Guide: An Alcohol-Free Night Out in the Sydney CBD

Strike Bowling

They say you don’t need alcohol to have a good time, and Sydney’s CBD 100% proves it with countless options for activities, delicious dining, and indulgent sweet treats.

Activities: Fun Without the Booze

Sober nights out in the CBD can play out like a choose-your-own adventure. Lean into the energy of the city’s centre by packing your itinerary to the brim. Start with a friendly competition at Strike Bowling on King St Wharf, where you can enjoy ten-pin bowling, laser tag, and escape rooms.

For a more scenic experience, hop aboard a Clearview Dinner Cruise and take in breathtaking views of the Harbour while enjoying gourmet dining. If you're lucky, you might even catch the Darling Harbour fireworks show, which lights up the sky at least once a month at 9 PM.

Art lovers should check out the Art Gallery of NSW's Art After Hours every Wednesday, where you can explore exhibitions, listen to talks, and enjoy live performances until 10 PM. If singing is more your style, grab a mic at Lantern Wagaya, a popular karaoke lounge that stays open until 2 AM every night.

Dinner: Satisfying Eats with a Purpose

Skip the drinks and dine with social good in mind at one of Australia’s only Ukrainian restaurants, Kyiv Social in Chippendale. As a Plate It Forward venue, every dollar you spend contributes meals to those in need both locally and in Ukraine.

For a more casual bite, Chinatown Night Market on Friday nights is a fantastic choice. Open until 11 PM, the market offers endless street food options where you can curate your own personal yum cha experience. If you’re craving bold Thai flavors, head to @ Bangkok in Thai Town, which serves late-night snacks until 4 AM on weekends.

Dessert & Coffee: A Sweet Ending to the Night

KOI Dessert Bar

With so many dessert options in the CBD, this course could easily be an entire evening activity. Indulge in the intricate, artful desserts at KOI Dessert Bar, founded by MasterChef alum Reynold Poernomo and his brothers.

For something playful and Instagram-worthy, grab a seat at Old School Kafey, which serves up Thai milk tea bingsu and banana croffles—a delicious croissant-waffle hybrid.

Another must-visit is Sweet Town, a dessert paradise offering Japanese and Thai sweets like obanyaki (stuffed pancakes) filled with custard, matcha, and chocolate.

The Perfect Alcohol-Free Night

From bowling and karaoke to exquisite dining and indulgent desserts, Sydney’s CBD proves that an exciting night out doesn’t require alcohol. Whether you’re planning a night with friends, a date, or a solo adventure, there’s no shortage of vibrant experiences waiting to be explored.