Unplug and Explore: Visit the Hunter Wetlands Centre at Shortland for Outdoor Family Fun
Get back to nature at Hunter Wetlands Centre in Shortland. Enjoy walks, orienteering, dipnetting and more. It’s also a great place for a family bike ride!
Australia Day 2026: What’s On In Newcastle, Lake Macquarie & the Hunter
To mark Australia Day 2026, there are family-friendly events happening around Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens and the Hunter.
Enjoy a Weekend of Family Fun at the 2026 Maitland Show
The Maitland Showground will again come alive for three days in February 2026 with a range of activities, attractions, entertainment, competitions, and exhibitions along with an array of rides, amusements and free fun activities.
Play, Picnic & Spot Turtles at Myuna Bay
For a fun family day out, head to Myuna Bay. Spot turtles in the Eraring Outlet, enjoy a picnic at lakeside playground or swim or kayak in shallow waters.
Newcastle Museum: What To Know For a Fun Family Day Out
For a fun free family day out, visit Newcastle Museum in Honeysuckle. There’s loads to keep kids of all ages occupied including the popular BHP Steelmaking show.
From Caves Beach to Pinny Beach: A Stunning Coastal Walk
Want a gorgeous & adventurous walk with views and beach stops? Go for a hike from Caves Beach to Pinny Beach via Spoon Rocks. It’s a bit of an adventure with steep terrain in some spots, a staircase and fire trails to follow.
Explore The Bathers Way in Newcastle, a Scenic Coastal Walk
Explore the scenic 6km Bathers Way coastal walk in Newcastle from Nobbys Headland to Merewether Baths. Here’s our tips for doing the walk with kids.
Visit the Whimsical Fairy Garden in Broadmeadow
For a whimsical experience, visit the Fairy Garden in Broadmeadow. This enchanted grotto created by a local neighbour, features trees, winding paths, lots of plants and many figurines. It’s a lovely little spot to take young kids.
Splash Out with a Dip at Toronto Baths
Visit Toronto Baths, a historic swimming location in Lake Macquarie. It’s been upgraded with new ramps, jetty decking, and netting.
How to Save Money on Back to School Expenses in Australia
Practical ways Australian families can save money on back to school costs. Tips on uniforms, tech, lunches, vouchers and more.
Celebrate Australia Day in Maitland Park
Head on down to Maitland Park this Australia Day to take part in a range of family friendly games, activities, performances, free day pool entry, and Dive In Cinema.
Ngarrama 2026 – Sit, Listen and Know: Reconciliation in King Edward Park
The University of Newcastle welcomes you to Ngarrama – a kid-friendly event of reflection on the eve of Invasion/Australia Day. Sharing of stories, knowledge and culture.
King Edward Park: Enjoy Ocean Views and Fun Play Equipment
Visit King Edward Park, a beautiful and historic park in the heart of Newcastle. It features fun play equipment suitable for kids of all ages.
What’s On in January 2026 — Newcastle, Lake Macquarie & Hunter Valley
What’s on in January? Here’s the month’s top events in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie & The Hunter specially selected for families.