9 Best Ways To Experience Snow In Australia

Show your kids how fun winter can be with these snowy activities at Australia’s best ski resorts.

Watching your child fall in love with nature has to be one of the most treasured experiences of parenthood. When it comes to snow in Australia, seeing them poke out their tongues to catch fat flakes, put eyes on their first snowman or laugh hysterically during a snowball fight is nothing short of magical.

Whether you’re new to snow or searching for new activities, there are plenty of special moments to be made at Australia’s favourite ski resorts.

1. Winter festivals

When it comes to winter festivals that cater to the whole family, Thredbo has a mug full of activities. The resort’s July Kids Snow Festival includes plenty of on- and off-snow fun, with movie nights, giant games and Thredboland animal parades.

a family skiing at Thredboland — Learn to ski at Thredboland. (Image: Thredbo Resort)

At Falls Creek, Victoria’s largest alpine resort, families will have a hoot during Twilight Tuesdays , when the village is abuzz with music, games and marshmallow roasting. Tiny tots will also love meeting resort mascot Pete the Snowdragon.

Kids gathering around Pete The Snowdragon mascot during Twilight Tuesdays — Pete The Snowdragon does meet and greet with the kids during Twilight Tuesdays.

2. Kids’ skiing and snowboarding

Whether your kids have never been on snow before or they’re clocking up their seventh season, one of the most exciting things about the snow is simply hitting the slopes.

If they’re new to winter sports or need to finesse their turns, ski and snowboard lessons are the way to go, and all resorts offer either private or group (or both) sessions.

Kids skiing down the slopes at Thredbo — Ski and snowboard lessons are easy to find at all resorts. (Image: Thredbo Resort)

When it comes to riding as a family, one of the best experiences is night skiing , as the trails and resorts are that little more magical under the stars. Some of the best night skiing can be found at Australia’s largest resort, Perisher in NSW.

sunrise views at Perisher Valley and Blue Cow — Admire panoramic views across Perisher Valley. (Image: Perisher Resort)

Front Valley is lit up for skiing from 6pm on Tuesdays and Saturdays (tickets required), while you can also head to the family-friendly area of Smiggin Holes for free skiing off the magic carpet on Wednesdays.

During the day, one of the best family mountain trails can be found at Falls Creek. Wombat’s Ramble is Australia’s longest beginner run and is also where night skiing is held.

ski lifts at Falls Creek — Wombat’s Ramble is Australia’s longest beginner run.

3. Kids’ ski camps

If your kids are ready to up their skills on the slopes, Thredbo’s new Project Shred program is ideal. In partnership with the Chumpy Pullin Foundation , the day sessions are all about supporting the next generation of Aussie shredders.

a person skiing at Thredbo Parks — Thredbo’s new Project Shred program in partnership with the Chumpy Pullin Foundation is all about supporting the next generation. (Image: Thredbo Resort)

Kids under 17 will learn new tricks and how to land old ones better at Cruiser Terrain Park, before joining a workshop with athletes. They then get to enjoy a sausage sizzle and live music with new mates, and there are giveaways up for grabs too.

kids enjoying at Cruiser Terrain Park — Kids will join a workshop with athletes at Cruiser Terrain Park. (Image: Thredbo Resort)

4. Sled dog tours

Another great way to get the adrenaline pumping is on an exciting sled dog tour under snow gums. Be pulled by an energetic team of Siberian huskies with Australian Sled Dog Tours in Mt Buller, Victoria. Along with a ride, you’ll get to have a meet-and-greet and time for husky selfies. There are discounted rates for families; the minimum age is five.

energetic huskies pulling a sled, Australian Sled Dog Tours — Meet adorable huskies at Australian Sled Dog Tours.

Also in Victoria, join Howling Husky Sled Dog Tours in Mt Hotham and Dinner Plain. There are a few tours to choose from, including one specifically for families where you’ll learn all about the dogs and enjoy plenty of cuddles.

Huskies pulling sled at Howling Husky Sled Dog Tours in Mount Hotham — Enjoy plenty of cuddles at Howling Husky Sled Dog Tours.

5. Tobogganing

One of the best places to go for tobogganing and other snow play is Selwyn Snow Resort in NSW, which is reopening after being destroyed by bushfires in 2020. Completely rebuilt, the resort now claims to have the biggest toboggan park in Australia, with a 150-metre snow carpet, and you can buy day or family passes.

kids sliding down the snow at Toboggan Parks, Mt Buller — Kids can enjoy tobogganing down the icy slopes.

Mt Buller also has two dedicated toboggan parks , which make snow play fun and safe. Buy a full-day pass, which includes a toboggan that you can leave at the parks, coming and going as often as you like without having to carry it around. The littlest snow bunnies (under one metre tall) get to slide free with a paying adult, while tobogganing is free with a valid lift pass.

a woman sliding down the snow at Toboggan Parks — Slide down snow-covered slopes on a toboggan at Mt Buller.

6. Kids’ snowmobiling

With Australia’s ski resorts in national parks, snowmobiling isn’t widespread here, but at Mt Hotham, you’ll find Kids’ Snowmobile Rides , where they get to zip around on mini machines. You’ll find them at Hotham Snowstuff Park; rides are for kids aged five to 13 years.

7. Chocolates and marshmallows

During the school holidays at Thredbo, little ones can get their sugar fix at free Lindt Chocolate S’mores making at Friday Flat Fire Pits, while resort institution Candlelight Lodge does a seriously delicious chocolate fondue.

kids making Lindt Chocolate S'mores at Friday Flat Fire Pits — Enjoy Lindt Chocolate S’mores making at Friday Flat Fire Pits. (Image: Thredbo Resort)

At neighbouring Perisher, hop off the Perisher Quad Express Chair at Mid Station and grab an overloaded hot chocolate, complete with marshmallow snowman, from Mid Perisher Centre.

In Mt Buller, families can find a chocolate fondue at The Villager, and after indulging you can take the kids on an adventure through the pedestrian-only village on the popular Gnome Roam . There are several frosty gnomes to meet along the way; download the free Mt Buller Walks app (with audio tour) to find them or pick up a gnome booklet at Alpine Central or the Clock Tower.

two little girls playing with a gnome — Enter the mystical Gnome Roam in Mt Buller.

8. Kids’-only flare runs

If your kids have been to Thredbo on a weekend in winter, it’s likely they’ve watched skiers and boarders light up the mountain as they snake down the snow while holding flares.

kids flare run in Thredbo — Be part of the iconic Thredbo flare run. (Image: Thredbo Resort)

Well, now they can take part too, with the resort hosting special school holiday LED runs , no adults allowed. Held on Thursday nights, children are welcome to ski or board down gentle Friday Flat while holding a twinkling LED flare.

Don’t worry parents, snow sports instructors will be taking your precious ones up the Easy Does It chairlift, while you can take videos from below. It’s open for kids aged three to 14 years and is free with a valid day lift pass.

Fireworks and flare path at Kids Flare Run in Thredbo — On the Kids Flare Run, children are welcome to ski or board down with an LED flare.

9. Stay in a “glamtainer"

Ski resort accommodation doesn’t have to be expensive, as long as you get creative with where you stay, and one of the most impressive accommodation choices for families this season is at NRMA Jindabyne Holiday Park.

Located on Lake Jindabyne and opposite the town’s shops and restaurants, this park offers more than your typical campsites and cabins. Cool “glamtainers" (converted shipping containers) can now be booked and are a novel option for families of four.

The “glamping" accommodation includes a queen bed and bunks, a kitchenette, a living area, a bathroom, outdoor dining, contemporary furnishings and heating to keep everyone toasty.

If you’re looking for more budget-friendly accommodation and ski trip tips, we’ve got you covered.

Discover vibrant culture and creativity, gorgeous nature spots and more in lively Newcastle.

Newcastle/Muloobinba has a lot going for it beyond its big skies and beautiful beaches. The city’s creative types are now heading downtown, taking over and transforming warehouses and terraces to offer a more alternative vibe. From its nightlife to secret swimming spots, art to architecture, here’s our insider’s guide to Newcastle in New South Wales.

1. Learn to sail on Newcastle Harbour

The harbour has always shaped Newcastle, so it seems like the most obvious place to start your weekend. Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club offers a range of programs that provide instruction for both novice and experienced sailors. This is an inspired classroom that sets off past the Honeysuckle Foreshore up the Hunter River, with views towards a seemingly infinite vista of blue stretching to the horizon. It’s the perfect way to savour your time by the sea. Other water activities include surfing, swimming in one of the secret ocean baths or whale-watching with CoastXP .

Aerial view of Newcastle Harbour. — Join Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club’s programs. (Image: City of Newcastle)

2. Underground jazz scene

Follow the lively sound of the saxophone bubbling up to find The Underground . The popular basement-level bar, with its dim lighting and speakeasy aesthetic, schedules live jazz performances every Tuesday and Thursday. Newcastle is known around the country for supporting live music and this late-night New York-style jazz bar is, like the city itself, both approachable and sophisticated. For fans of live music, Queen’s Wharf Hotel , King Street Newcastle , Mad Poet and The Lucky Hotel are all popular pubs for their roster of live music.

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3. The city as a canvas

The streets of Newcastle present like an outdoor art gallery , adding beauty to the everyday with large-scale works by artists such as Fintan Magee, Inari Meyers, Tom Henderson and Sophia Flegg. Hire a Flash E-bike and pedal around the streets to find treasures such as Bronte Naylor’s Mirror Ocean in Civic Square or Sky & Ocean at South Newcastle Beach Skate Park. You can also join Newy Tour Co.’s Discover Newcastle tour to explore city highlights, architectural gems and street art with an expert guide.

Friends take in Newcastle Street Art. — Admire stunning works of art displayed all around you. (Image: Destination NSW)

4. An artist’s view of Newcastle

There’s a real sense of optimism around Newcastle, stemming from its many grassroots art galleries and organisations. The city is home to an eclectic array of artists who gravitate toward different mediums; see their works on show at independent galleries such as The Lock-Up , which operated as a police station from 1861 until 1982, and Lighthouse Arts Newcastle in the light-filled cottages on Nobbys Head/Whibayganba. Stop by The Creator Incubator to see the Little and Big gallery spaces. Newcastle Art Gallery will soon reopen after a recent expansion, so keep an eye out.

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5. Newcastle after dark

The small bars confetti’d around Newcastle are a sign of the times. Visitors to the compact city will find a concentration of bars within a small radius, all of which are within easy walking distance or accessible via the light rail. The after-dark experience, which includes theatre and live music, is designed for visitors who are in search of the offbeat and want to celebrate the city’s creativity. Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, the bars that dot most neighbourhoods will tempt you with everything from happy hour to their alt attitude.

A bartender expertly crafting a drink, with a stunning library of spirits in the background. — Enjoy a night out at a lively bar. (Image: City of Newcastle)

6. Indulge in great gastronomy

Newcastle’s proximity to the Hunter Valley has helped establish it as a sophisticated getaway for gourmands with a passion for provenance. Dining options in the city are diverse, with everything from casual cafes to cantina-style Mexican eateries such as Antojitos , through to fine diners such as Flotilla and Jana Restaurant & Bar at QT Newcastle . Visit during Newcastle Food Month to get a snapshot of the local culinary scene – you can take note of the many world-class restaurants and cafes that warrant a return visit. Humbug , Peregrin and Bistro Penny should also be on your radar.

The dining area at Flotilla in Newcastle NSW. — Savour a world-class dining experience at Flotilla. (Image: Flotilla)

7. Crystalbrook Kingsley

Crystalbrook Kingsley is another great example of Newcastle’s new wow factor. Staying at the hotel – in the heart of the cultural centre – makes exploring a breeze, with vintage bikes for guests who want to check out the city streets on two wheels. The design-savvy Crystalbrook Collection reimagined the Roundhouse building while adhering to its ethos of sustainable luxury. The hotel is also a magnet for foodies, with the rooftop Roundhouse restaurant and cocktail bar, Romberg’s, two of the best spots in the city for wining and dining.

The Roundhouse by Crystalbrook Collection. — Step into the reworked Roundhouse by Crystalbrook. (Image: Crystalbrook Kingsley)

8. Newcastle’s creative side on show

Save the date for New Annual , a festival of art, music and ideas from 26 September – 5 October. The program is jam-packed with 10 days of art, culture and creativity. This year’s festival will celebrate the power art has to connect people. Expect to see a diverse program including music, theatre, workshops, and performances in iconic Newcastle locations. Visitors will find a concentration of events within a small radius, all of which are within easy walking distance or accessible via the light rail.

Dancers performing gracefully, accompanied by a live orchestra. — Celebrate migration, community and belonging at New Annual.

Plan your next trip to offbeat Newcastle.

9 exciting ways to experience the snow in Australia