Top 10 Kid Friendly 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."

"With superb views up the coast, Merewether Beach is perhaps the most well-known beach in Newcastle, particularly due to it being the home of international surfing competition, Surfest. On any given morning, Merewether Beach and the surrounding cafes are packed with parents juggling coffee, sandy-haired kids, surfboards, dogs on leash all while catching up or reading the paper."

"If the kids are old enough to sit still for more than 10 minutes, they’ll love the retro inspired Hood. Grab a cosy booth and order dishes like corn fritters or fried chicken burgers from the all-day menu. It’s the desserts however which are the standout here."

"I’ll tell you, I thought Darby Street was the way to go for amazing cafes. I mean it has it all, food, coffee and they also have very nice (but very expensive) shops surrounding the street. Despite this, The Junction surprised me in the best of ways."

"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..."

"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."

"Susuru is Newcastle's first specialty ramen and gyoza joint, and it’s brought a real taste of Tokyo to the city. The team behind Sururu are particularly passionate about all things ramen, and huge amounts of care and attention go into every bowl they serve up. So, if you’re craving a flavoursome bowl of ramen soup, complete with perfectly cooked, fresh noodles, this is the place to go."

"140 King Street, Newcastle Newcastle’s very own ramen and gyoza bar with some delicious Japanese beers both in bottle and on tap. The bright yellow 3D wall makes for great Instagram photos. These guys also offer their own delivery service if you don’t have time to leave the office.→ Visit website"

"Although it’s not technically in Newcastle, it’s up the road in Port Stephens so we consider it a regional beach. Little Beach is just around from the tourist hub of Nelson Bay. This peaceful harbour beach is perfect for littlies who will love playing in the sand or splashing in the calm water."

"Known to the locals as the Del, this great pub with three bars has live entertainment from Wednesday to Sunday. The restaurant, which offers variety of different dishes to suit all tastes, is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner with French and Italian flavours. Everything here is made from fresh seasonal products."

"Centrally positioned, Delany Hotel allows for easy access to Newcastle's popular hot spots. The multiple facilities this award-winning hotel has to offer include an atm/cash machine, a lift and luggage storage."