C is for Centennial Parklands
Don't be fooled by the formal gardens, ponds, statues, and grand Victorian avenues. Sydney's Centennial Parklands provides plenty to keep the kids occupied these school holidays
By Shannon Langan
This 360-hectare urban oasis is crammed with activities to stretch the body and imagination during those bouts of school holiday boredom.
Just for starters, climb, slide and hop through any of the six playgrounds. Mum may like the Café Playground next to the Centennial Parklands Restaurant to put up her feet too. Burn rubber at the Learners' Cycleway, a paved loop perfect for pre-peddlers learning how to ride. Or for low key frivolity, toss crumbs at hundreds of Duck Pond quackers.
For structured amusement, the Parklands offers an extensive School Holidays Activities Series catering to every interest. Kids can make environmentally-savvy cars; hunt for treasure with pirates; or test their athletic prowess at over a dozen sports camps. The popular My Little Ponies, lets kids ride pint-sized pals and learn to care for them. And, after learning the ins and outs, kids can sign up for Junior Rangers and they can help others enjoy the wildlife adventures. Shannon Langan
Centennial Parklands, Parkes Dr, Centennial Park 2021. (02 9339 6699). Daily. 6.30am-5.30pm (May-Aug). Activity fees start at $10.