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Subscribe Skip the Stereotypes: This is Sydney According to Iconic Locals
A side of Sydney that’s big on feeling, not just photo ops — with personal itineraries that go beyond the clichés.
When most people think of Sydney, sights like the Harbour Bridge, the Opera House and even Bondi Beach come to mind. And while, yes, these iconic landmarks have earned their place on the global stage, they’re far from the whole story.
Thankfully, some of Sydney’s most recognisable faces are shining a light on the city’s more unexpected side, sharing their favourite local experiences that steer well clear of the cliché checklist, offering the ultimate Sydney itinerary for your next visit.
Olympian Jess Fox, The Inspired Unemployed, ultramarathoner Nedd Brockmann and more have teamed up for Destination NSW’s latest campaign, revealing a different kind of Sydney — one that’s vibrant, ever-evolving and full of surprises.
The crew of creatives, athletes and tastemakers are proving there’s no one way to experience the city and their personal list of things to do in Sydney offer a feeling-first approach. Think sunrise kayaking on the harbour, fresh oysters straight from the source, a snorkel tour beneath the waves and secret spots that even the most seasoned Sydneysiders might have missed.
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The Inspired Unemployed’s Guide to Sydney
For The Inspired Unemployed’s Jack Steele and Matt Ford, Sydney is all about fun-filled experiences. Think an interactive mystery picnic in the Royal Botanic Gardens, Oz Jet Boating on the harbour and Stand-Up Paddleboard yoga.
“They’re fun, they’re not your day-to-day activities, and they get you out there,” says Ford.
“Sydney is one of those places where you never run out of things to do — or ways to embarrass yourself, if you’re us.”
Nedd Brockmann’s Guide to Sydney
It’s no surprise that ultramarathon athlete Nedd Brockmann recommends lacing up your sneakers to get the most out of a visit to Australia’s iconic harbour city.
His high-energy Sydney itinerary is made up of a running tour around Sydney Harbour, as well as a sauna and soak at Capybara Bathing and dinner at Luc San Restaurant in Potts Point.
“Running has taken me some pretty cool places, but running through Sydney Harbour or Centennial Park has to take the cake,” he shares.
“Every day in Sydney is packed with experiences that push you out of your comfort zone in the best way.”
Jess Fox’s Guide to Sydney
While training and competing has taken three-time gold medalist Jess Fox all over the world, for her, “something about being in Sydney just feels different”.
“From the harbour to the mountains, there’s an incredible energy here, whether I’m out on the water or exploring the city with friends,” she says.
On her must-experience list? A kayak on the harbour at sunrise, a visit to Beyond Skyway in the Blue Mountains, and a sunset session at Theo’s Rooftop Bar in Penrith.
Dan Hong’s Guide to Sydney
Unsurprisingly, chef and restauranter, Dan Hong has one key piece of advice for those heading to Sydney: “have an empty stomach, because it’s all about eating”.
His curated, food-focused itinerary includes a Local Sauce Chinatown tour, the Sydney Oyster Farm tour in Hawkesbury and a dose of culture with the State of the Art tour at the Art Gallery of NSW.
Dan also adds a visit to the Sydney Fish Markets for lunch as an essential Sydney experience.
“They have amazing fresh seafood — all Australian seafood — and amazing sashimi. But what I’d do is probably get a live lobster and get them to cook it for you. What could be better?” he says.
If you’ve only got 24 hours to feast?
“Breakfast at PIÑA in Potts Point, then a long lunch in Newport at Bert’s Brasserie, where the steaks and whole fish are absolutely incredible. We’d drink lots of wine,” he says.
“For dinner, I’d go to one of my favourite restaurants, Ester, where they cook everything in the wood-fired oven. Those prawns are incredible.”
The Unexpected Side of Sydney
The campaign — the next chapter of Destination NSW’s Feel New platform — aims to highlight the depth and diversity of what’s on offer beyond Sydney’s most photographed landmarks.
“We have world leading restaurants, an exciting blend of food cultures, the largest sporting events and a vibrant arts and music scene. We have so much to offer, which is why we are asking Australians to come to Sydney and dive deeper,” says NSW Minister for Tourism Steve Kamper.
“Sydney is one of the world’s most recognisable cities — but this campaign invites people to experience it differently,” adds Destination NSW CEO Karen Jones.
“This is Sydney, as told by those who know and love it best.”
To see the full list, head here.
Love this local insight into Sydney — and all it has to offer — and want to explore more? Check out our guide to the latest events happening in Sydney this month, or add these hidden Sydney beaches to your must-visit list.
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