Blacktown and the North-West have wildlife parks and zoos, a theme park, a mushroom farm and two community bushcare meet-ups. This guide shows where they are and what to check before you go. We don't have opening times or prices for the places below, so use each organiser's own page.
Wildlife parks and zoos
Featherdale Wildlife Park and Blacktown Zoo are both listed in Blacktown. Featherdale also appears a second time as Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park, which looks like the same place under another name. Eastern Creek has Sydney Zoo and The Australian Wildlife Park, plus Wonderland Sydney. Check each website to confirm which place you are booking and what it offers for children.
Bushcare meet-ups
Two bushcare meet-ups are listed: one at Nurragingy Reserve in Doonside and one at Snowy Reserve in Seven Hills. These are community groups who care for local bushland. Ask the organiser about the days they meet, what to wear and bring, and whether children can join. A bushcare morning can be a hands-on way to spend time outside as a family, but check the age rules first.
More to explore
White Prince Mushrooms in Riverstone and Stanhope Gardens in Quakers Hill are also listed. We don't have details on either, so ask what is open to visitors and whether it suits children.
Planning an outdoor day
- Check the weather on the morning you go. Several of these are outdoors, and many days are hot in summer.
- Pack water, sunscreen, hats and snacks, plus a change of clothes for little ones.
- Wear closed shoes for bushcare and zoo walking.
- Wildlife parks and zoos often have set feeding or show times, so check the organiser's page and plan your arrival around the ones you want.
- Ask about parking and entry for prams.
- Book ahead when the organiser asks you to, as popular days can fill.
If you have a big age gap between kids, choose one main activity that suits everyone and add a shorter stop for the older or younger one. Details change, so check the organisers' own pages for the latest information.
