40 Best Stops Between Mittagong and Port Macquarie
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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedApr 10, 2023
How long is the drive from Mittagong to Port Macquarie?
The direct drive from Mittagong to Port Macquarie is 303 mi (488 km), and should have a drive time of 4 hrs 49 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Mittagong to Port Macquarie, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Sydney, Katoomba, Cessnock, Newcastle, Pokolbin, Mosman, Wollongong, Nelson Bay, Port Stephens, and Blacktown, as well as top places to visit like Scenic World and Three Sisters walk, or the ever-popular Fo Guang Shan Nan Tien Temple.
The top cities between Mittagong and Port Macquarie are Sydney, Katoomba, Cessnock, Newcastle, Pokolbin, Mosman, Wollongong, Nelson Bay, Port Stephens, and Blacktown. Sydney is the most popular city on the route. It's 1 hour from Mittagong and 4 hours from Port Macquarie.
Wollongong, located in the Illawarra region of New South Wales, is a coastal city known for its stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities. Situated along the Grand Pacific Drive, it offers surfing beaches, rock pools, and scenic trails around Mt. Keira in the Illawarra mountain range. To the north, visitors can watch hang gliders launch from Bald Hill while to the south lies Lake Illawarra and the Nan Tien Buddhist temple.
1% as popular as Sydney
32 minutes off the main route, 15% of way to Port Macquarie
Blacktown, situated in the City of Blacktown, New South Wales, Australia, is a vibrant suburb located 34 km west of Sydney's central business district. Known for its multicultural community, it offers a diverse range of experiences. From craft beer bars to picturesque beaches like Bilgola Beach and Bondi Beach nearby, there are plenty of options for entertainment and relaxation. Additionally, the suburb provides easy access to various other charming neighborhoods and natural attractions within Greater Sydney.
1% as popular as Sydney
3 minutes off the main route, 21% of way to Port Macquarie
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The urban center of Sydney, the capital of New South Wales in Australia, is renowned for its harborfront boasting the unique design of the Sydney Opera House. Both Darling Harbour and Circular Quay are bustling waterside hubs while iconic landmarks like the Harbour Bridge and Royal Botanic Garden are nearby. The outdoor Skywalk atop Sydney Tower provides panoramic 360-degree views of the city and suburbs.
Most popular city on this route
11 minutes off the main route, 23% of way to Port Macquarie
Mosman, an upscale suburb located by the harbor, is a favorite among affluent locals who enjoy its boutique shops and trendy eateries along Military Road. The area offers attractions like Chowder Bay for kayaking and waterfront dining, as well as Taronga Zoo for wildlife enthusiasts and Balmoral Beach for families seeking a day of swimming and beach activities. Additionally, nature lovers can explore Bungaree’s Walkway, a scenic bushland trail leading to stunning harbor views at Georges Head.
3% as popular as Sydney
11 minutes off the main route, 23% of way to Port Macquarie
5
Port Stephens
2% as popular as Sydney
11 minutes off the main route, 23% of way to Port Macquarie
I'll never travel to Port Macquarie without this trip planner again
Katoomba, located in New South Wales, Australia, is the primary town of Blue Mountains and serves as the administrative headquarters of Blue Mountains City Council. Positioned on the Great Western Highway approximately 102 km west of Sydney and 39 km south-east of Lithgow, Katoomba is easily accessible via its railway station on the Main Western line. This area offers an ideal base for exploring Blue Mountains National Park and its various bushwalking trails.
5% as popular as Sydney
58 minutes off the main route, 27% of way to Port Macquarie
Cessnock, located in the picturesque Hunter Valley of New South Wales, Australia, is a charming city with a rich history. It serves as the administrative hub for the City of Cessnock LGA and was named after the historic Cessnock Estate. This vibrant destination offers visitors an array of experiences, from exploring its cultural heritage to enjoying specialty coffee and fresh, healthy meals at local cafes like Mr O and Arthurs Pantry.
5% as popular as Sydney
21 minutes off the main route, 48% of way to Port Macquarie
Located in the rural Hunter Region of New South Wales, Australia, Pokolbin is a popular destination for wine enthusiasts as it sits within the Lower Hunter Valley wine region. It falls under the jurisdiction of Singleton Council and Cessnock city. The area is home to significant Aboriginal cultural heritage sites which can be explored by taking a bushwalk through Yengo National Park. Visitors can also browse galleries and antiques in nearby historic villages such as Morpeth, Wollombi, and Broke.
5% as popular as Sydney
28 minutes off the main route, 49% of way to Port Macquarie
Newcastle is a port town located in New South Wales, Australia, renowned for its abundant beaches connected by the Bathers Way. The ocean path stretches from Nobbys Beach to Merewether Beach and also provides access to the Bogey Hole - an ocean bath built during the colonial era. Additionally, Newcastle houses Fort Scratchley, a historical site established in the 1880s that serves as a vantage point for spotting migrating whales.
2% as popular as Sydney
13 minutes off the main route, 51% of way to Port Macquarie
Nelson Bay, situated in the Hunter Region of New South Wales, Australia, is a prominent township within the Port Stephens local government area. Positioned on the southern shore of Port Stephens, this charming destination rests on the bay that shares its name. Located approximately 60 kilometers northeast of Newcastle, Nelson Bay offers a picturesque coastal retreat with easy access to nearby transportation links.
0% as popular as Sydney
35 minutes off the main route, 55% of way to Port Macquarie
Best stops along Mittagong to Port Macquarie drive
The top stops along the way from Mittagong to Port Macquarie (with short detours) are Sydney Opera House, Port Jackson Bay, and Circular Quay Wharf 3. Other popular stops include Scenic World, Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park, and Hunter Valley Gardens.
The Fo Guang Shan Nan Tien Temple is a sprawling Buddhist complex located in the southern foothills of Baguashan. It offers various classes and retreats for visitors who wish to learn about Buddhism or seek spiritual guidance. The temple complex has on-site lodging and a dining hall, providing a convenient stay for guests. Additionally, it houses a museum that showcases Buddhist artifacts and history.
A serene heavenly Mahayana temple. This place is really beautiful and calm in every way. There’s few places of worship inside.
Wearing long clothes advised as people with short tops or shorts are not allowed inside the worshipping places.
You can buy incense, flowers,
Candles, fruits as offerings.
It’s just beautiful place, a must visit.
Some of the stairs are under renovation.
Chathu Kularathna — Google review
Located just past Wollongong off the expressway. It is free to visit the temples and pagoda here and use the grounds to have a picnic or there is a vegetarian restaurant where you can get refreshments as well.
There is also a gallery and coffee shop across the walkway over the expressway with some nice areas to have a break.
Large landscaped grounds and pond.
Wheelchair accessible,toilets located throughout.
Wayne Jacobs — Google review
A calm a quiet place to enjoy for a few hours. Plenty of parking even on the weekend. Visitors are recommended not to wear shorts and sandals as a manner of respect.
Taking photos is not allowed indoors.
Meysam Maleki — Google review
A truely peaceful and relaxing place to visit. Beautiful architecture and manicured gardens with numerous sculptures to gaze upon.
The whole experience was very serene and calming.
It was a great place to explore and I left feeling a sense of inner peace.
There is also a gift shop and food area which I recommend too.
I really wish I had visited sooner.
SARGES’ Family — Google review
The temple is maintained spotless. Had various areas on the temple to visit and the whole tour takes about 1 - 1.5 hours. You can also go to the top of the hill and ring the bell! As a Buddhist myself, I found it very calming and just like the temples back home.
Sachith Weligepola — Google review
Beautiful Temple!
Helpful team to answer questions on making offerings and rituals.
We took fruit that we washed and made offerings, we were told we can either leave or take to eat for blessings. We decided to eat as snacks while enjoying a walk through the gardens.
You can also purchase small gift sets of offerings to take home. Personally we loved the bracelets and the water in the sets, there was also some rice grains we will cook and eat.
Must visit this beautiful Temple, allow time as it can get busy on weekends.
Chuan — Google review
Was our 3rd visit to the Temple and we always love walking around and admire the beautiful Temples and gardens. Went there for Chinese New Year. Was a wonderful experience. You can buy Vegetarian Food and beverages there. Definitely a place that is highly recommended to visit if you ever in the Wollongong area.
Lindie Crampton — Google review
I suggest that better to go on weekdays not on the weekend . Definitely quieter than weekend and less busy n less tourists.
Exhibitions are good to visit to learn about temple as well. Highly recommended
Akiko Koide — Google review
Beautiful Monastery ❤️
This was my third visit and I can come over and over again whenever I come to Sydney/Wollongong. One of the best place to visit with friends and family. It’ll give you feeling of Japan! I guess 😁
And yes we got to witness the small event going on there, very satisfying 😌
A J — Google review
This Buddhist temple complex in Berkeley is a serene and culturally rich place to visit. It has beautiful Chinese-inspired architecture with a palace, a museum, and prayer halls. The Japanese-style gardens are a lovely addition, and there's also the Nan Tien Institute of Higher Education on the premises.
If you're looking for a bite to eat, there's a Chinese cafe that serves traditional food. Don't miss trying their avocado drink; it's a unique treat.
This complex offers a peaceful and clean environment, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and contemplation. Just remember to dress appropriately as it's a religious place. It's a great destination for a meaningful and peaceful visit. 🌳☸️🏯
Kavindya Weerasinghe — Google review
Great place to be, it's what you expected. The food are really good, if you're vegan or vegetarian, the choices will make you go crazy!! Highly recommended. Having said that, it's 4 stars instead of 5 because the quality of the services at restaurants are not great. They can't even tell what ingredients in the food. If you tell them your kids have allergies in certain food (for example peanut), their response was simply "it's best you don't have ANY of their food". This actually happened last week. One of the stall staff during the lunar new year event even just says, "if you're having Asian food, you should expect peanut in it!", which I also strongly disagreed. Anyway, hopefully there'll be improvement in the future.
Hon Yap — Google review
This is an amazing place that I had wanted to visit for so long and I was so excited to be finally able to go. It was definitely worth the wait and the long drive. The layout was just beautiful and the atmosphere was so peaceful and serene. I firmly believe that as many people as possible should make the effort to visit and I am sure you wouldn’t regret it. 10/10.
Nerine Cummins — Google review
Serene and well maintained temple in Wollongong. Plenty of parking lots available. Long stairs near the parking lot leads to the pagoda tower, there's a huge Gratitude bell at the back of the tower that one can be knock for luck. The main shrine has cafe at ground floor. There's university infront of the main shrine just a short walk across a bridge. There's also another cafe on the ground floor of the university.
es L — Google review
Every time we come to visit it just makes you feel relaxed. The calligraphy drawing was fun and kids can get involved too.
Remember. This is a place of worship and alot of the temple and sculptures are sacred so have respect when walking around.
The little sayings from their master are great. Theyre hung up all around. And reading them just clicks with you sometimes
It's a beautiful place to visit. And there is alot to learn of you're willing to ask.
Petar Sabados — Google review
One of the most beautiful temples. Gives great positive vibes and so peaceful. Good places in and around too.
Missed the museum on my visit but may be next time.
vishvajeet singh chauhan — Google review
Everything was perfect. The temples were great. Great place to visit and spend some time in during your south coast trip. Definitely would recommend.
Kiran Duwadi — Google review
Very peaceful place. They have three shrines and each one has different Buddha inside. I felt so calm after visiting
S Cheng — Google review
The largest Buddhist temple in Sydney. Found in the beautiful suburb of Wollongong, you'll find yourself in a place that promotes stillness and silence.
It's quite a large property you can roam freely on mindfulness. Visit the large pagoda where you can take calligraphy classes or make an offering to the Buddha. Walk up the grounds to the mindfulness bell and ring a sound for peace ✌🏾 nearby the Shakyamuni statue that sits above. Done at the Dew Drop Inn, eating light and refreshing vegetarian food full of love and flavors. All in all, be in the present moment and enjoy the surroundings, nature, and the presence of those you are with. Light and Aloha 🙏🏽🤙🏽
Jerome Bautista — Google review
It’s totally different of Korean Buddhist temples. The ambience was like huge palaces. It takes a couple of hours to have a look. It’s really good to chill out and go for a walk.
Yujin — Google review
Good easy trip from Sydney of about one hour drive. Recommend drive through stanwell park for amazing views and beach stops. Temple is great asian experience which makes you feel out of place in Australia. Food and surroundings are good as well.
Bharat Mekkanagadde — Google review
A must see... The whole place is so serene and the people are lovely. Word of warning if you wish to enter the temples, no thigh high skits or shorts that don't cover the knees. Also must wear closed toe shoes. Photos are not permitted inside the temple but the surrounding grounds are great for some beautiful pictures ...I bought a tea cup and some literature paraphernalia and my friend bought a partial tea set.. the latter can be cheap or expensive depending what you like but they have some beautiful pieces and teach you the art of tea ceremonies. I think they accept volunteers...maybe I'll see you there one day ...make a donation to support help support these lovely people
Will Matheson — Google review
Such a beautiful place with spiritual vibes. You can easily spend 2-3 hours here on the way to Wollongong. Their vegan cafeteria has amazing food. Recommend dumplings and lotus tea.
Aastha Choudhary — Google review
I have visited this Buddhist temple several times, with my most recent visit being yesterday ⛩️
I attended their cultural festival held on various days in December. It was a delightful experience!
The festival featured especially vegetarian food options 🍜, captivating performances—mostly traditional Chinese dance—and an opportunity to explore different parts of the precinct. This included the Chinese gardens, the gratitude bell, the calligraphy hall, and the pagoda, among others.
The temple is impeccably maintained, making it a joy to visit whether alone, with family, or with friends.
Clàudia Turró — Google review
Parking was alright. Not too packed on a Sunday but it was also raining. Food hall was super packed during 2-3pm when we arrived. Food was average. I enjoyed touring the gift shop. Bracelets were starting at $10
Sims Local — Google review
Beautiful place, so peaceful and vibrant. The peaceful temple is surrounded by beautiful gardens and stunning grounds.
Scenic World, located in Katoomba, is a renowned local establishment run by the Hammon family for three generations. It has evolved into a top-tier attraction of great national importance. Positioned on the escarpment, it boasts the renowned 'Skyway' cable car with an innovative vanishing floor. Additionally, visitors can experience the Scenic Railway, which descends to the valley floor and offers a mesmerizing rainforest boardwalk.
The rides are great. Good thriller.
The newly opened Dinosaur valley. It isn’t super fun for kids but the way it has been portrayed keeps the kids very curious.
There isn’t ample car park after 10AM on weekends however the staff would guide to a comfortable parking location. The food court is good and the wash rooms are clean.
The staffs are super nice and friendly. The cabin drivers renders interesting facts in a very humorous way.
The Dinosaur playground at the entrance wasn’t that enjoyable.
Sarath Kv — Google review
Really never thought much of it until I visited the place. So many things to talk about. The parking is plenty so that's covered. The steak clock right across the entrance is so amazing. The staff in the ticket counter were so friendly in trying to explain the different routes. I used my dine and discover voucher to get a little discount. The blue and the red cable cars were the best in my view. The trail down in the forest was just insane. The massive trees, sounds of nature. All in all what a beautiful experience
Krishna Kamal (Krish) — Google review
Great day out with my little sister.
Not too busy, friendly staff, gorgeous scenery.
Great for a family day out, although if you have a stroller it may be a bit difficult to navigate throughout, nonetheless the majority is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Bonus points for the food being good too, didn’t wait to long and wasn’t overly expensive.
Mitchell Sharp — Google review
I visited on a holiday, but fortunately it wasn't crowded.
I purchased the ticket online in advance before visiting, and it was nice that the guide at the entrance put a barcode band on my wrist and explained whole course in detail.
Additionally, I was able to comfortably eat a simple lunch box prepared in advance at the table located in below zone.
I thought that children would like it because there were various types of dinosaurs moving around and making sounds.
It was convenient to follow the deck road course and the guidance was well provided.
I used the cable car on the way up, and after coming up, it was nice to buy gifts at the souvenir shop located at the observatory, and it was also nice to go out and take pictures.
Jae Jung Choi — Google review
Truly scenic. Book your tickets online(only). Enjoy your tour to experience the scenic view of the Blue Mountains. The tour has a train ride & cable car rides. Don't miss any of these.
Also, follow the walking trail to have a wonderful glimpse of the falls. Enjoy your trip & stay safe.
Srividya B. R. — Google review
It's a wonderful place for a one day trip with friends and family. They have 3 different rides to cover up all the area in the Scenic World. But the best one was the Scenic Railway 🛤. The angle of 52° makes it crazy while going down, especially when you're sitting on the very first seat!
Staff is very friendly, jolly & helpful. The other two rides are not that crazy but provide the best view of nature's beauty.
We went there quite early, so in the morning the place wasn't that busy. So we were able to ride all three rides without any waiting. But later, around 11am/12pm it started to get crowded, and the waiting time we experienced was around 5 to 10 minutes. More waiting time for train as almost everyone wanted to sit in front seats.
Juilly Thakur — Google review
Fifty bucks per head but worth it especially if you use your dine and discover vouchers and get it for $25. The dinosaur walkway is pretty cool. There are actual real dinosaurs there so be careful. Plenty of room and free parking. The staff were all really great especially Lila who said her name was Eric if you didn’t like her. Everything is really clean and the lines moved quite quickly so don’t be put off by long lines.
Nathan Killick — Google review
Amazing , I have been to the Blue mountains before but never to the scenic world wide of things. The views are incredible and it's something I will never forget . Absolutely loved the steepest railway . Went on that 4 times . Everything was super reasonably priced too. Typically tourist attractions over charge but scenic world was good on the price front
Leanne Thomas — Google review
Great Day activity to do if you’re already planning to visit the blue mountains. We arrived right when it opened and recommend coming early before the crowds. We had about 3 hours before it got busy and we’re able to enjoy most of the trails with minimal other people on a weekend. Buy tickets in advance to skip the queue.
The new dinosaur valley is cute and great for kids if they like Dino’s and learning about them. I would say though there aren’t toilets in the Dino valley so plan accordingly as if you do all the trails could take about hour to hound and half.
We enjoyed riding the railway and sky rail, amazing views! Would recommend riding more than once.
All in all would recommend! It is great to be able to go into the national park as well. It’s also nice to come back and forth to the diner area for breaks if you need time between trails.
Also, highly recommend the chicken food truck out front!
Falana Kelly — Google review
This is fantastic for families and friends, and I had a terrific time exploring here with my family. I adore all the airways, ground ways, and cable ways, especially more trains since I can see wonderful views from from top to bottom 🥰. I recommend that everyone visit here during their vacations, especially with their families. 🥰
Manish Bhandari — Google review
Scenic Skyway was outstanding with breathtaking views of the beautiful and majestic Blue Mountains ⛰️ it was a wonderful day out with all the rides.
Everything was nice. Every ride has a man who guides you. It was an amazing experience. Definitely, I’d recommend it to all my friends.
Yam Qamar — Google review
A fantastic experience. Loved the train - steepest in the world!. Also the area of the Blue Mountains is bigger than the Grand Canyon - who knew. All the experiences - gondola, train and sky rail , plus the platform walks - as many times as you like for $50 - great value. All the staff were very helpful and friendly and knew their stuff. A great day
neville threader — Google review
Visited this while on a trip to Sydney. It's way more efficient to buy tickets online, there was a long queue to grab a ticket. Make sure you have full energy to visit here. Less a place for sitting and long waiting for the steep drive and others as well. I've felt this view is a bit overrated, but it was fun visiting. You can experience the magnificent view of the three sisters. A storey of the building is allocated for parking which is free surprisingly in Sydney😄.
MOHAMMED ABDUL IBRAHIM — Google review
This was an amazing experience for the whole family. Usually rides like these are over rated but we found ourselves going back a second and third time.
The scenery is forever spectacular, the friendly service was outstanding and even the food was better than I expected!
This is a must-do for anyone visiting the Blue Mountains, yes, it's a bit expensive but it's worth every cent because at the end of the day you may only do it once!
The whole family, including young kids, will love the entire experience. We spent at least half a day walking around taking the rides and experiencing the scenery.
Brett Campany — Google review
What a great place for all ages. Although not a physically active person who doesn't do much walking - this place accommodated walks for all abilities. Views are understandably spectacular.
Train + both Cable-cars are great fun offering more spectacular views. Visiting Blue Mountains - this is a must. OK cafe + shop too.
Ann Ferrier — Google review
Scenic World is a great place to take the family for an outdoor activity. The coal mining car ride is very cool, but it's a bit short.
The day we went, it was very foggy and drizzling rain. So we didn't get to see the wonder valleys.
There are loads of tails to hike if you're feeling adventurous. You can really make a day of it.
We stopped in the Cafe for a dnack and coffee, which was nice. They have a great selection of themed gift in the gift shop.
The dinosaur spin on it, I believe, is just a marketing spin. I don't think they've found any fossils here.
All the staff were warm and friendly. Service with a smile.
I would recommend and give them five stars.
Eric Johnson — Google review
Visited on Saturday, Enjoyed and had good experience. If visiting on Saturday, better to book early morning. Post 1:00pm crowd increases and have to wait in queue for each entry. I saw huge crowd waiting on Saturday post lunch for each entry. Overall nice and thrilling experiences.
Saravanan C — Google review
Lovely place to visit. Plenty of staff & much improved since our last visit probably 20 years ago. We used the skyway, cable car & railway. We thought the raised boardwalk was a great addition, getting us off the forest floor. There were even misting fans to cool us when we had to wait in queues. Well worth the cost for a day pass
Colleen Goldman — Google review
It was breathtaking! The view was so amazing and i love the train cable, it was super fun. Felt like u were in a jet coaster ride.
The price was a bit too high for only 3 rides and rainforest walk. Paid $64
Probably would make more sense if it was around $45, The cable was short although the view was sooo splendid.
This place reminds me how wonderful God's work is. Truly magnificent!
The waterfall was so beautiful, the rainforest was interesting. Lots of things to see in the coal mine too.
Jessica — Google review
This trip was part of our Blue mountains tour. I wish we had longer to really explore the rainforest, however what we saw was stunning. The rides were well organised and I would have loved to do them all twice, maybe next time.
Ian Pascall — Google review
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Violet St &, Cliff Dr, Katoomba NSW 2780, Australia
The Three Sisters walk is a clifftop platform that provides views of three weathered sandstone peaks, which have cultural significance in Aboriginal folklore. This short trail begins at Echo Point Lookout and offers an epic experience. Along the way, visitors can admire metallic sculptures of local fauna such as a lyrebird, skink, and platypus. The descent down the Giant Stairway may be daunting but reaching Honeymoon Bridge to stand beside this legendary landmark makes it all worthwhile.
What a beautiful trail. The walkway is beautiful when the weather is nice, absolutely splendid views. There's enough paid parking. Clean public toilets and a small cafe.
Krishna Kamal (Krish) — Google review
Best place to sight wide range of mountains. The three sisters are unique rocks with magnificent view of national park from up above. However today was freezing and would recommend warm clothes suitable for 2 to 5 degrees chill in winter.
Bharat Mekkanagadde — Google review
The Three Sisters Walk in Katoomba, New South Wales, is an incredible experience that should not be missed by anyone visiting the Blue Mountains. The walk offers breathtaking views of the Three Sisters rock formations and the surrounding valleys, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
The walk is well sign-posted and is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. It begins at the Echo Point lookout, where visitors can take in the stunning views of the Three Sisters and the Jamison Valley. From there, the walk descends down a series of steps and boardwalks, providing stunning views of the rock formations from different angles.
The walk is approximately 1.5 km long and takes about an hour to complete, depending on how often you stop to take photos and enjoy the scenery. There are several lookout points along the way, providing an opportunity to rest and take in the panoramic views of the Blue Mountains.
The Three Sisters Walk is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the Blue Mountains and is suitable for families, couples, and solo travellers. It is a well-maintained and popular attraction, so it can get crowded during peak tourist season. However, the views and experience are well worth it.
Overall, I highly recommend the Three Sisters Walk to anyone visiting Katoomba or the Blue Mountains. It is an unforgettable experience that showcases the incredible beauty of the Australian landscape.
Jubin Dedaniya — Google review
Usually people visit this place in day time and is a beautiful Place too. Recently I have visited the same in evening to take Milky way photos. Little city light was ok but I have got super photos this time.
Easy to reach the place from Katoomba Rail Station or easy drive from the motor way.
Walk it also very very beautiful.
Plenty of parking.
Sandipan Chaudhuri — Google review
Not too crowded but amazing views. Parking is available 2 minutes from the venue if you don’t find any spots near the monument. Sometimes crowded (especially during the weekend) but you can still get pictures.
My personal recommendation is during sunrise or sunset, for the best colors. I don’t think there is any trail but pretty close from the nearby towns.
If you’re making a quick stop, do visit.
Prasad Falke — Google review
Please check the weather before you visit three sisters. It was too foggy to see anything from the main spot at the top. See photos. But you could walk down to the honeymoon bridge and you might witness the beautiful and magical sight of fog clearing from the three sisters. Really amazing views and lots of hikes to choose from.
Vineet Nair — Google review
Beautiful sight and accessible from the Katoomba station via a frequent bus. There are many platforms where you can take photos with the 3 sisters. Path is well-paved on the short 20 min stroll to the 3 sisters. There is a steeper path once this nice stroll ends if you choose to do a longer walk. Great place to bring both young and old, or enjoy a nice hike. No tickets required. There are bathrooms available at the viewing area.
Ka Ling (Drkyling) — Google review
Great place to visit the mountains for a short day trip. Plenty of paid parking near the location and unpaid one is at a little walking distance near the residential areas. Few food outlets nearby, but because of the tourist spot, it's obviously a little more expensive than the normal locations. If you want to save money, bring your own food or eat before reaching this destination. Avoid the school holidays period or the weekends if you prefer fewer people around the area.
Sahil Arora — Google review
It was a nice lookout. I'm from Arizona in the USA and vistas like this are a dime a dozen so I wasn't terribly impressed. The Three Sisters are a moderately interesting rock formation. I learned that the blue haze came from the eucalyptus oil of the forest. I wish it would have been a stronger scent of eucalyptus.
Emily Guile — Google review
Amazing spot and must see! The blue mountains are just spectacular! The hike are so various and nice prepared. It’s always nice to go there and find something new. There are restrooms, lot of parking spots directly on the spot and supermarkets nearby. Don’t forget to carry enough water, food and maybe mosquito sprays.
Sandro — Google review
Breathtaking destination that is an absolute must-visit! The Blue Mountains unfold in a truly spectacular display of nature's beauty. The hiking trails offer a diverse and meticulously planned experience, making every step a joy. Exploring this spot is a continual delight, always revealing new wonders. Convenient amenities like restrooms, ample parking, and nearby supermarkets enhance the overall experience. Ensure a memorable visit by packing sufficient water, delicious snacks, and perhaps some mosquito repellent.
SD — Google review
Located in the heart of Blue Mountains National Park, Three Sisters is a must to see in NSW. Easy access via public transport. You need to take a day trip to enjoy stunning views of the Jamison Valley and the iconic Three Sisters. Highly recommended.
Mohammad Kalantari — Google review
Magical place to see, I have visited 2 times to this area and last time it was foggy so the gum trees looked so beautiful. But a pink sunset would be perfect here. Katoomba is the closest town to the Three Sisters and has many shops and cafes, I also know that you can catch the train from Sydney CBD to Katoomba, then walk or catch the bus to the to the mountains from there.
Alice Moon-Star — Google review
The Three Sisters are an iconic tourist attraction located in Katoomba, just a couple of hours' drive from Sydney. These sandstone peaks are part of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and rich Aboriginal heritage.
The Three Sisters Walk is a popular walking trail that offers breathtaking views of the Three Sisters and the Jamison Valley. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for various fitness levels, making it accessible to many visitors.
As you explore the Three Sisters Walk, you can learn about the Aboriginal Dreamtime legend associated with the formation, which tells the story of three sisters turned to stone. The viewpoints along the trail provide fantastic photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset when the scenery is particularly magical.
The Blue Mountains is a haven for nature lovers, with numerous walking trails, waterfalls, and unique flora and fauna to discover. The Three Sisters Walk is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the region and a must-visit for anyone exploring the beauty of Australia's natural landscapes.
Prabhdeep Kour — Google review
It was the first time I went to NSW. Decided to go to see Three Sisters Walk (Blue Mountains). The time I entered this place, I loved it more and more. So peaceful, beautiful like heaven, and very safe, especially for kids, as it has barriers in place. Coming back soon.
The best time to visit is mid-June to mid-July.
No tickets needed.
karam Gill — Google review
It was my first time to visit. It was very, very magnificent. The weather was clear and it felt like I was in the ancient times of dinosaurs. The air was also very good. You must come to play!
HO HO — Google review
This 1.5km walk us most enjoyable with great views of the Blue Mountains. I went at dusk to view both th sunset and the spotlights on some of the features.
There are lights marking the pathway but a small torch would be handy to help navigate the paths.
Paul Hallgarth — Google review
Oh the view from top is amazing we have decided to walk all the way down and was amazing every stop we did you can spot different view and lots of wild animals like parrots 🦜 etc they have a cable car but you can’t buy one way ticket so when we walked down we had to walk back all the way or you have to pay both way ticket.
Also make sure you got planty of water and some snacks as while you start walking there won’t be nothing on the way. The water fountain is on the end of the walk.
Grzegorz Szczepanski — Google review
Beautiful walk, about 3 hours of treckking from the three sisters lookout to Leura, a small and cute village where you can have lunch or dinner in a pub. The walk was amazing, the first 30minutes are plenty of stairs that, if you start it in the three sisters lookout, are in the way down. After that, you can walk through a nice forest with tall trees and you can feel you are in the bush, in the jungle. After finding some cascades and waterfalls you will need to go upstairs to go to the Leura village, with a first stop at the picnic area. Before that, you have the opportunity of having a swim or, at least, refresh your feet in one of the waterfalls. We ended the day in Alexandra pub, in the village of Leura, which has a train station to go back to Sydney and it is just 2hours away from the city. It was not busy at all during the walk even it was on Friday the 29th of March and it is public holiday, just a few people doing that trip. The train was so bust, though, with a lot of people with big backpacks to spend a few days. The scenic world is not worth it, too expensive for what it is.
LauLaura — Google review
The Three Sisters Walk offers a captivating journey through nature's beauty. The scenic trail unveils stunning landscapes, with each sister rock formation standing as a testament to time. The hike provides a perfect balance of challenge and serenity, making it an ideal experience for both seasoned hikers and casual adventurers. The panoramic views at the summit reward the effort, creating a memorable outing that lingers in the mind long after the trail is left behind.
Crazy Beaver — Google review
Breathtaking view, the iconic blue shade over the ultra wide mountains was a joy to look at.
Martin Kwok — Google review
Amazing views of the whole blue mountain range including of course the 3 sisters, which just keeps getting better if you hike down to the bottom. Make sure you consider your hiking ability as the stairs are very steep - and after enjoying the hike down you'll have to hike back up again - lol. Make sure to take lots of water and some power bars. Your phone most likely wont work if you hike to the bottom. Highly recommended and will definitely return with friends when traveling in the Sydney region.
Ratskrad Noretsym — Google review
Venturing through the Blue Mountains on the Three Sisters walk was a breathtaking experience! The stunning views and lush surroundings made every step a true delight. Standing before the iconic rock formations was awe-inspiring, showcasing the beauty of nature at its finest. The well-maintained trail offered a perfect balance of challenge and serenity, with each lookout more mesmerizing than the last. A must-do for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Our trip to the Blue Mountains and the Three Sisters walk left us in awe of the natural wonders that Australia has to offer. I think people of all fitness levels could do the walk, there are some parts of it with some steep stair descend, which would be hard on people with arthritic knees.
mukesh_mowgli — Google review
Very good view, but there are 1000s of people here all pushing to get a pic. There are other viewpoints which are great with NO bus/coach access which give you a better experience.
Steven Butcher — Google review
Just a fantastic short walk. Once you get below the 3 sisters not many tourists. We walked around to the scenic world train and gondola. The only disappointing thing is that the gondola ride up you cannot pay for a 1 way so they wanted $60 per person for the ride. Next time we will bring water and walk up. Extortion rates post COVID by Scenic World.
Zoo featuring a variety of animals along with a splash park & adventure playground.
Visited today (Saturday) Very humid and sticky! But it was perfect because it didn’t rain on us, thank goodness.
The staffs are friendly, the service was quick. They scanned by barcode & provide me with the animal food.
I have loads of fun, seeing different animals, especially the Australian native animals. My 2-year-old nephew loved it as well.
The water splash park was also fun, it was too hot I went to play with nephew in the water!
It was only 30 minutes from the shire.
Misspiggyexplores — Google review
Little place to spend the day with family, but not worth the trip all the way from Sydney. My little one had a great day though and enjoyed the playground!
Once we visited Symbio lots of areas were under construction. Staff were great with the kids and very informative.
Feeding lamas, kangaroos, goats, ships...were the best part of the trip.
samira ghaemi — Google review
One of my best experiences is due to the add-on of Koala 🐨 Encounter. My family enjoyed the experience all around, from taking photos with the Koalas and playing at the playground. It wasn't crowded or too large that we felt exhausted. We were able to spend a few hours with the kids.
WAT FOO — Google review
Park was a top-notch. The animals look well-cared for and the place is spotless. Got to get up close with some Aussie wildlife, which was ace. The koala encounter is a must-do. Reception staff can use some improvements in attitude. Cafe had cockroaches running around. Great spot for a family day or just to chill with nature. Def recommend!
Muhammad Umair Khan — Google review
we bought our tickets on line, which was a good thing, given the weather. we would have been able to wait for a whole year from date of purchase, I am glad we went when we did.
although it was a wet day we all loved it. My grandson really enjoyed feeding and getting close to the animals. I think his first birthday was well spent at Symbio
Sonja Oudhoff — Google review
Google has Symbio tagged as a zoo but I'd say it's more like a small sanctuary with a lot of local species and a few from farther away. The highlights are obviously seeing the koalas and feeding the kangaroos. Getting up close with kangaroos is definitely not an experience you get at a typical zoo. I was also quite impressed with the late afternoon koala program which was not really a show but more of a conversation with the keeper as she tended to the animals. I learned a ton about koalas that I probably wouldn't have at a typical zoo. There's a playground and splash park for the kiddos, though this can be a fun time even if you don't have kids.
Rob Pitingolo — Google review
Came with a 2 and a half year old, was a fantastic half day. No rush and small crowd, exhibits were small enough for her to see without having to be carried, enough for an easy day of fun with the animals. Purchased feed for the open areas to feed the animals.
Food options were a little expensive, but a number of different options, facilities were clean, staff were really friendly and helpful.
Mik Sta — Google review
Such a lovely time. Very spacious for the animals and heaps to do. Was a bit chilly for the splash park but the playground was fantastic a d a nice little break between animals. Highly recommend and look forward to a other visit when back out near Sydney
Jenny Curtis — Google review
We came here on a Monday with a six month, old son, and we had just the most easy, relaxed and fun filled day. Highly recommend coming on a sunny day to enjoy everything this Park has to offer. We particularly liked the petting zoo with the farm animals as well as the kangaroos, the play park as well with all the equipment available was also super enjoyable. This is a very family friendly place and will be coming here for many years. I’m sure.
Gabriel — Google review
Symbio is such an awesome zoo! I went here on a Friday and it was so good with koalas, penguins, turtles, snakes, crocodiles, dingos and so much more. I bought my tickets online and there's really no wait for entry they just scan the QR code on your phone, give you any items like animal food and then you're in.
One of my favourite parts was getting to actually hand feed and pet the animals including Kangaroos, Wallabies, Goats, Emus and Chickens. The Kangaroos and Wallabies are in an open grass area meaning you can freely approach them.
This is all included in admission and only requires buying the food bag (2 for $5). Very reasonably priced overall and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Raymond Zammit — Google review
Nice for half day trip. Kids will love feeding and petting the animals (kangaroos, goats, sheep, emus) and close animal encounters (paid). The place has its own kids playground and lots of resting places and benches and toilets. Even saw some birthday celebrations going on, which was lovely to see with lots of kids.
A little bit of walking is involved so be prepared.
Anand Mathews — Google review
Lovely wildlife park with a great range of Aussie animals! Loads of space and well looked after grounds. It surprisingly never feels overly busy or stressful and it’s easy to get out when you have all had enough - unlike the bigger zoos! Take a packed lunch, the cafe is small and very limited (but they are building a new one which is cool!). Splash park is amazing in the summer! Oh and there is a fabulous kids playground too! Everything you need for a fab family day out!
Alice Hacker — Google review
Great experience at Symbio. Staff were friendly and the animal enclosures were large and well maintained. I especially appreciated the cleanliness of the farmyard area. The goats had grass and their indoor space to use. Everything smelt clean.
The playground is a huge bonus too! It definitely topped our day.
Amy Bruce — Google review
This was a fantastic experience. We happened to drive past so stopped in last minute and certainly weren’t expecting to see such a variety of amazing wildlife! The park itself is lovely, very open and spacious, easy to navigate and there are a number of picnic spots. Feeding the animals was an absolute highlight. Loved it!
Lauren Marino — Google review
We had so much fun here! Very nice and beautiful place to spend the weekend.
Single adult ticket was $42. Prices at the counter are same as online. You can buy some grass in the pocket to feed animals.
Nargiz Salimova — Google review
What a fantastic experience for the Koala encounter. You are up close and personal with the soft cuddly Koalas. Fed them eucalyptus leaves and Jamba even bellowed for us! Wonderful experience. Also fed the kangaroos up close and personal watching those big middle toes of course and following instructions explicitly :)
DREAMS4U lisa.johnson — Google review
A fantastic day out for all the family. Beautiful facilities. Lovely collection of animals (the baby koala was a highlight). Really informative talks (we loved the reptile show!) Staff who know a huge amount about what they're speaking on — and have a passion for the animals and an ability to communicate well with kids. And an amazing play park for the younger members of our party to run off energy. All in all a brilliant day out — I'd give it six stars if I could!
Andy Bannister — Google review
Fantastic! This place is always a favourite with my friends and me. Symbio has a great range of animals to see. You are encouraged to be hands on with the animals which is a big plus as you can get up close. The park is not too big which makes it easy to get around. There’s the reptile demonstration the koala demonstration which is always popular.
Nerine Cummins — Google review
What a beautiful wildlife park. The animals appeared well taken care of and happy. It was a bonus for us to see so many animals awake and moving, many more than we've seen at other wildlife parks. The animal cages were so clean, the penguin exhibit had the cleanest glass I've ever seen. Feeding the animals was fun, but note there is no hand soap provided in the hand washing stations.
The staff were friendly and informative, the food was expensive but chicken burger was delicious.
The water park was great fun for the kids at the end of our trip.
Michelle Paris — Google review
Great place for kids! I would say they would benefit more if they are aged 2+. You are able to feed kangaroos and a whole variety of farm animals. Highly suggest going when its first open for the day, as it's easier to walk around.
Heather Dench — Google review
Took my three year old boy there midweek school holidays. It was very busy, but we had a great time walking around the park twice, enjoying the water park and playground. The best part was patting gentle-natured goats and kangaroos. Food was delicious too, had a beef burger meal. Looking forward to visiting again soon.
Ben Herman — Google review
Lovely Wildlife Park! Loved feeding the kangaroos, emus, and goats. Definitely purchase some food as you enter the park. The park is laid out very well and did not feel crowded. All the enclosures are very well maintained, and all animals seem to have plenty of space. I am usually quite apprehensive about visiting zoos as they can be a bit sad - this is not one of them. Highly recommend!
Jordan Cantrell — Google review
Visited Symbio zoo today for the koala experience mostly and we were so impressed, the keeper Liz was absolutely fantastic, so knowledgeable, so kind to the koalas and to us, took lots of pictures for us too! Was an amazing experience which she helped to make even better. The rest of the zoo was great too, food was good, we had loaded chips (bbq pulled pork) and a choc muffin. Great way to spend the day and a wonderful encounter we will never forget with the koalas. Thanks again Liz, you are awesome!
Sophie — Google review
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7/11 Lawrence Hargrave Dr, Helensburgh NSW 2508, Australia
The Grand Pacific Drive is a picturesque coastal route spanning 140-km, featuring breathtaking views of the ocean and cliffs. It takes in natural landmarks, rainforests, beaches, and other scenic spots. The drive passes through the Royal National Park towards Stanwell Tops and includes stops at various parks and beaches along the way. One of its highlights is the Sea Cliff Bridge which provides an incredible experience of driving over water while enjoying stunning views.
Awesome ocean and cliff view.. can see the beautiful Grand pacific drive from here.. even more amazing is the scenic drive.. with many stops in between like the beaches and parks and just scenic spots..
P.S. - gets really windy out here with the ocean winds so better carry jackets along.
You just can't miss seeing this beautiful side of earth even if you live anywhere in Australia or just a tourist..Have an awesome time!! Cheers 😉🌄👍
Arpita Rao — Google review
Spectacular views and structure. Travelled just to do the sea cliff bridge, wasn't disappointed. The look out at bald Hill was a great spot to look over where you had been. Very busy even in the weather.Nice walk across the bridge with great views of the sea and surroundings.Very cool road to drive and walk over. You can also park at the north end where there are restrooms and people paragliding. Amazing drive followed by albreath taking views
Jagadish Maguluri — Google review
Always love to drive here. It’s a weekend escape and a lot of beautiful beaches around.
Drive through the royal national park towards stanwell tops
Manoj Singh Bisht — Google review
Spectacular views and structure. Nice walk across the bridge with great views af the sea and surroundings.
Tony Sharper — Google review
Lovely scenery with walking path. Access to toilets and snack bars. Clean beach and pet friendly. Nice coastal drive with great ocean view.
Tammy Tr. — Google review
The drive is simply indescribable, I completed it more then 10 times but still love it. its a 140-km coastal route, it has the beautiful roads inside of national park, breathtaking mountain view , waking in the rainforest, walk or swim in the beaches & natural landmarks, plus the Sea Cliff Bridge, great lookouts and Historical lighthouses.
M Shariful Islam — Google review
One of best tourist attractions in Greater NSW.
Excellent nature views and highly recommended for long drive ways.
Good News — Google review
Great drive at a close proximity to Sydney. Breathtaking views
Krishna G — Google review
Very beautiful and peaceful
Perfect for a week days off. Only 50mn drive from sydney. Highly recommended to go on weekdays very peaceful and not a lot of people
Nib — Google review
Drive from cooranbong to this place that value trip first road trip in Australia,beautiful view .
Beauviiez T. — Google review
Nice enough view if you're heading north, can't really see much heading south.
Andrew Bell — Google review
If you’re driving across the park and walk across, it is amazing. It is an amazing feeling and amazing view not a hard walk at all.
preet preet — Google review
For those who don't have cars, you can walk from the beach up hills, there is a track leading to the view point.
natcha siripin — Google review
Very cool road to drive and walk over. You can also park at the north end where there are restrooms and people paragliding. A very nice place for a picnic.
Elisabeth Lindsey — Google review
A lovely drive! Parking can be limited at either end of the Sea Cliff bridge if you visit during peak times. Would recommend visiting early in the day if you wish to park
Rebecca Jones — Google review
The best scenic road in NSW. Nice beaches and parks along the way.
Juan Mundo Travel YouTuber — Google review
Travelled just to do the sea cliff bridge, wasn't disappointed. Would of been better if it wasn't raining and overcast. The look out at bald Hill was a great spot to look over where you had been. Very busy even in the weather.
The Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah is the highest botanic garden in the country, showcasing cool-climate plants and offering guided tours and picnic areas. Located within the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains region, this garden provides a serene escape with its diverse flora. The surrounding area boasts quaint villages, waterfalls, walking trails, and numerous lookouts that offer breathtaking views of cliffs and gorges.
I would give this place six stars however some of the parts that are meant to be disability friendly are not sealed properly and are uneven and are a little bit difficult to navigate this is near the rock pool and the bottom but otherwise the rest of the gardens are very easy to navigate especially for those requiring wheelchair access. Plenty of disable parking and accessibility bathrooms. All the staff are super friendly and helpful. Wonderful day out.
Daniel K — Google review
Been here in the past and had a great hike all the way to the other side of the main road. Visited again today however the weather was not in our favour. Beautiful scenery, small waterfall in between the garden. Flowers blooming. Couldn’t do much due to the rain. Best to visit when skies are clear.
Dharmesh Joshi (DJ) — Google review
Really nice garden in blue mountains. Unfortunately we can’t see many flowers in winter time. Also the parking space is limited so it is better to go earlier.
Ivy Feng — Google review
Just love the Blue Mountains Botanical Gardens. On a beautiful day, there is nothing like wandering around the area. Although I couldn't get all the way around today as I was pushing my Dad around in the wheelchair. You certainly get a good workout going up/down hills. The best time of year, of course, is Spring, for a visit but it's always lovely.
Free entry, although I would recommend that you give a $5 donation which goes towards the upkeep of the gardens.
Public toilets are available and always clean. There is also a picnic area with chairs and tables.
There is also a cafe onsite as well.
Alison McWhirter — Google review
The Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah is a showcase of local and imported cool climate plants and alpine rainforest. It is surrounded by 28 hectares of curated garden and a further 244 hectares of wilderness sits inside a UNESCO World Heritage Area. The Blue Mountains Botanic Garden plays a key role in conservation and research of plants from a range of diverse ecosystems in Australia and around the world. The Garden features many rare species, spectacular cool climate trees, seasonal colour, historically significant plantings and tranquil spaces for picnics or forest bathing. Located on Darug country, the Garden is divided into four distinct precincts, interlaced with pathways designed for wandering, exploring and engaging with the natural environment. The Garden's panoramic views and stunning mountain location make this an unrivalled location to celebrate wedding or proposal, birthday party, or gather with friends and loved ones over a picnic or BBQ. Very beautiful place. Lovely view and amazing surroundings.
Shankar Niraula — Google review
Beautiful botanic garden. A breath of fresh air. Large variety of plants and trees. Well laid out, easy to navigate and tranquil to walk around. Good vantage points for photography. Enjoyable for the whole family with kids.
Chris H — Google review
Well maintained garden and place worth visting for nature and plants in vibrant colors. One has to climb down and move around to various sections, stone garden, Jurassic and feast your eyes with the beauty of nature. Unfortunately the food outlet was closed due to holiday. Normally visitors bring their own food and drinks and enjoy a days outing. Must place to visit.
Casey Degamwala — Google review
We visited this garden in the month of April and it was looking so beautiful like heaven. I just loved this place. We were able to enjoy beauty of red, yellow and green trees. The look outs are amazing. Cafe closes at 3 pm which we dis not know and missed tasting food here. But definitely visiting again soon to taste that as well.
Kavita Mandhyan — Google review
Beautiful curated gardens with wonderful blue mountains views. They do have season tulips in October. Nice walks with plenty of picnic spaces and bbq area. They have a visitor center which has a cafe with mountain view and a nice mini theatre which shows a movie about places in blue mountain on the click of a button and many useful information about how and when blue mountains became a world heritage. If you are on the way to Bathurst or visiting Bilpin, include this place in your travel plan.
Priya — Google review
Our weekend at the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah was a delightful escape. With our picnic in tow, we immersed ourselves in the garden's tranquil ambiance. The variety of plants and the scenic trails made for a perfect leisurely stroll. The stunning mountain views added an extra layer of charm. If you're looking for a serene nature retreat, this place is a definite winner.
Anusha Kothalawala — Google review
A great place for an easy stroll and picnic. Very family friendly. We noticed that pets are not allowed to come in, so be aware if you have a fur baby. The garden entry is free of charge.
Ngoc Nguyen — Google review
I loved this place♥️it is so quite, has natural greenery, small fountains, has picnic spots and of course the beautiful flowers. There were not many flowers at this time but was good. There is one restaurant inside the garden which is okay.
The only thing l didn't like is the gate closes sharp at 5pm. They start announcing 15 min before closing down so you have to run back towards the parking.
Start early in the morning if you want to enjoy the garden and visit on a cloudy day.
RANI KASHYAP — Google review
Many hidden treasures here and glorious views. You can have guided tours and even hire a scooter to get around if you need. There are easy walk ways but if you go off those it's rock steps in some areas. It is a beautiful walk just keep in mind it is all up hill once you get down to the bottom. Unfortunately the only thing missing is a cafe.
Michelle Chamings — Google review
The blue mountains botanic gardens is an awesome little collection of gardens with a backdrop view that would compare to the top 10 in Australia of the illustrious mountain range views.
The native flowers, trees and birds in the area is a spectacular assortment which can be found within the National park and great for learning and understanding.
For taking the kids there’s great picnic areas as well as a small learning centre with a few interactive activities for the kids which is also made interesting for adults.
You are able to book areas for events at the gardens although beware as the costs are quite expensive. The events can include weddings which would be a very memorable experience.
The bathrooms are nice and clean although can get busy.
There is a cafe there but closes early, from then there is a food van which is actually cheap for what you get so it’s not all bad.
Highly recommend a morning visit and then a lunch at bilpin with a cider
Alex SMP — Google review
One of the smaller Botanical Gardens I've visited but well worth the stop. The rock garden is incredibly well kept with plenty of variety. And the deck for the cafe an ideal spot to look over the venue, complete with resident roaming turkey.
Chris Marr — Google review
Fabulous garden. That's all there is to say isn't it?
But man this was such a lovely place to visit. There were so many variety of plants here from all over.
The view from the observation deck is breathtaking on a clear day and elevation of the garden makes it quite unique.
There's some picnic areas so bring something to nibble of if you like. But what a great garden.
tony tran — Google review
Beautifully designed and looked after botanic garden. There's awesome view from the visitor sceptre and the visitor journey has been very well thought and designed. There are multiple gardens with variety of plants to see and enjoy.
Nice place for families to spend some time on the weekend and enjoy fantastic groomed gardens.
Definitely recommended.
Reza Rafiee — Google review
The gardens are full of beautiful and unique nature. I suggested following the map and going to all available sections! It can take some time so bring water and snacks. There are plenty of spots to sit and have a rest in the shade. It's a beautiful place and worth the time.
Chanelle Ahmed — Google review
Off the beaten track but well worth a visit. Work your way down the hillside along manicured paths, past waterfalls and Ponds through a botanically organised series of feature gardens. Photographers will enjoy the vistas and the birdlike. See the Gang-gang cockatoos in the nut trees. Finish off with lunch in the Cafe overlooking the gardens and the distant valleys. Great day out.
Bill Noffsinger — Google review
We stopped by on our drive back to Sydney. It was a nice walk with very lovely views down through the mountains despite being very busy. This is a smaller park than compared to the Royal Botanic Garden in the city, and you get to see a different range of species as well because of the different climate conditions.
Edgar Liu — Google review
Breath-taking view... Highly recommend this place if you want to get out of the city and refresh your mind an soul.
Take a walk through the nicely designed gardens and enjoy the weather.
Also a nice place for taking nice photos or celebrating events.
The cafe is good also.
Ali Kaveh — Google review
Amazing gem hidden in blue mountains. Must visit if you like nature and its beauty. It has got a nice cafe as well. Quite scenic and beautiful.
Pankaj Singh — Google review
Free entry to these large and beautiful botanical gardens. The icon of the gardens seems to be a spiral made of rocks which is surrounded by flowers in front of the Blue Mountains landscape. There are native and exotic plants, mysterious walkways, information centre and a couple of cafes. Toilets and picnic tables available and plenty of car parks. The drive from Sydney is nice with windy roads surrounded by native bush, it’s also worth stopping off at Windsor, a pretty historic town.
Alice Moon-Star — Google review
Beautiful place. Amazing view from the cafe at the entrance. Had a great time taking photos of the different wildlife and flowers that I came across. It's pretty steep so be careful of you're not fit or able bodied as it is very tiring walking back up from the bottom of the garden
The owner was kind and patient enough to show us the basic techniques to do when your about, getting on, and when your out there kayaking. This place is a perfect spot for kayaking beginners with shallow waters, calm to gentle winds and low tides. We really had a great time. Thanks for the wonderful experience.
Ronald — Google review
My husband and I booked a beginners guided tour with them and had an amazing experience we'll never forget. It was our first time ever trying kayaking and neither of us can swim that well. We had been thinking of taking it up for the longest of time but had been too afraid. Through their training and guidance, they made it feel so easy and so enjoyable that we have now become confident enough to go kayaking by ourselves. Thank you so much for helping us get over our fears and to actually enjoy the experience. Amazing team, amazing place, and everything was just perfect ❤️
PS: besides a kind and friendly guide we also got a personal photographer. Thanks Marnie for the tour and the beautiful photographs of us trying kayaking for the first time.
Sajeeda Rahuman — Google review
Fantastic first time beach kayak experience with Marnie and Bruce. Warm welcome & great hospitality by Bruce. Marnie is knowledgable, friendly, and down to earth person. During the tour she ensure we are always safe. Thanks for sharing the local Bundeena stories & given us extra time to do solo kayak too. Will come back again ❤️
Charmayne Ho — Google review
First time Kayaking for my kids and they had a wonderful time. Bruce was our guide and did a great job sharing history and knowledge of the surrounding area. For my wife and 2 kids it was a great way to spend the morning in Bundeena and I’m sure this won’t be the last time we kayak with the kids.
Highly recommend taking the ferry across from Cronulla or the drive through the Royal National park which was pretty special and worth taking the time to do as well.
Thank you Bruce and Bundeena Kayaks.
Tim Pratt — Google review
Did the beach kayak tour with Marnie which was fantastic! Marnie was extremely friendly, caring and very knowledgeable. The location was amazing, clear blue water and pretty shallow. Great for newbie kayakers + very easy parking. Can't wait to go back!
Maria Vassili — Google review
We had a fantastic time on tour with Bruce on Sunday, it was the best! Weather wasn't even co-operating and it was a little cool with high winds but he made it so easy (as beginners and one scaredy cat) and manageable, it was fun, informative, breathtaking down the Cabbage Tree Basin. We will be so back for more tours this summer. Thanks guys! Well worth it.
Nic Whiteman — Google review
Our family LOVED the stand up paddle boarding lesson we had! Big thanks to Marnie for talking us through the process. We had the BEST time and HAD to come back a week later for another go (thanks Bruce!) What a great spot and friendly team! We’ll definitely be regulars! 🤣
Stephanie Brell — Google review
I booked a kayak for 2 last minute after reading all the amazing reviews and seeing all the photos. My boyfriend and I had such an amazing time and made some special memories. Would recommend to anyone! Wonderful people and 5 star service.
Sarah Moon — Google review
The kayaks we booked were available as requested with no issues. The sign-in process was very easy & they had areas for us to store our stuff while we kayaked. The staff who helped us gave us tips on where we could safely kayak, went to the trouble of taking photos for us and was also very friendly & nice.
When we were heading too far out, one of the staff came out to help us. He was nice but also very funny when pointing out we were sitting backwards (we confused ourselves when we banked the kayak on the sand bay & got back in the water 😂) but they cared for our safety. Reasonably priced too. $50 for 2 hours.
My partner who has never kayaked before enjoyed it so much that he wants to go back & he is not an outdoorsy person! 10 outta 10 (or 5 out of 5 in this case)
Alice Malice — Google review
Had an amazing experience with Marilyn and Reiss who took us out on a tour. We experienced all conditions of water here from calm to a touch to extreme which was very very enjoyable. Great host and great treatment!!
Pia H — Google review
Our group of 11 people including kids had such a great experience with Bundeena Kayaks. We enjoyed every moment of our beginners tour with two awesome coaches. The boss man was also very friendly and helpful too. Will definitely be back to tryout SUP!
Highly recommend 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
MMFamily — Google review
We had the most fun in a long time. Marnie was very friendly and accommodating. The Cabbage Tree Basin guided tour is a must do, beautiful location and easy paddling for beginners.
Palasha Shrestha — Google review
I did a Kayaking lesson with Budneena Kayaking. Our instructed was Marine, she was very friendly and encouraging and helped through the through all the tricks and tips of Kayaking. Strongly recommend Marine and Bundeena Kayaking if you are a beginner or you just want hire Kayaking or paddle board to go out yourself.
sujeet jena — Google review
Bundeena Kayaks was terrific. Super friendly instructor who made it all so easy. She took us through the basics and then lead us around various parts of the area, all the while checking that everyone was OK. There were total beginners as well as people who wanted a refresher and our guide catered for all.
Jane Moffat — Google review
Bruce was great and very helpful. I went on a sunrise kayak alone and with his guidance the journey was very easy and relaxing. Such a beautiful way to start my day. I couldn’t recommend it more.
Laureane Etienne-Walsh — Google review
I've booked with Bundeena Kayaks quite a few times over the years and it's always a good time! The staff are friendly and also were kind enough to accommodate our late arrival. Love that there are a few areas you can kayak too as well. Would definitely book with them again :)
Raging Waters Sydney is a waterpark that offers a variety of rides, slides and attractions for all ages. The park is large and includes a lazy river with tubes, beach area and surfing area.
Great park for all the family. Food outlets offered the standard stuff IE hit dogs etc etc, but at reasonable prices.
Facilities all very clean with loads of staff making sure all was well. The day we went it was not that busy so ride waiting was short. Water rides for all the family.
I would recommend the park for any family for a great day out.
PS we had a group that had kids from 4 to 6 and they had a fantastic time .
Keith Allen — Google review
First time at Raging Waters an easy 40 min drive from the southern suburbs. We chose to go on the Easter long weekend which meant shorter wait times, excellent parking (which you pay for) and a great day! It felt like more slides than Jamberoo. The different towers were easy to locate and it was a short walking distance between each tower and each ride providing a good thrill! Great seating available at each tower to watch and wait for other family and friends and awesome grassed areas to chill at lunch. Staff were all friendly and helpful. With the 2 person rides you had to carry the tube up the stairs which was tricky but manageable. Some of the rides could do with some maintenance with leaks and rusted bracketing holding the pipe work which didn't help the nerves when walking up the stairs but all in all we all had a fantastic time and we'll probably return with a bigger group next time but wouldn't be keen to go in its peak season!
Kristy Roberts — Google review
I’ve been to many water parks around the world and this one is beautiful. There are a lot of fun attractions and a decent size kids area. The wave pool is massive and the staff was very friendly!
If you’re have an odd number of people in your group or coming solo, be warned there are not a lot of slides where you can ride alone.
Christopher Villegas — Google review
Excellent place for cycling and see the dam. During daylight savings it will close by 6.30 pm and non day light saving they close by 4.30 pm. Please plan accordingly. Very quite place not too much crowd when I visited. No noice very peaceful and also you feel bit cold compared to other place.
Historical places India — Google review
My first visit to this place and I think we picked a good day to do it. Smaller crowds due to an overcast day which kept the wait times down. Some of the rides need more staff as this will surely bring the wait times down on all rides. Food was the usual expensive fast fare but the cost for the unlimited slushys were my kids favourite. As we brought a season pass we will be back, so we will see how busy this place can get
Nicholas Newman (Optimus_Prime) — Google review
Ride n slides were awesome.
Suitable for all ages.
Lockers are a little expensive.
Food outlets only accept credit card.
Staff are friendly.
Food was average at best. Bring your own food if possible.
Parking was included with the Platinum season pass.
Update: The park seems to be overun with young eshays now. Hopefully the park takes this seriously and puts on extra security to discourage anti-social behaviour.
MrKKMF — Google review
Awesome place for kids and family, highly recommended.
A friend have a yearly pass for the whole family of 4 people so we just came along. It would be great if opening after school hours during week days so that kids can come here for little fun before doing their homework and dinner or just go for a swim but under the safety, staffing and costs to open.
My niece so much enjoy it, she had a fun time here coz in New Zealand (Auckland) doesn’t it. Great living in Oz land 🥰
Helen Luu — Google review
It's reasonably priced for a theme park, the place is well-staffed and maintained for most of the part. There are lots of shades and areas for rest. Popular rides can have a long wait and the lack of proper shower facilities keeps it from being a five-star.
Michael Hui — Google review
It’s staff members like Maddie at Luigi’s pizza who can turn a negative experience into a positive through recognition of fault and correcting it with kindness. I am very grateful for the accommodation she made to help make my feelings about a particular situation a little brighter. THANK YOU 😊
Vonita Taylor — Google review
Fun day out for family of 4, especially for teens as plenty of large ride options. Great smaller versions for younger kids too. Tickets were $55 each (purchase online), then add family size locker $20 and parking $12 (no free parking options). We went on a cooler day (22°) in April school holidays and no waiting lines at all which was fantastic. Plenty of people wearing wetsuits, would do same next time. Note almost all rides need a minimum of 2 people. All rides have a mat or inflatable tube. Wave pool great. Approx 5 slides closed, but didn't make a difference to the day. Recommend you BYO food and water. Limited healthy onsite options. Easily filled a whole day from 10-4pm. Very friendly and helpful satff. Recommend a visit.
Travel Jen — Google review
Big water theme park ... arrive early as the queues for some of the bigger rides can be long ... use your $25 NSW Dine & Discover pass towards the entry price here! Take your own food (non-fast food) as well! The big wave pool is fun for kids!
Glen Cox — Google review
Fun time with the whole family especially with young kids. Splash and ride the water slides, catch waves and swim in pools. Plenty of car space. Two complaints I have is the long wait for the big rides and food prices but still a great theme park to visit.
Joanne — Google review
Our family had an adventurous day at Raging Waters Sydney, filled with excitement and fun on the rides. The variety of attractions provided thrills for everyone. However, the crowded conditions were a bit challenging, limiting us to six rides in eight hours. Despite the crowds, the enjoyment we experienced on the rides made the trip worthwhile. Planning for a less busy day in the future might enhance the overall experience. Overall, a memorable day of family fun
ALISINA Rezai — Google review
Awesome place to visit with family or friends! I enjoyed every attraction inside the park. I fully recommend going on weekdays to avoid long queues. Although, you can get the fast line pass, which I consider worth it for the extra fee.
Jose Naime — Google review
Family had great time, surprisingly it was less crowded
Ground staff was super courteous. Only let down was cabana, Fridge supposed to be included (which wasn’t)
Rides are super fun but please introduce new rides for kids and adults to be entertained
Gautam Berry — Google review
Purchased season passes for summer and autumn school holiday. Went on a Saturday of school holiday for the first time at 10:30am. Got in within an hour. We brought our own food since I know their food is expensive. Showers have preset temperature. I'm fine with everything else. Our kids (7 and 9yo) love the place. We stayed there for nearly 7 hours.
Mye — Google review
The experience I had with my family was very disappointing to say the least. We paid $80 each to get in only to see each ride has a 1 hour waiting time minimum not too mention the 50 minute waiting time for food. The only way to enjoy your day is to spend an EXTRA $110 to get the fast pass, which still has a 25 minute waiting time. This is all due to the staff and their unorganised way of working and managing the lines, and can be easily fixed.
Maddy Robson — Google review
Great place to visit. Book a cabana if you go. It includes a fridge, tv including a safe for valuables. The food from the restaurant took about 1.5 hours. Order early or carry your own meals.
Arthi Govender — Google review
We had a wonderful experience at raging waters with our four-year-old. The facilities were really clean, and the staff were very attentive on every single ride. There was a lot of different activities for kids of all ages, and the pricing was very affordable. The raging waters. Junior area was amazing. The only thing we would like to have seen is the staff at the ice cream parlour wearing gloves, and adding the spoon in manually, instead of having to put our hands Into a communal spoon basket for hygiene reasons. Apart from that, the lockers were very affordable at $12 for the standard size, and we truly appreciated the post Covid cashless payment system at all outlets.
K E — Google review
A poor man's version of Wet and Wild or Jamberoo on a rich man's salary.
After paying Adult price for my 9 year old son because he's over 110cm we had the privilege of paying for parking also, because heaven forbid you get to park for free; this is Sydney.
After parking up in the derelict smack head car park complete with used nappies, litter and god knows what else, we entered the park at 10:00 on an overcast and quiet January morning.
Another $20 for a locker and we hit the rides. Four slides in and my son and I hit the lacklustre wave pool where we bobbed up and down in 1m of water for 2 minutes before getting out to figure what next?
We had a Cheeseburger combo each which made us feel nauseous as we watched a cleaner scoop up someone elses partially digested combo meal and decided to call it a day by 12:30.
If you can't get to a beach, try a swimming pool or the Penrith Beach. The slides are all pretty much the same. If you can afford to go here, you can afford better. Save your money.
Matthew Lees — Google review
I worked at raging waters last season in food and beverage so I can assure right now the best time to go is away from the January school holiday due to the immense amount of people who want to cool down in summer, I'd recommend going further towards narch or April if you aren't willing to buy fast track which again from a personal point of view is very expensive. Food is also really expensive in general and even with discounts sure it's cheaper but it's still not the cheapest. But with no other alternatives and when fresh the food is very good in the park. Rides in the summer time have unfathomably long lines which is again why I'd choose to go later in the season but the slides are fun to go down. I'd definitely recommend going there but I'd try to go at a time with maybe a little drizzle and further from summer.
Featherdale Wildlife Park is known for its koalas, as well as other Australian native wildlife. The park is located in inner Western Sydney and takes 45 minutes to reach from Sydney.
Very nice place to go for a walk and enjoy the nature with the animals. The staff were very friendly and helpful. I also enjoyed the different varieties of animals at this location. You also have a very nice cafe inside to take a short break. You can also feed animals inside this place. This is a great location for kids to enjoy as well
Sujan Selven — Google review
Easily the best wildlife sanctuary in Australia that we have been to. This place is amazing, so much range of animals especially birds! Truly beautiful, you can tell how well the animals are looked after. I think my partner and I have come here at least 6 times the last few years and we will continue to support this treasure
Natalie Mansilla — Google review
Absolutely loved my visit to Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 The variety of animals was incredible, and the park's commitment to conservation and education really shines through. I was thrilled to get up close and personal with kangaroos, koalas, and even some adorable wallabies. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, making the experience even more enjoyable. The park's clean and well-maintained facilities made the visit comfortable, and I appreciate the efforts they put into creating a safe and enriching environment for the animals. I can't wait to come back and explore more of this wonderful wildlife haven! 🦘🐨🦙 #FeatherdaleWildlifePark #AmazingExperience
Jose Ian Perera — Google review
Loved our visit! Staff were all nice and we enjoyed learning about the animals. Got to pat the koalas 🐨, feed kangaroos 🦘, and hold a baby croc 🐊! If you want to get close and learn about Australian native wildlife I highly recommend.
Would recommend if you want the encounters to buy tickets in advance.
Also, this is great stop on the way to blue mountains if you’re heading that direction to check off tourist attractions.
Falana Kelly — Google review
Featherdale Sydney wildlife park has a lot of different and unique animals. Upon entering it is possible to purchase some food for the animals and throughout the park it is possible to feed wallabies and kangaroos. I would recommend arriving at the park at opening time as this is when the animals are most active and eager for food. On the website it is possible to book wildlife encounters which is definitely recommended if you want a private and hands on experience with the different animals. The staff are friendly and informative. Throughout the day they also have feedings where staff will talk about the different animals whilst feeding them. It is a great wildlife park to visit.
Elisabeth Kreig — Google review
This is one of my FAVOURITE places in Sydney. I am so lucky to live locally. The animals are well cared for and the opportunities to get involved with some of the animals is amazing.
It is not a huge park which works well for me and the kids. The layout is nice and easy to get around and you can be sure that you will not miss anything as you walk around.
I brought my 18 month old son for the first time and he was over the moon. The animals are great with smaller children and were very gentle when feeding out of my sons feeding cup.
I highly recommend visiting Featherdale if you ever get the chance to do so.
Bianca Freedman — Google review
We had fun going here. It's not a huge wildlife sanctuary compare to others, which is good for those who don't want to get tired walking.
The best part was our close encounter with the kangaroos and koalas! You will be able to feed the kangaroos and touch them as long as you want. Except for the koalas, you need to pay extra fee to touch them... but you will be able to see them up close too.
karen — Google review
A compact zoo experience. Easy to get around. Great value for families. Close encounters with different animals. Loved the koalas! Well worth the visit!
George from In Focus healing and wellness clinic — Google review
My recent visit to Featherdale Wildlife Zoo was an absolute delight, exceeding all expectations and earning a well-deserved five-star rating. This wildlife sanctuary provided a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.
Feather dale Wildlife Zoo boasts an impressive range of Australian animals, giving visitors a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the country's most fascinating creatures. From kangaroos and koalas to crocodiles and Tasmanian devils, the diversity of wildlife at Featherdale is truly remarkable.
The enclosures at Featherdale were thoughtfully designed, allowing the animals to thrive in naturalistic environments. It was heartwarming to witness the excellent care provided to each animal, and it was evident that their welfare was of utmost importance.
The highlight of my visit was the opportunity to encounter and interact with some of the animals firsthand. Feeding the kangaroos was an incredible experience.The chance to have a close encounter with native reptiles left me with unforgettable memories.
Featherdale Wildlife Zoo also prioritizes visitor comfort and enjoyment. The layout of the zoo was well-planned, with clear signage and ample seating areas. Clean facilities and well-maintained paths added to the overall positive experience.
Matt — Google review
I really like this place! Great variety of birds and Australian animals. Perfect for overseas visitors wanting to experience Australian animals. Avoid weekends and school holidays of you can they get busy. Today I went at 11am on a Wednesday and there wasn't many people there at all.
Staff are friendly and welcoming.
E G — Google review
This is the place to go to in order to see, interact with, and experience animals endemic to Australia.
The park has open areas where kangaroos and wallabies are able to roam around, and you can feed them and run their fur or forehead. Entrance fees are reasonably priced, and they have animal food available for purchase at the entrance. It is amazing to see the animals up close and personal and to have them eat out of your hands. It is easy to navigate around the park and they have these little stamps you can use after seeing an animal to mark your ticket/passport.
Toilets were clean and the entire park itself is well-maintained.
Food can be brought inside the park, but they also have a cafe that can be found near the exit of the park.
Maria — Google review
A nice little wildlife park with a lot of Australian animals like Kangaroos, Wallabies, Wombats, Dingos etc. They have many birds, some snakes and reptiles also few farm animals such as cows and goats. The park itself is not too big so it's really easy to navigate around and have a good time without sweating. There are facilities such as toilets, hand washing station and a Cafe. You can enjoy this on your way to Blue Mountain.
Darshana Perera — Google review
For one, you can collect stamps here! For two, that's a serious lot of birds! Among them many are rarely seen in any other zoo in Sydney. I wish the website could say more about it. Definitely give it a go if you are a bird lover. Apart from birds, there were many koalas, reptiles, our familiar Australian mammals, and farm animals, too. The park is not huge, but the space is efficiently used, so you still need to walk a fair bit to see all the animals. Lastly, the cafe serves great burgers and chips. Overall a fantastic experience!
Weixin Shan — Google review
I’ve visited this place a few times now and have an annual membership and I always love visiting. The pelican feeding at 11am is always a treat to watch. My favourite animals to make sure I see each visit is one of their galahs who says “scratch scratch” and “whatchyou doing” while it bobs it’s head up and down and a gentle giant hen who always escapes the barnyard sea and free ranges all day long. There are two black cockatoos that always fly to their aviary fence to come say hi and demand scratches on their feet and head. Featherdale’s extensive range of native birds is absolutely incredible. I’m fortunate to live nearby and visit often as I can. It never gets boring. The staff that work there are always friendly and happy to answer your questions. The cafe also does the best hot chips (aka fries)
H?rrem Akta? — Google review
Busy but good.. you used to be able to take photos with the koalas as part of the entrance, now they charge extra and won't allow you to take a slightly different photo without charging double.. so a tad disappointing that they just keep milking as much money as possible.
Love the Aussie wildlife, they look well fed and healthy.
The birds look a bit sad to be stuck in the cages but also healthy and well.
The staff were friendly and helpful
Tracy van Vuuren — Google review
Great variety of Australian animals and opportunities to interact! Overall, nice place with extremely helpful staff. Bit difficult to get to if you don’t have a car and there are limited parking spaces.
reese espirit — Google review
Not the best experience and very expensive ($40). There's not a lot to see, and what there is to see is behind layers of wired cages. Any photos you see that people took, it's almost certainly when their camera is positioned between the holes in the wire cages. Most of the animals are very far from view, and the only ones you can interact with are goats. There was one wombat and one kangaroo that was accessible, and people were so starving for entertainment, that everyone was gathered around it trying to feed it and touch it. I came here 14 years ago, and it was so fun. They had so many kangaroos walking around that you could walk right up to and feed, a huge tortoise eating carrots, dingo pups... everything seemed so accessible. But now it's seems like everything is super protected and very limited. A bird sleeping in a tree about 6 metres away from you and up high - yawn. My advice is... go nuts on wombats and kangaroos and flood the place with them. Let's face it, that's really what we want to see... they are entirely an Australian thing and fun to interact with.
Ryan Christiansen — Google review
This was by far my best experience while in Australia. It is one of the places about one hour drive from Sydney that you can feed and get close to a Koala. It is about 150 dollars to spend about 20 minutes in an enclosure. You need to make reservations in advance. The park itself was amazing too. You got to see lots of other cool animals and pet Kangaroos. It was small intimate place that was not crowded and just perfect. It was a must and I highly recommend a visit.
iris Baker — Google review
I visited Featherdale Park with my one-year-old son and we had a wonderful time. The park is home to koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, and penguins. We got to hand-feed some of the animals and even pat a koala. The staff were friendly and informative, and the park was clean and well-maintained. It was a great way to experience the wildlife. I highly recommend Featherdale Park for anyone looking for a fun and educational day out with the family.
Amar Shrestha — Google review
Amazing place with various endemic species in AU or NZ. Not much visitors in weekdays, and the staffs are friendly as well.
A bit far away from CBD but still easy to get here as a first-time visitor.
Recommend to buy tickets at kkday in advance, the prices are better!
Lorena — Google review
Loved coming here. The kangaroos and wallabies aren’t caged so you can pet and feed them up close. There’s a bunch of koalas around the park for you to encounter and many birds and owls are around too. There’s much more to see as well. A cafe is present and facilities are located around the park for ease. It’s best to visit around 11am when most of the animals start to come out. Fantastic experience!
George K. — Google review
I thought this place was fantastic, much better than the Sydney Zoo, for example. You can get close up to many of the animals, feed them from your hand, etc. And it wasn't overly crowded. There are plenty of trees to provide shade on warm/hot days. I loved walking around the different areas and easily seeing the wildlife that was there. I highly, highly recommend this place for seeing Australian (and other) wildlife, many that are there because they were injured and brought there.
Larry Willis — Google review
Great for kids and adult. They have alot of birds, different species so perfect for bird lovers. I suppose that's obvious from the name Highlight was learning about the Koalas. They are the cutest awkwardly interesting laziest animal. You can get really close to the kangaroos and feed them. The Kangaroo feed is very affordable. Give yourself minimum 2hours to enjoy.
Adeshola Gbademosi — Google review
You can touch and take lots of photos with these beautiful creatures.
Buy a cup of popcorn at the counter for $4. Maybe 2. You can feed it to the kangaroos, which is very cool.
One tip: most people get stuck at the first few cages, go to the back of the farm, there are many kangaroos roaming around, feed them and take as many photos as you want. Most of the time, it is less crowded because everyone is at the front busy taking photos of the caged animals.
Pasindu Ranasinghe — Google review
Definitely a visit, if you want to see Kangaroo, Koala, Wombat, Pelicans, Emu at once.
For those prefer to have a koala picture, here is the right place and strongly suggest you join some group tour to have lower price ticket plus koala photography. You can decide on spot whether you pay extra to have digital copy.
Zookeepers are very friendly, kangaroos every where stepping up and down around you.
Darling Harbour, one of Sydney's most popular tourist destinations, is located adjacent to the Central Business District and is home to many of the city's major attractions. The neighborhood is also known for its nightlife and romantic atmosphere.
Celebrated my last night of a three week stay in Sydney, Australia on this lovely harbor of vast entertainment. A variety of restaurants, pubs, hotels and scenic party boats to take you in and out of the harbor. Stopped into a sports bar & grill near the docked riverboats for drinks with the family. Just taking in all the beautiful sites and people were enough to wet the palate. A must see in downtown Sydney.
K Barb — Google review
The most adorable place to have lunch or dinner with family and friends. I would recommend you to bring your family here.
The food very delicious and well served, clean, and chic. I really like the food. And the view is special. An interesting shopping centre in the middle of the city
Anh Tuan Phan — Google review
Darling Harbour is an incredible place to bring your family, one of the most fun parks for kids of all ages, sculptures, eateries and entertainment. There is always something going on or something to see of do. A must see during Vivid and at any Fireworks display.
James O'Keefe — Google review
Stunning place and a must see in Sydney. With a little bit luck you’ll see the bride opens and close. The attraction there just amazing and there are a lot of restaurants around. For kids, couples and just fast food -everything is there. Even a German Restaurant with German beer. At the evening is almost everyday something happening there. Also checkout online for the next fireworks! There is also a beautiful path to The Rocks -outstanding. The path will bring you to Circular Quay and the opera house.
Sandro — Google review
Darling Harbour is an absolute gem in the heart of Sydney, and a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists. Its vibrant atmosphere, surrounded by stunning views of the city skyline, creates an unforgettable experience. Whether you're strolling along the promenade, exploring the numerous attractions like SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and the Australian National Maritime Museum, or dining at the diverse range of restaurants, Darling Harbour has something for everyone. The fireworks displays on weekends light up the night sky and add to the magic of this place. It's a perfect blend of culture, entertainment, and natural beauty, making it an iconic part of Sydney that captures the city's essence.
Ankita Shrestha — Google review
Beautiful Harbour with great views of the Sydney skyline. Lots of good options in and around the harbour, including dine-in restaurants, pubs, small/quick eats. Fireworks over the weekend are a treat to watch. Paid parking nearby, but public transport works out better
prashanth nair — Google review
An impromptu visit meant we just enjoyed what was available. Could not find a place to sit down and eat so settled for take-out and eating from a park bench which was fine. But loved the walkabout in a beautiful setting. Not overly busy (other than the couple of restaurants that were open and understaffed and over capacity)....so enjoyed strolling around. Most places closed so missing some of the buzz, but a pleasant evening out.
Marcelle Armstrong — Google review
A really romantic place to hang around or to have dinner. During daylight, the view is amazingly beautiful, but it's even more spectacular at night!
They also have a park nearby, it is a great destination to simply have a picnic or to bring your kids and dogs to run around.
Lorraine — Google review
Darling harbour is a great place to visit, its beautiful during the day and night! I went last during 'Vivid Sydney'. It looked amazing , it had so many lights with many sound effects and a fountain show. Must visit!! It can be packed but it's well worth it. Kids will have the best time!!
Phill &Jasminee — Google review
Darling harbour is just an amazing spot to visit. There are alot of great restaurants, bars and attractions. Transportation is nearby and efficient. Definitely worth spending the walking around it.
Dave Eri — Google review
Our stay was fantastic! The room- Jewel suite was absolutely stunning.
The facilities were great, with hot water and plenty of amenities. The housekeeping was excellent, keeping everything clean and tidy. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout our stay. Kevin went above and beyond to make our stay memorable. TK at the spa gave me one of the most amazing treatments.
Breakfast was also a highlight, with a variety of options to choose from.
The only issue we ran into was the incessant dog barking- which was quickly remedied by moving to a higher floor.
Overall, we had a wonderful time and would highly recommend this property. It is definitely in my top five favorite hotels I have ever stayed in!
T L — Google review
I visited this place because I heard the night view was great, but it wasn't so impressive because there were many other great places in Sydney.
You can see a lot of young people in restaurants and bars around the coast.
It is nice to leisurely walk along the beach, and there are lots of chairs so it is nice to sit if walking was difficult.
Jae Jung Choi — Google review
Darling Harbor is such a beautiful port
The water quality is very blue and beautiful🤩
Taking a boat here makes the whole trip more relaxing😎
And it costs more than $8.75 to take the boat on the day
There is no need to spend other expenses
Very suitable for family travel together
Especially families with children
Take your kids on a boat ride to see the beautiful waters
I felt relaxed over the weekend
You can also let the child be quiet for dozens of minutes
Definitely a great choice😂
I also highly recommend asking friends to go on holiday together.
Take nice photos and chat
Look at the scenery👍👍👍
Allen Huang — Google review
Darling Harbour really lives up to its name for it is indeed a darling place to visit. Highly recommend for anyone of all ages, especially if you have kids as it's super family friendly. Will visit again for sure.
Kaylene T — Google review
Awesome place to visit for a walk or evening out. Very busy area as you can take boat tours or ferries. Lots of restaurants and the ones we attended had really good food. Several attractions ( Maritime museum, aquarium etc) and shops to visit. I just enjoyed walking around and grabbing a coffee in the morning. Easy to walk to from the city area with safe pedestrian accesses.
J F — Google review
The views were stunning. Public transport was so easy. Tap on and off with digital wallet. Ferry across the bay was quick and smooth! Nightlife was great!
Robyn Pizzoni — Google review
Lovely place to go for a walk. Restaurant and cafes around. Such a variety of boats in the harbour. Can catch boat taxis to opera house and other locations sea life, wild life , marina museum. Worth a walk around plenty to see by the sea .
Julie H — Google review
Close to CBD. Easier to access by public transportation here. It was hard and expensive to park around here. More tourists before COVID. There are a lot of restaurants and Cafe around. Some attractions there. I prefer walking in the evenings because not much shelter. Beautiful view. Have free 7-minute fireworks at 9 pm weekend.
Sze Mei NG — Google review
If you are at harbour side you can see all of these sightseeing areas. I was travelling alone n it’s hard to find someone trustworthy n someone ready to click ur pix happily. Keep walking at circular quay you will see Luna Park on the way and on opposite side of the harbour you will see opera house.
Mehwish Walter John — Google review
There have been some great improvements since my last visit to Sydney. The Chinese friendship garden is beautiful as always. What I really liked is the additional family space. With the water park, and pools along with food outlets and integrated green space. The water is always beautiful. Great relaxing place to be. It is worth a visit. So much to do.
Xiem Hong — Google review
We stayed at the Sofitel in Darling Harbour and really enjoyed it. They have Friday night fireworks, theaters, restaurants, bars and outdoor activities. There are many ferries to help you get around.
Terri Griffin — Google review
Beautiful place, whether early morning stroll at sunrise, through the day or a nighttime relax. Always fantastic stunning scenes/ views. Places to stop eat n, drink.
Mick Pennell — Google review
Darling Harbour is an enchanting oasis nestled within the heart of the city, where modernity and natural beauty converge harmoniously. With its shimmering waters reflecting the golden hues of the sunset, it creates a picturesque backdrop against the towering skyline. The vibrant atmosphere buzzes with energy, as locals and tourists alike meander along its promenades, lined with chic cafes, bustling markets, and sleek entertainment venues. From the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge to the majestic sails of the Opera House, every corner offers a breathtaking vista. Darling Harbour isn't just a destination; it's a sensory symphony that leaves an indelible impression on all who wander its shores.
Neha Dasgupta — Google review
Great spot to walk around or grab a seat in the shade with gelato. A lot of cute restaurants and bars scattered along the walkway if you need to eat, but they're touristy choices and prices (and can get packed). Also has the aquarium and madame toussauds. So a great spot to have options to spend time at, free or pricey, and take in some great views. Great spot for a morning run or to be amidst late night buzz.
Klarese Donnelly — Google review
Darling Harbour is an absolutely must see when you’re in Sydney.
It’s a trendy area full of life especially in the evenings. There are many good restaurants with a wide variety of food options.
The harbour is surrounded by beautiful buildings with interesting architecture and the view is stunning both during the day and at night. I recommend a walk on Pyrmont Bridge if you have time. The view is amazing from there.
There are a lot of activities around, both for families and couples. Check their website
Pia Cristina — Google review
Visited a few years ago. Nice scenery, good place for leisurely walk, some good attractions and restaurants. Loved it here.
Ben SN — Google review
With our limited time in Sydney, we took a short afternoon dinner cruise out of Darling Harbor. It was a beautiful way to enjoy the water and the scenery. We were able to wander the area a bit after disembarking, and I would recommend that visitors take some time to explore. We had to leave before sunset, but we heard that this place is especially lovely after dark when things light up.
Laurel T — Google review
An astounding triumph of urban waterside architecture. Hotels, in abundance, attractions, in abundance, and restaurants - you got it, in abundance. Very walkable, very joggable. If you hotel is here you will not be disappointed... But it isn't Circular Quay which has more character.... And the Opera House.
Mike Whitehouse — Google review
Beautiful place to soak in Sydney's stunning skyline especially at night. Lots of entertainment, dining and accommodation options around. Get some wonderful photos against this magnificent backdrop.
Pankaj — Google review
Darling Harbour in Sydney is simply awesome! The vibes here are fantastic, with so much to see and do. There are cool shops, nice places to eat, and the view is stunning. It’s a great spot for a leisurely walk, and there are always events happening. The kids love it too, with the aquarium and wildlife attractions. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Darling Harbour is a must-visit. I always find something new and exciting every time I’m there. It’s a hub of fun in the heart of Sydney. Highly recommended!
The Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk is a scenic path that takes you past beautiful beaches, cliffs and parks. It's a great way to spend an afternoon if you're looking for something different from the beachfronts.
One of best iconic coastal walks to do in Sydney whether you're a tourist or local..The starting point is in Bondi Beach near the Iceberg Dining Room and Bar.
It's one of my happy place to go to , just to relax and chill after a busy week at work. It's a relatively easy walk to do and do not require much fitness.However there are some sections with a slight incline and steps. This walk allows you to take a swim at a few beaches on the way, with toilet facilities at all beaches. Will take about 2 to 3 hours depending on your stops, but we did it in 1.5 hours.
Highly recommended
Kim Nguy — Google review
Highly, highly recommend this walk as it was the highlight of our trip to Sydney. On a beautiful day (72F), we took our time wondering the long trail and stopping at the various beaches of different sizes along the way. I'm not sure how long it would be if you just walked it straight, but we started at Coogee and ended at Bondi probably 2 and change hours later because we stopped to take pictures so many times.
Adrian Monaco — Google review
Spectacular views at every corner along the 2 hours walk from Coogee to Bondi. I went two times during my recent stay in Sydney, once in the morning and once during sunset hours, both truly amazing.
Apart from the beautiful nature, it’s great to see how locals spend their free time here, surfing / fishing/ chilling on the beaches/ bbq / dog walking / family bonding … make me jealous : )
No doubt to say that Sydney is one of the best places to live in the world!
Kathy Wang — Google review
We started the coastal walk from Bondi at 7.30am. Fantastic views on this coastal walk. We went with three other families and kids. Kids enjoyed the walk. My 4 year old can't walk on up hill path so I had to carry him on my back. We had a coffee break in between at Bronte Beach. We finished at Coogee around 11am for Lunch. Overall it was a fantastic walk and I would love to come back.
Sathish N — Google review
Some really stunning views while walking on this trail. It seems long on paper but time really flies when you’re walking and taking in the view.
I would recommend starting the trail from coogee in the morning and reaching Bondi just in time for lunch there.
Ryan Adrian — Google review
Everytime we get guests come and stay with us, I always recommend they do this walk before leaving Sydney. It's a must. Lovely views, beautiful little bays and beaches along the way. Make sure you have a pair of good walking shoes as there are lots of steps up and down.
Helen Di Domenico — Google review
One of the things to do whilst in Sydney. The walk takes approximately 90 minutes to 2 hours, including photography and toilet stops (located at beaches along the way). It's a very scenic trail and not too difficult for young and old, although there are some steep steps along the way. You may get slightly wet from sea spray on blustery days.
Zeph — Google review
We went on a Sunday, started mid morning in Coogee and got to Bondi around noon. It was an easy enough trail and breathtaking! Parts of the trail are uneven and there are a lot of stairs. A few places were a tad narrow and passing people was a bit of a challenge. Overall it is a must do! The trails are fairly well marked and easy to follow the directions.
Bertina Donahue — Google review
Amazing! Highly recommend doing this if you’re able l. Beautiful views and scenery. It was not packed when we went, which was at the beginning of August. You get to see a lot, take in a nice walk, and meet great people. We received a recommendation from a local to go to Iceberg’s restaurant at the Bondi Beach end of the walk and we were SO glad we did it!
Cassie Burrows — Google review
After numerous recommendations, my friends and I decided to embark on this coastal walk. It's a well-maintained and secure trail, suitable for all ages. The path is family-friendly and offers several water spots for a quick refill. The scenic views along the way are breathtaking, and we concluded our journey with a refreshing dip in the ocean at Coogee. The area also boasts fantastic restaurants where we enjoyed a delicious meal. We're already planning to do this walk again, and it's a definite must-experience!
Relove Gyawali — Google review
We took the train and bus from Sydney to Coogee and enjoyed the walk from there to Bondi - absolutely beautiful route with lots of great beaches and views! We had our baby with us in a hiking carrier which was perfect - you can’t do the walk with a stroller. If you are in Sydney we would definitely recommend taking this walk!
Mette Wrang Andersen — Google review
Scenic walk and loads of places to stop in-between. We walked with our 8 year old and she enjoyed the dips in water too. Has steep steps to cover in the walk.
Priya — Google review
Incredible walk in the summer with ups and down. Walk goes through a cemetery that is in a very special place! Highly recommend the walk but does require you to be in good shape. Being by the coast also offers a really nice breeze so it doesn’t get too hot.
Chris V — Google review
Lovely way to explore the coast! We started at South Coogee and it took us about 3+ hours at a leisurely pace. We saw lotsa surfers catching the waves, day trippers and swimmers and bathers in the pools. There are soft serve and coffee trucks at the larger bays/beaches but plenty of drinking water and bathrooms all along the walk.
Shuwen Koh — Google review
Done this walk a handful of time and it’s stunning every time. Lots of places to stop along the way and enjoy the view and take breaks, even take dips along the smaller beaches.
I recommend starting early or in the evening to catch the sunset. It can get a bit busy on weekends along the path, but you meet some nice people and furry friends.
I appreciate how many toilets are available and changing spots if you’re changing into bathers. Also, water refill stations that are handy.
I did the walk in Birkenstocks and made it fine. If you’re jogging or going non-stop I would recommend some good shoes as there are some bits with gravel and hills.
Falana Kelly — Google review
THIS IS A MUST!! I only had 1.5 days of freedom during a work trip to Sydney from the states and so many locals recommended this walk and I can see why. Please prioritize this on your trip to Sydney. You don't need to be super active but it's about 3.5-4 miles and does have stairs. Great way to get steps in before a long flight and see some of the most breathtaking views.
Shannon Lamb — Google review
Breathtaking views. I normally walk in the daytime and the views are amazing as always.
Today, I went out in the evening and I could see the stars clearly and even the beautiful sunset rays. It was a great experience to walk in the evening but had to use the flashlight sometimes just to avoid any trips or falls as some of the areas do not provide light. I prefer doing the walk in the daytime but evening experience was kind of a good thing as well. Enjoy the spectacular views on the way, everyone!
May Zin Htet — Google review
Amazing coastal walk with great views. Paved path but just note that some parts are uphill. Need comfortable walking shoes
Sansho A — Google review
We took a bus to Bondi Beach Iceberg Club and began our walk to Coogee at 8am. It was a sunny day and sun was already hot. Wear lots of sunscreen and a hat. The view was spectacular just as others have said. This is a moderate hike so if the walker is in a decent fitness level, it should be fine. There are many steps up and down throughout the trail. Bring water bottles and there will be water stations to refill as well as lots of benches to sit, rest and enjoy the view. Highly recommend it.
Check out my review of Coogee Bay! Wow wow wow
Sylvia Diamant — Google review
A cliff top coastal walk, the Bondi to Coogee walk extends for six km in Sydney’s eastern suburbs. The walk features stunning views, beaches, parks, cliffs, bays and rock pools. The beaches and parks offer a place to rest, swim or a chance to eat at one of the cafes, hotels, restaurants or takeaways. Most beaches offer picnic shelters, play areas, kiosks, toilets and change-rooms, Tamarama, Bronte, Coogee and Maroubra have free electric barbecues. The Bondi to Coogee coastal walk is a medium grade urban walk but there are some steep gradient paths and several staircases along the track. There are rest stops with great views and seating along the coast. It takes about two hours to complete the Bondi to Coogee Beach section of the walk and another hour and a half if you choose to continue to Maroubra. Although an urban walk the Bondi to Coogee walk is open to the elements, please make sure you wear comfy shoes, bring a hat, sunglasses, sun screen, water and in colder weather wear appropriate clothing.
peter g — Google review
The Bondi Coastal Walk was truly awesome! Walking from Bondi to Coogee was one of the best activities I did in Sydney. It's amazing how people in Sydney can hit the beach in just 30 minutes from CBD!
Starting early in the morning was smart. With the sun behind us, walking was easier, and we didn't have to squint. The views were stunning, and it was super fun. I'll definitely come back!
After the walk we actually took the uber back to Bondi since we have cafes that we wanna visit.
Amanda — Google review
A great walk with great sites to see. Use google maps because the path the take changes and is not always well marked. The part of the path near Coogee is less crowded. The part of the path near Bondi is more crowded. There are a few shops with free toilets along the path. There are free stations to fill up your water bottles along the way.
Aaron — Google review
Highly recommend. Easy walk for all ages and covers a broad variety of the coastal landscape. Goes through some of the popular eastern suburbs beaches.
Bernard Shen — Google review
Nice walk. Won't take too long - 2 hours with decent pace. Plenty of interesting view points along the way and toilets at multiple stops. Ended at Coogee beach, which has many nice bars and restaurants. You can then easily take the bus back to the train station.
Thomas Bollen — Google review
Fabulous walk, not too difficult for a healthy adult.. the views are spectacular and there are plenty of rest spots along the way. We caught bus from city to Coogee (20mins) & walked to Bondi well worth it..
Bondi has much charm and great coffee shops !
stephanie Bland — Google review
Nice walk! I have my 7 and 12 year kids also was with me. Plenty of places to fill water and toilets on the way. We started around 7am and finished by 9am.
The Manly ferry leaves from Wharf 3. Entry and exit to the wharf to board is pretty organised, queues form to swipe through Opal gates a few minutes prior to arrival. There is also some seating available for elderly or people with mobility issues.
Niki Vasiliadis — Google review
An absolute must try in Sydney. It's an amazing amazing amazing experience. It's not about what you see, it's about what you see, and feel, and breath in and you just have to love it
Charlie Mitchell — Google review
Great atmosphere, friendly and very efficient service. Clearly a very busy place without any loss of the highest quality. Well done to all of the staff. We congratulate you and thank you
John Arnold — Google review
Wharf 3 is mainly for the services of Manly. Good frequency of services. Wharf also provides reasonable views of the surrounding Circular Quay area.
Joydip Sinha — Google review
Very well priced ferry
Mitchel A — Google review
Great ferry terminal! Although very busy so be prepared!
Haz Films — Google review
The ferry to Manly was one of the nicest boat rides I have done. Magnificent views and room to walk around on the front and back of boat. Even though the ferry itself was full of passengers, most were sitting inside, leaving the beautiful view for just me and one or two other to enjoy from the back of the boat. The trip took about half an hour, but I wouldn’t have minded if it took twice as long.
Michael Rodgers — Google review
Thursday 16th November 2023 at 6:35pm. An extremely rude staff member (male, tall with a mohawk haircut) refused to let passengers into the area with seating (until he "finished what he was doing", by which time another ferry had arrived).
This staff attitude is rife amongst the staff - no customer centric approach. Little wonder the Manly Fast Ferry continues to pick up passengers who prefer the service.
Nicki A — Google review
We were very happy with the speed, efficiency, and affordability of this public transport to the Taronga Zoo. We had no issues with the departure time either going or coming. The boats were clean and it was a lovely ride.
Francine Jacome — Google review
VERY NICE
Adriano Machado — Google review
to manly beach , a nice trip
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Ye Yu Lin — Google review
Great views on round trips to Manly Beach. Worth going but won’t recommend if you have crowd phobia…
Sydney Opera House, one of the most iconic performing arts theaters in the world, is located on Sydney Harbour at Bennelong Point. It is home to 8 flagship arts companies and hosts over 1,500 performances each year. With its sweeping sails and prominent location, the Sydney Opera House is a symbol of Sydney and an important tourist attraction.
Sydney Opera house, one of the iconic structure to visit in Sydney, is a must view attraction in Sydney, just admire its design and architecture.
From the Opera House you can get views of the harbour, the Harbour Bridge and of course the unique design of the Opera House itself. All these make Sydney a beautiful picture perfect city.
The inside view is spectacular. A must visit place. one can have great pics with Harbour Bridge and It makes a good landmark. Do visit at night once. Also the surrounding areas are beautiful well planned and one can spend full day visiting various hubs nearby
Amar Chauhan — Google review
Great iconic location to visit! Beautiful architecture and amazing to know the history of how it was built. Guided tours are available on every day. Also hosts a great cafeteria downstairs - House Canteen.
Can sit by the opera house stairs and relax along with the view of harbour bridge. Easily accessible by Public transport and has public toilets available if needed.
Madhuri Hegde — Google review
It really shocked me. It is an international tourist attraction and is listed as the youngest world heritage. The large floor-to-ceiling windows inside are all designed with a slope, so there is no glass reflection when looking outside. It is great!
HO HO — Google review
Its the most beautiful place i have been in recent times and its awesome to just look at it from the hotel having some kangaroo meat and a drink.
It is a breathtaking architectural masterpiece. Its iconic design and grandeur make it a cultural gem in any city. Inside, the acoustics are impeccable, offering a sublime auditory experience.
Attending a performance here is a transcendent journey into the world of music and theater. It's a must-visit for anyone seeking artistic excellence.
Sreeram Nattath — Google review
It probably makes no difference to give this place another five star review, but it's gonna happen!!!
This was the best guided tour I think I've ever been on. Our guide was perfectly enthusiastic, not over the top and explained things so well. The headphone system is brilliant and worked great. The first presentation/film was so well produced and entertaining.
I loved the entire thing. We got a moment in the symphony hall with the orchestra playing and it was so powerful. The whole venue is glorious. The architecture and story behind it is fascinating. Can't go wrong with this amazing opportunity.
David Borough — Google review
The majestic Opera House. Doesn’t need a description.
Take a ferry from one of the suburbs and get to Circular Quay. That will get you better views of the Opera House. Also try to do the Ferry to Manly beach and you get beautiful views of Opera. Most vibrant place to visit while in Sydney. Must do!!!!
Suhas Vinchurkar — Google review
Fell in love with it. Must visit. What a wonderful place on the Sydney Harbor. The Sydney Opera House is the symbol of modern Australia. A World Heritage-listed masterpiece of “human creative genius,” it exists because a few brave people dared to think differently. Love those people. Must visit. View by sea at night is mesmerizing.
Madhu Sarda — Google review
Only put in 5star for architectural purposes. Unfortunately much of the venue was barricaded off but it is a unique and beautiful building. Go to Sydney museum for full history as the architect was not invited to the opening. Great building which all Australians should be proud of.
Simon Roszkowski — Google review
What is there not to love about the Opera House. I attended the Australian Chamber Orchestra performance and set second row to the right. The performance was moving. I marveled at the opportunity to hear instruments from hundreds of years ago. A magical moment. You can feel the history and the artistry as you walk in. The views from the balcony are spectacular.
Kelly Christian — Google review
As a visitor to Sydney, it was thrilling to see the iconic Opera House, and to enter the building to enjoy a show was very exciting.
The vibe around and in the historical building adds to the excitement.
Restaurants and bars were busy, not easy to find a place to sit for a drink, but simply walking around and soaking in the atmosphere while taking obligatory pictures of the building as night settled in, along with views of the tower bridge and ferries in the bay, is a fun way to start the evening.
Lots of stairs, but also wheelchair friendly.
Inside the Opera House, staff are efficient and helpful, and we were ushered to the correct door based on our seats. No videography/photography allowed inside.
If you come all the way to Sydney from elsewhere in the world, make sure to plan for a show at the amazing Opera House.
Marcelle Armstrong — Google review
1. Good construction
2. Maintained well
3. Good for jogging and exercise
4. Beach waves are good.
5. Lot of ships nearby for ferries
6. Great view of the Sydney Bridge
JEYKISHAN KUMAR K — Google review
One of the most beautiful places to visit in the whole world.. if you are in Sydney you should really visit Sydney Opera House.. you can come here by yourself or with your friends and family.. you will have a great time.. the view is amazing.. the location is very convenient.. you can also use public transport as the train station is very close..
Mehnaz Farah — Google review
Sydney Opera's one of those places where you have to stop what you are doing and chill with a cold one in one hand. Hands down one of the most important landmarks in the world. Plenty of restaurants and bars on sight, tourist attractions and of course the Opera house, a marvellous piece of architecture. Love this city, hope to travel back again.
Andres Mariani — Google review
The Sydney Opera House is one of the most iconic landmarks in Sydney and an architectural masterpiece. The location is stunning, situated on the waterfront of Sydney Harbour with stunning views of the city skyline and the harbour bridge. But beyond just being a beautiful building, the Opera House is also a great place to chill and hang out.
The outdoor terrace areas offer a relaxed atmosphere where you can sit and take in the view or enjoy a drink with friends. The indoor bars and cafes provide a cozy and inviting atmosphere to relax and enjoy a coffee or light meal. The atmosphere is always buzzing, with a mix of tourists and locals, giving the Opera House a vibrant energy.
Additionally, there are plenty of events and performances that take place at the Opera House, ranging from classical music to contemporary theatre and dance performances. It's a great place to catch a show and take in some culture. Overall, the Sydney Opera House is a must-visit for anyone visiting Sydney, and a great spot to hang out and enjoy the stunning views and lively atmosphere.
Brian Duy Nguyen — Google review
One of the landmarks in Sydney. Must visit places when you come to Sydney. You will be amazed by the building architecture there.
But the parking rate there is very high. About 20 dollars per hour. So it is advised that you take public transport to the place.
There are few bars and restaurants nearby. So you can get a quick drink when you are around there.
Overall it is a very beautiful and marvelous place.
Neo — Google review
Iconic landmark. To go around to see the Opera House, you can use jet with $60/ adult, water taxi $25/ adult. Or you can try ferry with easy payment just tap visa card $1 you can go around the sea with amazing scenery so highly recommended
Oliu Huynh — Google review
I had a great time spending 1 hour learning about this place by tour guide. I didn't expect too much before I came to Sydney, but this place is a definite icon of Sydney. I can't wait to go back this Sunday to see Miss Saigon here.
AMY MUNNS — Google review
It's a main tourist point in Sydney. We enjoyed drinks, delicious food and clicked many beautiful pictures. The view of Sydney harbour bridge and Opera House is awesome. It has a nice sitting area on the deck of Sydney Opera House. We spent approx three hours here.
Overall it was a wonderful l and memorable evening of my life.😍
Manju Hatgaonkar — Google review
My first visit to the Sydney Opera House was nothing short of enchanting. The architectural masterpiece exceeded my expectations, and the proximity to Sydney Harbour added a picturesque charm. Attending a performance inside one of its iconic venues was a sensory delight, with impeccable acoustics and a captivating atmosphere. The staff's professionalism and the overall organization enhanced the overall experience. This visit was a cultural journey and a testament to why the Sydney Opera House stands as a global symbol of excellence in the arts.
Samuel A. Gyabaah — Google review
The place is spectacular. The building itself is a picture of amazing architecture from the outside. It sit on the shore of the Sidney Harbour with the famous Harbour bridge in its shadow. The jewel of this experience was being able to actually listen to a performance inside. This is once in a lifetime opportunity that is worth every effort of a long flight and overcoming jet lag.
Phyllis Harvey — Google review
Very gorgeous and unique architectural design. Stayed there for more than 3 hours still did not want to leave. Everything is beautiful and plenty of foods and drinks options just below on the ground. Can enjoy foods and drinks with the beautiful view of darling harbour bridge.
Rubina G.C — Google review
It is a beautiful symbol of a human spirit, imagination, creativity, and ability to overcome challenges. It is a people's place. Come and be part of it.
If you want to go on a tour inside the Opera House, buy tickets online to select the day and time available, and then arrive to the Welcome Center, which is located underground on the left side 15 min ahead of your time.
Also, if you can, come on Saturday and hang around until about 9 PM to see a fireworks 🎆
Larisa Fay — Google review
An iconic bucket list venue, my first visit. Beautiful harbour views though super crowded around the venue, plan ahead!
We saw Gatsby at the Green Light, interesting dance moves though lacked a story line and turned a little burlesque/odd in the last few scenes 🤔
Rob Blackwood — Google review
This was my first trip to Sydney, and the Opera House is majestic. It's so much better in real life than any picture you will ever see. We did a guided tour and went back the next day to watch a show. We loved both of these and highly recommend that everyone should definitely take the time to go for the tour and check out a show.
Susan — Google review
Hat's off to Mr.Utzon and the team. It is a breathtaking architectural masterpiece. Its unique design makes it a cultural gem in any city. Inside, the acoustics are impeccable, offering a sublime auditory experience. Highly recommend the guided tour. Then, you can hear about the happy 🙂 and sad 😔 part behind this iconic masterpiece.
The Sydney Harbour Bridge is an iconic structure that opened in 1932 and offers a BridgeClimb & the Pylon Lookout. It is popular among tourists for its view of Sydney from the top of the bridge.
This bridge is super spectacular! Usually in have always looked at bridges as structures serving utilitarian purposes. however, this bridge does not only serve the purpose of transportation but also breaths a new life into this area. It adds to the vibrance and grandeur. The sight of this bridge from the flight itself made my heart full.
Salil D. Pol — Google review
A world 🌎 Heritage landmark bridge. The most attraction of Sydney is the Harbour bridge. It was an amazing experience seeing a bridge on a ferry or cruise. It looks more beautiful after sunset. Luna park is just northern side. I recommend it and will definitely be doing it again. Fantastic time & awesome 🌅 views.
Kirtan Patel (Kp) — Google review
One of Sydney's major tourist places. Going beneath the bridge was a great experience. I am not sure if I can walk above it, I don't have the courage to do so 😀
Hayden Ali — Google review
Sydney Harbor Bridge is a place where you can stroll, walk, cycle or even run with a beautiful view of the city. Along the way we can contemplate the beautiful Opera House. It's a great walk to do in the late afternoon. If you come to the city as a tourist, be sure to take your photo on Sydney's most famous bridge. The view is worth every minute, in addition to the beautiful photos you can take on this wonderful historic bridge in Sydney. Also, don't forget to enjoy the experience and the view, which is the most important thing.
Amanda Maia — Google review
サーキュラーキーからオペラハウスに向かう歩道から見るハーバーブリッジも良いですが、ロイヤル植物園を海岸沿いに歩き対岸から見るハーバーブリッジとオペラハウスとの組み合わせの景色が素晴らしかったです。なお、ハーバーブリッジをウォーキンも楽しく、橋上から見るサーキュラーキー側の景色を鑑賞できます。(2023年10月)
(Translated by Google)
The view of the Harbor Bridge from the walkway leading from Circular Quay to the Opera House is nice, but the combined view of the Harbor Bridge and Opera House from the opposite shore after walking along the coast through the Royal Botanical Gardens was amazing. It's also fun to walk along the Harbor Bridge, and you can enjoy the view of the Circular Quay side from the bridge. (October 2023)
Y. Fujino — Google review
Iconic central landmark of Sydney. Useful as a bridge but also as a marvel of architecture. So relaxing to sit by the Opera House and appreciate the views!
Victor — Google review
Even on a rainy day, the Harbour Bridge offers a captivating experience. While the weather might deter some, the bridge takes on a different charm as raindrops dance on its steel beams, creating a unique atmosphere. Strolling along its pedestrian walkway or admiring it from afar, you'll witness Sydney's iconic landmark in a new light. Embrace the weather, grab an umbrella, and explore the beauty of the Harbour Bridge amidst the rain.
Krittiya Polly Thaidelight — Google review
Spectacular as it is. Both side of the bridge have a good picnic areas. Still be able to find parking spot and walk around. Nice view both day and night. If you have a chance to visit on NYE that’d be the best. You also can get a train to north side which will cross the bridge so you can see a good view as well.
May D — Google review
Wonderful bridge to look at from afar. Takes multiple exits into and out of the city. Can view the bridge from the opera house side and botanical gardens. Has ferry services that can go under.
There is also a bridge climb to see the view from above the bridge.
A great location near the opera house, city and river. A popular location for fireworks, vivid festival, and cruise ship docking.
Natalie Weerasinghe — Google review
Great to walk over. Excellent views of Sydney as well as the Opera House, and both sides of the harbour. Amazing landmark. Has a lift for access from the rocks.
Rainer Winkler — Google review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Sydney Harbour Bridge - An Iconic Marvel of Engineering and Beauty
🌟 A Monumental Landmark:
The Sydney Harbour Bridge is not just a structure; it’s a colossal landmark that defines the Sydney skyline. It stands as a symbol of innovation, engineering prowess, and the enduring spirit of a city.
🌟 Architectural Elegance:
The bridge’s graceful arch, spanning the iconic Sydney Harbour, is an architectural masterpiece. Its striking design, often referred to as the “Coathanger,” is a harmonious blend of aesthetics and engineering ingenuity.
🌟 A Stroll Above the Water:
The bridge isn’t just for motorists; it offers a unique pedestrian walkway. Walking across this bridge is like strolling through history with a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city, the harbor, and the Opera House.
🌟 Pinnacle of Photography:
For photographers, the Sydney Harbour Bridge is an endless source of inspiration. At dawn, during the day, or as the sun sets, the bridge’s silhouette against the sky creates an ever-changing canvas of beauty.
🌟 Climb to New Heights:
For the adventurous, the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb is an experience like no other. Ascend the bridge’s arch for a panoramic view of Sydney that’s both exhilarating and awe-inspiring.
In conclusion, the Sydney Harbour Bridge is not just a bridge; it’s a symbol of Sydney’s indomitable spirit and a testament to the elegance of architectural and engineering excellence. It’s a bridge that connects more than just two shores; it bridges the past with the present, the human spirit with innovation, and visitors with the heart of Sydney. Walking or driving across it is a journey through history and beauty. It’s an iconic canvas for photographers and a thrilling ascent for adventurers. The Sydney Harbour Bridge isn’t just a sight to behold; it’s an experience that becomes a part of your own story. Don’t miss the chance to encounter this iconic marvel of engineering and beauty.
Rām Kırăn — Google review
Apart from the typical views around the harbour and Circular Quay. My favourite viewpoint of this bridge is on it itself along the Sydney Harbour Bridge walk. Our most preferred route is to take the train to Milsons Point Station and exit to the east before walking up the staircase to the road level and walk back to Circular Quay via the Rocks.
Justin Yau — Google review
The most spectacular view of Sydney's entire bay can be appreciated from the top of the Harbour Bridge. There's no doubt that walking across this bridge is an experience you can't miss during your visit to the city. From there, you'll have a breathtaking panoramic view of Sydney's iconic landmarks, including the Sydney Opera House, the bay, and the city skyline. It's a perfect way to enjoy the natural and architectural beauty of this vibrant Australian city.
Guada Franco — Google review
Landmark bridge. Great backdrop and photo motive. Main connection between Sydney and North Sydney. It would be a five star rating if the bicycle lane would not end in stairs on the Northern side. Fingers crossed it will happen eventually.
Andreas Ludwig — Google review
Wonderful bridge to look at from afar. Takes multiple exits into and out of the city. Can view the bridge from the opera house side and botanical gardens. Has ferry services that can go under. Spectacular as it is. Both side of the bridge have a good picnic areas. Still be able to find parking spot and walk around. Nice view both day and night. If you have a chance to visit on New Year's Eve that’d be the best. You also can get a train to north side which will cross the bridge so you can see a good view as well. There is also a bridge climb to see the view from above the bridge.
Chris Gonsalves — Google review
Iconic Sydney attraction and a great engineering feat.
Walk on it, under it or on top of it (booking needed for on top), or take a ferry under it...either way it's a must do in NSW.
Marcelle Armstrong — Google review
Excellent views of the city and of the Sydney Opera house! The bridge was built in 1932 so it definitely feels old but yet is still well looked after and holds the test of time. Would recommend for a quick walk over it. But the bridge climb looks a bit expensive.
T Y — Google review
Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of the most nice view you can see in your life the area there is so perfect and so nice you will spend a lot of time with your friends and family just enjoying the view and seeing the boats around you. You can also use the boats to round in the water and feel how much the area there so perfect for you and for your people who you like to spend time with them.
Leader — Google review
The bridge is so incredibly huge and it made since 1930’s and it has a lot of history.
You can cross the bridge by walk by car by train. But I did walked it go and back and it was amazing experience.
Everyone should try it
Ferhat Yildiz — Google review
The Sydney Harbour Bridge is an incredibly amazing place to visit. Its iconic structure and breathtaking views make it a must-see destination. Whether you're admiring it from afar or walking across its majestic arches, the bridge offers a truly unforgettable experience. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Sydney!
Sakshi Shinde — Google review
More imposing and impressive than photos show. It's a big bridge and driving through it is unique. If you do the bridge walk make sure you start at the North end if you have accessibility needs, there's no way to the bridge walkway from the south if you have a pram or wheelchair that doesn't involve steps. Takes about 20 mins to walk it, easy stroll
Greg Travassos — Google review
It is one of the engineering marvel that you are bound to have your jaws dropped. What a beautifully crafted structure. You loose track of time as you sit watching there and there is no regret to that!
Vishnu Kumar — Google review
Sydney Harbour Bridge is iconic to Australia & Sydney.
The bridge is an amazing structure & you can walk around the harbour & see the bridge from different angles & perspectives.
People can arrange & pay to climb the bridge …..very safe to do with an instructor & you are harnessed to a cable, so you CAN’T fall!
(I’ve included a photo showing a group of people on the top of the bridge).
You can drive across the bridge OR walk across OR catch a train too.
The bridge is spectacular looking during the day & at night.
The bridge is within walking or Ferry distance from:
- Sydney Opera House
- Circular Quay
- Public transport eg ferries, trains, buses, light rail
- Restaurants, cafes & bars
- Shops, including Australian Souvenir shops
- ‘The Rocks’ area where the oldest pub in Sydney is & many other significant buildings, pebbled roads, building facades made from sandstone & cafes, restaurants & bars
- The Sydney Harbour is magnificent with many yachts, ferries, party boats, cruise ships, Jet Boats etc. in the harbour
- Luna Park is an amusement park that is also iconic to Sydney
(I’ve included a photo with the Ferris wheel near the front of the entrance)
Sandy C — Google review
Beautiful place. Always a great time visiting this place. The fireworks during new year’s is so amazing. Also while traveling on the ferry the view of the bridge is very beautiful. Great architecture.
Shishir Sharma — Google review
You can see the Harbour Bridge frequently when you walk around the Sydney CBD. It looks beautiful in the day and at night. For the best view of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House, I highly recommend that you take a boat from Circular Quay to Darling Harbour or Manly or Taronga Zoo, an amazing experience. If you are brave enough, you can climb the Harbour Bridge!
V — Google review
Visiting the Sydney Harbour Bridge was an absolutely unforgettable experience. I was truly captivated by the blend of grand engineering and scenic beauty this iconic structure offers. Here are a few standout reasons why:
1. Stunning Architecture: The design of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, a brilliant feat of early 20th-century engineering, leaves you in awe. Its massive steel arch is both visually striking and a showcase of architectural ingenuity.
2. Breathtaking Views: Walking across the bridge, you're treated to some of the most picturesque views of Sydney, including the Opera House and the vast Sydney Harbour. It's a haven for photography enthusiasts and sightseers alike.
3. Historical Significance: Since its completion in 1932, the Sydney Harbour Bridge has not only been a critical component of Sydney's infrastructure but also a proud symbol of Australia's resilience during the Great Depression.
4. Accessibility and Experience: The bridge's pedestrian pathway allows you to immerse yourself in its scale and splendor. Whether you're walking, cycling, or climbing the bridge, each mode offers a unique perspective and experience.
5. An Engineering Marvel : Learning about the bridge's construction details from the Wikipedia page enhanced my appreciation for this landmark. Constructed over eight years with 53,000 tonnes of steel and the dedication of 1,400 workers, the bridge is a true marvel of engineering.
The Sydney Harbour Bridge is not just a means of crossing the harbor; it's a profound experience that melds architectural brilliance with unparalleled views. I highly recommend this experience to anyone wanting to witness a key piece of Sydney's heart and history!
Milsons Point is a charming suburb situated on the lower North Shore of Sydney, Australia. It's conveniently located just 3 kilometers north of the city's central business district and offers stunning views of the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge. Accessible by train, ferry, or a leisurely stroll across the bridge, Milsons Point provides various vantage points for capturing picturesque images, including unique perspectives from underneath the bridge.
4.5
(215)
New South Wales 2061, Australia
I'll never travel to Port Macquarie without this trip planner again
Sydney Bay is a large and picturesque harbor that offers amazing views of iconic Sydney bridges and buildings. It's well worth taking a sightseeing cruise around the bay to see all of the beautiful landmarks. The bay also has wide beaches, coves, gardens, and parks to explore.
One of the best bays I have ever seen. Excellent balance between natural beauty and real estate. Very proud of my own country.
Sravan Manoj — Google review
Port Jackson is the beautiful place, we know as Sydney Harbour and one of the most spectacular harbours in the world not only on the water but the many walks around the coastline.With its busy water traffic and iconic structures such as the bridge and the Opera House it must be seen from the water
Aakash — Google review
What can I say. Sydney Harbour (Port Jackson) for me personally has and always will be the most picturesque and beautiful harbour in the world.
Although I don't live in this city any longer. I am always in awe of this extremely appealing and iconic harbour.
It can look so different depending upon the time of day. Or when it is seen at sunrise, sunset, rain or cloud. It never fails to show different characteristics when seen under natural and artificial lighting as well as a variety of different weather conditions.
The Iconic Opera House and Sydney Harbour bridge as always are a must see if you are only visiting briefly.
DeeeTeee — Google review
Fringed by Sydney Harbour National Park, this is an area of outstanding natural beauty.
Catch a ferry to Taronga Zoo Wharf, & walk the trail to Bradleys Head.
Watch the ferries commuting across the harbour, enjoy a picnic, & take in the breathtaking scenery.
There are great harbour views from the entire walking trail to Middle Head.
One of the prettiest, most scenic walks I've been on & highly recommended whilst in Sydney.
Also a popular area for fishing & boating.
Helen Bennett — Google review
The International Fleet Review 2013 was a celebration to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the entry of the first Royal Australian
Karen Billington — Google review
It's a great piece of water in which the ferries run.
Lots of great views for photos of:
+ Sydney Harbour Bridge
+Sydney Opera House
+ The Museum of Contemporary Art
+ The City of Sydney
+ Fort Denesion
Gary Matthews — Google review
Crazy Spectacular Views, Beautiful Place to be.
Bilal Ahmed Khan (DrBill) — Google review
The best place for tourism in Australia!!! A great feeling when going on the ferries, standing on the opera house and seeing the Harbour Bridge while in the sea.
Palm Beach is a locality situated in the Northern Beaches subdivision of Sydney, which is positioned in New South Wales, Australia. It lies approximately 41 kilometers to the north of Sydney's central business district and belongs to the administration of the Northern Beaches Council.
Glenworth Valley Wilderness Adventures offers a range of outdoor activities including horse-riding, quad biking, kayaking, and camping. Visitors can explore the valley's diverse terrains such as bushlands, forests, and creeks on horseback. The property is well-maintained with clearly marked areas for walking, driving, parking, and camping. Experienced guides lead scenic rides through muddy tracks and allow trotting and cantering for experienced riders.
I have nothing but positive comments to say about the experience in Glennworth valley. The staff are super friendly and accommodating, special shout out to Robin for his unmatched customer service. He went out of his way to make sure me and my partner had a wonderful time. All the staff are super friendly and there is plenty of activities here and sights to see. Highly recommend and we certainly will be back
Brad Alvarro — Google review
Great spot for camping and an introduction to horse riding. Can get very busy on weekends for the activities. The creek is tidal, so there are times when there’s no water to swim in so check the tide times. Beautiful valley with some nice camping spots. Our horse guide was very good and friendly with lots of advice and made us feel very at ease.
Damon Field — Google review
I wanted to share our experience today at the Giant Easter Egg Hunt, which we attended with our families at 11am. We were also keen to check out the place and book a camping site for later in the year. The tickets included a Lead Pony Ride and a Jumping Castle, but to be honest, there wasn't anything too special about the Egg Hunt or the Jumping Castle. It felt like they didn't really plan it too well. We didn't spot any ponies, just horse rides, which was a bit of a letdown. When we returned from lunch at around 1.30pm. We and along with several other families, were made to wait at the gate for 15 minutes. Eventually, the staff informed us that the Lead Pony Ride was closed for the day. Bit of a bummer, as a lot of us weren't aware of this when we purchased our passes.When we expressed our disappointment, the staff seemed to brush us off, saying it was annoying for them too and that we should take our complaints to the reception. It felt like we'd been misled, and the whole experience left us feeling quite disappointed. Sadly, we won't be coming back here anytime soon.
Naomi N — Google review
Abseiling was a great and wonderful experience.
Sarah would be the best instructor to have. She was clear and crisp on the instructions. Also a very friendly and energetic person. The facility is very safe and carefully built. All harnesses, helmets and ropes are very well maintained. Great choice for beginners. I would recommend this experience to anyone visiting the Valley.
Date of experience- June 2023
Dheeraj Dheeraj — Google review
Had an amazing trail ride with a friend here, we are both quite experience so we were pleased that our guide (April) allowed us to trot and canter at all possible times on the ride. The horses were gorgeous and matched very well to each riders ability. Will definitely be going back!!
rachel whiddett — Google review
The quad biking was great, staff were attentive and really cared for the safety and enjoyment of the group. The horse run was an amazing sight! However, the toilet block at the Big Paddock were a let down. We camped there for 4 days 3 nights and the toilets were dirty and smelly hence the 3 Stars as they are not up to standard. Hope you look into improving this part in the future to provide your guest the 5 Stars experience.
Jen N — Google review
This really is the BEST family camping area. You can totally disconnect from city life, have a real fire, go horse riding, kayaking, swim in the creek and have a warm shower. All one hour from Sydney. Definitely do at least 2 nights, you won't be sorry. Shop on site for coffees and ice creams. The staff are super helpful and friendly
Liv Nix — Google review
We went quad biking with my partner and we had a really nice experience with Gen our guide. He was very friendly , professional, accommodating and attentive to us.
Really recommend to get a tour with him. Thank you we will come back !
Pauline Prechonnet — Google review
We did the quad bike trail and it was amazing. Jordy our guide was incredibly thorough taking us through the safety drills, giving us confidence to take on the track. We wanted more of a scenic tour and he was happy to take us separately on an extended tour rather than to just go mindlessly around the race course. The drive was exhilarating and the bush tracks were so pretty. It was a fabulous bucket list experience. Totally recommend it !
Michelle Markuse — Google review
We have been to Glenworth Valley a number of times over the years for events, horse riding and quad bike riding and we have loved every visit. Some of the negative comments are really baffling, but it’s clear that customer experience is at the forefront of their values as they respond to each one. We have walked all around the property where you can, the land is well laid out and you can clearly see where you are able to walk, drive, park and camp etc. The facilities have always been maintained. The staff are always so friendly and helpful and happy to answer any questions. The girls working with the horses are lovely and the guys running the quad bikes are so great with kids. We look forward to our next visit.
Lauren Penn — Google review
Would not recommend the horse riding experience ESPECIALLY if you’re first timer.
Too many kids. Not enough guides. Too much panic. Not enough instructions/briefing.
One of the instructors (girl in the photo) on Friday 29/March at the 2pm tour was extremely condescending towards the guests and paid no attention to what was going on with the crowd. She also had extremely bad attitude when asked a question from any guest, often providing a “mocking answer”. I witnessed her provide unhelpful/unfriendly comments to both kids and adults alike.
The horses were too close to each other, often causing them to be disrupted/distracted by the horse behind/infront.
Can’t speak for the other activities at Glenworth Valley but the horse riding is a big no.
Elton Wang — Google review
I visited this place on Valentine’s Day. It was such a memorable day. The French guy ( sorry I forgot your name brother ) in the reception was very friendly and helpful and I did a mistake when I booked a campsite but I meant to book a real tent ( triangular ones near the office) . I thanked him so much because he did his best to find me a good one of triangular tent . It was my second visit and it won’t be my last for sure. We did quad biking that was also unreal and satisfying. Georgia was amazing person she is very positive and encouraging and paying so much attention to the people ( riders ). Thanks very much again guys we love you so much 👏
Chris Pekic — Google review
What a day it was! Absolutely brilliant experience! A friend and I arrive 20 mins early, got through the appropriate set up etc, then ripped in.
Our guide Dan was great as he took us on a scenic ride to start the tour, into so free time ripping around a wicked muddy track where we didn't hold back then we lucky enough to go a little further afield.
Dan was epic as a guide as we knew he was all over it and Dan knew we could ride. We came back on cloud 9 and covered in mud after a pronominal tour!!! One thing that 100% stood out to us was if you were a beginner you could still enjoy this and be well looked after however, if you can ride and you listen to you guide you can 100% rip in. a awesome day.
Anita Gal — Google review
Great place, showers and decent enough toilets, horses charge at 5pm and 6am. Lots of room, and we had an open fire 🔥
Nice horse trails and river.
Bit pricy though... could use more shade trees Cost me 105 per night for the family. So knocking off a star for that.
Worth checking out though.
Dustin Cumming — Google review
I had a great time horse riding here. Hisea and Leah were excellent guides, the horses were (mostly) well behaved and responsive, and the scenery was gorgeous. They do a good job catering to people with lots of riding experience, as well as beginners.
Sarah Cobb-Clark — Google review
We love Glenworth Valley for camping, have been twice, this year and last for camping and have had the best time. The staff are very kind and the environment is beautiful! The only issue we had is the amenities, both years. This time we had no hot water and no lights in bathroom (blue gum paddock) the entire time we were there. We asked twice and were told if not enough people then the generator is not turned on. This is kinda disappointing as we paid $300 for 5 nights and expected a wee splash of hot water and maybe a light at night. Apart from that it's is a totally amazing place!!
Kylee M — Google review
We went for a 1.5 hours Quad bike ride and it was awesome. First I wanna say that I was upset when I did the booking online for 4 people and when you see a price of $120 you expect a flat price but when you pay, separate you have to pay helmet hire and administration fee. It was more than $50 extra and it is a lot for me. It is better if you offer a flat price that include the helmet hire and no way that any bank charge 10% for a transaction no even in international transactions. If you said $130 - $140 flat price I am happy to pay.
Second and most important Gen was our guide and he made us forget the price. He really make sure we were safe, we had fun and enjoy the scenic ride and the track time.
Also I would say the staff in general were absolutely friendly and willing to give the best service.
Thank you for the experience.
Andres Piernagorda — Google review
We went quad biking here, and it was so much fun for the whole family. Zoe and Ace were fantastic trainers and very patient. It sounded hard at first, but once we started on the track, it was easy and fun
Going through the scenic trail was magnificent 👌. I saw native birds too. I recommend this for a fun day out! My advice is to wear long pants and old shoes as you may get splashed with mud on the tracks. You can keep your mobile phone with you but no hats or cameras. There are lockers where you can keep your belongings. Spring drinking water is available in the area where the tracks are.
Ranan A.H — Google review
We had a great weekend at Glenworth valley where we did horse riding and kayaking. Their team is super efficient friendly and helpful. It's a great place to spend a weekend and not too far from Sydney. The running of the horses at 4.30 PM is an event not to be missed.
The only bit they could improve is their food services. Their cafe is almost non-existent with limited food items and they close by 2 PM. May not be an issue if you go there with your supplies.
ChenniChetty Natarajan — Google review
We recently took our leadership team to Glenworth Valley for a workshop & some fun! We thoroughly enjoyed it. The staff were all so friendly & helpful. We had a blast doing the abseiling & the laser skirmish.
Our team has asked us to take them back again for the next retreat & we will definitely be back!
Corporate Amazing Race — Google review
Horrible experience - do not come here for horse riding. One of our trainers were extremely condescending, rude, and even lectured and got mad at us when we were all first timers. Trainers got me on the horse and told me NOTHING (I got started on the horse NOT knowing how to stop, turn or guide the horse as a first timer).
Trainers were very impatient, didn’t care much, and when children were panicking and screaming as their horses bolted, trainers saw but didn’t come help.
We had a very large group with lots of children, all first timers, all accompanied by two trainers who were inexperienced, and just chatted amongst themselves more than assisting us (one of them Sophie was nice but the other girl was a different story).
Kids were crying, screaming and even adults were panicking as horses were uncontrollable and trainers didn’t care much.
TO SUM THIS UP:
- no riders felt cared for
- no riders felt safe
- not enough trainers per group
- lack of patience and empathy for first time riders (sorry we weren’t raised riding horses like trainers are, website says is beginner friendly but certainly didn’t feel that way)
Jocelyn Lee — Google review
This was a well needed respite from the city. The glamping experience is definitely my style of camping, everything you need without the stress of pack up/down and has sold me on camping. Location and activities are awesome, we loved horse riding and kayaking, all staff are fantastic and I would certainly return for this reason. We paid quite a lot for site/glamping/activities, the Only hesitation for returning (and I would consider elsewhere instead) would be the 3 shower/3 toilet block used by so many campers multiple times per day , was not cleaned once the entire weekend, it was filthy and this unfortunately diminished an otherwise 5+ star experience. Thank you Glenworth valley adventures, impressive business.
Tia Harrison — Google review
Stayed here over Australia Day long weekend. A beautiful place, kids & grandkids had a great time. Watching the horses move in & out of their resting paddock every morning & afternoon was just so beautiful to see. I found definitely not enough amenities for so many people as it was a bit busy which was expected. They definitely need to have some sort of security at night as just because they say 10pm is quiet time not everyone agrees & do what they want. Some people just don’t have any camping etiquette and set up way to close when there is so much room to space out. Lovely place & will be back but not during any holiday period, maybe just a long weekend
Jo Annetts — Google review
Ground was full of horse poo, very smelly making it extremely hard to walk around unless you want to dirty your feet with horse poo. Because of it, there were SO MANY FLIES flying around. Unless you camp right next to the bathroom, you have to use your car to go to toilet which was very inconvenient. As a suggestion, it would be great idea if camping area is maintained by frequently cleaning poos or just separate the camping area so that horses cannot do poos in the camping area.
It was also very busy so if you want quiet and calming camp experience, this is not the best place.
B L — Google review
Did the quad bike riding with a group of friends. The instructors were super helpful and personable. The quad bike track was awesome and the wet conditions made it possible to drift more than normal. Keep in mind that you spend more time riding to the track than spending time on it so try and maximise your time on the designated track as it goes by quickly. The only bad taste in the mouth was the slow and lack of urgent service at the reception. All in all, it was a good experience and would like to try other activities at this place.
Alexander Wilson — Google review
Misleading Experience - Not a Family-Friendly Campground
I recently stayed at Glenworth Valley Campground with my family, hoping for a peaceful and family-friendly experience. Unfortunately, our stay was far from what was advertised. While the location is beautiful, the overall experience was marred by disruptive behavior.
The campground claims to offer a relaxed environment for like-minded families. However, during our stay from January 6-8, 2024, a few guests engaged in obnoxiously loud partying, reckless ATV riding, and disruptive music. This behavior was linked to a music festival's bump-out, which negatively impacted the peaceful atmosphere we were seeking.
Despite reaching out to the manager, and later contacting the management via email, the issues persisted. The response received acknowledged the problems but fell short in offering a satisfactory resolution. I was told the concerns would be discussed in a debrief meeting, leaving me uncertain about concrete actions being taken to prevent such incidents in the future.
It's disheartening that the actions of a few individuals can tarnish the reputation of an otherwise beautiful campground. The experience was neither relaxing nor family-friendly, and the advertised low-key camping atmosphere was nowhere to be found.
In light of these issues, I regret to say that I won't be returning to Glenworth Valley Campground. The lack of a proper response and resolution to the disturbances highlights a significant discrepancy between the advertised experience and the reality on-site. I hope this review serves as a cautionary note for families seeking a genuinely tranquil camping experience.
Popular zoo with many species of reptiles, free-roaming kangaroos, shows & hands-on experiences.
It's a good place to see and know about Australian native animals. All the tasks are great giving his info about the animals.
From planning your day perspective you can visit in the morning and go with each talk or other option to visit in the afternoon as all the talks repeat in the second half. You can finish everything in half a day.
Better to carry food as the cafe gets busy during weekend lunch hours. There is wheelchair access everywhere and they had maintained the toilets well. Alligator and crocodile talks were the best for me. The play area for kids is good too.
Shishir M J — Google review
We stopped by the Reptile park on the way back to Sydney from Hunter Valley and boy were happy we did the the stop by! Kids simply loved to see so many reptiles, Snakes, Alligator, Turtles, Lizards and many more. Also, the shows were entertaining and informative.
Tips:
- Reach early like by 10am. There are regular shows every 30 min and they are fun and educational as the host explains you everything in detail.
- For photos, would suggest to take package where you can take photos with all four, Python, Alligator, Koala and Owl. Since they allow all family members to be in photo it turns out to be cheaper and fun.
Sachin Shenoy — Google review
We love regularly visiting the Reptile Park with our young kids. We have annual passes otherwise I think it's too expensive for a single visit as we don't tend to stay that long! Our favourite things there are patting the free roaming kangaroos, looking for koalas, the platypus, turtles and alligators and watching the reptile show. The playground if fun too! My kids are too scared of the reptile and spider exhibits as it's dark with scary noises.
It's super quiet during the week when it's not school holidays (unless you are there at the same time as a school group or tourist bus!)
We always bring our picnic to save buying food there, but their chips are good. The staff are always super friendly too and the animals look well looked-after.
Babs Jenkins — Google review
Lots of things to see and learn for kids. Facilities are kept very clean and interesting.
Really appreciate the efforts towards conservation of endangered animals.
And the staff is very friendly and helpful.
Krishantha Ekanayake — Google review
Beautifully kind, I formative and caring staff. They have very well looked after animals with a focus on their well-being before people's entertainment. Facilities are always clean and accessible. We always have a fantastic time whenever we go. Kids2Keeper is also a fabulous experience.
Angela Baldwin — Google review
An amazing reptile park.. with displays that get you close to the animals as well as highly educational talks and displays.
Being able to watch the spiders venom being collected was exceptional.
We visited during the week.. minimal crowd.
Also great playground for the little ones to have a play on and keep active
Col — Google review
This place was enjoyable and educational.
The live demonstrations, particularly those featuring venomous snakes and imposing crocodiles, are executed with a high degree of professionalism and respect for the animals, providing visitors with a thrilling yet educational experience.
The fun experience with the kangaroo especially was the best.
Subin Shrestha — Google review
Good parking. Family friendly staffs. Good thing they have plenty of spaces where family can picnic and bring their own foods inside! Hoping they can add more animals, where kids can freely pet them. But, overall the experience was great! My kids loved the animal show indeed!
Janel Fajilan — Google review
This is one of the great escape spots located just around an hour drive from Sydney. The Kangaroos here are lovely and kids can have fun time feeding them. The alligators here amazing and the number of them that are maintained well in a water body with in park is amazing to watch. The tortoise that we saw was over 100 years and looks so healthy and stunning. There are variety of birds and reptiles here. A place that kids would love and a must visit spot indeed
Gene Lamkin — Google review
Great zoo to see some impressive reptiles as well as some other Australian animals.
Definitely recommend it for a day out with the family.
Make sure you plan your day to see the reptile show and Elvis the crocodile being fed. Ranger Mick is very entertaining while giving some interesting facts about the animals.
The only disappointing thing was the cafe didn't have the best selection of food available. I would recommend packing some lunch or snacks for the day.
Stuart A — Google review
Truly wonderful! The man who does the snake and crocodile show is passionate, knowledgeable and funny! The reptile park is a pioneer in anti venom and deserves your support. Not to mention the kids LOVE it and you see such a good range of Australian animals. We bring anyone who visits us here and they all love it.
Chris Sharkey — Google review
This is a great place. On top of the entrance fee, we payed for a pass to hold a Python, a baby alligator, baby Tasmanian Devils & pat a Koala plus have our photos taken with them. That made the visit worthwhile.
When we went, the kangaroo enclosure was closed due to maintenance.
It was a decent price compared with other zoo prices. We brought tickets online.
It was the week after the school holidays so no too crowded or busy so we went straight in without a line to stand in. The staff are friendly & knowledgeable.
We would recommend a visit.
Chrissy Watkins — Google review
We are yearly pass holders and have been quite a few times. Each time we find something new and interesting. This time we discovered Aussie Ark and also Eric's walk. They took us to different areas of the Reptile Park we haven't seen before.
As always my 7 year old grandson had a great time in the play area.
Anitra — Google review
This is one of the great escape spots located just around an hour drive from Sydney. The Kangaroos here are lovely and kids can have fun time feeding them. The alligators here amazing and the number of them that are maintained well in a water body with in park is amazing to watch. The tortoise that we saw was over 100 years and looks so healthy and stunning. There are variety of birds and reptiles here. A place that kids would love and a must visit spot indeed.
Guru Prasadh — Google review
Absolutely brilliant day out. It's a good thing to contribute to because they also do important conservation work, I loved seeing the turtle conservation ark. The talks are really informative especially the one with the snakes. Lizzie the wombat was adorable and the keepers all do such an excellent job keeping the animals happy and constantly topping up the koalas trees/leaves. You came easily spend 3 hours looking round here.
Lara B (Laz) — Google review
Knowing of my interest in wildlife, Australian friends that I was visiting recommended a visit to the Australian Reptile Park. After viewing the options, we decided on taking the "Behind the Scenes" tour as well as a non-guided tour of the park.
First, I'll say the reptile park wasn't just reptiles, but a collection of animals of all types unique to Australia, even some non-native species. Wallabies, kangaroos, Tasmanian devils, koalas, platypuses, wombats, etc. in well-designed cages complimented the turtles, snakes, lizards, spiders, etc. on display. The park is well laid out and a map is furnished even though it is easy to navigate from exhibit to exhibit.
The self-paced, self-guided tour allowing us to get fairly close to these unique animals was fascinating enough to more than justify the admission charge. The Behind the Scenes tour was expensive, but also well worth the price. In a group of 4, we saw one of Australia's very poisonous snakes and a deadly spider milked, fed alligators and a cassowary, held a non- poisonous snake and lizards, and stroked a little koala's fur. The guide who accompanied us was an encyclopedia of knowledge about every creature we saw, as well as being very as being very personable and considerate. (I'm a slow walker due to arthritis.)
This visit was absolutely the highlight of my stay in Australia. A visit to the park is recommended for anyone who would like to see a snapshot of Australia's unique, amazing wild life in a well designed, comfortable environment. The Behind the Scenes tour is an amazing opportunity to actually interact with some of the animals and to learn about the park's anti-venom program for poisonous snake and spider bites.
Emily Hammond — Google review
I've been to this place twice and my family loved it both times. Great memories of walking around kangaroos, seeing a giant tortoise and seeing so many well looked after koalas. My kids are 4 and 1.5. The playground is also a huge hit with them. The staff are passionate about the animals, friendly and understanding, highly recommend!
Billy Tang — Google review
Awesome place to see kangaroos, wombats, tassie devil, koalas, reptiles and spiders. No queue and has long tables where families can eat. They also have stove where you can heat your food and washing area.
Mark Pangilinan — Google review
I really enjoyed myself at the park. Everyone was super friendly and so easy to talk to ! I took advantage of all the extras that you can do and was not disappointed! Getting up close and personal was the highlight of my visit ! I could not have asked for a better day to be at the Reptile Park. Thanks again !!
Beverly Allen — Google review
Can't say enough about the Australian Reptile Park. The staff are friendly and it's more intimate than a regular zoo. The shows and close encounters (extra $) are all awesome!! Can't pick a highlight but make this stop. We're glad we did!!
Ches Hagen — Google review
Great experience at the reptile park, there was a good picnic area and playground with shade and amazing range of wildlife such as birds, frogs, lizards, alligator, crocodile, koala, wallaby and many more. My favourite was seeing the frogs, they looked so beautiful with their gem like, metallic colouring. It had a forest like area and well maintained with wheelchair friendly paths. The reception building maybe needs updating and a lick of paint, tickets are a little expensive for me personally, otherwise perfect place for all people old and young.
Alice Moon-Star — Google review
I've been visiting the a Reptile Park since my kids were little ... over 20 years! It never fails to provide a fun, interesting and informative day out. I learn something new every time.
The Staff are super friendly and always happy to share their knowledge with you.
Highly recommend for families, especially with young children, but equally so for us animal loving adults.
Rachel
Rachel McLoughlin — Google review
Beautiful family day out spent at Australian Reptile Park.
Clean and spacious environment for animals
Plenty of grass areas and seating for picnic lunch or morning tea.
Animals all looked healthy and both staff and animals seemed more than happy to be there.
Tasmanian devil full of life then collapsed chilling in sunshine. Kangaroos all happy to see you with small bags of food to give. Platypus was easy to find and was extremely active, cute and chubby.
Spent over 3 hours with grandson 4 years and family. Relaxed in lovely quiet environment for morning tea . Great time of Arrival 9am decided upon. Cost probably a little expensive for a family, but can see your monies have been well used keeping this Park beautiful and animals loved.
and just a nice one hour drive north out of city hustle and bustle.
Definitely recommend
Karen Machin — Google review
Great stop for the family. Everything was easy to get to and view. Variety of reptiles and animals was surprising. Kids had a great time. Highly recommend visiting the park. Food was reasonably priced and very good. Thank you for a great day.
Feenix — Google review
The Australian Reptile Park was a great experience for our little one. It’s a great way to spend the day together as a family.
A number of animals form a part of the park including crocodiles, platypus, Koalas, Wallaby, Monitor lizards, Snakes etc. However, I did feel that the enclosures for some of the animals were smaller than expected and hopefully the reptile park will provide larger spaces for these wild animals.
If you are planning to visit, it’s better to pack a picnic than buy from the snack shop as most of the food items are expensive.
However, it was a good day visit from Sydney and provided a lot of insights into the world of reptiles.
When I NEEDED them to complain about the TREATMENT My Grandson and I Endured at the mouth of Hanna The Owner of @The Entrance Historical Carnival, was very Dissappointed that I could find them and they weren't open on a sunday, I Still Teary everytime I think about how she treated me & My Grand baby 😪😡😪😡
Tere Tee — Google review
Very nice views and lots of fun
Loay Najjar — Google review
Nothing outstanding just another tourist town.
vikramaditya saini — Google review
Buzzing place
Mani Sundar — Google review
3.9
(10)
•
4.0
(411)
46 Marine Parade, The Entrance NSW 2261, Australia
Hunter Valley Gardens is a beautiful, picturesque garden that features a variety of different activities to keep everyone happy all year round. The Garden contains many different gardens with walking paths and seasonal events like carnivals.
Over the weekend, my family and I had the pleasure of exploring the gardens together, and let me tell you, it was an absolutely breathtaking experience! Everywhere we turned, there was beauty to behold. The sheer abundance of sights to see was truly remarkable.
I can't even begin to describe the joy and amazement on my son's face as he took in the stunning surroundings.
Bianca Dutra — Google review
Went here to see the Christmas lights display...was not expecting a display of nightmares. Some of the displays and statues are terrifying. I believe it was worse when the sun was still out, parts seems liked an abandoned amusement park.
The biggest issue, pay $32 per adult and was not expecting large sections of the gardens to be fenced off. I was hoping to visit other parts of the garden for the amount paid. Also had rides (although more for children), but that was another cost on top.
I understand there is work to the garden and lights, but this cost is a bit rich for what you get. 2 adults = $64 and can stroll around what is available within 20 minutes. Would feel this price is more justified if the entire garden was open or $20 per person (no more) for just the lights. Yes, when it is dark, there are no other lights around the other areas, but perhaps having it open for the last hours of daylight during the evening session would be practical.
Overall, lights are generally great when it is dark.
Some displays are...disturbing. Overpriced for what you get.
Matthew Lepar — Google review
Great place to visit whilst within the Hunter Valley region, the garden itself is quite large with plenty to explore. At different times of the ywar they host different events and festivals with markets as well as rides. Would definitely recommend visiting here with the family/friends or even on a date
James Isaac — Google review
Went there for the Mega Creatures event. The place is very spacious and easy to explore. Pram friendly, well maintained. My daughter enjoyed all the attractions and rides. Worth the visit.
Jericho Ray Francisco — Google review
This is definitely a place of wonder.
If you are a nature lover then you will enjoy the beauty of all the different plants in any season. But that can be hard with kids, right? Not here! The special events that run in the school holidays keep kids occupied with fascinating things to ignite their sense of wonder, but it is in the lush surrounds of nature that everyone is able to enjoy together.
We had a kids meal and milkshake at the Cafe next to entrance and it was surprisingly good.
The rides were fun but the Ferris wheel was unfortunately out of order - not ideal for the school holidays 🥺 hopefully it will be back up and running before our next visit.
As busy as it was (being Easter Sunday w/ egg hunts), there were still areas out of the way that were quiet and almost secluded still. Great stretches of grass for picnicking were easy to find too.
I would highly recommend the Hunter Valley Gardens to anyone of any age. Just be ready for a fair amount of walking 😉
Elizabeth Sharp — Google review
Claimed to be the largest garden in Australia. There is a free parking lot outside the garden but you will be required to buy a ticket to enter the garden. It is 38Aud for an adult.
There is a snow playground there for the kids to play when we were there. Not sure if it is a winter thing or it is there all year long.
The ticket is just the admission to the garden, if you need to get to any ride in the garden, you will need to purchase an additional ticket which will be 5Aud per ticket.
It is a nice place to walk around and take pictures as the garden is well maintained. Perhaps you can get your wedding pic there as well, as I saw people doing it there.
Overall it is a place to visit in Hunter valley besides all the vineyards.
P/S : bring your own water as the water inside is going to cost a bit
Neo — Google review
Perfect place to hangout with family. The garden is wide and picturesque. Everything around you are just pretty. The views are amazing. Make sure to add it on your list if you’re driving to Hunter Valley.
Jean Paula Gonzales — Google review
I recently visited Hunter Valley Garden and did a photo shoot for my client. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, providing helpful information and suggestions for exploring the gardens. The gardens are visually stunning. Recommended whether you are an avid gardener, nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, these gardens will not disappoint.
FirstLook Stills - Wedding Photographer — Google review
These gardens are absolutely beautiful and quite a large area. It is really nice that there is a division in areas displaying regions of the world. The storybook area is great for kids and those young at heart.
Being that it is Spring the gardens were definitely on display.
The loss of 1 star is due to the gift shop being closed, given that it is a weekend. Also, $36 per adult was costly to self navigate the gardens - especially with people struggling with general cost of living at the moment.
The staff at the front entrance were very nice and welcoming.
Dan Duncan — Google review
We were very disappointed with hunter valley gardens. The place looked like total shambles with Christmas decorations just scattered haphazardly everywhere in pieces. We provided feedback to front desk but all they said was we came at the wrong time and to leave a review. At a hefty price tag of $87 for two adults and one child, the overall impression was that of a tourist trap focused solely on maximizing profits. The only area that looked nice was the Japanese garden.
Corey Walker — Google review
Simply amazing.we have bought night light ticket s.which stars from 5:30 pm to 10 pm.as it is summer we can enjoy both day time and night time lighting spectacular. Kids thoroughly enjoyed the ride .The story book garden , fairytale garden, Alice in wonderland mad hatter Tea party, travel around the world miniature, food court etc.we buy ride ticket using dine and discover voucher. Enough parking.my family loved everything about the garden just its a little bit pricey.
rainer alam — Google review
Wonderful gardens, great for kids too. Well kept and very photogenic. Have been told by locals that it gets VERY busy on weekends and public holidays, particularly in the good seasons. Do wear decent footwear as some of the paths can be a little rough.
Frank Strik — Google review
I have photographed heap of weddings at the Hunter Valley Gardens and it is a really good place to have a wedding and to do wedding photos.
There are a few locations to choose from for your wedding ceremony, from the waterfall location, the lake location, oriental garden or even the wedding chapel. And there is a huge variety of gardens to choose from for your wedding photos. You can easily walk around the corner and get a completely different look to your photos. They make it really easy to get beautiful photos.
Adam Cavanagh (Wedding Photographer) — Google review
The shops were lovely. The food was great. Didn't go into the gardens as it was to expensive. The EV charging point is fine during the day but could do with a few more lights at night.
Phillip (Phil) — Google review
Fantastic spot for kids, gardeners, or anyone who appreciates beauty. A must for anyone visiting the Hunter valley, I was surprised that it was not packed for the spring AMAZE event, however, just made the visit more personal for us. Lucky!
Kristy Snape — Google review
Hunter Valley Gardens is a botanical wonderland that truly captivates the senses. Its lush landscapes, vibrant flora, and meticulously designed themed gardens create a mesmerizing experience. The attention to detail and the tranquil ambiance make it a perfect retreat for nature enthusiasts and children. There are many child-friendly areas with bouncey castles, mazes, a ferris wheel and a carousel. It is a must-visit destination that leaves a lasting impression.
Matthew — Google review
Beautiful place indeed. Heaven for a botanist. A lot of beautiful plants but I visited during Christmas and the original beauty of the garden was faded due to lights placed over the plants.
Bareera Maryam — Google review
It was a magical experience to witness the hunter valley garden. The lights very set on early by 6 pm and the grandeur could be enjoyed more as darkness engulfed the park. The themes were good , a lot of food was available with good restrooms and bins all around. The garden was totally lit by the colourful lights and the ambience was very pleasing. Totally enjoyed the evening with family n friends. A good place to visit the big garden with lake and good parking space
harish br — Google review
We went to Hunter Valley Garden for the Christmas Lights festival, and it was amazing! The decorations and lights were so beautiful that no words or pictures can really show how awesome it was. We had a great time exploring the garden and checking out the cool rides, tasty food stalls, and cute gift shop. It's a fantastic place to visit with friends and family, and I think kids would have a blast there too!
Chaitali Kulkarni — Google review
Christmas lights spectacular! A great walk-around with the kids. Lots of options for food on site (you can't bring your own food) and rides (6 tokens for $30, most rides 1 token per person. Some rides adults must ride with child). Parking is easy.
Inspired — Google review
Really pretty grounds, seen the Christmas lights which were really nice. Definitely better at night time seeing everything light up. Plenty of food options in the picnic area. Toilets were really clean. Gift shop was decent.
Tauras Koreiva — Google review
The gardens are beautiful with lots of different kind of landscapes and flora. The storybook area is a great place to go with kids (but also without kids). The garden itself is quite large with plenty to explore. At this moment the Christmas Lights event takes place in the evenings which I think would be great to visit.
Arnaud Kuik — Google review
The Hunter Valley Gardens light show is a captivating experience that transforms the gardens into a mesmerizing wonderland. The vibrant and well-coordinated light displays enhance the natural beauty of the surroundings, creating a magical atmosphere. The variety of themes and colors add depth to the overall visual appeal, making it a delightful outing for families and anyone seeking a festive ambiance. The attention to detail in the light arrangements creates an immersive and memorable spectacle. Overall, it's a must-visit event for those looking to embrace the enchantment of the holiday season.
Peterson House is a Hunter Valley winery that offers an incredible selection of sparkling wines. The property also features a restaurant and wedding venue.
We were in the area specifically looking at wedding venues and popped into the Peterson House restaurant. Delicious food, well presented and excellent service. There was abit of a wait for the main courses due to a mix-up which was acknowledged by the service team ( always a good point when restaurants own up to a mistake) and rectified by way of complimentary desserts. Thank you for a superb luncheon, and anytime we are in the neighbourhood, we'll be popping in again.
Neil Robinson — Google review
Beautiful restaurant and great tastings for sparing wines. Love their merchandise too.
Many gluten free options. I loved they had the Tasting option so you could have a bit of 4 main meal options, perfect for indecisive people 😝
Loved it all!
Leigh and Ben Williams — Google review
The most perfect wedding venue! We got married here in October in the Chapel & enjoyed our reception in the marquee! The venue and staff is just absolutely perfect! They helped in setting up all our decor exactly how we wanted it and ensured it was all run so smoothly. They were so easy to work with from Enquiry, to booking, all the way up until the big day which helped take a lot of stress off.
It was such a hot day on our wedding, but it wasn’t a worry as there’s air conditioning in both the chapel & marquee so it didn’t even affect our day or guests at all!
We knew straight away this is where we wanted to get married & so glad that we did!
Chelsea Mackaway — Google review
Emailed these guys night before for a Tuesday morning booking for 7 in December and they rang next day (early) to confirm booking- now that's service! Honestly did not expect a reply. Food was tasty, well cooked. Restaurant was spacious and had great views of their vineyard. Kids were given colouring sheets and pencils. Service friendly and efficient!
KK — Google review
Excellent position with ample parking and wine grape garden. Professional & helpful waiter / waitress. Best Pork Chop we've ever had ! Really beyond our expectations for a restaurant opening on 27th Dec 2022. Unfortunately, there was no wine tasting available on that day.
Andy W — Google review
Kane and I had our beautiful special day at the end of august, and what a venue! We are so thankful for the choice of this stunning venue, it was absolutely perfect! We were extremely lucky of the most beautiful day! Peterson house was really easy to work with and fast at replying to email. Like any venue there is certain rules and regulations to follow, but Peterson house was easy to get the list of the dos and dont’s.
Thankyou for allowing us to have the most perfect day at Peterson house. Cannot recommend the wedding staff that worked the day of our wedding enough, they were amazing
26.08.23
Sarah Mcnaught — Google review
Our group of 6 thoroughly enjoyed our breakfast. The service was wonderful and so was the food & champagne. Serving size as just right. Would have loved bread options as prefer sourdough.
AJ — Google review
Nice winery at Hunter Valley, the country of wines. The wine tasting cost only 10 A$ and you choose 6 different wines, however they gave us 10 types to taste. Is a nice touch that are giving cheese, crackers and cold water.
Born to travel — Google review
The minute we saw the Chapel at Peterson House we knew it was where wanted to say I do. Not only was the venue absolutely gorgeous, but Lucy, Haylee, Naomi and all the staff went above and beyond to ensure that every aspect of our wedding was nothing short of perfection. They were professional, accommodating, and a joy to work with from start to finish. Our guests were blown away by the beauty of the venue and the seamless flow of the event. We couldn't have asked for a more magical day. Thank you, Peterson House, for helping to make our wedding dreams a reality – we will cherish the memories made at your venue for a lifetime!
Skye J — Google review
Amazing view, fantastic wine tasting experience, Stuart was very friendly and knowledgeable. Highly recommend! The sparkling wine was wonderful!
Wine tasting is held out on the deck, a lovely environment, relaxed and open.
MD M — Google review
Came here for breakfast, food was pretty good. Service is terrible. We tried the poppy seed bagel. 10/10, absolutely love it. The mushroom dish was packed with rich intense flavour, but lack of texture, I’d give it a 8/10. The lady that served us to our table didn’t bring us drinking water, yet when another 2 separate group of Australians came in (I guess), she served and pour them drinking water. For mine, I had to walk over to ask, and she came with a bottle of water and simply left it on our table. So, in short.. Unless you’re a local, skip this place.
Clement Lim — Google review
Beautiful rustic venue 😍 this place is well known for its restaurant so we had high expectations. As you can see from my photos the presentation was 👏🏼 the flavours were also pretty good. Our service was great she was very patient and gave us water, etc. food was served super quick too. I didn’t really like the coffee sorry 🫣 the only reason I didn’t give it a 5 is because we probably won’t be back. It was nice to try but the breakfast menu was a bit limited and as a millennial I’d like to see some avocado options 😉 it was also really busy (because it’s so popular) so it was LOUD and I was a bit hungover (lol) soo not ideal. In saying that though, despite how busy it was we were never left sitting there waiting for service or felt rushed to GTFO. 4.5/5
Christina F — Google review
Excellent location and lots of parking available. Staff were super friendly and the meals were lip smacking good. Lovely view and location. Have been there a couple of times and never been disappointed. Highly recommended.
A must visit when in Hunter Valley.
Raj Achariya — Google review
Enjoyed a very pleasant lunch at Cuvee. The view, service and meals made this special occasion a memorable one. The menu has a good mix of choices that should suit most and serving sizes are on the generous side. Remember to save space for dessert🥲
Ian Jones — Google review
We had a great breakfast and morning here. Food was great. My only suggestion would be to either decrease the amount of food on the Bubbly breakfast or in crease it a little and make it a share plate with the option of 2 glasses of bubbly. Not a negative but really big portions. Thanks for a great experience and we will be back
Troy Te Nana — Google review
Came here as a breakfast compliment for Balloon Aloft. Food was edible enough. Nothing special at all but I guess that’s because they had to cook in bulks considering the order they received for the day and the 3 menu options provided.
Adelaide Khayad — Google review
Came here for breakfast and the food and ambience is a real treat. Peterson House is a special place tucked in a vineyard, and it's amazing! What's just as great is the friendly staff. They really take care of you, making you feel welcome and valued. In a nutshell, if you want good food, a charming setting, and friendly faces, this place in the vineyard is a winner!
P.S. If you're a fan of chai lattes or looking to discover a comforting beverage, the Cinnamon Chai Latte is a must-try!!
Priya Shukla — Google review
Dishes we sampled were great!!! Balmain bugs and fried buratta are highly recommended.
The service was awesome. Staff looked after us really well!
Maan Reyes — Google review
Enjoyed a delicious champagne breakfast in this beautiful spot after our balloon flights, with free coffee and the option of free wine tasting after. Picked up a couple of bottles of sparkling rosé and bubble bath as gifts. Great service all round. Thank you Peterson House
Christopher Jones — Google review
Wow. This was one of the best experiences. You have to book the Gelato and wine experience. Amazing service. The flavors are incredible. Have been to a few wine pairings this is definitely a must do/ try
Thirusha Chetty — Google review
A delightful spot for breakfast. Following our two-hour drive from Sydney, the meal here was a wonderful start to the day. The bubbly breakfast was thoroughly satisfying, served in a beautiful and spacious setting.
CANSU B. — Google review
We had a very tasty breakfast with a bubble at the Peterson House after the flight with Ballon afloat! Highly recommend an amazing experience from start to finish.
Silmara Hegerty — Google review
The place is just nothing but amazing. We did wine and gelato tasting, and i loved the service. My friend had her birthday and we were also having lunch, we hadva free wine glass for her birthday, she loved. They also did a happy birthday deco in her plate. Their food is the best
Rejoice Jumburu Sithole — Google review
We had a wonderful bubbly breakfast at Peterson House. All staff were very welcoming, friendly and accommodating. They were kind to let us move to an outdoor table after we had already been set up and served drinks inside. It was a lovely day and we preferred an outdoor table. The food was delicious!! Definitely recommend.
Madeleine — Google review
Nothing to complain, just perfect.
location : Good
environment : Good
Service: More than a GOOD
Food: Yummy
price: $$ Good value
The Blackbutt Nature Reserve is a 182 hectare reserve in the suburbs of Newcastle, Australia that features walking trails, playgrounds and picnic shelters with free electric barbecues. The main attraction at the reserve are the animals living there, including koalas, emus, wallabies, wombats and peacocks. The boardwalks make it easy to take kids on walks around the enclosures and see these animals up close.
We’re big native animal fans and this is a great, free park with great access to native animals. There’s paid parking but access to the park is free.
We loved the emus, wombats, kangaroos and bird exhibits. The staff are friendly and there’s a great picnic and grass area with barbecues and play equipment to bring the family. We spent about an hour there and would recommend it to anyone in or visiting Newcastle.
Adam Hendry — Google review
Beautiful place unfortunately no regulations, so lots of screaming kids disturbing the poor animals. Would love to see more signs or see parents teach their kids to be quiet. A few of these animals are nocturnal... Do better! Worth a visit regardless.
Florencia Lugones — Google review
Lovely place for kids to see and enjoy Aussie animals. Plenty to do and see, could be an all day activity, if you bring a picnic lunch or cook a bbq. Busy on weekends, but quiet during the week. There is a playground there too. The boardwalk where you can view the animals opens at 10am. It’s $13 per day for parking (or $4 per hour).
Mary-Anne Monckton — Google review
Canadian traveller here. I was very pleased with this nature walk! Plenty of parking and picnic areas to eat with families. I just loved how the peacocks were freely roaming around and minding their own business. The koalas were one of our highlights. This is a must see when visiting the area.
This food — Google review
No entry fee, car park $8 for 2 hours. Absolutely loved it, it wasn't too busy being a week day and we took our time in every single enclosure. Animals seem very well looked after. My favourite was the wombat with the bonus of seeing them first outside eating and then at the end of the tour in their "tunnels" sleeping! Great experience, would definitely recommend.
Catarina Loureiro — Google review
A delightful place to emerse yourself in nature. Guided by the well maintained walk way you can see a good variety of indigenous Australian animals and fauna. There are plenty of sheltered picnic areas and fantastic playground facilities for the kids. 🙂🙂🎂
K C. — Google review
What a great area, always drove past to/from work but never knew what it was. Great for kids parties, large grass area, playground and BBQ areas. Parking is $14 for the day but entry to see animals is free so well worth it. Also lots of bushwalks, get amongst it!
mick gray — Google review
A nice place to hangout for picnic or small parties. Kids will love the place as there is a small walking trail, which goes through a lot of wildlife like owls, lizards, peacocks, birds of various kinds on display.
siddharth khandelwal — Google review
We were pleasantly surprised to find a free native wildlife display. The birds were amazing and were so close. The peacocks were particularly enjoyable. We've never seen such big ones! They were not afraid to come quite close to us and put on a lovely display of their feathers. We wished we could have gone on a longer walk as they looked good but my father was not feeling well. They have very good toilet facilities, the kiosk was open until 3pm and the lady who runs it I'd very friendly. Would love to go back
Susanne Carter — Google review
Car park is $4 per hour or $13 per day. There is plenty of grass area and picnic shelters. The picnic shelters can be reserved for private functions. There is also a play area for kids. Loved seeing the peacocks roaming around. Entry to see wildlife is free. The path to see wildlife is pram friendly. The kids loved it!
Benjamin Lui — Google review
top! walking trails, picnic area, and wildlife exhibit - all free!! parking is a li'l expensive tho 4$/hr
AJ — Google review
Visited on a weekday, so not busy at all and very easy to find a car park. Good amenity facilities and great playground and picnic area. Absolutely a great place to spend some quality time with your kids and family. Highly recommend, will come again!
Steven C — Google review
Good place to take the whole family with play ground, walking trails, electric barbecues, park benches and tables, paid under cover shelter and even a kiosk (closed when we visited on a Tuesday). Nicely maintained and kept clean. Entry is free but there are parking metres out in the parking lot with minum fee of $5. There's a duck pond located just after the well maintained lawn near the entrance with peacocks and wild turkeys roaming the grounds even out in the car park area. In the enclosed animal enclosures there are wallabies, kangaroos and emus.
Nitro Cars — Google review
The last time I had been here was close to a decade ago. The amount of effort put in to upgrade the facilities and cleanup the water quality in the main pond is phenomenal. Highly recommend this place for eating a takeaway lunch or just quiet contemplation during the week. Not so quiet on weekends or holidays.
Steve Dad — Google review
What a huge and wonderful place for family barbecues and picnics and areas to play.
The animal enclosure was such a surprise...
Sadly, we were let down by the absence and clarity of signage for walking. We would come to the t junction and sign showing 2 directions not 3 and placed in a funny spot.
We have hiked many parks and we were dismayed to get lost at this one and walked right outside onto the main road to get back to our car.
Meg Emerton — Google review
Came across this wonderful reserve today and so glad we did. It's beautifully maintained, with many walking tracks, sheltered seating areas, alongside BBQ areas, clean restrooms & various shelters that you can book in advance. The well constructed walkways take you amongst the trees, where you can see an amazing variety of animals. At the pond, we stopped and were thrilled to see many tortoises, trying to camouflage themselves amongst the underwater habitat. There is also a well constructed playground with lots of tactile activities for the kids.
A perfect spot for the whole family! 🙂🙂🙂
K C — Google review
Really lovely peaceful place to go if you just want a brief outing, want to stretch your legs and have a low key animal spotting experience.
Louise Hambly — Google review
A wonderful place to visit. Beautiful scenery, wildlife and overall facilities. The only issue is paid parking which at $4 an hour is pretty pricey. As well as that the meters don't work. So unless you're prepared to put another app on your phone, it's a problem. Ok so I'm a Little bit tainted because when our kids were young it was always free to come here and I have many happy memories from those years. Difficult for people struggling with the current cost of living issues to now bring kids out for some fun and adventure in the bush when Newcastle Council is money grabbing with metered parking.
Michael Rogers — Google review
Really good spot, fun for the whole family. Got to see some amazing peacocks and emus which was really cool. The opening times could be a bit earlier, overall it was a solid walking track. It was peaceful and quite pretty, you can see things such as Rosellas, Cockatoos, Peacocks, Wallaby’s, Emus and more. Good place :)
Esp3n_. — Google review
Great variety of native animals (koalas, emus, kangaroos, a wide variety of birds etc). Amazing that this is free entry - many other reserves would charge for such a collection of animals.
The Newcastle Memorial Walk is a pathway that overlooks the cliffs of Strzelecki Headland with amazing views of the ocean. The pathway is made up of steel sculptures that commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Australian soldiers who fought in World War I.
Nice view from the elevated path. Spectacular view of the sea, beach, city. If you get a chance check the rain approaching over the sea.
Pallab Ganai — Google review
Popular little spot to visit. Especially in school holidays. Had to park a couple of streets away and walk up the hill to it. Great views and beautiful place to walk though. Worth having to park far away.
Catherine Owers — Google review
Great scenic walk high up along the cliff. Park at the top can be limited. If you can walk up, plenty of carparka by the beach side
Walt N — Google review
Beautiful scenic walk along the coast.
The only down side and not advertised is that there are stairs after about 450 Meters of starting and prams cannot go beyond that.
A big disappointment but never the less beautiful walk.
Nitish Mahajan — Google review
Fantastic walk along the cliff tops. Excellent views to sea (pun intended)
The wind was so strong today it ripped my wig off. If I don’t get it back there will be hell to pay.
Ok Google — Google review
If you’re visiting Newcastle, you should check out this beautiful coastal walk which showcases this stunning coast line, plenty of water stations and views along the way. Can get steep at some points along can get busy so pick your times. I would recommend early morning.
Ritchie William — Google review
Park your car here, you can walk on both sides, one side is the city view and the other is the sea view, you must come here to enjoy this view, you can walk up to the other end to see the sea.
Great place to take pictures for your girl.
It is very easy to park here, there is a small parking lot and there are many places on the road.
Hyman — Google review
The walk is wonderful , the ocean view is so impressive, the waves are so big and I can see rainbow. Also spot some dolphins in distance. Highly recommended
Kai Shueh — Google review
Stunning bit of coastline! 🌊 There are some stairs, but it's worth it.
This walk reminds me of the Bondi to Manly walk in Sydney near Dover Heights, epic cliff views that spill out onto a beach.
Great history info along the Anzac Bridge. And have a coffee at Swell at the end! ☕
Stacey Hunter — Google review
Easy walk with spectacular views. If you park in the carpark walk up the pathway to get to the top then finish the walk down the stairs.
Bali Mystique — Google review
Beautiful and short walk to take in the views of the ocean and the city. We got there at sundown and it was a beautiful sight to see the city lights. Highly recommend.
Derrick Yap — Google review
Visited there on a bright sunny day. Awesome sea view - full of mist, cold breeze.
Kapil Gupta — Google review
Nice walk, if you’re in Newcastle you should definitely make time to fit this in and enjoy the sea breeze why walking along the boardwalk. If you have time you can also head down to the beach and explore some of the nearby cafes etc
Kevin Bugeja — Google review
Nice walk from Scott St, slightly hilly.
Amazing views.
Shepherds Hill cottage sits on top of the hill with historical battlement lookout perched on edge of cliff.
Parking out front if coming by car and apparently close to start of Memorial Walk which I will do for another day.
Sadly graffiti on the outpost stops this pristine site from being 5 star.
Meg Emerton — Google review
I had the privilege of visiting the "New Castle Memorial Walk" in NSW, Australia, and it left a profound impression. The breathtaking coastal views from this soaring bridge were absolutely captivating, providing a poignant backdrop to the memorial's significance. The walk itself is a testament to the region's rich history and the sacrifices of those who served. The well-maintained pathway, informative plaques, and serene ambiance made it a moving and educational experience. It's a must-visit for anyone seeking a blend of natural beauty, history, and reflection, and it stands as a poignant tribute to the past.
Madan Kumar Adhikari — Google review
Nice walk with photos and information on the Anzac memorial. I did the entire coastal walk from Nobbys Lighthouse down to Merewether beach - most of the walk has fantastic views, similar to most other coastal walks on the NSW coast. Highly recommend this walk.
Buka A. — Google review
Newcastle Memorial Walk is a poignant journey that seamlessly weaves together natural beauty and historical reflection. As you ascend the elevated path along the coastline, the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean unfold, creating a serene backdrop that complements the solemn purpose of the walk.
The memorial plaques that line the pathway serve as poignant reminders of the sacrifices made by Australian soldiers in various conflicts. Each plaque tells a unique story, contributing to the collective narrative of bravery and commitment to duty. The juxtaposition of the serene coastal landscape with the weight of history creates a contemplative atmosphere, inviting visitors to reflect on the profound impact of war.
The architectural design of the walk is not only functional but also harmonizes with the rugged coastal environment. It's a thoughtful integration that enhances the overall experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in both nature and history. Sunset transforms the scene, casting a warm glow on the ocean and adding an extra layer of beauty to this already significant memorial.
Whether you're seeking a peaceful stroll, a connection to history, or simply a moment of reflection, the Newcastle Memorial Walk offers a multifaceted experience that resonates with locals and visitors alike. It stands as a living tribute to the courage and sacrifice of those who have served, set against the backdrop of Newcastle's stunning coastal vistas.
Ezaz Ansari — Google review
Such a meaningful and beautiful place. The memorial walk oversees not just the rugged coast but the city. What a dignified way to commemorate the contributions of the deserving people.
Tan Khoon Kiat — Google review
Beautiful and respectful walk. Bonus was seeing a pod of dolphins. Heaps for parking at the bottom end but you need to climb quite a few stairs. Park at the top end and you go do the majority of the walk and best views without any steps making it accessible. Downside is limited parking close by but there are two disabled parks.
Guided tours, festivals & a cafe at a storied penitentiary that operated from 1848 to 1998.
Visited Maitland Gaol at around midday on a Sunday. Parking easily out the front. Self guided and guided tours also available. We decided on the self guided tour which was $19 for an adult. Estimated to take around 90 minutes (however it is at your own pace so you may be a little quicker or slower) it took us around 2 hours. There is a phone application you can download which gives you history and information on each point of interest with there being around 24 in total. Overall a great experience and definitely worthwhile making a trip for.
Adam Avery — Google review
Pretty interesting place to visit. You can use your NSW Discover voucher. The self guided experience is good, you do it on your phone after downloading an app. I enjoyed the visit, but I wish they made the direction of the tour clearer, as I got confused on several occasions. Signposting of the tour direction needs to improve, but this place is certainly worth a visit if you are in Maitland.
Scott D — Google review
This was a mix between serious ghost hunt and theatrical horror house.
The atmosphere at night is amazingly solemn and creepy.
We were told some interesting history on the tour. I wish I had done a little more research into the history before the tour so that I could have put myself into the experience more.
Tanya Chapman — Google review
Great location to visit.
Did a self guided audio tour that can be completed with an app on your phone to do it at your own pace, so much to explore.
Went with a small child and there was enough to keep her entertained for the time we were there.
I would like to see in the future more stories of inmates and general history around on posters like in the chapel.
Ample bathroom facilities throughout, if you are sensitive to mould perhaps bring a mask as it is a little bit mouldy (to be expected in a 150 year old historical building)
Lis Anne — Google review
We really enjoyed our visit to the gaol and would go back again but take the kids. Using an app you get some great commentary but I'd recommend taking headphones 🎧 !!! so that you can listen in peace without having to have your phone on loud speaker 🔊 . Overall an interesting experience and insight into the world of jails.
amy watson — Google review
I came here years ago to watch a prison movie in the exercise yard but only just recently did a self guided tour. It is done through an app which is easy to navigate, but make sure you bring some earphones. Not sure what those without a smart phone would use if they don't do a guided tour. I would love to go back to do a ghost/night tour. Very cold so make sure to rug up in winter.
Kellie Neal — Google review
Absolutely cracker of a place! Great storys! I want to come back to do the ghost tours!
G “Lovey” L — Google review
After living in the city now for 30 years and passing this historic treasure SO many times, I have finally had a tour. I enjoyed it. Although only a partial tour with many more available, to see the conditions prisoners had to endure, and contributions to Australian and local history is amazing. Local or not, a visit is essential. It is well maintained and operated by our council and friendly and knowledgeable staff
Alan Hope — Google review
What a waste of money. We did the night tour. Young children crying and wanting to leave. People with torches in your face. Nothing too exciting or interesting. People filming for a paranormal experience with fake noises in the background.
Tracey Roben — Google review
A great experience for all the family. We had age range 5-60+ and all enjoyed themselves. Interesting, informative and eerie. Scan QR code at reception to access the audio tour to listen in your phone as you walk through the goal at your own pace. A good rainy day activity.
Caramello Koalie — Google review
Was an awesome experience, highly recommended. Will definitely go back to do one of the other tours they offer.
Risstafa — Google review
The Gaol is breathtaking. The details history- the rooms and the memories are amazing to view . It’s a must place for history buffs
Kanish Majumdar — Google review
Fun, interesting, informative, humbling, entertaining, tiring - good for the kids 8yr+ great activity way more than I expected and historically awesome! 👌 thanks Charlie
Ace Mouzer — Google review
Did an organised tour today. It was excellent. The knowledge of our guide was really good and made our tour very enjoyable.
Denis Church — Google review
Maitland gaol was a great experience with a great audio tour from your own mobile phone. I was able to stream this straight to my cochlear implants and also have the transcript to read as well for full accessibility. We’re looking forward to coming back when we can tour the towers.
Jo Seaby — Google review
Good old country jail, worth a weekend visit. I took the self guided audio tour, which took me around 2.5 hours to visit all the exhibit areas, listen to all the accompanying tracks and really immerse myself in the whole thing. The entire place is very well maintained and was not too crowded, though a pair of headphones is recommended. While there, I saw one of the guided tours where the tour guide was animatedly explaining the history behind one of the exhibits; I liked her passionate presentation and will definitely book myself in on one of those tours for the next visit. Parking was not an issue and the town itself had quite a few dining options, so overall it was a good day out for the family. The only thing that can be improved a bit is the map they provided for the self guided tour. Even though all the exhibit areas were well marked, following the route sequentially based on the map was pretty challenging, at least to me on my first visit.
Oakvale Wildlife Park is a 25-acre attraction that offers an array of fun activities for all ages. Visitors can interact with animals such as kangaroos and koalas by feeding them. Apart from the wildlife, there are other adventures to explore like tractor rides, reptiles, and birds. Additionally, the water play area is perfect for cooling down on hot days with its big splash bucket suitable for everyone. The park is well-maintained with plenty of green grass and not too dusty.
One of the best places to visit if your in Port Stephens or on your way out as a day trip. It works out perfectly if your check out is 10am as the shows start around 10:45am so plenty of time to make it. The grounds are well looked after and the animals look well cared for. Grab a feed bag or two as this will give you more up close and personal attention from the baby farm animals that roam the park and the kangaroos. There is a couple of camels too, which are very friendly. The splash park is an awesome addition to the park. A great place to cool off after walking around and the kids didn’t want to leave. There is a cafe for snacks and sandwiches but they have no problem with you bringing in a packed lunch. Great value for the day and definitely something we would like to experience again. We were here in February just after the school holidays and the crowds just right. Great park, great staff great experience!! They also accept discover vouchers which is a bonus 👍🏽
david daniel — Google review
Fantastic for families. Well maintained. Great caffe with good quality food and service. Informative for each of the exhibits was excellent. The Koala inform show was very enjoyable. To be able to walk amongst the Kangaroos was very good. We had family from the UK who loved it. All in all excellent value and well worth the visit. Traveling with the Starrs give it a 5 rating..
Travelling with the Starrs — Google review
Pretty good fun for the family. Plenty of things to do and adventures for all ages, reptiles, tractor rides, birds and kangaroos. It gets quite warm on hot days with only a few shaded areas. To top the afternoon off and cool down they have a great water play area with big splash bucket suitable for all ages.
Kieran Harvey — Google review
This us a really wonderful place to visit for anyone but particularly for families. It just keeps growing and adding new features like the water play area. Was impressed to see the new paths which made for a nice walk around the path. The interaction with the animals is a key feature for enjoyment.
Revital Youthspan — Google review
Friendly and informative staff, we went on a weekday so it wasn’t too busy or crowded. It’s a medium sized park so there isn’t too much walking to do but there is still plenty of animals to say hello to. The staff seems passionate about the animals and they seem very well taken care of. We even got to hop on the last tractor ride of the day that takes you around the park and the lady who drove the tractor gave plenty of information and facts about the animals as we drove by. You can feed the animals and purchase food for them $2 a bag which is plenty!
Mal D — Google review
It’s a great weekend gateway for the whole family. The best part is kids love to feed animals with their hands and touch them as well. And there is a compact splash 💦 pad for kids. If you forget to bring your own costume, you can buy it from there to instead shop.
Price wise is also reasonable -
Adult- $37
Kids- $21
Parul Sharma — Google review
Loved this place , absolutely fascinating. I never knew I could have Soo much fun with animals and get all up close and personal with them. I could feed the baby lambs and goats and baby cows and Fully Grown Camels 🐪🐪🐪. There were plenty of wild ducks, wallabys and kangaroos who weren't afraid of humans and were happy to be fed and petted. I also milked the cow and it was amazing. The highlight would probably be the tractor ride which I recommend everyone to do at the start of their trip as it gives a full view of the park and what it has to offer. There were also koalas, snakes, alligators, lizards and all you'd expect Australian fauna to offer. My favourite animal was the CAMEL. They are such confident and dominating creatures who are 100% sure that humans will feed them.
Noorullah Khan — Google review
Park was clean and tidy. Plenty of green grass and not too dusty. Great range of animals. The kids loved it. Good size to spend an hour or two walking around it. Lots of tables around the play area, came in handy when it rained.
Shane White — Google review
The best experience for my partner, our 6 month old daughter and myself. We are from Sydney and it’s the first thing we were told to try. Purchased the tickets online which was so easy to do and arriving was quick and easy.
The staff were so incredibly lovely and we loved walking around and feeding all the animals. Our daughter especially loved the cows and goats.
Such an amazing place to visit and spend the day at. We will be returning again in the future and exploring the park area when our daughter is a bit older!!
Sarah Williams — Google review
I loved this place so much!!! The animals seem really well taken care of which is just such a joy to see. Pretty expansive area. Amazing opportunity to interact with kangaroos in a free-range sector. The koala sanctuary was quiet but so lovely. And the VARIETY of animals was WILD!! I screamed when I saw the camels. CAMELS GUYS!!!!
ZTWJ — Google review
Enjoyed a great day out there with our 8 grandkids. Everyone had a good day (adults included). It even has a water play area after a long hot day. It was a great way to cool off b4 we went home. It has a party room, & bbqs. Shaded seating in water park & picnic tables with umbrellas for shade/shelter lol. Pricing is good for what you get. Would definitely recommend. Well done to all their team 👏
Angela Jordan — Google review
Oakvale Farm is a delightful blend of wildlife sanctuary and children's park. Beyond the interactive experience of patting and feeding animals, the park features diverse play zones, including a water park tailored for kids. Their on-site restaurant offers a variety of both cold and hot dishes, from sandwiches to burgers, all complemented by coffee brewed from Red Parrot Coffee Beans.
An engaging tractor ride offers a cruisy tour around the park. A standout attraction for me was the Southern Cassowary—a truly captivating and unique bird. With ample free parking available, anticipate spending more time here than initially planned. It's an experience both kids and parents are sure to cherish.
Blessing Matore — Google review
Great day out. We drove up from Gosford and it was worth the drive. Staff were all very nice and friendly. The cafe food was reasonably priced. My kids loved bottle feeding the goats. Animals had plenty of space to roam, and seemed happy enough. My kids absolutely loved the splash pad and was great on a 32 degree day. Tractor ride was great. Would definitely recommend. Only downside was some enclosures (koala) etc, had high fences but no little steps or viewing windows for little kids to see them. Apart from that, had a fabulous day and will be coming back for sure.
Jessica Singh — Google review
Too expensive for what it is. This is more like a animal farm than wildlife park. The kids will enjoy the interaction with the farm animals and feeding the lambs. We felt the lamb were left hungry to make sure they come to the people at feeding time. The animals seems to be quite used to interacting with people, so they are pretty safe for the kids to interact with. Overall, not the best value for your buck.
V Sure — Google review
This place is god damn good. There are lot of animals, especially free Kangaroos that you could feed up. The staff are super polite and very friendly. Kids also enjoy the water games here. No rush, no wait, just an amazing place to visit. Each time we come to on Nelson bay now, we don’t miss this park! Would come again and again!
Srivatsan Veeraraghavan — Google review
We absolutely adored this place!
Super easy to get to and plenty of parking. The park itself is well looked after and has plenty of different animals to see and feed. It was really nice to have the experience of feeding larger animals and getting up close to them. They are all very well looked after and have spacious enclosures. We really enjoyed the croc talk and feed time, super interesting to see them in action and learn about different animals.
I would absolutely go back again!
Gan Gan Lookout is a popular viewpoint that provides wide-ranging vistas of Nelson Bay and its surroundings. It can be accessed by car, and the lookout points are conveniently located just 10 meters from where you park. The views from this prominent location are stunning, making it a great spot to take in the beauty of Port Stephens.
View from the top. Nelson bay and Anna bay coastal line view. Let you immerse you in the thought of how beautiful your mother nature is.
Two look outs one on the top of the hill other one being just on the side of the carpark.
Views are great in itself no need to pay for those coin operated binoculars.
Not too many parking spots. Drive carefully as road is narrow.
Robbie Advance — Google review
Convenient lookout spot where your car takes you right to the lookout point with the views about 10 meters from where you park. 2 lookout points when you get there to view from. 📷
Sean Chen — Google review
The views were great! Seemed to be inundated with bugs resembling horse flies when we were there. Not sure if that was temporary but we didn’t stay long to see if they were going to bite us.
Kristan Kershaw — Google review
Convenient lookout accessible via car all the way up. Beautiful 180 degrees views from there.
Rabail Abeer — Google review
Lovely views from both viewpoints of the north and south. The north side is especially beautiful.
Only downside is the small car park, given how popular it is. Can be a bit hectic when busy!
Andrew Bell — Google review
Nice lookout for getting a good view of most of Port Stephens, but something we'll probably skip next time. We went there on an Easter Weekend and parking was just too problematic. I hope there would be like an overflow parking before the steep and narrow parts of the drive uphill. Just to give an option to those who are willing to go for a longer walk.
Cherry May Mateo — Google review
Drive up Lily Hill Road to a small car park underneath the radio transmission tower and walk up a small safe concrete path (slightly upslope) to Gan Gan Hill Lookout.
S C — Google review
There are some very pretty views to be had here, provided you continue to the top and don't stop after the view by the car park like we almost did! But bear in mind that the viewing area is quite small, as is the car park. Also there's some kind of power station jammed in the middle of the place which certainly harms the aesthetics.
Duncan McArdle — Google review
Gan Gan lookout point is awesome. You can see so much of the bay from here. Definitely worth checking out. Only about 10mins from Nelson Bay
Nelson Luc — Google review
Easily accessible…good view of Port Stephens…there are 2 lookouts…one in the car park and other at 2 minutes walk from car park
Nitin Madan — Google review
Amazing views across all of Port Stephens and Nelson Bay
Mark S Kessler — Google review
Breathtaking lookout only a short walk from the car. Amazing views.
Sharon Mary — Google review
Mesmerising panoramic views almost near 360 view recommend to visit during or just before sunset. Parking is very limited probably 10 slots or so. Who loves hiking can walk up the hill but cautious of passing vehicles.
P Ray — Google review
Fantastic lookout you just have to visit. You can see for miles down towards Newcastle. There are 2 viewing platforms so make sure you see both. Most people only look from one not realising there is another one the other side of the phone towers. Both offer the best views. Only a short drive up the mountain
Shez H — Google review
This place will definitely blow your mind with serenity at it's best. You'll get to see desert, mountain, sea, river and greenery at the same time from here. It's one of the best places as well to watch sunset. Love this place. No matter how many times I visit this place, everytime it offers a relaxing environment.
Sanzidul Haque Seefat — Google review
A must visit, offers breathtaking bird view of Port Stephens. Limited parking at the end of the driveway (Bay FM towers). The drive, be careful and slow driving uphill/downhill due to limited paved surface and hairpin blind spot. Lily hill lookout is just on the other side of the parking lot, don’t be fooled by map ;-)
Terry Wang — Google review
Suitable drive for vehicles only not caravans or motorhomes.
A short walk to the 2 viewing areas provide beautiful views.
The are no areas to picnic at this location.
Mark T — Google review
Lovely views, looks so much more beautiful in person than what the pictures show. Definetly should come and check it out if you’re in the area!
Gan Gan Lookout is a hidden gem with panoramic views of Port Stephens. The scenery is absolutely stunning, making it a must-visit spot for nature lovers and photographers. A peaceful escape with breathtaking vistas.
Ankita Shrestha — Google review
If you want to take sunset photos, this place is amazing. I arrived there at 5.10pm and walked though the small pathway next to electricity towers to the lookout. (There are two lookout points, the one at the parking area can not see sunset, has to walk though the small path. Don't get confused) :)
Tomaree Head is a picturesque peninsula that boasts sandy beaches and hiking trails leading up bushy mountains, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean. The hike is moderately challenging, involving some climbing up stairs, but the well-maintained pathway makes it relatively easy. Along the way, hikers can admire about 1 km of lush vegetation on an elevated walkway while taking in stunning vistas of numerous bays and coves from the summit.
Definitely another must visit at Shoal Bay, in addition to the summit walk. It’s an easy flat walk with ocean breeze and access to the WWII torpedo emplacement & six inch gun emplacement, just be careful navigating through the rocks.
Terry Wang — Google review
About 1 km of very scenic vegetation, elevated walk away. Moderate ability. Some climbing up the stairs. The views were awesome. You can see many bays and coves from the summit. Definitely worth a visit when you’re in this area.
I Q — Google review
Gorgeous short 1km hike to the summit, beautiful 360 views at the top. Lots of stairs near the top, there are a few options to choose a paved path or traditional hiking path. These can be down in sneakers or even summer sandals if you didn’t pack hiking boots. It took me 12 minutes to get to the top, only stopping twice for a quick picture.
Bon Cleaver — Google review
The Tomaree Coast track offers a great days hiking along this beautiful coastline! So much to see along the way.
Dianne Hyder — Google review
Well it's quite a walk up the hill but I took some water and got up to the top and wow what have you if you make the trip up the mountain it is well worth it lot of spots it's quite easy the pathway is a lot better than what it used to be they spend a bit of time fixing up the path I do recommend going up the hill if you have the time the views are excellent from mwh
michael Berman — Google review
Level walk to Tomaree head (unlike Tomaree summit) wonderful views up Nelson Bay and to Shoal Bay.
Graeme McVeity — Google review
Definitely worth the hike. Brilliant view at the top.
Howard T — Google review
Amazing location, testing climb to the top but definitely worth it for the views
Observation tower offering sweeping views of the hills & ocean, including whales in winter.
Great lookout. But quite steep to get to the top difinatly need to be fit. Lots of steps.
Recommended take water and spray for mosquito's before you head up. Brilliant view when you do make it.
Ann-Maree Turnbull — Google review
A bit of a hike, specially trying to push nannas wheelchair up the hill. But it was a good lookout. Nanna was just a bit cranky when we left her on top of the lookout while we had lunch
Ed G — Google review
One of our fav spots when in Forster. It’s a nice little hike up to the top with beautiful views of Forster. Definitely take mosquito repellent, sunscreen & lots of water!
Just wish you were able to see the lake side. Would be nice if they built it up one more level!
Jezz x Shaun — Google review
Take the mossie spay! 400m walk up to the lookout, however steep steps. Do not go on a rainy/stormy day as it is dangerous to climb up the staircase. Space on the side for car and trailer.
Yasmine Sergent — Google review
Great view of Forster and the treetops at the end of the walk uphill. It’s not too far from the car park, maybe 15-20 min each way and lots of seats to take a rest along the track.
Tammy Winter — Google review
It's a perfect lookout, however you need to be fairly fit as there are quite a few steps to get there as well as 4 flights up to the vantage point itself. Worth it for the views.
Christine Townsend — Google review
A pleasant hike up the track, a few stairs of the tower, an there it is.. the most awesome view of forster/Tuncurry coast an towns.. shame the trees have grown up.. but still worth the trip..
Chook — Google review
Easy to moderate track. Plenty of steps and fully fenced. There’s benches throughout for resting. Definitely recommend as the view was stunning and worth it.
Ali E — Google review
Great walk not too long a bit steep but under trees and lots of seats along the way. When at the top there is an easy climb to the top of the viewing platform. Views are great if they raised the platform or trimmed the trees so you could see more of the views.
Maracake — Google review
VERY UPHILL hike through a forest. It can get very tiring so bring water bottles and some entertainment. The view from the actual lookout was stunning so it was worth it.
Mohammed Tayyebi — Google review
Reasonable walk with several chairs for rest breaks, disappointed in the view, it needs a fourth level or lots of trees trimmed.
Douglas Williams — Google review
Short, steep walk up copper log stairs. Viewing tower gives nice views north over Forster. Vegetation blocks view in all other directions, but not all is lost as it attracts a lot of different butterflies
Andrew and Liz D — Google review
Nice hike up, remember to put some mosquito repellent, there was heaps during summer.
Meng Ly — Google review
Quite impressive views, but the trees have grown a lot since we last visited quite a few years ago!!
Nice walk up the hill, be prepared to get puffed out of breath 😀
Richard Jagger — Google review
Great spot, nice walk…just sad the tree line is not keep trimmed as blocks a good 250 degrees of the view. Could be so much better with a little upkeep. But amazing the view you can see back over One Mile Beach.
James McCann — Google review
well worth the short walk up if your in the area. Good view over Forster but trees have grown and views in other directions not what they were when I visited years ago.
Timbertown is a recreated timber settlement that offers a nostalgic experience with its steam train rides, stables, and sawmill. The attraction hosts seasonal events and provides educational and entertaining activities for visitors of all ages. While some reviewers express concerns about the maintenance of the site, others fondly recall their childhood memories spent at Timbertown. Visitors can enjoy various rides such as horse-drawn carts and tractor rides, as well as interactive experiences like panning for gold and gemstones.
Great place for children and adults alike. Steam train and all rides included in the low entry fee and only 21mins drive from the centre of Port Macquarie. Wonderful place, with steam train rides, tractor rides, horse and carriage rides, working sawmill, paddle boats, turn of the century school, church, cottages, barber, fire station and even a Winery !
Francis Whitehead — Google review
Loved it, I'm so happy you're still going. I was here over 35 years ago and I wanted to bring my son. I missed the bullocks but otherwise fantastic. Best part was the steam train ride at the end thanks so much
Mary-Anne Bell — Google review
We loved Timbertown. What a magical place! The moment you step through the entrance you feel catapulted into another time and place. Set in lush bushland, you enter the world of the colonial era of a sawmill village. There is so much to see and do, we could have spent the whole day there and the kids and adults would have had no dull moment. We couldn’t understand the negative feedback re run down or too expensive. A family of 4 costs $96 and you don’t just get to see how people lived in that era in real life but it also includes the heritage train ride, mini steam train, horse and tractor rides, paddle boats, gold panning, animals everywhere, an operating saw mill, old school house and bell to ring, a large playground, winery (try the alcohol free grape sparkling vine as it is amazing). They also have a great selection of souvenirs, honey from the region, timber and hand crafted items. The fudge and cafe is very reasonable priced too. We honestly loved it and so did our kids ranging from 6-14 years old. All the staff there were very friendly and knowledgeable too. We will be back!
Jonathan Farrar — Google review
Excellent day-out option for a family with members of all ages, especially kids. Very good value for money tickets which are all inclusive. Within this place is also the whistle top cafe which serves great food. Ample outdoor parking space
prashanth nair — Google review
We had such a lovely day, wonderful rides included in the price, beautifully scenery and a step into history. We were saddened to see that the town is suffering due to lack of volunteers as so much is in disrepair and closed. I hope next time we come they will have been more successful finding staff to support this amazing place!
M-C Hoitink — Google review
Having grown up visiting Port Macquarie for holidays, I have a soft spot for Timbertown, and today's visit was bittersweet. My kids loved it, and had a whole lot of fun exploring the town, panning for gold and other stones/gems. They had wonderful rides on horse drawn cart rides, tractor rides, and interactions with the lovely staff.
What was bittersweet was seeing it as it is now and remembering what it once was.
I love the historical Australiana and learning about the different methods our ancestors used to get by.
A number of the displays and talks that I recall seeing are not there any more. I guess it's progress and the changing landscape of what will entertain and captivate people, a decline in visitors resulting in a lack of financial support to sustain some of the wonderful and informative shows they put on.
Like the long closed down Old Sydney Town on the Central Coast, it's a part of living history that seems to be dying off.
I would encourage everyone one to go and visit. Support it, engage with the staff and learn what you can. It's a piece of our history that is worth hanging on to.
Pack snacks or lunch as there are limited refreshments inside the place. There is a small store with drinks and ice creams, and there are toilets and plenty of places to sit and take in the scenery.
They are quite stroller friendly, with pathways around for easy access to most buildings.
David Earp — Google review
Timber town has been around for more than 40 years, my first visit when I was under ten years old, where now I'm in my mid fifties. Riding the steam engine and seeing the steam saw in action were the biggest attractions for me. A lot of the attractions are decaying over time, many not being maintained, other than a few, which seem to be the love of elderly folk whose skills will dissapear when they retire or pass on; which is the case with the bullock log haul they used to do, but now faded into history. The place needs significant investment to attract people back and retain an important part of Australian history; otherwise it will die along with the generation of folk who kept it alive.
Rodney Jones — Google review
My partner and I recently spent a wonderful day at Timbertown. The history on display and simplicity of life at that time is something everyone should be reminded of.
The steam era. Gem panning was fun too, first time and I did alright.
Meredith Beaton — Google review
It’s definitely value for money, and staff are so nice 👍🏻 , each staff we’ve met are very approachable and friendly. The steam train is fun, and the miniature train. Absolutely will visit again next time in town.
queenie mars — Google review
Wow.. my 2 year old and 12 year old had a blast. What an authentic experience. No frills and fakness. We loved how natural it was. Pram and Wheelchair friendly. But not on steamtrain rides. Once you go to the reception you will get an itinerary of activities and timings for steam train, horse and truck carriages etc.
cindrella francis — Google review
A must visit place if you are a tourist. Just to go back many years ago, how the British established the town, the houses they lived in, the bed, the crocheted works, the poems of the fireman, the IMPORTANCE of their wives, the duties of the teachers their pay scale, the varieties of saw cutters, the fireplace & so many heart touching things. The types of trains their quaint size & power of the steam engine all things to watch & go back the memory lane. How my two sons went hunting for gold or precious stones, my two daughter in laws admiring the animals. Loved every moment of my visit.
Dragon Heart Sherpa — Google review
It was a nice little old style town half an hour drive away from Port Macquarie. We didn’t get to ride the chariots because it was too hot and the horses would have had a difficult time. Still, we had a great time.
Ayushma Dwa — Google review
Another lovely visit to Timbertown! The steam train is always a delight, we are so lucky to have people dedicated to keeping our steam history alive. Thank you to the Engineer for taking the time to chat to us after our ride. Hubby was plied with some port to taste at the cellars, and it was so good he in fact did not require any arm twisting at all and promptly bought three different bottles. Our thanks to the fortified winemaker for sharing his knowledge, and especially for pouring a bottle of Grandfather Port for hubby direct from the barrel. Angus and his friendly coach driver gave a lovely carriage ride around the park. We love buying local handmade goods from the arts and crafts shop, so much nicer than generic tourist items. Despite being a heatwave, the park was still so pleasant thanks to the canopy of trees and nice breeze. We finished with lunch at the Whistlestop Cafe just outside the park - the pulled pork burger was fresh made and delicious, just what we needed. Thank you to all for working on such a hot day, your efforts were very much appreciated!
Danielle Sparks — Google review
It was ok. It is such a shame that it just hasn't kept up with the shifting times. They are in desperate need of people with related trades and I genuinely wish they find them.
It's still a great place to bring the kids and burn some energy off but it's a shadow of its former glory.
Ash — Google review
Visited the Cafe in Timbertown and left to not return. Hoping to find a bathroom before looking around, the rude Cafe worker with pink hair tried to hurry us along when looking around, and then told us bathrooms were for customers only, even though we were going to order. This attitude turned us off, as I'm sure it would many others.
Amazingly, they also won't let you eat the icecream, that they sell, inside. We will not return and hope others don't make the same mistake of visiting.
Jayden Young — Google review
I thought hard about this review. On the one hand, I only wanted to give Timbertown a few stars, as each time I visit, it just looks more run-down and must be a public liability claim waiting to happen. But on the other hand, I wanted to give 5 stars to encourage people to visit and keep this place alive.
Positives:
-Educational
-Entertaining
-Potential (has the bones of a good selection of attractions, though many are now not working)
-Must cost a fortune to keep running. I take my hat off to the owners and staff for staying open.
Negatives:
-Lady serving tickets was abrupt and not the greatest at welcoming (unlike the lady in the winery that was a blast and very entertaining)
-Lack of maintenance. Many of the buildings had timber floors and structures rotting and/or termites. Fences falling apart. Little theatre room has TV and seats, but nothing is being presented. Many of the displays are dusty and lifeless or not working. A bit of a rake of leaves and sticks along the main paths would go a long way to looking more presentable.
-Blacksmith and Bullock team are no longer operating (I'm guessing it's hard to find these skills these days).
The Australiana Poineer Village of Wilberforce is a good example of a similar run historical village that seems like it has a successful model working for it. On another scale is Sovereign Hill in Ballarat that is the pinnacle to strive for. Both these venues encourage and rely on volunteers for their operations.
Hopefully it's not another Old Sydney Town story where it was left to run into the ground and the owner then saying it didn't work, supposedly with the intention of redeveloping the site for other use.
Through personal experience of volunteering at a historical museum, I like to think I have pretty good tolerance and a pretty good common-sense approach to venues such as this. But I'm not sure that the general public would be so tolerant.
I hope on my next visit that there are noticeable improvements.
Jason Connolly — Google review
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3.5
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Timbertown/2325 Oxley Hwy, Wauchope NSW 2446, Australia