Free experiences to explore with your children in Newcastle and the Hunter Region

Scenic routes and spots

Walk or ride out to sea on the Nobbys Breakwall pathway or Stockton’s Shipwreck Walk.
Stroll or ride along Bather’s Way from Merewether Baths to Nobbys Beach.
Explore the Glenrock State Conservation Area featuring beaches, rainforest walks and waterfalls.
Enjoy the natural beauty of Green Point Foreshore in Lake Macquarie.
Follow the heritage of Singleton Heritage Walk, a delightful mix of history, country hospitality and modern suburbia.
At low tide, climb through the sea caves of Caves Beach.
Hike Mount Tomaree and witness the spectacular views from the summit.
Take a dip at one of the many beaches and baths across the Hunter Region including Merewether Ocean Baths, Newcastle Ocean Baths or Canoe Pool, Belmont Baths, Fingal Bay, Shoal Bay, Birubi Beach, Grannie’s Pool at Blacksmiths, Forster Ocean Baths or The Entrance Ocean Baths and more.

Artistic and historic trails

Take a self-guided discovery tour of the historic Fort Scratchley and soak in the oceanside views.
View the street art along Newcastle’s foreshore and beach front whilst you stroll or peddle along.
Follow the sculptural display along the Warner’s Bay foreshore path.
Embark on the Newcastle Memorial Walk, a structure that commemorates the 100th anniversary of the ANZAC landing at Gallipoli and the commencement of steelmaking within Newcastle.
Travel through Newcastle’s bushland along the converted rail corridor known as the Fernleigh Track.
Explore your local playground including Blackbutt Adventure, Harold Gregson Park, Riverside Park, Townhead Park, Rose Point Park, Stockton Active Hub, Thomas H Halton Park, Webb Park, Speers Point Park, Wallsend Active Hub, Pasterfield Sports Complex, Broadmedow’s Fairy Garden, Denman Memorial Park and more.

Wildlife discovery sights

Enjoy a picnic and visit the feathery and furry friends of Blackbutt Reserve.
See koalas where they love to hang as you walk through Tilligerry Habitat.

Inspiring and creative experiences

Be inspired by exhibitions at your local museums including Newcastle Museum, Lake Macquarie’s Museum of Art and Culture (MAC), Manning Regional Art Gallery, Singleton Arts and Cultural Centre, Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre and Maitland Regional Art Gallery.
Let you child’s imagination soar with a range of free storytime experiences at your local library – Upper Hunter Libraries, Newcastle Libraries, Lake Mac Libraries, Maitland Libraries, Muswellbrook Libraries, Singleton Libraries, Cessnock Library, Kurri Kurri Library and Port Stephen’s Libraries.
Visit your local farmers market to explore fresh produce and artisan craft.

DIY your own experience

Here are St Nicholas’ guides to creating your very own budget friendly experiences for your children:

St Nicholas Early Education

At St Nicholas, we believe learning and discovery extend well beyond the care environment. Our programs are designed to inspire curiosity and creativity—values reflected in the many experiences available to families across our local region. Whether you’re exploring the outdoors, engaging in creative play, or diving into a good book, these moments enrich your child’s development and reflect the same play-based learning approach we embrace every day.

To learn more about St Nicholas Early Education, click here.