It’s conference season, and finding a list of great Sydney conference venues can be a challenge. No one wants to be holed up in a windowless box for 8 hours. You really need somewhere with great natural light, easy to access and within walking distance to restaurants and local experiences to engage your attendees.
Selecting a sustainable conference venue is also crucial for hosting eco-friendly business events in Sydney. Whether you’re planning a strategy session, annual kickoff, or a creative workshop, these venues offer the perfect setting for groups of fewer than 100 people.
Let’s explore Sydney’s top 9 bespoke Sydney conference venues that will make your event truly exceptional.
The Mint
Nestled in the heart of Sydney’s central business district, The Mint is a historic gem that offers a blend of old-world charm and modern functionality. This Georgian-style building, formerly a coin production facility, has been transformed into an intimate conference venue. With various rooms available, The Mint can accommodate small groups for board meetings, workshops, or presentations. The elegant architecture, lush gardens, and unique historical ambiance make it an ideal choice for those seeking a distinctive backdrop for their event. The Mint’s meeting rooms feature plenty of natural light, and its commitment to conservation aligns with eco-conscious event planning.
What To Do
Right in the heart of the CBD you can make your way into the Royal Botanic Gardens for a stunning walk to stretch your legs in between conference sessions. For team building, you can stay onsite and create your own custom artwork or explore the area in a fun Amazing Race.
Adina Apartments Darling Harbour
Adina Apartments Darling Harbour enjoys a prime location in the heart of Sydney’s vibrant Darling Harbour precinct and strolling distance to amazing restaurants and bars. It is strategically positioned to offer easy access to major business hubs and easily accessible by public transport. The meeting spaces offer great natural light and suit group sizes up to 140 people. This central location ensures that your attendees can easily reach the venue and enjoy the best of what Sydney has to offer during their stay.
What To Do
Creating stronger, deeper connections within teams in 2024 is crucial. In Aboriginal Art, teams get an introduction into concepts from a renowned Indigenous artist before creating their own artwork that helps them share their story and purpose.
The Grounds of Alexandria
If you’re searching for a venue with a rustic and organic feel, The Grounds of Alexandria offers a unique setting that’s sure to impress. Located in a converted industrial precinct, this venue boasts lush gardens, vintage décor, and a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere. With multiple event spaces, including The Atrium and The Potting Shed, The Grounds can host small conferences, workshops, and team-building sessions. Their farm-to-table cuisine and commitment to sustainability add an extra layer of charm to this extraordinary venue.
What To Do
Teams can create their own video for a not-for-profit as part of The Apprentice that involves planning and filming a short TV commercial.
The Calyx
For a conference venue that combines science, nature, and innovation, The Calyx in the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney is a one-of-a-kind choice. This state-of-the-art venue offers a captivating setting for small conferences and seminars. It boasts living plant walls and a commitment to environmental sustainability. The venue incorporates energy-efficient systems and follows eco-friendly practices. It’s ideal for intimate conferences, seminars, and workshops, with plenty of natural light and a green backdrop.
What To Do
Explore the Botanic Gardens on foot in a GPS-based team adventure called Geo Hunt. Teams have 90 minutes to locate checkpoints and collect info to earn points for their team.
The Old Clare Hotel
The Old Clare Hotel, located in the vibrant Chippendale neighbourhood, seamlessly blends history with modern design. This boutique hotel offers several intimate conference spaces for groups under 100 people. From the chic rooftop bar to the stylish meeting rooms, The Old Clare exudes character and sophistication. The hotel’s dedicated events team can tailor your conference experience to your specific needs, ensuring that every detail is taken care of, from audio-visual equipment to catering.
What To Do
This stunning venue is the perfect location to connect with purpose and giveback via Charity Team Building Activities such as Kid Start or Helping Hands.
The Hughenden Boutique Hotel
For a more intimate and relaxed conference experience, The Hughenden Boutique Hotel in Woollahra offers a charming and elegant setting. This heritage-listed hotel features a variety of meeting spaces, including the airy Garden Room and the cozy Drawing Room. The Hughenden’s vintage décor, lush gardens, and personalised service create a warm and welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for smaller conferences and seminars. Their on-site catering ensures that your guests are well-fed and satisfied throughout the event.
Pier One Sydney Harbour
If you’re looking for a waterfront venue with a boutique feel, Pier One Sydney Harbour is an excellent choice. Situated right on the shores of Sydney Harbour, this hotel offers a range of conference spaces designed for smaller groups. The Harbour View Suite, with its stunning views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, is particularly noteworthy. Pier One’s unique location, modern amenities, and impeccable service make it an ideal choice for intimate conferences and executive retreats.
What To Do
Create your own team artwork with renowned Australian street artists just a short walk from Pier One Sydney. For something community focused, Kid Start allows teams to complete checkpoints and collect essential care items to support families in need.
Taronga Zoo Function Centre
Imagine hosting your conference with a backdrop of exotic animals and breath-taking harbour views. Taronga Zoo Function Centre offers this unique experience, making it one of the most memorable conference venues in Sydney. Located on the shores of Sydney Harbour, this venue provides both indoor and outdoor event spaces, including the Taronga Centre and the Harbourview Terrace. With its focus on conservation and sustainability, Taronga Zoo Function Centre allows you to combine your corporate event with a meaningful message about wildlife preservation.
What To Do
Apart from exploring the beautiful animals that call Taronga Zoo home, teams can also complete a mini challenge through the zoo with Selfie Mania at under $700 making it a cost-effective team building activity. For something indoors, Bikes 4 Tykes allows teams to connect, laugh and build kids bikes for charity.
Q Station
Located on the stunning shores of Sydney Harbour, this historical site has been thoughtfully repurposed into a unique and eco-conscious destination. Q Station Sydney is committed to sustainable practices. They have implemented various green initiatives, such as energy-efficient lighting, waste reduction, and water conservation measures. The venue’s dedication to sustainability aligns with the goals of eco-conscious conference planners.
What To Do
With a stunning environment and link to Australia’s Indigenous history, Aboriginal Art is an ideal team building activity for companies that can be held indoors or outdoors. The experience is an introduction to Indigenous art concepts where individuals create and share their own artwork in a powerful workshop finish.
In Sydney’s diverse range of bespoke, sustainable conference venues caters to the needs of smaller groups seeking a memorable and personalised event and conference experience. Whether you prefer a historic ambiance, a contemporary setting, or a fusion of nature and technology, these top 9 venues provide the perfect backdrop for your intimate conference in Sydney.
