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.

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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.

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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.

Discover the magic of a Sydney staycation in summer at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney.

Sydney City is magical in summer. Warm summer evenings beg to be spent sipping cool cocktails at one of many al fresco and rooftop bars. Ferries and buses are ready to transport travellers to the best nearby beaches for salty days on the sand. National parks and rainforests are waiting to be explored. And the city’s events calendar is packed, from live music to cultural attractions. All elements that call for a Sydney staycation.

Discover where to eat, stay and play for the perfect local getaway.

Where to stay

The Fullerton Hotel Sydney

Amid the bustle of the perfect Sydney staycation, one needs a place to escape to and recharge. Enter, The Fullerton Hotel Sydney. The hotel is an icon in its own right – nestled inside the 151-year-old building that was originally Sydney’s General Post Office, its heritage-listed sandstone walls and Victorian renaissance grandeur have been carefully preserved – providing a rare chance to sleep within Sydney’s history.

Despite its fascinating history, the hotel isn’t short on modern, luxurious comforts. Rooms and suites are available in both the modern high-rise with gorgeous views over the clock tower and lively city below, or inside the historical post office building itself.

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney Heritage Long Suite bathroom — Heritage rooms maintain their old-world style.

Either way, guests can enjoy sophisticated touches, including a deluxe bed and pillow menu, Harman Kardon Bluetooth speakers, a digital concierge, a Vittoria coffee machine and amenities from the Balmain bathroom collection.

The team at this five-star hotel provides excellence and a quality experience for all their guests, while amenities like a gym help with a well-rounded stay. For a peaceful moment with sweeping city views, enter The Fullerton Club Lounge on level 28. This private haven for dining and relaxation is available to any guests staying on the hotel’s club floors and suites.

Add to this a central location in the CBD’s Martin Place, with easy access to Sydney’s top attractions, and convenience meets style.

Where to drink & dine

1. The Bar

the Fullerton Hotel afternoon tea at the bar — Indulge in the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea.

Inside The Fullerton Hotel Sydney’s lobby, The Bar does more than sling a few delicious cocktails (although it certainly does that well). Its brown leather chairs and glass ceiling create the perfect, almost al fresco, setting for the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea.

Served daily from 12 to 4 pm, the afternoon tea is a nod to the cherished social occasion it once was during the Victorian Renaissance era. People like to dress up for this afternoon tea, and if you’re lucky, a pianist often sits down at the on-site grand piano, just adding to the elegance.

The afternoon tea is served high tea style, offering reimagined British flavours of the Victorian Renaissance era with a unique blend of Australia’s culinary heritage. A sweet layer offers delights like a Malted Milk Envelope (a milk mousse layered between two biscuits), Bakewell Pudding (a super tasty egg-based pudding), and Apple Charlotte.

On the savoury layer, expect finger sandwiches with fillings like cucumber, egg and smoked salmon. While classic pinwheels and stuffed eggs almost make the menu. And, of course, all finished off with traditional scones served with cream and mixed berry jam.

Can’t fit in a whole afternoon tea? Be sure to at least order a slice of the 32-layered chocolate cake, a decadent mix of dark chocolate crémeux, fresh whipped cream, and Valrhona Azélia chocolate sauce. ⁣

2. The Place

the Fullerton Hotel the place dining — Dine in the stunning GPO atrium.

On level one of The Fullerton Hotel Sydney lives The Place – the hotel’s restaurant, in an atrium overlooking the former GPO. Here, dine on Modern Australian cuisine – think fresh, local seafood and a Riverina steak sandwich – along with a touch of Singaporean signature dishes, like Thai-style green curry or chicken satay. All in the shadow of the GPO clock tower, enjoying the GPO atrium’s natural light.

3. Local gelato

Couple enjoying ice-creams at First Fleet Park, The Rocks — Enjoy ice cream in the sunshine. (Image: Destination NSW)

What is summer without ice cream and/or gelato? Luckily, there are plenty of options just a short walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, whether you’re craving a midday pick-me-up or an after-sun treat.

What to do/see

1. GPO Heritage Tour

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney lobby — Be awed by the building’s history.

Want to know more about the building you’re staying in? The Fullerton Hotel Sydney offers a complimentary 90-minute GPO Heritage Tour. Follow a knowledgeable tour guide to discover the stories, tales and legends of the former Sydney General Post Office building.

From the iconic clock tower (completed in 1891) to the black-and-white tiled staircase at 1 Martin Place, which was once the main entrance to the GPO and today serves as a prominent feature of the building to the 24 stone faces (mascarons) on the Martin Place side of the building. Part of the 1880s-era facade (designed by architect James Barnet), each represents different states, countries and continents.

2. Circular Quay

aerial of circular quay sydney — Catch a ferry from Circular Quay. (Image: Destination NSW)

An easy walk or light rail ride away from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, lies the bustling Circular Quay. Here, you can sit for a drink and nibbles at the Opera Bar, or head into the iconic house itself for a show. It’s also a major ferry port, becoming your gateway to Sydney’s beaches, Luna Park and even Sydney Zoo.

3. Royal Botanic Gardens

view of circular quay from Sydney's Royal Botanic Garden — Wander through Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. (Image: Destination NSW)

Just beyond Circular Quay, discover Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. Wander through this 30-hectare, heritage-listed, botanical garden – exploring its differing sections, from Australian native botanicals to garden beds of vibrant flowers to towering groves of international trees.

It’s also the perfect place for a picnic, so pick up supplies before you come and enjoy a spot on the grassy meadow looking out into the harbour.

4. Theatre Royal

Just a one-minute walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, take in a show at Theatre Royal. Built in 1976, the theatre has been offering a broad range of entertainment since the 1990s. Expect a show roster that ranges from the classics (like Cats) to the modern) like Pretty Woman: The Musical).

Start planning a summer stay in Sydney worth remembering at fullertonhotels.com/fullerton-hotel-sydney.

19 fun things to do in Newcastle with kids