Five Romantic Sydney Date Ideas for This Week From Budget to Blowout
Here are your date night ideas for the week, including free galleries, standout screenings under the stars and an after-hours concert at the zoo.
Tired of the classic movie and dinner date night combo? Us too. That's why we're always on the hunt for new things to do, scouring the city for more inventive Sydney activities — ones that are guaranteed to extend your dating repertoire beyond beers at the pub.
Whether you're taking someone on a second date or doing the 100th with your significant other, we've got some stellar Sydney date ideas for this week, no matter your budget.
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FREE
Explore the Powerhouse Ultimate for One Last Time Before It Closes
The Powerhouse Museum is closing for up to three years from Monday, February 5, for its long-awaited $250-million makeover. So, this is your last chance to squeeze in one more dose of free art, history and general oddities at the inner-city museum. The institution's current exhibitions — including 1001 Remarkable Objects and Absolutely Queer — are all great date ideas, providing you with a chance to wander around and chat as you occasionally remark: "Whoa, how cool's that?".
If things are going well, there are plenty of spots to head after for a spot to eat or drink. If you're after something cheap and cheerful, head to Kafe Kooks or one of the many top spots at Darling Square; if you want to catch up over a bev, The Old Clare Rooftop and Flamin Galah are good options; and if you're looking to really impress, there are a few ultra-fancy spots you could hit up — namely, seafood and snack haven Longshore.
Under $50
Catch a Flick at Sydney's BYO- and Dog-Friendly Moonlight Cinema
Moonlight Cinema is back for another jam-packed year of flicks under the stars. Pack a picnic, your favourite snacks, and a bottle of chilled red, and head to Centennial Park to catch a new release or a cult classic as the sun sets. You can even bring your pups, so if you're looking for somewhere to introduce Fido and Spot, this could be your chance.
This week, you can catch showings of Argylle, The Boys in the Boat, Next Goal Wins and the sequel to The Dry. Or, looking ahead to the rest of February, Saltburn, 10 Things I Hate About You, All of Us Strangers, The Iron Claw and The Princess Bride are all in line for showings. Tickets are $26 (just over $50 for the two of you), but if you're a Cinebuzz member, you can snag them for just $22 each.
Under $100
Hit up the Huge Banksy Exhibition at Sydney Town Hall
After a blockbuster season in Brisbane, The Art of Banksy: Without Limits has finally hit Sydney Town Hall with more than 160 works from the collection of the world's biggest street artist, Banksy. A massive collection of pieces by the art world's chief enigma — including the darkly satirical, overtly political work that has turned the stencil-loving artist into such an icon — the exhibition's hefty array of artworks include Banksy's certified art, prints on a heap of different materials, plus photos and sculptures as well. For an immersive experience, there are installations, physical and digital, alongside murals and mapping shows.
The experience has already proven to be super popular in Sydney, so make sure to reserve your spot before heading into the city. Standard adult tickets are $41 per person, or you can opt for premium entry, which includes a t-shirt spray painting session, after which you get to keep the garment.
Putt Your Way Around This Pizar-Themed Mini-Golf Course
Sydney's sunny season is in full swing — and if you like celebrating warm weather, adorable animation and mini-golf all at once, the part-tee has arrived in Darling Harbour. Everyone's favourite Pixar characters are popping up in Sydney at a putt-putt course inspired by the Disney-owned studio's loveable films. Yes, Pixar Putt has returned, with the kidult-friendly course taking over the Pier St Underpass until this Sunday.
Designed to challenge both eight-year-olds and adults, Pixar Putt features nine- and 18-hole courses that take you past childhood heroes like Buzz Lightyear, Sheriff Woody and Elastigirl. Flicks such as Monsters Inc., Onward, Finding Nemo, Up, A Bug's Life, Wall-E, Inside Out, Soul, Turning Red and Lightyear all get some putting love, too. Clearly, there's no need for a trip to Disneyland — and this year's course features new holes inspired by Pixar's recent Elemental. If this all sounds up your alley, tickets are available for $29.90.
Go All Out
Maclay Heriot
Combine Live Music and Harbour Views at Twilight at Taronga
Where can you see live tunes with a stunning view of Sydney Harbour, all while surrounded by adorable animals as well? Twilight at Taronga. Each summer, the after-hours live music series hosts outdoor gigs with an impressive lineup — a true date-night delight.
Each year, the program serves up a mix of returning and new exciting local faves. For the first week, the lineup features Meg Mac on Saturday, February 3, and Bjorn Again on Sunday and Monday, as well as Emma Memma with one for the kids on Sunday afternoon. Later in the month and into March, you can catch Ball Park Music, The Whitlams, The Cat Empire and the Comedy Gala featuring Celia Pacquola and Dave Hughes.
If your ideal Sydney date idea includes harbour vistas, live music, cute (but not cuddly) animals and some fresh air, this one's for you. You can BYO a picnic, but there'll also be gourmet hampers available on-site alongside a handful of food trucks. Ticketholders can also purchase discounted same-day entry into the zoo (so you can sneak in a visit to your favourite mammal, bird or reptile beforehand), and if you want to make a weekend of it, you can add on a night at Taronga's luxe eco-retreat.
Top image: Charlie Hardie.
