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.

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.

Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.

two people standing in front of kiama blowhole — See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)

Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.

Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.

Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures on the new south wales south coast — Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery . Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.

Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda , and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey ‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.

End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines .

The Sebel Kiama exterior — Sleep by the harbour.

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.

First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.

Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, winter on the New South Wales coast — Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk , one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.

Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines , where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.

port macquarie koala hospital — Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)

The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala . Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.

Back in town, Whalebone Wharf serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.

At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie , right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.

bed at Mercure Centro Port Macquarie — Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.

Winter on the Central Coast

On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.

The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk , an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.

Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.

a humpback whale breaching on the central coast — Spot migrating humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park . Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.

If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast , a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery , where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.

Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm . Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.

woman holding a pearl at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal , which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.

Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores , between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.

restaurant at Pullman Magenta Shores central coast — Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

Winter in Wollongong

Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.

If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.

Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple , the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.

monk teaching tai chi at Nan Tien Temple — Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch . Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.

The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong . A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery , which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.

monkey at Symbio Wildlife Park — Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)

As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen . It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.

Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach , right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.

Winter on the New South Wales coast starts with a cosy place to stay. Start planning your adventure at all.com.

19 fun things to do in Newcastle with kids