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Elevated daytime view of Luna Park Sydney with the Ferris wheel, face entrance and harbour-side boardwalk

Our history.

our-history

The story of Luna Park Sydney, from 1935 to today.

For almost a century, Luna Park Sydney has been one of Australia’s most iconic amusement parks. Sitting on the edge of Sydney Harbour at Milsons Point, the Park has welcomed generations of guests through its famous smiling face, creating memories filled with rides, games, laughter, entertainment and harbour views.

Since opening in 1935, Luna Park Sydney has lived a story as colourful as the Park itself. There have been golden eras, major restorations, community campaigns, new attractions, heritage milestones and bold reinventions. Through it all, Luna Park has remained a rare surviving example of 1930s Art Deco fantasy architecture, and a much loved part of Sydney’s cultural identity.

Just for fun

The history of Luna Park Sydney

From its opening in 1935 to its latest rides and immersive experiences, explore the key moments that shaped Luna Park Sydney into the heritage amusement park and entertainment destination it is today.

  1. Black-and-white archival photo of the original Luna Park Sydney face entrance and Art Deco towers
    1935 – 1969

    Luna Park Sydney opens at Milsons Point

    Luna Park Sydney opened on 4 October 1935 and quickly became one of the city's most exciting new attractions. Inspired by the success of the original Luna Park at Coney Island in New York, the Sydney Park followed earlier Australian Luna Parks in Melbourne and Glenelg.

    Many of the first rides were relocated from Luna Park Glenelg, helping the Sydney site open with immediate appeal. Through the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s, the Park continued to attract visitors, including throughout World War II.

    Under the management of showman David Atkins until 1957, followed by engineer Ted Hopkins until 1969, Luna Park Sydney continued to evolve. New rides and attractions were introduced across the decades, helping the Park remain a favourite destination for families, thrill seekers and visitors to Sydney Harbour.

Today

A heritage amusement park reimagined for a new generation

Today, Luna Park Sydney continues to honour its iconic history while evolving as one of the city's most exciting entertainment destinations. From classic rides and harbour views to immersive experiences, live events and family friendly attractions, the Park remains a place where generations of visitors come together to play, celebrate and make new memories.

With its famous smiling face, Art Deco architecture and spectacular location on Sydney Harbour, Luna Park Sydney is more than an amusement park. It is a living part of the city's story, bringing together heritage, creativity and world class entertainment in one unforgettable place.

Low-angle daytime view of the Hair Raiser drop tower at Luna Park Sydney with riders and the Hair Raiser sign