Long lunch, learn and lap up summer at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

Do you ever wonder about the plants you pass every day – what they’re used for, their history, or whether they’re edible? Indigenous cultures have known these secrets for centuries, and now you can learn too. 

The Royal Botanic Garden offers a range of Aboriginal experiences, because it’s never too late to learn. Start with the Aboriginal Harbour Heritage Tour, where an expert guide shares stories of Sydney Harbour and its First Peoples. Or, see how native plants were used as traditional food sources on the Bush Tucker Tour.

Prefer a simple stroll? Make it meaningful with Free Daily Guided Walks, where you will uncover hidden garden corners, plant stories, and a bit of history, all set against iconic harbour views. Learning has never looked so good.

You don’t have to drive hours from the city to dine while surrounded by nature. Whether you’re craving a quick coffee and a snack or planning to go all out, the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney has you covered.

Grab a relaxed bite at The Terrace on the Domain, or Farm Cove Eatery for a laid-back lunch with a sandwich and a cuppa amongst the trees. For something special, book a table at Botanic House, where Chef Luke Nguyen serves seasonal dishes infused with native Australian flavours – think lemon myrtle chicken with jellyfish salad or caramelised pork belly with tea-smoked quail egg. Delicious doesn’t even begin to cover it.

School holidays and summer go hand in hand, and the Gardens have plenty to keep the kids entertained with countless creative, play-based programs.

 Explore the Yellowwood Education Garden, an interactive garden where kids can use their senses to explore their leafy surroundings. Or, dive into art at the City of Wonder in the Garden Gallery where the little ones get a hand-on sensory play experience. For a dose of drama, book tickets to Wind in the Willows, an outdoor theatre show that brings a classic tale to life among the trees.

Need sustenance? Grab some hot chippies from Farm Cove Eatery and settle into one of the garden’s cosy picnic spots for a family feast under the sun.

Summer is the perfect excuse to tick off your festive season shopping, and what better way to wrap up a day at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney than with a gift for someone special (or yourself, we won’t judge)?

Browse botanical-inspired gifts, locally designed homewares, and books. Feeling inspired by all that greenery? Head to Growing Friends, where you’ll find rare and unusual plants sourced directly from the gardens that’ll surely elevate your houseplant game. Even better, knowledgeable volunteers are on hand with tips to help your new leafy friends thrive.

Plan your summer at the Botanic Gardens of Sydney now.