EDITION 12
Five places to explore with kids
The Western Suburbs have no shortage of beautiful spaces to explore with the family. Whether you’re after an action-packed day out among the treetops, or a quiet spot to chill no matter the weather, pack a picnic and choose your next adventure.
Hunter Wetlands Centre
The Hunter Wetlands Centre comprises 45 hectares of internationally significant wetlands, and provides a sanctuary to over 200 wildlife species. A family day out at Hunter Wetlands might include walking trails, guided tours, canoeing, dip netting, bird watching, a play at the discovery playground, a barbecue lunch or a visit to the on-site cafe. Largely maintained by a team of passionate volunteers, who have brought this once swamp-like reserve back to life, you’ll enjoy the chance to immerse yourself and learn more about the incredible variety of wildlife who now call the wetlands home.
1 Wetlands Place,
Shortland NSW 2307
Wallsend Active Hub
If you’ve got kids with different interests or abilities, it can be hard to find somewhere that’s guaranteed to keep everyone happy. We know just the spot. Located within Federal Park, Wallsend Active Hub comprises a large all-abilities playground, pump track for their preferred set of wheels, basketball and futsal courts, rebound and climbing walls, fitness stations, barbecues and plenty of seating options for the spectators in the family. Stop in at Wildflower Espresso on Cowper Street on the way to pick up an excellent coffee or bite to eat.
Federal Park, 2 Boscawen Street,
Wallsend NSW 2287
Treetops Adventure Park
For an adventure-packed day out, take the kids to Newcastle Treetops Adventure Park, where they can unleash their inner thrill-seeker on the ropes, ziplines or obstacle courses. Suitable for kids aged three and over, there’s a range of different courses to suit – with some allowing them to stay a bit closer to the ground if that’s preferred. The staff are well-trained and knowledgeable, allowing parents to either watch from the safety of the ground below, or join in if they’re game. Pack a picnic to enjoy among the trees once you’ve completed the course. Treetops also makes for a unique birthday party venue.
Blue Gum Hills Regional Park,
Treetops Road, Minmi NSW 2287
Wallsend Library
Wallsend Library is a great all-weather option for those days where you’re just not quite sure what to do with the kids. It’s a large, modern space with plenty of quiet corners to chill out in. Newcastle Libraries run a range of fun programs for children including Baby Book Time, Rock n Rhyme, Story Stomp, Auslan Story Hour or Lego Club. It’s worth checking out the calendar (available on the Newcastle Libraries website) to view other upcoming events and workshops. The library is situated across from Wallsend Village shopping centre or a short stroll from Nelson Street, where you’ll find a range of cafes including the popular Drop In Espresso.
30 Bunn Street,
Wallsend NSW 2287
Blue Gum Hills Regional Park
This national park pays homage to the heritage of the area which was once an open cut mining site. Within the park you’ll find a unique playground which includes a replica of a mining tunnel, as well as a manual conveyor belt that allows kids to get into the spirit of the workers who once spent their days there and maneuver rocks around. The playground also features a musical playspace and a maze. You’ll find plenty of picnic tables and barbecues throughout the park, as well as various bike or walking trails (be sure to refer to the maps available on-site).
Summer Hill Track,
Minmi NSW 2287