19 Fun Things to Do in Newcastle With Kids

Newcastle’s got family-friendly fun for every age group.

Just a 2.5-hour drive from Sydney, a visit to Newcastle/Muloobinba in the traditional Country of the Awabakal and Worimi peoples makes for the perfect weekend getaway with kids. From marvelling at museums and eating out in dinky diners that have been given a new lease on life, to exploring wildlife parks and taking surf lessons, here are the best things to do the next time you’re visiting Newcastle with kids in tow.

1. Book in a Mitch Revs Decked Out workshop

canvas art for sale at Mitch Revs Decked Out workshop — Unleash your kids’ creativity at Mitch Revs Decked Out workshop.

Skateboards have been on a wild ride since being invented more than 70 years ago. With skating now an Olympic sport and skate parks popping up around Australia, skateboards have evolved into sought-after moveable artworks. Children aged eight and up can head to the Mitch Revs Gallery for a two-hour Decked Out workshop to learn the fundamentals of Skate Deck Art. There are professional artists on hand to assist budding skaters, who can bring their own sketches or find inspiration on the gallery walls. Show off your new skate deck at one of Newcastle’s many skate parks, the newest of which is in South Newcastle Beach.

2. Do a street art tour

street art in Newcastle — Be in awe of the city’s vibrant street art. (Image: Destination NSW)

Newcastle’s backstreets and alleys have long been seen as a canvas for street artists who have transformed pockets of the working port into colourful outdoor galleries. Join the dots between some of Newcastle’s favourite artists like such as Trevor Dickinson, Matt Adnate and Jordan Lucky during Newcastle Afoot’s two-kilometre guided walk. The family-friendly adventure offers a behind-the-scenes look at the artwork adding colour to Newcastle’s streets. While the outdoor gallery is ever-evolving, you will find great examples everywhere from Argyle St to Hunter St, King St and Union St. You can also opt for a self-guided walk.

3. Set out along the Shipwreck Walk

Stockton Breakwall in Newcastle, NSW — Spot shipwrecks off the Stockton Breakwall. (Image: Getty Images/Merrillie)

Shipwreck Walk starts and ends on the Stockton Breakwall. The two-kilometre return walk is very doable for those with little legs. Along the way, you will see markers with the names of ships that sank on the Oyster Bank, the notoriously sketchy entrance to the Hunter River. Stand at the viewing platform to spot the broken hull of the French four-masted Adolphe, where there’s an account of a lifeboat crew member who saved everyone onboard. You can also see part of the Pasha Bulker‘s rudder, which broke off during the salvage operation of the 76,000-tonne bulk carrier, which is now a beachside sculpture. Ship happens indeed.

4. Visit Newcastle Museum

a family admiring the planet Earth replica at Newcastle Museum — A visit to the Newcastle Museum will ignite your kids’ curiosity about science. (Image: Destination NSW)

Newcastle Museum is worth a visit for the architecture alone. The museum moved to the three Honeysuckle Railway Workshops in 2011 and its mission remains: to tell the city’s story through its collections, exhibitions and audience engagement. Permanent exhibitions on show include Fire & Earth, designed to demonstrate the hard work involved in coal mining, and A Newcastle Story, where visitors can deep dive into the city in all its grit and glory. Kids will also love Kuueeyung, which is all about the art of canoe making.

5. Check out the Museum of Art and Culture

the exterior of the Museum of Art and Culture — The Museum of Art and Culture features a sculpture park. (Image: Docqment)

Newcastle’s lakeside museum is in Booragul, the Aboriginal word for ‘summer’ or ‘warm place’, on Lake Macquarie. The Museum of Art and Culture is filled with interesting art and cultural programs as well as a yapang, a dedicated Aboriginal space with its own program. You don’t need a lot of cash in your pocket to enjoy the museum, with free guided tours and family art classes. Loop around the Creative Lake Sculpture Trail , an outdoor gallery on five hectares of leafy grounds, dotted with works by local and international artists.

6. Join locals for some laps at the ocean pools

teens jumping into the water at Merewether Ocean Baths — Merewether Ocean Baths offers a spot to cool down in summer. (Image: Destination NSW)

One of the best things to do in Newcastle with kids is to take them for a cooling dip in the 100-metre-long Merewether Ocean Baths or Newcastle Ocean Baths . Mereweather Ocean Baths is the largest ocean bath in the southern hemisphere and has two pools, one of which has a shallow end suitable for little ones. Nearby Newcastle Ocean Baths is distinctive for its architecturally significant pavilion, which pops up regularly on residents’ Instagram feeds. The convict-built Bogey Hole below King Edward Park is the oldest ocean pool on Australia’s east coast and a great place to cool off for those with teens in tow.

7. Go whale watching

an aerial view of CoastXP at sea — Sign up for a scenic whale watching tour with CoastXP. (Image: Destination NSW)

A little-known fact about Newcastle: it’s one of the best places in the country to spot whales. In fact, more than 35,000 humpbacks pass by during their annual migration along the so-called ‘Humpback Highway’. Make the most of it by locking in a two-hour Encounter Tour with CoastXP between May and November and treat the family to the wonder of these magnificent creatures. Can’t visit during that time frame? Don’t worry, they’ve got a variety of tours, year-round.

8. Explore the underground tunnels of Fort Scratchley

a family enjoying the view at Fort Scratchley in Newcastle — Soak up stunning views over the Newcastle coastline. (Image: Destination NSW)

Much of the action at Fort Scratchley is underground. The former coastal defence installation was originally built to defend against the Russians. It’s now a hugely popular museum for lovers of military history. The 60-minute Tunnel Tours are a highlight for kids, providing a unique insight into the history of the Fort. Don’t forget to tack on some time to explore the museums, galleries, parade and ceremony grounds above ground. The fort affords visitors 360-degree views over the city, ocean and harbour, making it a top spot to sit and relax.

9. The Hunter Region Botanic Gardens

A visit to the Hunter Region Botanic Gardens in Heatherbrae has something for the whole family. For many families, it might be a brief stop on a whirlwind road trip from Sydney to Byron Bay. It’s crisscrossed with quiet paths, where you get the chance to stretch your legs and enjoy a picturesque picnic. The Hunter Region Botanic Gardens is also a sanctuary for learning about our native flora and fauna. There is also an enchanting area with a cubby house, outdoor toys and manicured lawns for little ones. Schedule a tour or visit the cafe for a Devonshire tea.

10. Spot koalas at Tilligerry Habitat

a koala resting on a tree branch, Tilligerry Habitat — A koala peacefully napping in a tree at Tilligerry Habitat. (Image: NSW Government)

Today’s zoos and wildlife parks offer more than just recreation. In fact, these parks are now at the forefront of conservation. The family-friendly Tilligerry Habitat is a nine-hectare immersive pocket of crown reserve land that is designed to showcase and protect koala habitats. Follow paths around the diverse landscape which switches from scenic forest to scrub, wetland and a coastal landscape that strives to protect the habitat and the animals’ wellbeing. Read information panels about koalas and wander along boardwalks that loop around the park in Tanilba Bay, on the foreshore of beautiful Port Stephens.

11. Play a round of disc golf

Have Frisbee will travel. Disc golf is a fun recreational activity that is growing in popularity around the world. And it’s a great way to get some fresh air and exercise in and around Newcastle. You can play Frisbee Golf at Jesmond Park, at Armstrong Park in Lambton, at Styles Point Reserve in Rathmines and the Beresfield Disc Golf Course . Download a digital scorecard to keep track of who is hitting the holes.

12. Enjoy a day out at Blackbutt Reserve

Blackbutt Reserve has a lot to entice families. The 182-hectare reserve is a natural wonderland with endless trails, two vast and immersive playgrounds and a wealth of wildlife experiences on offer. It’s one of Newcastle’s most popular spots for families for its roster of reptile shows, wildlife feeding sessions and guided tours. Open your map app and drop a few pins around the park which will help you pinpoint your plan for the day. BYO picnic as there are barbecues and shelters available for use.

13. Hang about at Treetops Adventure Park

a woman crossing over an elevated obstacle at Treetops Adventure Park, Newcastle — Conquer the elevated obstacles among the gum trees. (Image: Eluminate Media)

Encourage your little monkeys to swing through the trees on a TreeTops Adventure Park course. There’s no better way to get up close and personal with our great Aussie flora and fauna. The park features more than 100 elevated obstacles with rope ladders, tunnels, cargo nets, wobbly bridges and zip lines. Best of all, there’s even a separate course for the (very) little ones. The park operates rain, hail or shine.

14. Cycle or scoot to Nobbys Beach

a couple walking along Nobbys Beach — Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic Nobbys Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

While Newcastle has plenty of beautiful beaches, the most iconic postcard-perfect seaside destination is Nobbys Beach. And while it might be popular with swimmers and surfers, the coastal path to the breakwall is also perfect for little people on bikes and scooters. Bring your bikes to ride to the breakwall underneath Nobbys Lighthouse or hire one of the city’s many Lime bikes. Keen to up the ante on two wheels? Head to the Redhead Pump Track, just 20 minutes out of town.

15. Kayak the Hunter Wetlands

Learn about the vital role our wetlands play in the environment at the Hunter Wetlands Centre . This vibrant immersive ecosystem has a wealth of activities for the kids, from guided buggy tours to Segway adventures. But the ultimate way to explore the wetlands, which are tangled with greenery, is via kayak. And discovering the magic of the wetlands from the water is one of the most popular things for families to do in Newcastle. A playground and cafe are also available onsite. The park is a 20-minute drive north-west of Newcastle.

16. Stroll the ANZAC Memorial Walk

the Newcastle Memorial Walk at sunrise — The ANZAC Memorial Walk commemorates the sacrifices of Australian soldiers during World War I. (Image: Destination NSW)

There’s just one degree of separation between The ANZAC Memorial Walk and those spectacular views over Newcastle’s coastline. The 450-metre clifftop walkway stretches between Strzelecki Lookout and Bar Beach and is one of the best ways to get outdoors with kids in Newcastle. Built to commemorate the ANZAC centenary, the 160-metre-high coastal path links to Bathers Way promenade, a six-kilometre coastal walk that stretches from Merewether Ocean Baths to Nobbys Beach.

17. Tackle New Annual

New Annual is a 10-day disco of art, culture and creativity in Newcastle. The city is made new during the annual event, which is a global gathering of local and visiting artists designed to celebrate Newcastle as a city of creativity, where art and culture grow and thrive. Much of the program, which includes everything from dance to music, contemporary performance and visual art, is free. Performances take place at venues across the city, with plenty of child-friendly options for all age groups.

18. Find family-friendly places to eat in Newcastle

a table-top view of food and drinks at Estabar, Newcastle — Even fussy eaters will love the family-friendly menu at Estabar. (Image: Destination NSW)

Newcastle has got something for all tastebuds, from casual cafes to beachfront pubs and groovy restaurants slinging out Mexican street food. Head to California-style taqueria Antojitos in Newcastle’s west, which has a caravan cubby house for little ones. Enjoy dining al fresco under the festoon lighting at Scotties , which has a pretty family-friendly courtyard. Keep it low-key at Newy Burger Co . Or enjoy a scoop (or two) of gelato from perennial favourites Estabar, Popolo Gelateria and Monella .

19. Stay in Newcastle with the whole family

the spa tub at The Beach House at Merewether — The spa tub at The Beach House at Merewether beckons for a relaxing dip.

There are plenty of great places to rest your head in Newcastle. The 104-room QT Newcastle retains the charm of the heritage-listed David Jones building replete with a historic facade, signage and clock tower. Crystalbrook Kingsley also offers a five-star experience in the city centre. Families looking to self-cater should consider Quest Newcastle West which features one-, two- and three-bedroom self-serviced apartments near the Interchange and light rail. Flourish on Bull is a loft-style apartment close to the beaches, gardens and attractions of the city. Or book one of Newcastle’s cosy Airbnbs for a home-away-from-home vibe.

Aussies might think they know what Port Stephens is all about – but it’s time to take another look.

You might’ve driven through this NSW coast town. Maybe even stopped for fish and chips or a quick dip. But spend a long weekend in the new Port Stephens , and you’ll seriously regret not doing it sooner. We’re talking treks across beaches, reef dives and up-close time with rescued koalas.

All in all? It only takes a day before you see Port Stephens in a whole new light, and not much longer until it’s locked in as your favourite family destination.

1. Stockton Sand Dunes

Port Stephens incredible Stockton Sand Dunes are the largest moving sand mass in the Southern Hemisphere. They shift like an endless magic trick across the Worimi Conservation Lands , a 4200-hectare coastal co-managed by the Traditional Owners.

Tear over them in a 4WD. Rev through valleys soft as melting ice cream on a quad. Carve down 30-metre slopes on a sandboard. However you choose to cross them, you’re guaranteed a seriously wild ride.

Four rugged 4WDs kick up trails of golden dust as they charge across the sweeping desert landscape. — Chase thrills across shifting sands. (Image: Destination NSW)

2. Scale Tomaree Head Summit Walk

A short climb through bushland opens up to the coastal drama of Tomaree Head . Spot Zenith, Wreck and Box Beaches. See the Fingal Island lighthouse and offshore rookeries where Australia’s rarest seabird, the Gould’s petrel, nests.

History buffs can’t miss the WWII gun emplacements. And if you’re hiking between May and November, bring binoculars. Travelling whales might just be breaching below.

Friends enjoying a scenic walk along the Tomaree Head Summit Walk in Tomaree National Park, Port Stephens. — Climb Tomaree Head for jaw-dropping coastal views. (Image: Destination NSW)

3. Watch out for whales

You’ve seen the spouts of migrating humpbacks and southern right whales from shore. Set sail from Nelson Bay to see them up close. Cruise straight into the action, with tail-slaps, barrel rolls and all.

And they’ve got competition from the local show-offs. Port Stephens bottlenose dolphins leap and play. Some tours even spot pudgy fur seals, spending lazy days soaking up the sun on Cabbage Tree Island.

A whale’s tail on the sea’s surface. — Watch for ocean tails. (Image: Destination NSW)

4. Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary

Pop into the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary to learn about the rescued koalas who climb, nap, snack and heal in this natural patch of bushland. Wander the immersive Sanctuary Story Walk to discover more about their habits, then head to the SKYwalk – a treetop platform constructed for spotting these eucalyptus-loving locals. Peek into the hospital’s viewing window, where sick or injured koalas may be resting in their recovery enclosures.

Not enough time around these adorable marsupials? Stay overnight in silk-lined glamping tents.

Koala sleeping in a tree at Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary, One Mile — See koalas in their natural habitat. (Image: Destination NSW)

5. Diving Port Stephens

Port Stephens has some of NSW’s best dive spots. At Fly Point, float through sponge gardens and coral castles thick with nudibranchs (AKA sea slugs). Halifax Park has blue gropers and crimson-banded wrasse, while Shoal Bay’s seagrass meadows hide pipefish, cuttlefish and octopus.

Accessible only by boat, Broughton Island is home to a vast array of marine (and bird) life. Snorkel with blue devilfish and stingrays at sites like The Looking Glass and North Rock. More experienced divers can head out with one of the many PADI-certified operators.

At nearby Cabbage Tree Island, expect to see shaggy-faced wobbegongs cruising along.

A couple suited up and ready to dive into adventure. — Suit up and dive into Port Stephens’ vibrant marine life. (Image: Destination NSW)

6. Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters

Not quite ready to dive in? Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters is the perfect way to spot local marine life without getting too deep. But there’s no obnoxious glass tank tapping here. Instead, this interactive aquarium allows guests to wade into natural-style lagoons that mimic the real thing.

Gently pat Port Jackson and bamboo sharks, hand-feed rays, and feel their sandpapery skin with your fingertips. It is all under expert guidance. If you want to go deeper, pop on a wetsuit and swim alongside tawny nurse sharks, white-tipped reef sharks and zebra sharks in the lagoon.

Family enjoying an animal feeding experience at Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters, Anna Bay. — Meet the ocean’s friendliest faces at Irukandji. (Image: Destination NSW)

7. Fish the estuaries

Fishing fanatics will fall for Port Stephens hook, line and sinker. Here, one of the largest estuary systems in the whole state sees tidal rivers and mangrove ecosystems. Waterfronts are thick with oysters, and residential fish that might include anything from bream, whiting and flathead, to blue swimmer crabs, kingfish and longtail tuna.

If you prefer to choose your own adventure and fish offshore, you can hire a boat from one of the marinas and set your own course.

three men fishing on a boat in port stephens — Join a tour or chart your own fishing trip. (Image: Destination NSW)

8. Taste new Port Stephens flavours

With plenty of activity to fill your days, refuelling on delectable cuisine becomes equally important. And Port Stephens answers the call.

Pop into Holbert’s Oyster Farm for fresh-farmed Port Stephens rock oysters and Pacific oysters, Australian king and tiger prawns, as well as a variety of tasty sauces to try them with.

Take a group to Atmos for an authentic Greek experience over large shared dishes and Greek-inspired cocktails. Or feast on sea-to-plate, modern Australian dishes at the pet-friendly Restaurant 2317.

A plate of fresh oysters. — Slurp your way through the region’s best oysters. (Image: Destination NSW)

Start planning your Port Stephens getaway at portstephens.org.au .

19 fun things to do in Newcastle with kids