What to do if it rains in Sydney. Things to do outside of Sydney when it rains.

Make a run for it and either escape the rain or see if it feels different somewhere else.

But no, if you intend to stay in Sydney see Sydney in the wet.

North of Sydney

Can I tempt you with a glass of wine?

Hunter Valley

If the rain is light, occasional showers kind of thing, a trip to the Hunter Valley can be very rewarding. You should find less people doing the rounds and therefore more time at the wineries themselves. Sure you might miss out a little on the scenery but if your main interest is the wine then a wet day is a good day 'to do' the Hunter.

Hunter Valley Wineries are just two and half hours north of Sydney. Advisable to overnight, get someone else to drive or join a Hunter Valley tour.

Tour the Hunter Valley

This is the perfect day tour from Sydney - an opportunity to get off the beaten track and see the local countryside, sample the local wines and produce and even see the local wildlife.

Hunter Valley Wine Tour

I’m not all that keen on tours either but visiting the Hunter Valley might be the time you make an exception unless you do have a nominated/tea total driver.

West of Sydney

Jenolan Caves

About four hours west of Sydney the Jenolan Caves offers a potential escape from the bad weather ( although study your weather forecasts and maps with care and then hope for the best) as the rain is often confined east of the dividing range. Even if its still a little damp when you get there don't despair as its unlikely to be raining in the caves themselves. If the weather is bad or extreme think again as the road leading up to the caves can be treacherous.

Jenolan Caves are day tripable from Sydney but realistically only if you’re staying in the Blue Mountains.

Jenolan's Caves House is in itself something of an attraction (although I greave the demise of the pub into a bar) so, if you can, stop and have a look. The Great Arch is also worth strolling under.

The RTA, bless their little road tolls, are now closing the route between Katoomba and Jenolan for a couple of hours during the middle of the day for safety reasons. Note the signs besides the road - if you seeing falling rocks don't stop.

Jenolan Caves and Blue Mountains Tour

South of Sydney

National Gallery and Parliament House Canberra

Even further away is Canberra, Australia's capital city. The road south is pretty good once you are on it and you may well have this on you own personal list of things to do. So why not do Canberra whilst Sydney has a bath.

Things to do in Canberra

What if its still raining when you get back to Sydney?