96 Cumberland Street in The Rocks (that historic cobblestone area). $12 craft beers. Same harbour bridge views as the tourist climb for 1/30th the price. Actually better because you get beer.

5-minute stumble from Circular Quay station. Go during golden hour 5-7pm when bridge lights start twinkling and water turns molten gold. Open noon-late daily but weekend evenings are sardine-tin packed with instagram couples.

Food's aggressively mediocre but you're here for the million-dollar view and surprisingly decent beer selection. Weekday sunsets are perfect — Locals only, no tour groups shouting selfie directions. Same photo ops as BridgeClimb without the safety harness and forced group photos.

Pro tip: Grab window spot along north wall for unobstructed Opera House angles. Tuesday-Thursday after 6pm is sweet spot for seating without booking.