Luna Park

Old-world funfair turned heritage site
Popular plate: Milson's Point boasts several terrific restaurants. For a truly memorable modern Australian meal, head to Aqua Dining on Northcliff Street beside Luna Park.

Plagued by problems (and more than a few lawsuits) since its 1935 opening, the Milson's Point amusement park has a turbulent history with Sydneysiders. Closed down in 1979 following the tragic Ghost Train fire that claimed the lives of five children, Luna Park has received several multi-million dollar makeovers, including the 2004 opening of the Big Top, a multi-purpose auditorium that now plays host to rock concerts, world-class DJs and awards shows.
Several rides still operate here, but it's free to enter the iconic face gate (now an item of national heritage) and wander around the park, which retains a somewhat eerie, old world feel. Though if you can't resist the stomach-churning Ranger, ride tokens can be purchased at ticket booths.