How to Plan the Perfect Blue Mountains Day Trip with Kids from Sydney

Planning a family getaway? Want to get the kids out of the house and into the great outdoors? The Blue Mountains is calling your name. Whether you’re a Sydney local or in town for the week, we’re here to help you plan the perfect kid-friendly Blue Mountains day trip.

From Scenic World to iconic rock formations, waterfalls, trails, and wildlife, we promise this will be a trip that the whole family can enjoy! Let’s not waste any time and jump straight into it.

Why The Blue Mountains is Perfect for a Family Day Trip

The Blue Mountains are World Heritage listed for good reason. As a tourist destination, it's the kind of special place that offers something for everyone. Adults love the fresh mountain air and natural beauty. Kids tend to love Scenic World, the wide-open spaces, animals, and exciting things to see and do. Put simply, you’ll find there’s never a dull moment.

Even better, the Blue Mountains are less than two hours from the city of Sydney, making them a very doable day trip if you’re travelling with little ones. There’s no need to worry about overnight stays or long road trips.

You can head off in the morning and be back home in time for dinner.

When’s the Best Time to Visit with Kids?

There’s never a bad time to visit the Blue Mountains, but some seasons are more family-friendly than others, especially if you’re travelling with younger children. If you’re looking to make the entire trip easier than ever, the whole family is welcome to join our award-winning Sydney Blue Mountains Day Tour.

We’ll take you from the City to the Mountains and back in a comfortable bus journey led by experienced tour guides. Book your spot today and find out why we’re highly recommended by Lonely Planet, TripAdvisor, and many other outlets!

Spring (September to November)

This is a brilliant time to visit. The weather is mild, the wildflowers are in bloom, and the landscape comes alive with colour. Of course, since it is Spring, there’s a chance of a few showers, but the trade-off is lush greenery and an abundance of birds and insects for curious kids to spot. It’s also one of the best times to capture some stunning photos.

Summer (December to February)

When summer rolls around, the opportunity for adventure only increases thanks to the longer days and sunny weather. While Sydney can get quite humid (especially in Jan and Feb), the Blue Mountains tend to be cooler, which makes it far more comfortable for bushwalking and outdoor adventures. Of course, it's also school holiday time, so there’s usually plenty happening across the region, from festivals to fun family events. Just make sure everyone stays hydrated, wears a hat, and applies their sunscreen.

Autumn (March to May)

Autumn in the Blue Mountains is all about the vibrant foliage and cooler temperatures. It’s perfect for relaxed walks and scenic drives. The changing leaves are a real treat, and it’s a great time to get the kids outdoors without the heat. Plus, it’s generally quieter than summer.

Although the milder Autumn days are perfect for exploration, this time sees fewer tourists compared to the peak summer season. So, if you're after a more relaxed and peaceful experience, travel here during March to May!

Winter (June to August)

Yes, it gets cold, but winter in the Blue Mountains has its own kind of magic. The air is crisp, the skies are clear, and tourist numbers tend to drop, which makes for a quieter and less crowded environment; which can be really helpful when you’re also worrying about kids. Be sure to pack jackets, beanies, and gloves, and you’ll be able to explore comfortably. The cafes in the local towns are also especially cosy on a cold day.

What Should Be on Your Itinerary?

There are so many family-friendly stops across the Blue Mountains, so we’ve narrowed it down to a few that really stand out.

Scenic World

No trip to the Blue Mountains is complete without a visit to Scenic World. Operating since 1945, this place is a hit with kids, teenagers, and adults alike. You’ve got the Scenic Railway, the Scenic Skyway, and the Scenic Cableway. These thrilling rides (which include the steepest incline of any train in Australia), they also offer unbeatable views of the Jamison Valley, Katoomba Falls, and the rainforest canopy below. Trust us when we say that these views are unforgettable!

The boardwalks through the rainforest are easy to navigate with kids, and prams are welcome on the main walkways. Plus, it’s wheelchair and stroller accessible, which makes it ideal for families with younger children.

Scenic World is also great all year round. There’s plenty of events running throughout the year, including The Gruffalo Spotters Trail, Dinosaur Valley, and Nocturnal (a stunning lights display that the kids are sure to love!).

The Three Sisters at Echo Point

This is probably the most iconic lookout in the entire Blue Mountains, and it’s an easy win with kids. The Three Sisters rock formation is highly significant and steeped in Aboriginal legend, plus you’ll find plenty of space to roam around at Echo Point.

The lookout is wheelchair and pram accessible, and there’s a Visitor Information Centre nearby with helpful guides, maps, toilets, and places to sit and have a snack. It’s the perfect spot for a family photo with a view.

Lincoln’s Rock

If your kids love a bit of adventure, Lincoln’s Rock is a must-visit. This natural rock platform features sweeping views across the Jamison Valley and is far less crowded than Echo Point. There are no safety rails here, so you’ll need to keep a close eye on younger children! Still, it’s a fantastic spot for photos and a quiet moment in nature.

Katoomba and Leura

Katoomba is the heart of the Blue Mountains, and it’s got a great mix of cafes, shops, and attractions. Stop for lunch, grab a snack, or warm up in one of the many family-friendly restaurants. You can also explore the nearby Leura Cascades, which has gentle walking paths, picnic areas, and waterfalls. The walking tracks here are generally short and manageable, even for smaller children.

Waterfalls and Walking Trails

There are plenty of short walks in the area that are suited to families. The walk to Wentworth Falls is a popular one, and the views from the lookouts along the way are absolutely worth it. Just make sure you’re all wearing proper footwear and check the conditions beforehand.

Looking for a more relaxed walk? The Prince Henry Cliff Walk connects various lookouts between Katoomba and Leura. You don’t have to do the whole trail, just pick a section that suits your group’s age and energy level.

Travel in Style with OzTrails

Planning a family trip can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. When you join one of our OzTrails Blue Mountains day tours from Sydney, you get to relax and focus on making memories while we take care of the details.

Our guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate about this beautiful part of the world. They know all the best spots for families and how to keep things fun, flexible, and fuss-free.

Our day trip includes all the highlights, from the Three Sisters and Scenic World to guided walks and sightseeing. We travel in comfortable, air-conditioned buses and keep the day interesting with fun commentary and stories along the way.

Kids love the adventure, parents love the convenience, and everyone goes home happy.

Tour Cost

Adult: AU$99
            Child (2–13 years): AU$80

What’s Included

• Scheduled pick-up from designated locations (see Pick Up Locations)
  
• Travel in a deluxe Blue Mountains mini tour bus
  
• Friendly, experienced, and accredited tour guides
  
• 45-minute return river and Sydney Harbour cruise
  

Optional Extras (At Your Own Cost)

Lunch at Sydney Zoo

Adult: AU$35
 Child: AU$20

Scenic World Pass

Non-Peak Period

Adult: AU$58
            Child: AU$35

Peak Period

Adult: AU$64
            Child: AU$38

Peak periods include NSW school holidays, public holidays, and weekends.

Accessibility Tips

Travelling with kids means planning ahead, and accessibility is a big part of that. Luckily, the Blue Mountains are well-equipped for families.

• Scenic World has accessible parking, ramps, and restrooms.
  
• Echo Point has level pathways, viewing platforms, and facilities designed for wheelchairs and prams.
  
• Leura Cascades and Gordon Falls Reserve are two gentle walks and scenic lookouts that don’t require steep climbs.

If you’ve got a pram or a family member with limited mobility, it’s worth sticking to the more developed areas near Katoomba and Leura. These offer beautiful views without long hikes or tricky terrain.

Food, Snacks, and Pit Stops

Kids get hungry. A lot. Thankfully, there are heaps of places around the Blue Mountains to stop, eat, and recharge.

• Katoomba has a good mix of bakeries, cafes, and takeaways.
  
• Leura is great for a more laid-back meal, especially if you want to grab something and eat at one of the local parks or picnic areas.
  
• There are several supermarkets and convenience stores around if you need to pick up supplies on the go.
  

If you’re packing lunch, there are plenty of lovely picnic areas across the region. Just remember to clean up after yourselves and avoid feeding the wildlife.

Safety Tips for Families

While the Blue Mountains are generally very safe, it’s still important to be prepared, especially if you’re hiking or spending the day outdoors.

• Stick to marked trails. It’s easy to get off-track in the bush, so always follow the signs.
  
• Check the weather before you go. Conditions can change quickly in the mountains.
  
• Bring lots of water, snacks, sunscreen, and hats.
  
• If visiting in summer, be aware of bushfire warnings and avoid going during high-risk days.
  
• In winter, pack warm layers and be mindful of shorter daylight hours.
  
• Always let someone know your plans, especially if you’re heading out on a trail.
  

With young kids, shorter walks and easy-access lookouts are the way to go. It’s better to enjoy a few highlights properly than to try and cram in too much and end up with cranky little ones.

Ready to Go?

The Blue Mountains are a magical mix of nature, adventure, and family fun. Whether your kids are climbing rock formations, spotting birds in the bush, or riding the Scenic Railway, this is the kind of day out that they’ll talk about for ages.

So pick a date, pack your bags, and join a small group on our one-of-a-kind Sydney Blue Mountains Day Tour. Best of all, the day ends with a magical cruise along the iconic Sydney Harbour–what’s better than that!

Book your Blue Mountains tour online today or get in touch to find out more.

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