily double shot, single origin, 3/4 full latte. You bring the motivation and we’ve got your inspiration sorted with this list of free ways to fill your weekend.
Hit the hills and take a hike!
There is no better way to feel like you’ve achieved something with your weekend than by going for a hike. The fresh air, peace and quiet, and natural beauty, are all things we need a little more of in our busy city lives. Try the 6km Grand Canyon Walk in the Blue Mountains, or the 12.9km Berowra to Cowan hike by the Berowra Waters.
Go for a bike ride
Is there any better feeling than zooming down a smooth tarmac, feeling like your flying on your trusty two-wheeled bike? We think it’s time to venture to that unknown place that is, the back of your garage and dust off your humble bicycle. If you don’t own one, perhaps try renting one of those bright lime bikes? If so, let us know how it goes.
Play a game of tennis
Free tennis courts in Sydney are at short supply, however we’ve snooped one out for you. Hooray for the Darrell Jackson Gardens court located in Summer Hill! Grab you rackets and get ready to rally like Rodger! #deuce
Darrell Jackson Gardens, Smith Street and Carlton Crescent, Summer Hill (no booking required)
Channel your zen and attend a free meditation class
Do yourself and your close ones a favour and take a meditation class. Our internal health often gets over looked. So take an hour out of your busy schedule to sit, relax and be grateful. Your future self will thank you. Find a list of free meditation classes in Sydney here.
Go for a picnic
Grab your blanket and food-filled basket and head out into the sunshine. Fresh bread, cheese and soda are essentials. Also don’t underestimate the location, it’s the key to a good picnic. For a garden picnic try the Royal Botanical Garden or Wendy’s Secret Garden. For a coastal spot, Gordon’s Bay, and for a view of the harbour, Blue’s Point Reserve. For more inspo, check out our Ultimate Picnic Guide.
Take your dog to a dog park
One of life’s simple pleasures is watching your furry friend run free in the park. Tongue out, hair blowing in the wind, not a worry in the world. Until halting to a stop to sniff another dog’s butt. How cute. Not only is it good to get your fur-baby out of the house, it’s just as good for you to get out. Don’t own a dog? Why not ask to take your friends! See a list of off-leash dog parks here.
Visit an art gallery
There’s no need to be an expert yourself, as even the average eye can appreciate the works of some of Sydney’s best Art Galleries. Our favourite free galleries include, Art Gallery of NSW, Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA), and White Rabbit Gallery.
Get crafty and do a DIY
The word ‘DIY’ can be intimidating. Especially when the Internet is filled with unrealistic ‘DIY’ creations that look like they’ve been made by qualified professionals. But since we all love the boasting rights that come with a good DIY, we’ve collated a few realistic creations here for you…
Macramé Plant Hangers
Wall Hanging Yarn
Pom Pom Garland
Do a coastal walk
Get off the couch and go coastal this weekend by taking a stroll along one of Sydney’s beautiful coastline walks. We are spoilt for choice when it comes to walking tracks with ocean views, but to get you started, here’s a few options. Try your hand at either Bondi to Coogee, Spit to Manly, or Rose Bay to Watson’s Bay.
Have a swim in one of Sydney’s beach pools
Don your cossies, and savour the last of the sunshine (if there is any left?) by taking a dip in one of Sydney’s beach pools! That refreshing salt water is really the perfect way to start your day. Or the perfect end to your coastal walk? Perhaps you feel like being extra #fitspo and can throw in a few laps while your there. Some of our fave free pools include MacCallum Pool in Mosman, and Fairy Bower Pool in Manly. For more, check out our guide to Sydney’s Best Beach Pools.
Hold your own yoga class at home
Clear the dining table and roll our your yoga mat, because you’re about to hold an at home yoga class. Prop up your laptop and follow the flow of your on screen yoga teacher. There are endless options of videos to suit your style and time frame, but here’s a few to get you started.. Beginners Yoga Class, 60 Minute Yoga Class, 30 Minute Power Class.
Visit the Botanical Gardens
Take a trip to the oasis in the city, The Royal Botanical Garden Sydney. Enjoy a slow stroll through this living art gallery, whilst admiring the natural beauty and questioning why your garden doesn’t look this good. Plan ahead and pack some lunch so you can finish off with a picnic on the lush green.
Looking to impress a certain someone? Check out these 5 Winter Date Ideas.