Sydney is teeming with sights, sounds, and incredible activities.

So, if you want an exciting date or a fun day with friends, there is much to choose from. Sure, you could visit the Opera House, but unless you know the Phantom and he's prepared to deliver a secret opera, there is much more to check out. 

Sydney has plenty of tourist attractions that draw global attention and some of the hottest spots for sightseeing. But there are so many more experiences Sydney has to offer if you know where to look.  

1. White Rabbit Gallery 

You will find a collection of contemporary Chinese art in what was once a Rolls-Royce showroom. The White Rabbit Gallery opened its doors in 2009 and has dedicated itself to showcasing art from the 21st century. Almost 700 artists have been showcased, with over 2000 works on show. 

The space is privately owned and is on four floors. They close every February and August for a full rehang where they launch a new exhibition. The best thing about this hidden gem is it is free, and you can even get a guided tour (also free). There's also a cafe where you can choose from various Taiwanese and Chinese teas or delicious dumplings. 

2. Waterfalling 

Escape Sydney's CBD and get back to nature with a waterfalling adventure. Empress Canyon in Wentworth Falls is the ideal spot to go canyoning through waterfalls and rocks. You'll even have an expert to guide you, providing all the equipment. You don't need any experience, but you do need to know how to swim.  

Alternatively, you can travel an hour and a half from Sydney CBD to enjoy the Blue Mountains. The biggest highlight is the Three Sisters, the sandstone peaks formed by land erosion to create a unique rock formation. 

3. Bushwalking 

You might not think the best things in life are for free, but one step on the hike from Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach will show you how wrong you are. There is no better place to enjoy Sydney's stunning coastline. 

Locals and tourists visit Sydney to visit beaches, parks, and restaurants. This hike has plenty of stops on the route, and you can make the three-hour round trip or hop on a bus for the return leg. The benefit of walking both legs is you will see so much more you missed on the way. 

4. Charter a Boat 

Sydney has plenty of water to explore and what better way to do it than with a boat charter? There are various options, depending on the size of your party and what you have in mind. For example, you can opt for a special charter for hen and stag parties, corporate events, or romantic dates. They are also skippered, so you don't need to worry about driving the boat. 

5. Taronga Zoo 

Taronga Zoo is one of the most stunning zoos in the world. In addition to the wildlife, it also provides a panoramic view over Sydney Harbour. There are over 350 species of animals and around 4,000 animals to see. The zoo holds daily shows with seals and birds, but you can also go VIP or pay for extra experiences. If you're looking for something more exciting, you can camp overnight. 

6. Mrs Macquarie's Chair 

Mrs Macquarie's Chair is a must-do if you want stunning views. While Sydney brags loads of incredible viewpoints, you will find keen tourists crowding most of them to get that sweet shot. Mrs Macquarie's Chair is a bench carved from sandstone rocks. It was carved in the early 1880s for Governor Macquarie's wife, and it was her favorite place to look at the harbor. It's the perfect spot to nab stunning photos of the Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House. 

7. Beer and Barbecue 

You can enroll in a beer and barbecue cooking class. You get to enjoy an ice-cold beer while a BBQ pro teaches you about the intricacies of the art, from ideal cooking temperatures to seasonings and cuts of meat. 

8. Helicopter View 

It is an incredibly touristy activity, but there is no better way to see Sydney Harbour than from a helicopter. This thrilling flyover will provide panoramic views of the eastern coastline, encompassing the opera house, bridge, Manly Cove, and Bondi Beach. It doesn't matter your seat; you will get once-in-a-lifetime photo ops. So go on. Try something different while you’re in Emerald City. After all, you only live once!