We know life gets hectic juggling dance classes at Ashfield, Ermington, and Wentworth Point, especially as the busy year winds down and the holiday season approaches! With summer just around the corner and December kicking off, sometimes you just need to get out of the house and give the kids a chance to burn off some energy! Sydney is full of awesome, family-friendly spots, and we've rounded up our five favourites, all within a quick one-hour drive of our studios. So perfect for a spontaneous family adventure before the big school break! Here's what we love:

Sydney Olympic Park & Bicentennial Parks

Approx. 15-20 mins from Ermington/Wentworth Point | 25-30 mins from Ashfield

This massive area is a winner, especially if you're near our North West studios in Ermington or Wentworth Point. It's essentially a huge, well-maintained backyard for Sydney, offering endless paved paths for scooters, bikes, and easy-going family walks. You could easily spend a whole day just exploring the wetlands or picnicking by the water. Our top recommendation here is the Blaxland Riverside Park. It has one of the city's most incredible free water play areas and a huge adventure playground that keeps every age group busy, so definitely bring swimwear if it's a classic warm Sydney day!

Taronga Zoo Sydney

Approx. 30-35 mins from Ashfield | 35-40 mins from Ermington/Wentworth Point

For a guaranteed classic Sydney experience, you can't go wrong with Taronga Zoo. The location itself is unbeatable, and the animals are a bonus! From Ashfield, you might find it easiest to jump on the train and then grab the ferry across the harbour from Circular Quay. That ferry ride and the Sky Safari cable car that greets you instantly elevate the trip from just a zoo visit to a memorable Sydney day out. Be sure to check the daily show schedule online before you go, as the Seal Show is always a huge hit with the kids!

Manly & Shelly Beach

Approx. 45-50 mins from Ashfield | 50-60 mins from Ermington/Wentworth Point

When the beach calls, head North to Manly and Shelly Beach. It's worth the drive over the bridge because this beach spot is simply perfect for families. Manly is a fun, bustling hub, but the real gem is the gentle stroll to Shelly Beach. Because it's a protected marine reserve, the water is super calm and clear, making it a safe haven for little swimmers and a great place for beginner snorkelling. With the weather warming up, this is the perfect time to enjoy a long splash. After all the ocean fun, treat yourselves to some excellent gelato on the main Manly Corso before heading home.

Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

Approx. 20-25 mins from Ashfield | 30-35 mins from Ermington/Wentworth Point

If you're looking for a beautiful, completely free inner-city option, the Royal Botanic Garden is your answer. It's right next to the CBD and is the ideal spot to let the kids run wild while still feeling totally contained and safe. It's easiest to get to from our Ashfield studio. Pack a picnic, look for the magnificent old fig trees (they're great for shade and imagination games), and be sure to check out the amazing harbour views from Mrs Macquarie's Chair nearby. It's a beautiful place to take a deep breath and connect with nature without leaving the city.

Bobbin Head, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

Approx. 40-45 mins from Ermington/Wentworth Point | 50-55 mins from Ashfield

For families looking for a proper bush escape, try Bobbin Head in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. It feels like a real country getaway, even though it's barely an hour away, especially from Ermington or Wentworth Point. This destination offers peaceful riverside walks that are easy enough for little legs, as well as plenty of shaded picnic tables and BBQs. You can even hire a boat or kayak to paddle around the calm waters and fully embrace the start of summer (check availability online before you go!). Just remember to factor in the small National Park entry fee per car, and plan to stay a while to make the most of this serene spot.

Quick Packing Checklist:

Don't forget to pack sunscreen, hats, plenty of water bottles, and a change of clothes (especially for water play spots). Snacks are always a good idea, too!

We hope this list inspires your next family adventure this December! If you visit any of these spots, we'd love to see your photos. Do tag us on social media! Enjoy the downtime, and we'll see your refreshed and energised dancers back in the studio soon!