Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Port Stephens Council

"Blackbutt Reserve is 182 hectares of natural bushland just outside the city, that offers a haven of nature trails, outdoor activities and treetop walkways, as well as the chance to get up close and personal with some of Australia’s most famous wildlife. The exhibits include koalas, kangaroos, wombats and possums, as well as an array of fantastic bird life in the trees above. A great family day out."

"Home to all kinds of amazing animals and interesting wildlife exhibits, the ever-popular Blackbutt Reserve can be found fifteen minutes’ drive southwest of the center. As well as seeing classic Australian critters up close, there are also playgrounds, picnic areas and bushwalking trails on offer. Since the 1960s, the reserve and its residents have delighted locals and tourists alike."

"Sitting in a tract of bushland with plenty of walking trails and picnic areas, this council-run reserve has enclosures of native critters: koalas, wallabies, wombats and a cacophonic chorus of native birds."

"Also known as Christ Church Cathedral, the cathedral dominates the skyline of the city. So, you can actually point out the church from whichever part of the city you are located. Visit this cathedral not because you have to be religious but to see its awe-inspiring architectural work, its melodious music and creative art work."

"This massive wetlands conservation area aims to protect some incredible wildlife. Bring your bikes and ride around snapping photos, enjoy the playground, take a canoe ride or try ‘dipnetting’. There are also special events like School Holiday programs, Fun Days and art exhibitions so make sure to check them out."

"Transformed from a dump and abandoned sporting fields into a magnificent conservation sanctuary, this swampy centre is home to over 200 species of bird, including magpie geese, freckled ducks and egrets, and a..."

"There’s a surprisingly large number of things to do at Jesmond Park. Whether you feel like visiting one of the two playground, having a picnic, going on a bushwalk or playing frisbee golf, you can do it all at Jesmond Park. There’s actually two playgrounds featuring swings, climbing equipment, climbing wall, slides and and a small train for little kids to climb on #newcastle #nsw #playground #familyfun #park #newcastlepark #familyfun #jesmond"

"With views of Newcastle Harbour and close to the beach, Foreshore Park is a top spot to visit. The Foreshore Park playground features a swing set including a liberty swing, a large climbing structure and rockers. In a nod to its tramshed history, the playground contains a play train for kids to climb on."

"Swap ocean views for harbour views and walk along Newcastle’s working harbour. The wide harbour path is perfect for pushing a stroller or following kids on a tricycle or a scooter. Children will love the hustle and bustle of the working harbour."

"Connolly Park is a cute little playground in the harbourside suburb of Carrington that’s perfect for a play and a picnic. It’s ideal for yournger kids with small climbing equipment with a slide and a set of swings (regular and baby). Put this on your list for toddler-suitable playgrounds!"

"There’s a surprisingly large number of things to do at Jesmond Park. Whether you feel like visiting one of the two playground, having a picnic, going on a bushwalk or playing frisbee golf, you can do it all at Jesmond Park. There’s actually two playgrounds featuring swings, climbing equipment, climbing wall, slides and and a small train for little kids to climb on #newcastle #nsw #playground #familyfun #park #newcastlepark #familyfun #jesmond"

"Connolly Park is a cute little playground in the harbourside suburb of Carrington that’s perfect for a play and a picnic. It’s ideal for yournger kids with small climbing equipment with a slide and a set of swings (regular and baby). Put this on your list for toddler-suitable playgrounds!"