A family day out in Newcastle

Beyond the fun of catching the Light Rail into the Newcastle CBD, there’s plenty of kid-friendly activities near most stops.

Why not have a hop on, hop off adventure and explore each of these activities?

The Newcastle Interchange – A short walk from the Newcastle Interchange, you will find the Digital Library located on the ground floor of the Newcastle City Council Administration Building. The library showcases Pepper the Robot and a Digital Story Wall. The Podcast and Media Room features audio visual equipment including a green screen and modern podcasting equipment for up to four participants.

Honeysuckle – Did someone say lunch? From Japanese yakitori and sushi to old school fish and chips, there’s plenty to choose from. The flat footpath is very scooter, pram and bike-friendly so why not incorporate a little scoot to the Civic stop? You’re welcome to take bikes, scooters and prams on the Light Rail.

Civic – Most parents know the wonders of Newcastle Museum but did you know that you can also tour City Hall? Climb up the clock tower and explore our city’s grandest venue. From there, it’s just a short walk across the park to the recently reopened Newcastle Art Gallery.

Crown St – Say hello to Tower Cinemas and its retro pinball arcade. Stop in for a game or two, play some ping pong or take in a family-friendly flick in this faithfully restored 1970s gem.

Queens Wharf – The perfect spot to hop on the Stockton Ferry or head to the shops at The Station. Betty Loves Books is a delightful haven for book worms of all ages and Flash E-Bikes offers e-bikes for hire by the hour.

Newcastle Beach – Finish off your Light Rail adventure with the grand finale – Newcastle Beach. Pop into East End Ice creamery for a scoop or two, head to the Newcastle Ocean Baths or skate park, or take a stroll to Fort Scratchley Museum for a tour of the tunnels.  

Fun facts

In 1801, a convict camp called King’s Town was constructed in what would later become the East End of Newcastle.

The Newcastle Museum, founded in 1988, is housed in in the former headquarters of the Great Northern Railway.