Sydney’s New Year’s Eve fireworks are one of the world’s most famous displays. Finding the perfect vantage point to enjoy the show can make all the difference. From scenic harbourside parks to iconic landmarks, here’s a guide to the best spots in Sydney to watch the fireworks, including those with good accessibility, family-friendly options and those with easy access by public transport.
Mrs Macquaries Point
One of the most coveted spots for the New Year’s Eve fireworks.
Best for: Stunning panoramic views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House
Accessibility: Accessible entrance plus guest assistance and buggy service.
Public transport: The closest train station is St James. Roads near the Royal Botanic Garden will close from early morning. Plan your trip if catching taxis or rideshare.
Tips: Arrive early together to secure a spot as this area fills up very quickly. Bring food, books and things to keep you entertained while you wait for the show to begin.
Sydney Opera House
An iconic backdrop for the fireworks. Watching the display from this location gives you a front row seat to the fireworks bursting over the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Expect a lively atmosphere with crowds, food stalls and entertainment.
Best for: Iconic views and a festive atmosphere
Accessibility: Designated viewing areas for people with disability.
Public Transport: Circular Quay train station is open until 3pm. After then, use Wynard or Martin Place stations.
Tips: This is one of the quickest spots to fill up, so early arrival is essential if you want to secure a good spot. This vantage point will close at 2pm or when full.
Fleet Steps
In the Royal Botanic Garden, an excellent vantage point for a closer view of the Sydney Opera House and fireworks displays. Situated between Circular Quay and Mrs Macquaries Point, it offers a more intimate experience with spectacular views of the harbour.
Best for: A great view of the Sydney Opera House and the fireworks above the harbour
Accessibility: Guest assistance is available.
Public transport: Easily accessible by bus, train from St James station and ferry.
Tips: Arrive early together to claim a prime spot, as it fills up fast near other popular locations like Mrs Macquaries Point.
Pirrama Park
A family-friendly option for the Sydney’s New Year’s Eve fireworks. It boasts a large open space with plenty of food stalls. The park also hosts live DJs, providing entertainment before the fireworks.
Best for: A family-oriented environment with entertainment
Accessibility: Pirrama Park is very accessible, with plenty of seating, wide pathways and accessible amenities.
Public transport: Buses and light rail will run regularly. John Street Square and The Star light rail are nearby.
Tips: Roads around the vantage point in Pyrmont will close from 5pm. Arrive early.
Bradfield Park and Mary Booth Reserve
In North Sydney with fantastic views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. From its elevated position, you can enjoy the fireworks with the landmark and cityscape as the backdrop. This area is a good option if you're looking to avoid the crowds closer to the city centre.
Best for: Great views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge
Accessibility: Accessible pathways and facilities.
Public Transport: A short distance from North Sydney train station, with buses also running in the area.
Tips: These areas tend to fill up a bit later than more central locations like Mrs Macquaries Point, but it’s still a popular spot, so arrive early.
Blues Point Reserve
Spectacular, unobstructed views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and city skyline. It’s a great spot to take in all of the action with plenty of space for picnics.
Best for: Picturesque view of the Harbour Bridge and fireworks from the western side.
Public transport: A short distance from North Sydney train station or Victoria Cross Metro station.
Tips: The area is less crowded than those closer to the city centre but getting a spot on the lawn can take some planning.
Observatory Hill Park
A fantastic family-friendly experience, featuring entertainment, food stalls and a prime view of the spectacular western-side fireworks, a new part of this year's midnight display.
Best for: A family-friendly site with an elevated view of the western side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Accessibility: Accessible entrance, accessible toilets and guest assistance.
Public Transport: Circular Quay train station is open until 3pm. Barangaroo metro station closed 5pm to 11.45pm: If you’re arriving after 5pm, use Martin Place Metro station or Wynyard train station.
Tips: This site opens at 12pm but arrive early together to secure an unobstructed view of the bridge.
Hickson Road Reserve
At the foot of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and with the Sydney Opera House and harbour laid out before you, you’ll have all the ingredients to make it a night to remember. This is a bit more suited to families as alcohol isn’t allowed.
Best for: A close-up view of the fireworks with a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere
Accessibility: Accessible entrance and recharge point for mobility aids.
Public Transport: A short walk from Circular Quay station. Barangaroo Metro station open until 5pm. If you’re arriving after 5pm, use Martin Place Metro station or Wynyard train station.
Tips: Pack a picnic and some games to keep everyone entertained until the show begins.
East Circular Quay
It’s perfect if you want to be right in the heart of the action, with access to restaurants, bars and entertainment. This is also a good spot if you’re staying in the city centre and want a quick escape after the fireworks.
Best for: A lively setting with a great view of the harbour
Accessibility: Accessible entrance and toilets.
Public Transport: Circular Quay train station is open until 3pm. After that, use Wynard or Martin Place stations.
Tips: A great view of the Sydney Harbour Bridge but the Sydney Opera House isn’t visible.
Which vantage points fill up the quickest on New Year’s Eve?
While many of these spots offer fantastic views of the fireworks, Mrs Macquaries Point and the Sydney Opera House tend to fill up the quickest due to their prime locations and breathtaking views. If you’re set on securing a spot at one of these locations, make sure to arrive as early as possible.
Whether you prefer a quiet spot away from the crowds or the excitement of being in the centre of the action, Sydney has no shortage of incredible vantage points for New Year’s Eve. From the iconic Mrs Macquaries Point to the family-friendly Pirrama Park, there’s something for everyone. Just remember to plan your night, arrive early together to secure your spot, and enjoy the spectacular fireworks display that light up Sydney Harbour.
Check out the full list of vantage points.
Published 4 December 2024
