Top family activities in NSW: Fun, affordable attractions with kids

New South Wales is brimming with attractions and activities for kids, and the good news for parents is you don’t need to empty your pockets for a fun, memorable time. From themed adventure parks to unforgettable bike rides and wildlife parks, NSW is full of options catering from tiny tots through to those about to fly the coop.

Here is the NRMA’s list of fun activities and attractions. As always, don’t forget to check NRMA members benefits for discounts along the way!

Things to do in Bathurst and Mudgee with kids

Bathurst might be etched in Australian folklore with its rich history and a certain race track – Mt Panorama – but the region is also a terrific spot for kids.

Take in sites like the Bathurst Rail Museum, the Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum or even Machattie Park.

If your little children have even a remote interest in cars, the National Motor Racing Museum and Mount Panorama are great visits. For a change of pace, Mayfield Garden and nearby Abercrombie Caves offer spectacular outdoor adventures.

Located about 90mins drive north of Bathurst you’ll find the picturesque town of Mudgee. There, kids can enjoy the Lawson Park Sculpture walk, a new pirate-themed playground and, in the warmer months, the Mudgee Pool and Water Park.

For those up for a walk, try The Drip – a spectacular 1.5 hour walking track that follows the Goulburn River to the base of the Great Dripping Wall, a sandstone cliff face dotted with ferns and grasses that spans over 30 metres tall. The grade 3 track criss-crosses creeks, traverses staircases and uneven rocks – something to keep in mind.

Things to do in Tamworth with kids

Most of us think of the Big Guitar when Tamworth springs to mind.

Country music aside, the region is also teeming with kids options. The Tamworth Marsupial Park and Tamworth Miniature Railway are both great activities for the entire family.

The Tamworth Regional Playground is also a sight to behold: an expansive outdoor area with play equipment for just about every age. The Botanical Garden is also another timeless option to take in the fresh country air and wonderful flora and fauna.

Hunter Valley kids activities

It seems wineries aren’t the only drawcard for visitors to the stunning Hunter Valley region. Families have a great mix of activities on their doorstep.

Hunter Valley Gardens and the Hunter Valley Wildlife Park offer young and old a chance to wind down. Kids can try their hand at aqua golf or putt putt, or even attend chocolate and cheese making classes.

For those after something a little higher octane, horse riding and go-karting are both nearby options.

Of course, a visit to the Hunter Valley region should include a visit to its crown jewel, Newcastle.

Once known as the Steel City because of its close association with the now-defunct BHP Steel Works, Newcastle has been thoroughly gentrified over the past decade.

Nowhere is that transformation more pronounced than Honeysuckle Foreshore, a new waterfront entertainment area located on former industrial land. The precinct is brimming with cafes, restaurants, hotels, boardwalks and a marina – and best of all the area is suitable for walking and cycling for the whole family.

Chief among Honeysuckle’s attractions is the Newcastle Museum, offering a great range of facilities and attractions perfect for the entire family. For outdoor options, try Blackbutt Reserve, or iconic beaches like Nobbys or Merewether. Longer stays in Newcastle call for a whale watching tour, a visit to Fort Scratchley, or exploring the magnificent Glenrock State Conservation Area.

Kids activities in Nowra and Kiama

With the spectacular South Coast located on Nowra’s doorstep, there’s no shortage of things to do.

Nearby Jervis Bay is full of stunning white sands, as well as dolphin and whale watching cruises.

For an animal encounter of a different kind, Shoalhaven Zoo offers a range of native and exotic animals across its exhibits. Meanwhile for more adventurous types, Treetops Adventure Nowra gives thrill seekers a taste of high ropes courses and the opportunity to see the world from high up in a tree canopy.

Further north of Nowra is the stunning locale of Kiama. Families would be remiss not to visit the township’s famous Kiama Blowhole and nearby Kiama Coastal walk.

Heading towards the region’s stunning escarpment, you’ll find Minnamurra Rainforest, enveloped in dense, stunning greenery and filled with its own unique sights and sounds.

Further up the hill again, towards Robertson, families can take advantage of the Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures. There, you’ll literally be suspended above the tree canopy (safely, of course) to take in spectacular views of the entire Illawarra region.

For something closer to terra firma, nearby Jamberoo Action Park is always a popular go-to in the warmer months. And if you want to enjoy the region over a few days, consider a farm stay the Jamberoo Valley Farm, where you can bask in gorgeous views of the valley and ocean.

Kids activities on the Central Coast

The spectacular Central Coast is brimming with things to do for kids. With its rich mix of beaches, bushwalks and nature, you don’t have to go far to find something fun for the whole family.

Popular attractions located on the Central Coast include the Australian Reptile Park in Somersby, where kids can get up close and personal with lizards, snakes and giant crocs. There’s also Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures and the Treetop Adventure Park.

The area also offers weather-proof activities like Hole in Fun (mini golf and simulators) or even the Central Coast Virtual Reality studio.

Family activities in the Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountains natural beauty makes it a wonderful destination for families with scenic lookouts and nature walks.

Family friendly sites include Scenic World, Jenolan Caves or the Zig Zag railway, where the entire family can take a ride on a heritage steam train.

Other options include exploring the Jenolan Caves, enjoying the flora at the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, or venturing out on scenic walks and hikes.

Things to do in Forster with kids

The township of Forster on the mid north coast of NSW offers a great year-round destination for families.

As well as pristine beaches and no shortage of water sports, the area boasts some great walks and rock pools at One Mile Beach.

The Big Buzz Fun Park is another popular attraction for families. Or pack a picnic lunch and head for the Booti Booti National Park or Brimbin Picnic Area.

Things to do in Coffs Harbour with kids

The North Coast of NSW is best known for its beaches and warm climate.

For families, a visit to the region isn’t complete without a stop-in at the famous Big Banana. Once a quick photograph transaction, the park now offers excellent facilities that are ideal for young ones to stretch their legs. There’s a water park, toboggan rides, laser tag, mini golf and much more.

Down the road, the Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary and Coffs Harbour Butterfly House both offer their own immersive and interactive experiences.

If your visit is a little longer than a quick servo stop and refresh, consider Muttonbird Island or the beautiful Dorrigo National Park.

Family adventures in Bowral

The Southern Highlands region of NSW offers a great getaway within close proximity of Sydney, and the good news is families are well catered for.

Slow down with the area’s rich mix of parks and reserves, including the Southern Highlands Botanic Gardens, Lake Alexandria Reserve, Corbett Gardens, and Berrima River walk.

For those in search of clear air and beautiful flora and fauna, the area is teaming with easy to moderate hikes; top of the list being the Fitzroy Falls walk or the Erith Coal Mine Track at Bundanoon.

Complete your Southern Highlands family visit with a stop at the Bradman Museum and International Cricket Hall of Fame, or the Ngununggula Art Gallery, located 5 minutes east of Bowral on the National Trust-owned grounds of Retford Park. Established in collaboration with the State Government, the National Trust (NSW), Wingecarribee Shire Council, and donors, the gallery is home to award-winning pieces and is free to visitors.

Plan your next NSW getaway with the NRMA – members save on accommodation, fuel, and attractions. Explore more here.