HOMEBUSH BAY. This 247-acre park, which opened in 1988, is known for its mangrove boardwalk and its birdwatching opportunities. The park features 98 acres of parklands and 148 acres of wetlands, with free electric barbecues, and plenty of picnic tables and seats. Several tours are offered, including the Wetlands Explorer, a trackless train with seating for 54 passengers, Bird Walking, Breakfast with the Birds, Parkland Discovery Tour, and a Behind the Scenes tour. Reservations are required for tours. TRAIN: to Concord west or Olympic Park station.

THE ROCKS. The ship used in these Harbour cruises is the re-creation of Captain Bligh's ship built for the Mel Gibson film "Mutiny on the Bounty." Measuring 137 feet long and weighing over 400 tons, the replica has actually accumulated more miles than the original Bounty ever did. Full sails are raised on every Harbour cruise, so passengers can get the full effect of the experience. Bounty is available for Private Charter at any time but only available for Public Cruises on Boxing Day, New Year's Eve and Australia Day. A short walk from Circular Quay station.

THE ROCKS. This ranger-led National Park Tour takes visitors on a walking excursion through the bush. The lifestyles of early settlers and local aborigines is addressed, and the ranger will also point out interesting plants and explain their medicinal uses. Tours depart from the rear entrance to Taronga Zoo. FERRY: to Taronga Zoo, leave from Wharf 2 at Circular Quay about 4-5 times an hour. BUS: 247 from the city to Taronga Zoo.

THE ROCKS. This adventure offers folks the chance to climb to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, a city landmark. After climbing the 1337 steps to the top, you are rewarded with a stunning panoramic view of the harbor. You'll receive a complimentary group photo of the climb, and additional photos are available for purchase. All climbers are attached to a static line for the entire climb, and advance reservations are required. The entire experience takes about three and a half hours, and children under ten are not permitted. Climbs are offered daily at dawn, during the day, at sunset and again once the sun has set for beautiful views of the city lights. Walk from Circular Quay through The Rocks

THE ROCKS. Located on an island in the Harbour, Fort Denison features a Martello tower, a gun battery, and barracks, all of which date back to 1855, when the British built the fort against possible Russian attacks. Those attacks, thankfully, never occurred; in fact, the only action the fort ever saw was a misfire from a Japanese sub in WWII, which caused minimal damage. Originally, the rocky island was known as Pinchgut since it was used to house convicts who were given very small rations. Nowadays, visitors can tour the fort, see the intact cannons, and hear them fired daily at 1pm. Only booked tour guests are permitted; bookings can be arranged through the National Parks and Wildlife Service Tours depart from Cadman's Cottage.