Everything You Need To Know About Scenic World

Scenic World is an iconic experience that lays out the vast and captivating beauty of the Blue Mountains.

From a disused coal mine to a fixture of fun, Scenic World has been highlighting the natural assets of the Blue Mountains for more than 70 years. Swooping back and forth over sweeping valleys, across escarpments and up and down steep mountain sides on innovative modes of transport, Scenic World takes guests deep into this magnificent landscape.

But how, exactly? Read on for a Scenic World explainer and how to make the most of this world-class tourist attraction, which has fast become one of the best things to do in the Blue Mountains.

What is Scenic World?

A veritable theme park where nature is given star billing, Scenic World showcases the beauty of the Blue Mountains to day-trippers in fun and thrilling ways.

It was established in 1945 when Harry Hammon actioned his entrepreneurial idea to transform a former coal mine into a tourist attraction. Now, Scenic World has grown to encompass a variety of rides designed to traverse and interact with the verdant bush terrain in a minimally invasive way.

Scenic World in Katoomba, Blue Mountains, NSW — Scenic World is the best way to see the Blue Mountains in all its glory. (Image: Destination NSW)

Hammon’s original plan was simply to repurpose coal skips and tracks from the Katoomba Colliery to create a passenger train – now known as the world’s steepest railway. But today, visitors can also take the cable car and skyway, absorb the lush surroundings along forest-floor pathways and take in the view with a cup of coffee at the cafe.

One of a select few accredited Ecotourism Australia businesses, Scenic World remains a Hammon family affair some 70 years after the first tourists rattled up the mountain in Harry’s converted coal train. And while the experience is, thankfully, far more polished and modern than it once was, this iconic Blue Mountains business is still a carriage-load of fun for a family day out.

Scenic World attractions

With bush-cloaked cliffs and rainforested ravines, the Blue Mountains does drama in a large format. While walking one of the region’s many stunning hikes is one way to uncover its beauty, to really appreciate the enormity of scale here, a little bit of elevation goes a long way. As well as offering lofty viewing opportunities, Scenic World also provides other attractions to excite everyone, from kids to adrenaline junkies.

Scenic Cableway

Glide gently into the Jamison Valley and return to the 510-metre-high escarpment on the Scenic Cableway. Voted the steepest cable car in the Southern Hemisphere, you’ll be fully enclosed with up to 83 other passengers for the eight-minute trip into (our out of) the forest.

If you find yourself a little jelly-legged, remember, both of the two cables are made to support 350 tonnes each, so you’re in safe hands as you journey on at five metres per second.

the Scenic Cableway, Katoomba — Scenic Cableway is the steepest cable car in the Southern Hemisphere.

Scenic Railway

Originally built in the 19th century to transport coal into the Katoomba mine, the Scenic Railway has been voted the steepest passenger railway in the world by the Guiness Book of World Records. The ride is now in its fifth incarnation, having been redeveloped in 2013.

Once steam-powered, the train is now on an electric winch system and carries up to 84 passengers in four cars. The 310-metre route takes a pulse-quickening 52-degree incline into the Jamison Valley and returns in four minutes. Passengers can recline their seats to a 64-degree incline to really dial up the excitement factor.

Scenic Skyway

If you’re stomach allows, hop aboard the Scenic Skyway to be suspended between two cliffs 270 metres above ground along a 72-metre cable. Laying out views of Katoomba Falls, the Three Sisters, Mt Solitary and the Jamison Valley, the Swiss-made cabin dangles over the valley below.

Those brave enough can watch through the electro-glass floor as the canopy below glides past. Or, if that’s a little too intense, you can opt to stand on solid flooring or even take a seat. When the cable car opened in 1958, it was Australia’s first. The current cabin, which can carry up to 84 passengers every 10 minutes, is touted as the largest in the Southern Hemisphere.

Beyond Skyway

If travelling in a glass-bottomed cabin 270 metres above the ground is a little mundane for you, you’ll be pleased to know you can travel on top (yes, not in) of it with Beyond Skyway .

You’ll be securely harnessed to the roof of the cable car as it makes its 20-minute crossing across the valley. Absorb 360-degree views across the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains, listening out for the crashing of Katoomba Falls below, one of the region’s most beautiful waterfalls. Beyond Skyway tickets start at $369 per person and $349 for children (10 and above).

Dinosaur Valley

On until February 2025, pint-size palaeontologists will love Scenic World’s Dinosaur Valley , where more than 50 dinos are positioned under the green canopy like large-scale toys. Descend the Scenic Railway to start the hunt along elevated boardwalks, where you might spot tyrannosaurus Rex, stegosaurus and others, as well as learn fascinating facts from the Dinosaur Ranger team.

Then, quickly make your way out of the valley by aerial cable car before the meat-eating predators pick up your scent! You can also purchase a Junior Rangers Kit, which includes binoculars, a drink bottle and hat.

kids having fun at Scenic World - Dinosaur Valley — Bring your kids to Dinosaur Valley. (Image: Scenic World)

Scenic World tickets and entry fees

If you’re spending the day at Scenic World, your best option is to choose the Unlimited Discovery Pass for $54 per adult or $32.40 per child. It includes a passage on the Scenic Skyway, Railway, Walkway and Cableway, plus access to Dinosaur Valley, as often as you can manage in one day. There are family options for this pass, too.

If you expect to visit more than three times in the year, you’re better off opting in for the annual pass, priced at $105 for adults and $57 for children. This pass entitles you to unlimited visits across 12 months, with kids three years and under free on both passes.

young people enjoying the views of the Blue Mountains from the Skyway at Scenic World — Enjoy the stunning nature views from the Skyway. (Image: Destination NSW)

Getting to Scenic World and parking

Located less than a two-hour drive from Sydney, Scenic World is a relatively easy day trip for the state capital. Free parking is conveniently available onsite, as well as charging points for electric vehicles.

If you’re coming via public transport, Sydney Trains stops at Katoomba Station, just three kilometres from Scenic World. Simply jump on the Blue Mountains Explorer Bus, another of Katoomba’s best activities in itself, or take the public bus (686 and 686G).

the Blue Mountains Explorer bus passing through Katoomba — Roam around the quaint streetscapes onboard the Blue Mountains Explorer Bus. (Image: Destination NSW)

Accessibility

The Scenic Cableway, Walkway and Skyway are all wheelchair accessible. However, due to the steep incline of the Scenic Railway and its safety protocols, wheelcahir access is not available. There are accessible car parking spots onsite, as well as automatic doors, lifts, ramps and accessible toilets.

Service dogs, including guide, hearing and assistance companions, are also welcome at Scenic World, as long as harnesses and leashes are owrn at all times. Scenic World recommends that any visitors with accessibility or mobility needs contact them ahead of their visit.

Scenic World opening hours

Scenic World is open 365 days of the year, although opening hours can vary. Regular opening hours during the week are 10 am – 4 pm and 9 am – 5 pm on weekends. However during NSW school holiday periods, it’s 9 am – 5 pm, seven days a week.

Scenic World may be open longer during the summer months, so be sure to check the website before planning your trip. Bookings are essential and ticket entry is timed.

Scenic Skyway cabin at Scenic World Katoomba passing over the Jamison Valley in the Blue Mountains — Scenic World is open every day of the year. (Image: Destination NSW)

Newcastle’s vibrant creativity is evident everywhere, from a thriving live arts scene to an ever-growing offering for gourmands. Those with a hunger for new and exciting experiences should put Newcastle on their radar.

When it comes to consuming the culture of a city, digesting it (in the literal sense) is an appropriate place to start. But it’s not just a world-class wining and dining scene that’s on the menu (not to mention all the new restaurants in Newcastle ). Newcastle – just two hours north of Sydney – offers the perfect blend of arts, culture and culinary experiences that make it a prime destination for an extended escape. The city’s creative future looks even brighter with the reopening of the highly anticipated Newcastle Art Gallery on the horizon.

aerial of Nobbys beach in newcastle nsw — Newcastle offers the perfect coastal setting for the arts and delicious eats. (Image: City of Newcastle)

Given Newcastle’s compact size – many venues are within easy walking distance or a quick drive away – you can immerse yourself fully. From decadent patisseries to fine diners and casual coastal eats, here’s a fresh taste of Newcastle: where to eat, drink and soak up the coastal city’s good vibes.

1. Pastry cafes in Newcastle

pastries next to a pastry box from crumb cafe in newcastle — Lean into Newcastle’s pastry renaissance at Crumb. (Image: Jemma Donkin)

Pastry is having a moment, with a quietly booming scene led by CRUMB, the brand-new pastry cafe in Lambton led by legendary Gareth Williams (of Covered in Crumbs, EXP) and Ben Richardson (Autumn Rooms). Gareth describes his style of food as ‘creative chaos’. Enjoy that abstract artisanal approach over a savoury chorizo, bechamel, cheddar and poppy pastry, or a layered mortadella and pesto mayo croissant sandwich.

Meanwhile, Leibe European Pastries, Pekárna, Union St Pastry and Praise Joe also have their own flair and loyal followings. While Liebe European Pastries is famed for layered German pastries such as Franzbrötchen, Pekárna’s signatures (like cardamom pastries) are tethered to Czech traditions.

Head a few blocks west to Wickham, where Union St Pastry is the pinnacle for lovers of European-style viennoiseries, such as croissants and Danishes. A getaway to Newcastle also looks pretty fabulous with a mega brownie or chicken little toastie from Praise Joe .

2. Destination dining

Blanca resuarant in newcastle nsw — Step inside Mediterranean-inspired eatery, Blanca. (Image: Destination NSW)

Life looks pretty peachy from a table at the breezy Mediterranean-inspired eatery Blanca , which would not be out of place in Mykonos – when it swooped into the Honeysuckle Precinct a few years ago, it caused heads to swivel. Say yasou to mezedes of crudo di mare and sheftalia and grilled Abrolhos Islands’ octopus.

One may also fantasise about being back in Europe – specifically the 10th arrondissement in Paris – at Frenchie , the oh-so-French bistro that offers Euro-chic elegance with an inventive Australian flair. Indulge in the Date Night set menu, available every Thursday.

Peregrin is another stand-out. Listen to the sound of the ocean from the rooftop terrace, and order a Summertime Sour during aperitivo hour. Followed by the yellowfin tuna with pickled cucumber and market fish. And brand new on the scene is Papalote – a joint venture from the incredibly talented owners of Humbug and Flotilla serving up tasty Mexican classics.

3. Casual coastal cafes and kiosks

people swimming at Newcastle Ocean Baths — Follow Newcastle’s coastline for stunning views and tasty eats. (Image: David Diehm)

What better way to soak in Newcastle’s legendary coastline and stunning beaches than by visiting its casual coastal eateries while on the Bathers Way?

Enjoy hot chips and scallops on the sand at Swell Kiosk Bar Beach . Or a housemade sausage roll after a morning surf at Newcastle Beach, thanks to Southy Canteen , which is open from 6am.

Bring your furry travel companion to Sunnyboy Kiosk for a piccolo and puppuccino with views out to Dixon Park Beach. Try light eats, like acai bowls, or more substantial meals like nasi goreng at Blue Door in Merewether. Do a few lazy laps at Merewether Ocean Baths (the largest in the southern hemisphere) before tucking into swordfish skewers and salad at Merewether Surfhouse .

You can also watch the ocean compose a bit of magic from your perch at The Kiosk Newcastle Beach , where a matcha latte looks even better with the beach fresco.

Pause between eats to take in the iconic Newcastle Ocean Baths and Bogey Hole – perfect for a digestive swim or scenic picnic spot.

4. Hatted restaurants in Newcastle

couple eating at Flotilla newcastle — Flotilla serves up delicious meals. (Image: Destination NSW)

In recent years, Newcastle’s restaurant scene has evolved to include venues that have elevated the city’s reputation for culinary excellence. In addition to its cafes and kiosks, there’s now an exciting wave of hatted favourites putting Newcastle on the map.

Humbug is the epitome of Novocastrian dining; the mafaldine with brisket and beef cheek braised in Pedro Ximenez is emblematic of what the owners aim for here. Flotilla neatly knits the Newcastle wining and dining scene together, with young gun Josh Thurston showcasing the art of cooking proteins and produce over fire.

Bistro Penny is another sophisticated, hatted dining destination in Newcastle. Order the barbecued king prawns swimming in a saffron broth and the oxheart tomato salad.

5. Newcastle nightlife

Bartholomew's small bar in newcastle nsw — Stop by Bartholomew’s for a drink. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the sun dips in the west, so the city of Newcastle’s nightlife springs to life. Maru Hi-Fi is the next-gen small bar that’s redefining a night out in Newy – the sleek space serves great cocktails and embraces Newcastle’s alt attitude. Next door, Jams Karaoke & Bar is also bringing the vibes.

If a small bar in a grand old building is more your style, check out Roxanne , Bar Mellow and Bartholomew’s .

Start planning your Newcastle culinary coastal getaway this summer at visitnewcastle.com.au.

Scenic World – a guide to visiting the nature-themed attraction