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Blue Gum Hills Regional Park

National Parks and Reserves

Blue Gum Hills Regional Park

Blue Gum Hills Regional Park provides a delightful day out for Newcastle residents and visitors. In a protected bushland setting, your family and friends can enjoy barbecue areas, play equipment, a maze and plenty of green space to refresh the soul. The playground features a range of inclusive play equipment and accessible areas designed to accommodate children with diverse needs. If you're feeling active after lunch you can play cricket, go bike riding down one of the many trails or enjoy one of the easy-access walking tracks to check out the mining heritage of the park. As this is a dog-friendly park, you can take your dog for a walk, as long as they're on a leash.

Minmi NSW

3.9 km away

Hunter Wetlands Centre Visitors Centre

Natural Attractions

Hunter Wetlands Centre

The Hunter Wetlands Centre is a conservation sanctuary, with over 200 wildlife species identified as visiting the site. Located on 45 hectares of internationally significant wetlands under the Ramsar agreement, it is the perfect nature-based tourism destination to explore, discover and relax and is only 13 kilometres from Newcastle's central business district, in the Hunter Region of New South Wales. The Hunter Wetlands Centre offers a range of activities for people of all ages ranging from wildlife, walking trails and guided tours, canoeing, dip netting, bird watching and feeding talks, events, children's discovery playground, school holiday programs and much more. There is also an Animal House and an Arts Space which has a new exhibition every month. The Hunter Wetlands Centre is a self-funded community-owned, not-for-profit charity.

Shortland NSW

4.0 km away

Heritage Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: John Yurasek

Natural Attractions

Heritage Walking Track

The Heritage walking track begins at the remains of an 1870's stone bridge abutments. This short walk takes you along the original Minmi Back Creek rail embankment to Brown’s Colliery No. Two mine, ending at the large brick tower of an original ventilation shaft from the old mine. The return walk to the carpark along Blue Gum Road passes by the dam constructed to wash coal before transportation. As you wind through dry eucalypt forest you may see goannas basking in patches of sunlight, hear the hum of cicadas and glimpse birds flitting through the trees. Look out for the grey goshawk, you'll be able to tell it from its powerful yellow legs and talons. This walk offers a wonderful blend of history and nature; everchanging as the bush reclaims the landscape.

Minmi NSW

4.5 km away

Village Green picnic area and playground

Natural Attractions

Village Green picnic area and playground

Backyard not big enough? Why not use ours, at Village Green picnic area and playground in Blue Gum Hills Regional Park. There's plenty of parking, picnic shelters, barbecues and open space in a picturesque setting so everyone can enjoy their day. It's perfect for big groups, and the playground is only a short walk away. The upgraded adventure playground has a lot of fun things for kids to do. There's a baby swing, and regular and group swings. The balancing equipment is low to the ground and includes wooden beams, wooden stumps and suspension bridges (with soft fall ground covering). There's also a colourful music play space, and a sand and rock play area, reminding visitors of the area's coal mining history. If you feel like an easy walk, try the Heritage walking track that takes you on a short journey through woodland to explore the park's mining history. There's plenty of room for the kids to run around on the grass.

Minmi NSW

4.6 km away

Minmi Cemetery Walk — Image credit: Photo: John Yurasek

Natural Attractions

Minmi Cemetery Walk

Minmi Cemetery, only a 200 metre stroll from the park’s main carpark, is a charming and fascinating piece of local heritage. Dating from the coal-mining boom of the mid-1800's, it tells its own story of the people who came to this place to try to make a living from its underground riches. Don’t forget to visit the pretty Minmi Heritage Garden while you’re here.

Minmi NSW

4.6 km away

Back Creek picnic area

Natural Attractions

Back Creek picnic area

The Back Creek picnic area is a popular place for birthday celebrations and family gatherings. There are free gas barbecues, easily accessible picnic tables and a large field that is perfect for a spot of cricket, football and kite flying. The kids will love this picnic area; there's a timber maze with an observation deck for you to watch them getting lost and found again and a special mining-themed playground with tunnel and crank-handled conveyor belt for adventurers to get into the spirit of the place. If you feel like exploring the history of the park a little more, you can take the easy walk accross the creek to the pleasant view over Minmi cemetery. Many of the men who worked in the mines were laid to rest here, see if you can find the oldest grave. Take a virtual tour of Back Creek picnic area captured with Google Street View Trekker.

Minmi NSW

4.6 km away

Allettare Dezigns Art Fusion Studio — Image credit: Allettare Dezigns

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Allettare Dezigns Art Fusion Studio

Welcome to Allettare Dezigns Art Fusion Studio in Cardiff, NSW, located in the heart of Lake Macquarie! This vibrant, creative space where imagination knows no bounds, offers a variety of art workshops for all ages and skill levels, making it the perfect place for anyone eager to explore their artistic talents. Whether you're a beginner or experienced artist, their workshops include painting, resin, mixed media, and more, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy. For kids, Allettare Dezigns offers fun and engaging workshops help develop artistic skills, boost confidence, and inspire self-expression. Owner and artist Chris leads junior artists through exciting projects that foster creativity while having fun. Adults can explore more specialised workshops allowing participants to dive deeper into techniques, refine skills, and experience the therapeutic benefits of art. The studio also showcases an eclectic collection of handmade goodies and original artwork for sale, from unique home décor to handcrafted jewellery there’s always something special to discover. Each item is crafted with care and passion, making them perfect gifts or additions to your home. Allettare Dezigns believe in the power of creativity to bring people together and inspire joy. Dedicated to creating a welcoming, inclusive environment where everyone can experience the joy of making and appreciating art. Visit them today and let your creativity flourish!

Cardiff NSW

4.9 km away

Koala exhbit — Image credit: Blackbutt Reserve

Natural Attractions

Blackbutt Reserve

Blackbutt Reserve occupies approximately 182 hectares of land, six kilometres from Newcastle city centre. It offers visitors many opportunities to link recreational activities and environmental education with conservation and research programs. Blackbutt Reserve is an undulating natural environment consisting of peaceful picnic settings with electric barbecues, open spaces, nature trails, and a diverse range of habitats and ecosystems. It also features wildlife exhibits that are modern, and spacious and allows close viewing of the animals, including koalas, wombats, native birds, emus and kangaroos. There is a range of wildlife feeding and reptile shows at Blackbutt Reserve, please check the website for the most up-to-date information. Visit the newly constructed cafe for a coffee amongst the trees.

Kotara NSW

5.1 km away

18th Hole

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Waratah Golf Club

Located near the beautiful shores of Lake Macquarie, Waratah Golf Club is one of the founding golf clubs in the Hunter region, with a proud place in Australian golfing history. The course features a traditional out and back design, flowing through tree lined fairways and natural landscapes, offering an authentic challenge without the modern convention of two separate 9 hole loops. With various tee options available, the course caters to golfers of all ages and skill levels. Waratah Golf Club is more than just a course. It is a welcoming community venue. The clubhouse includes a bar and bistro where members and guests can relax after their round, along with function spaces that are available for events, celebrations, and gatherings. Golfers are also supported by a fully stocked retail pro shop, offering quality equipment, apparel, and professional advice. Proud of its heritage yet focused on serving todays golfers and visitors, Waratah Golf Club remains a true destination for both the game and the community

Argenton NSW

5.7 km away

Go Karts Go

Amusement and Theme Parks

Go Karts Go

Go Karts Go is an amusement park with go-karts, a shop, and video games. All members of the family, from three to 90 years, can have a fun time. The tracks are fully controlled and supervised with safety the key factor. Go Karts Go has the biggest four-stroke outdoor go-kart track and the fastest four-stroke karts in the whole of Newcastle, and after recent extensions, they are now one of the longest Hire kart tracks in NSW. Join Go Karts Go for a fun and exciting drive in their Go Karts and experience the thrill of race driving.

Broadmeadow NSW

5.8 km away

Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima

This cutting-edge venue is a space where art and innovation come together. The Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima (MAP mima) is the newest addition to the exciting Lake Arts Precinct, offering a high-tech creative canvas for contemporary art and cementing Lake Macquarie’s place as a leading creative city. The ‘mima’ part of the name comes from an Awabakal word meaning ‘cause to stay’ – and it couldn’t be more appropriate for this venue, which sits on a lovely patch of green at Speers Point Park on the shores of the stunning body of water that is Lake Macquarie. Designed by University of Newcastle undergraduate architecture student Samantha Bailey, the building features a central gallery (The Cube) for exhibitions and large-scale multi-media experiences, as well as a series of other spaces, both indoors and out. Expect contemporary artworks that push boundaries, in a setting that’s both architecturally striking but also immersed in its natural surroundings.

Boolaroo NSW

6.0 km away

Sunflowers grown in Largs — Image credit: NSW Farmers Market Pty Ltd

Shopping and Markets

Newcastle City Farmers Market

Come and experience the culinary delights of the Hunter Valley at Newcastle City Farmers Market every Sunday at the Newcastle Showground and Entertainment Centre. A bustling Mecca for foodies, families and visitors alike, the Newcastle City Farmers Market is a local institution showcasing a community of local farmers growing the freshest seasonal produce with artisanal delights from many other talented producers. If you are hungry the market boasts exceptional artisan food goods from around the "Globe" perfect for breakfast, brunch or lunch along with entertainment in the food court. Plenty of seating in the parkland setting for you to take a break and relax. Little Sprouts play centre provides "back to basics play" for the little ones. Should you run out of money there are ATM's onsite for your convenience.

Broadmeadow NSW

6.1 km away

Thirsty Messiah Brewery

Entertainment Venues

Thirsty Messiah Brewery

Newcastle award winning brewery, 300 metres from the stadium. Live music, great food and beverages at affordable prices. They host music, comedy, trivia and other forms of entertainment regularly. They also distill and sell spirits and manufacture a large range of beverages. Come and try their slushies, you will be blown away by the range and quality.

Broadmeadow NSW

6.1 km away

Exterior of centre — Image credit: Westfield Kotara

Shopping and Markets

Westfield Kotara

Westfield Kotara is Newcastle's premier shopping, dining, and lifestyle destination. Home to over 200 stores, it offers a mix of leading fashion, beauty, and homeware brands alongside a dynamic dining precinct. The Rooftop features a curated selection of restaurants and entertainment, creating the perfect spot to unwind. Whether you're browsing flagship retailers, indulging in gourmet eats, or enjoying family-friendly experiences, Westfield Kotara is where style, flavour, and community come together.

Kotara NSW

6.2 km away

Sugar Valley Library Museum volunteer tour — Image credit: Lake Macquarie City Council

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Sugar Valley Library Museum - kirantakamyari

Sugar Valley Library Museum, kirantakamyari is a co-located museum and library in Cameron Park. Sugar Valley Library Museum is the first of its kind in Lake Macquarie, showcasing the rich history of West Wallsend. Developed in conjunction with the West Wallsend District Heritage Group, the exhibition presents the story of the region through enticing and immersive experiences and objects portraying the life and times of this unique township. The Museum contains interactive elements such as the Hunter's first virtual reality experience of an underground coal mine including oral histories from those who worked the site, historic objects from the West Wallsend and District Heritage Group’s collection and an engaging entertaining hands-on history experience. Younger visitors will also have the opportunity to get up close with history through the 'Play Museum' and the Discovery cabinets. Join a Sugar Valley Library Museum guided tour, with museum volunteers to learn more about the inaugural exhibition 'Westy: We Built this History'.

Cameron Park NSW

6.4 km away

Sim Bays for Virtual Golf

Entertainment Venues

Rippit Golf

Rippit Golf is Newcastle's home for year-round golfing, offering state-of-the-art simulator bays, a premium driving range, and fun for all skill levels. Whether you're refining your swing, competing with mates, or just having a hit, Rippit Golf provides the ultimate indoor and outdoor golf experience. Rippit Golf also has a Sports Bar and is the premier golf sports bar that Newcastle visitors choose to relax and enjoy. Whether unwinding after a round of golf or catching a live game, our Newcastle sports bar offers mouthwatering bites, refreshing beverages, and a lively atmosphere. With multiple screens showing all your favourite sports, there's always something to cheer for. Join us at the best sports bar Newcastle has to offer—where good company, great food, and unforgettable moments meet. Visit Rippit Sports Bar Newcastle today and elevate your game day experience!

Broadmeadow NSW

6.5 km away

Good Corn Liquor playing their sweet country bluegrass tunes to a loving crowd — Image credit: The Stag and Hunter

Entertainment Venues

The Stag and Hunter Hotel

The Stag and Hunter Hotel is a unique original live music venue featuring both Local, Touring and International acts of a wide range of genres. Located in the suburb of Mayfield in Newcastles old industrial heartland The Stag and Hunter is a must when visiting the region. The venue boasts an amazing restaurant, offering all of the your favourite pub classics. All made in house. The bar is uniquely Mayfield with remnants of the old BHP era on display throughout the venue.

Mayfield NSW

6.7 km away

Newcastle Entertainment Centre

Entertainment Venues

Newcastle Entertainment Centre

Newcastle Entertainment Centre hosts the very best local, national and international events in a market that is continually growing and very supportive. It is the premier regional venue with the sixth largest market in Australia. The Newcastle Entertainment Centre services a population base in excess of one million patrons. From Coffs Harbour in the north, west to Armidale and Moree as well as the Central Coast of New South Wales. It is located six minutes from the centre of Newcastle within the Newcastle Showground. From concerts, family and sporting events the Newcastle Entertainment Centre hosts them all! The Centre has a variable capacity from an intimate theatre mode of 1,500 to a full general admission mode of 7,528 using curtaining, portable seating, bleaches and moving the stage to suit your needs. The Centre hosts concerts and comedy performances such as Michael Bublé and Jimmy Carr, sporting events including International Netball and Boxing and family events including Disney On Ice and Starstruck.

Broadmeadow NSW

6.7 km away

The Little Gallery — Image credit: Michelle Gearin

Galleries, Museums and Collections

The Creator Incubator

The Creator Incubator (TCI) is a lively creative hub housing 52 resident artists, designers, makers, and thinkers, from emerging to those of national reputation, and was founded in 2017 by artist and Director Braddon Snape. TCI is a proud leader in the Newcastle and Hunter Arts community, aiming to foster growth, development, and promotion of not only the artists under its roof but also aims to contribute to the promotion of the wider region's artists to help build a sustainable cultural landscape. They offer two professional quality exhibition spaces to showcase the work of both resident and visiting artists. Come by to visit and experience a phenomenal creative destination - a leader within the local hunter arts community, supporting artists' professional development and livelihood. Whilst here observe the artists' studios, visit The Gallery spaces, talk with the artists, and immerse yourself within the marvellously multifarious arts destination that is TCI.

Hamilton North NSW

6.8 km away

The Welcome Walk — Image credit: Photo: Susan Davis/NSW Government

Natural Attractions

The Welcome Walk

Did you know mangroves are excellent fish nurseries? That there is a plant called sea celery? Or that saltmarsh is classified as an Endangered Ecological Community? You can learn all about these issues and more on The Welcome walk in Hunter Wetlands National Park. Walking along the raised boardwalk, you’ll meander above the saltwater wetlands of the Hunter River estuary, maybe spotting a fish or two or crabs. This short walk is ideal for walking with children. You can set your own gentle pace, peeking and pointing at the wildlife and exploring the intricate world beneath you. Birdwatch as you go – there will be plenty of water birds about – and check out the interesting grasses and aquatic plants within the saltmarsh ecosystem. You’re bound to get some great photos any time you visit, but many say this walk is at its best in spring, when delicate cream-coloured flowers adorn the mangroves.

Kooragang NSW

7.1 km away

State of the art tenpin bowling lanes for the whole family to enjoy

Entertainment Venues

Dullboy's Social Co - Warners Bay

Dullboy's Social Co is here for the good times. The nights out, the weekend adventures, the laughs and the memory making. Because as they say, all work and no play makes jack a dull boy. Escape the everyday grind and do something unreal with their tenpin bowling lanes, outdoor mini golf course, video arcade, dodgem cars, modern Diner, and 18+ Barcadia! This multi-faceted entertainment venue is also the perfect place to throw an epic party! Whether you're doing some team building, celebrating a family milestone, or just looking to have a blast with your mates, Dullboy's has got you covered.

Warners Bay NSW

7.3 km away

HEAP exhibition view NAS — Image credit: Newcastle art space

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Hunter Emerging Art Prize

This exhibition features work by Hunter based emerging artists across ceramics, sculpture, painting, photography, and experimental practice. The Hunter Emerging Art Prize 2026 (HEAP) is the leading art prize for emerging artists in the Hunter. This year acknowledges 25 years of HEAP and this year they have a New Disability Inclusion Section Prize which is supported by the Lee Family in memory of Fina Lee. This prize is not possible without the support of the following amazing sponsors Maclean's Booksellers, Pettigrew, Wilton, Lemke Stewart, Stevens Conveyancing , This is Not Art, HIC Services, Clay Room, BJs Workwear, Bevan Leach Physiotherapy, theLee Family in Memory of Fina Lee, the Squires Family in Memory of Jody Robinson and Newcastle Art Space

Tighes Hill NSW

7.3 km away

Newcastle Art Space_exterior view — Image credit: Newcastle Art Space

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Newcastle Art Space

Newcastle Art Space is the leading venue for emerging artists in the Hunter Region. They have a changing exhibition program featuring established and emerging artists across a range of fields, painting, ceramic, installation, sculpture and more. The art space includes an accessible gallery space and more than 20 artist studios. They are located in O Block on the southern side of the Newcastle TAFE Campus. In the same building is their arts neighbour The Clay Room Tighes Hill. They are a creative hub, which includes opportunities for artists such as arts mentorship, residencies, workshops, exhibitions, and prizes. There is on-site parking or they are not far from Hamilton Station.

Tighes Hill NSW

7.3 km away

Holey Moley Charlestown

Entertainment Venues

Holey Moley Charlestown

Newcastle, are you ready to putt your stuff? Holey Moley is the craziest round of mini-golf you’ve ever played! They’re a mini golf course and bar that brings fun to a new level. With two different nine-hole courses to choose from, you’ll putt your stuff around 18 uniquely themed holes. After you have worked up a thirst, settle in at their Caddyshack bar. With drinks, cocktails, tunes and great grub on offer, The Caddyshack will take care of all their off-the-green needs.

Charlestown NSW

7.4 km away

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