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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

0.5 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

0.9 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

2.6 km away

Strike Bowling Charlestown

Amusement and Theme Parks

Strike Bowling Charlestown

Situated over two levels and overlooking the South Piazza in Charlestown Square, Strike Bowling Charlestown is not your average bowling alley! Featuring eight bowling lanes, two private karaoke rooms, an amazing laser tag arena, a cocktail bar and an outdoor terrace, the entertainment options are endless. Plus, they're now slinging delicious old-school sandwiches courtesy of their pop-up mates at Rando Sandos.

Charlestown NSW

2.6 km away

Yuelarbah Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: Shaun Sursok/NSW Government

Natural Attractions

Yuelarbah Walking Track

Part of the Great North walk that stretches 250 kilometres from Newcastle to Sydney, the Yuelarbah walking track is one of the highlights of Glenrock State Conservation Area. Commencing at the wheelchair accessible raised boardwalk, the scenic track leads you along Flaggy Creek, through wet gullies and coastal rainforest, and if that's not enough, you'll pass two waterfalls before finishing at Glenrock Beach. About halfway along you’ll find Leichhardt’s lookout which offers excellent views over Glenrock Lagoon. It’s a great option for a day walk, and be sure you take a picnic lunch with you; there are a few great spots to stop for a break along the walk, including the picnic area at Flaggy Creek and the beach or headlands of Glenrock Beach.

Whitebridge NSW

2.8 km away

Glenrock Mountain Biking Trails — Image credit: Photo: Shaun Sursok

Natural Attractions

Glenrock Mountain Biking Trails

Glenrock State Conservation Area provides excellent opportunities for mountain bike riding. With 14 kilometres of purpose-built bike trails and 20 kilometres of linked management trails in the northern section of the park, allow a day to explore the area. The mountain bike tracks will take you on a windy ride through open forest and woodlands and, in combination with the trail network, provide access to Burwood Beach, Leichhardt’s lookout and the waterfalls. The trails are graded – green circle for beginners, blue square for intermediate and black diamond for advanced, so there is bound to be one that suits your level. Biking trails are all signed, so if you can’t see a sign it means that riding is not permitted. Large bike maps are installed at major entrances.

Highfields NSW

2.9 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

3.0 km away

Glenrock State Conservation Area

National Parks and Reserves

Glenrock State Conservation Area

Located between Newcastle and Lake Macquarie, Glenrock State Conservation Area offers an astounding array of recreational opportunities. Glenrock embraces the last surviving pocket of coastal rainforest in the region, home to a range of animals, like bandicoots, bats and gliders. So remember to leave your pets at home. The park also protects a number of ancient Aboriginal sites. One of the city's most popular beaches lies within the park's boundaries, but there is much more here than sand and surf. Take your mountain bike and explore the scenic cycling trails, walk the rainforest and waterfall tracks, launch a hang glider off the cliffs or enjoy a spot of fishing.

Highfields NSW

3.2 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

3.4 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

3.5 km away

Burwood Trail — Image credit: Photo: John Spencer

Natural Attractions

Burwood Trail

From high on the escarpment, you can look down at historic Burwood Colliery. It was first excavated in the 19th century, around 1861. It’s now well-preserved and part of the State Heritage register. Listen for the call of bellbirds. Look for the male regent bowerbird, with its glossy black and bright yellow plumage. Echidnas can also been seen out foraging at dawn or dusk. The trail begins on Scout Camp Road above the scout camp. You'll see the track entry opposite the water tank. Walkers can join Yuelarbah walking track at the western end of the track or the Leggy Point loop walking track at the eastern end, which also links to Glenrock Beach. Horse riders can also use this trail, which joins into a network of others in the park.

Whitebridge NSW

3.6 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

3.7 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

3.8 km away

Leggy Point Loop Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: John Spencer

Natural Attractions

Leggy Point Loop Walking Track

Leggy Point loop walking track weaves through open coastal forest with some jaw-dropping coastal views in Glenrock State Conservation Area. The walking track is ideal for active nature lovers with wildflower displays and opportunities for birdwatching, swimming and surfing. Emerging at Elvis Rock, gaze along the coastline to Newcastle to the north. Be sure to look for whales during their annual migration. You can head to Glenrock Beach for a swim or surf after passing Awabakal Aboriginal midden, at the mouth of Glenrock Lagoon. The forest offers a mix of banksia, acacia, spotted gum, iron bark and white mahogany trees. During spring, look for pretty yellow donkey orchids, named for their two large top petals. Large skinks, known as land mullets, are also common in this area of the park.

Whitebridge NSW

3.8 km away

Fernleigh Track — Image credit: Lake Macquarie City Council

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Fernleigh Track

The Fernleigh Track is the Hunter region’s most popular shared pathway. The 15-kilometre route along a disused coal haul rail line passes through the suburbs of Adamstown, Kahibah, Whitebridge, Redhead, Jewells and ends near Belmont TAFE, taking in the Glenrock State Conservation Area, Awabakal Nature Reserve and Belmont Wetlands State Park. The Fernleigh Track is a joint project of Lake Macquarie City Council and the City of Newcastle, with funding provided by both councils and State and Federal Government grants. The Fernleigh Track forms part of the Coastline R1 Regional Cycleway, part of the Greater Newcastle Principal Bicycle Network The track is suitable for all fitness levels and is a safe off-road link between residential areas and employment hubs. Features include former stations and heritage railway relics dotting the track and the Fernleigh Tunnel linking Lake Macquarie and Newcastle.

Whitebridge NSW

4.0 km away

Dudley Beach

Natural Attractions

Dudley Beach

Dudley Beach is a scenic and secluded stretch of coastline nestled within Glenrock State Conservation Area, offering visitors a sense of escape just minutes from the city. Renowned for its wild coastal beauty, the beach is framed by rolling sand dunes, rugged cliffs, and ancient rock platforms where fossils can be found. It is a popular destination for experienced surfers, photographers, and nature lovers drawn to its dramatic ocean views and untamed landscape. The beach is unpatrolled and exposed to strong rips and powerful surf, making swimming hazardous for inexperienced swimmers. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the coastline from the shore or explore the surrounding walking tracks that showcase the area's diverse natural environment. Managed by NSW National Parks, it offers picnicking, walking, and 4WD access, featuring facilities like parking and picnic shelters, with the southern end known for its unique rock formations and blowhole at high tide.

Whitebridge NSW

4.5 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

4.8 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

4.8 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

5.1 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

5.2 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

5.2 km away

Merewether Beach — Image credit: City of Newcastle

Natural Attractions

Merewether Beach

The iconic Merewether Beach is home to the international surfing competition, Surfest. It is part of a beach reserve that stretches from Dixon Park in the north to Burwood Beach in the south - with superb views in all directions. Enjoy a coffee at a beachside cafe and watch as locals walk their dogs, parents juggle caffeine and kids with sandy hair and the surfers' roll-up by the dozen. Walk a bit further down the beach promenade, and you'll find Merewether Ocean Baths, the largest Ocean Baths complex in the Southern Hemisphere. Merewether Beach is the southern end of the popular Bathers Way walk.

Merewether NSW

5.2 km away

A fantastic night out in Newcastle. Featuring hilarious local acts and comics from around Australia! — Image credit: NCC

Entertainment Venues

Newcastle Comedy Club

Newcastle Comedy Club is an intimate, New York-style venue nestled in the heart of Newcastle. Every week, it plays host to a vibrant lineup of comedy showcases, spotlighting local talent from the Newcastle region as well as special guest performers from Sydney, Melbourne, and beyond. The club also welcomes solo comedians who present their own one-hour shows while touring. With a history of attracting major names in Australian comedy, including Wil Anderson and Tom Gleeson, Newcastle Comedy Club promises top-tier entertainment and an unforgettable night out. It's the go-to destination for the hottest comedy shows in town.

Islington NSW

5.3 km away

Merewether Ocean Baths — Image credit: City of Newcastle

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Merewether Ocean Baths

Opened in 1935, Merewether Ocean Baths are the largest ocean baths in the Southern Hemisphere. Free to access, and hugely popular among visitors and locals alike, the Merewether Ocean Baths are perfect to cool off, enjoy some wave-free frolicking, and enjoy an ocean-side ice cream or coffee. The first baths were built in 1926, measuring 140 feet (43 metres) long, on the shelf below Henderson Parade. Located to the north of the existing baths and in front of Merewether Surf House, the baths became known as the Ladies Pool. Today the remnants of the small pool are dwarfed alongside the existing Merewether Baths. For those with a photography hobby, Merewether Ocean Baths at sunrise are not to be missed. Capture the iconic lanes, with locals in the background doing their laps. Merewether Ocean Baths are cleaned every Thursday and closed ALL day to allow adequate time for all cleaning and maintenance to occur.

Merewether NSW

5.4 km away

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