1. Symbio Wildlife Park
Take the day to explore 16 acres of spacious grounds that are home to a range of exotic animals including cheetahs, lemurs, red pandas, meerkats and small monkeys. When it is warm, make sure to bring your swimmers as Symbio has just opened Splash Park, complete with Dump Buckets, Water Squirters, Snake Water Tunnel, Fountains and so much more.
2. Illawarra Fly
Head to the tree tops these school holidays. Kids that are adventurous can try their hand at ziplining on the highest zipline in Australia! Stop on one of four ‘cloud stations’ and enjoy three zipline flights. For those wanting something a little tamer, try the treetop walk, ending at the spiral knights castle. You get great views all round, no matter what you choose.
3. Flip Out Trampoline Park
Get bouncing these school holidays at Flip Out. Not only can kids bounce, they can also tackle a ninja warrior course, use the parkour arena or take a ninja (or mini-ninja) class. For something the kids will really love, bring them to an After Dark Session. All their friends will be jealous! Parents, you can enjoy a coffee and relax. Everyone wins!
4. Visit Cockatoo Island
Taking a ride on a ferry is often pretty exciting for kids, so why not top it off with a trip to Sydney’s biggest island these holidays? Cockatoo Island is just a short 30-minute ferry ride from Circular Quay, and once you land on this UNESCO world-heritage listed site, you’ll find plenty to keep everyone entertained. There are guided tours on offer, kid’s activity books (which can be collected from the Visitor Centre), a giant outdoor chessboard and a lot to learn about this island’s intriguing history. Pack a picnic and enjoy a fun, affordable day out.
5. Shoalhaven Zoo
The Shoalhaven Zoo boasts incredible animals in a spectacular location. Set amongst rock formations and on the banks of the Shoalhaven River, kids can experience animal encounters, listen to zookeeper talks or just follow along on the well-marked trails through the park. For those who are super brave, lion feeding is on offer or for those a little less brave, maybe a monkey or meerkat!
6. Steelworks Tour
If you truly want to experience something different these school holidays, why not take a tour inside an operational steelworks. Watch steel in molten metal form before finally being made into steel products. This is a full sensory experience with loud noises, smells and high temperatures – a once in a lifetime experience! Families tip: These tours are for children 10 years and older.
7. Science Space
Situated in the heart of Wollongong, Science Space combines education and fun for kids of all ages and is the only dedicated science experience in NSW where you can see science and technology discoveries that have become our reality. The centre uses the principals of education, hands-on learning and accessibility and brings over 100 interactive exhibits, science shows and workshops to the region.
8. Wollongong Ocean Rock Pool
If you love the beach but prefer not to take sand home with you in the car, the family will enjoy quality time exploring the Ocean Rock Pools dotted along Wollongong’s coastline. They offer a safe and relaxing swimming experience away from the surf breaks however it is important to note that they are not patrolled.
Some of the more popular pools include:
- Coalcliff – Lawrence Hargrave Drive
- Wombarra – Reef Road
- Coledale – Lawrence Hargrave Drive
- Austinmer – Lawrence Hargrave Drive
- Buli – Farrell Road
- Woonona – Collins Point, Kurraba Road
- Bellambi – Morgan Place
- Towradgi – Towradgi Point, Towradgi Road
- North Wollongong – Cliff Road
10. Nan Tien Temple
Bring the kids to see the Nan Tien Temple these holidays for a truly unique experience. This working Buddhist Temple is the largest in the southern hemisphere and kids can learn about Buddhism and take a look at the exhibitions on display. Parents, there is a dining hall onsite as well as a teahouse where you can sample different traditional cuisine. Families tip: Take a look at the website before your visit as there are a few restrictions on what you can bring into the temple.
Schools out – it’s time to make some memories!
Let’s face it; the last few years have been light on the fun for kids and adults alike. Use these school holidays as an opportunity to create new memories with your family and inject some much-needed fun into your schedule. Looking for more things to do this September?