Just 2 hours north of Sydney, the Hunter Valley and Central Coast are ideal family destinations for a short or long break, where you can get back to nature, take in some culture and have a whole stack of fun.
Located in the heart of the Hunter vineyards, at the foothills of the Brokenback Ranges, are the spectacular Hunter Valley Gardens. Spanning over 25 hectares, be amazed by the sensational sights, colours and fragrances of the twelve stunning feature gardens.
Unique events like Snow Time and the Christmas Lights Spectacular bring generations together for a fun day out and feature beautiful custom-built rides.
Right next to the Hunter Valley Gardens is this super fun Aqua Golf range, the perfect place to get into the swing of things and (with luck) win some amazing prizes. The aim of the game is to hit golf balls into the lake; if your ball lands in the floating target net then you win! A fun day out that the whole family will enjoy.
Located just out of Cessnock, an hour from the Central Coast and 45 minutes from Newcastle, Hunter Valley Zoo is a fun and family friendly day out in beautiful surrounds. Wander through interactive enclosures, get hands on with a reptile or check out some cheeky moneys being fed. Bring your Esky and cook up a BBQ lunch with free-to-use facilities in the picnic grounds.
Fighter World, just 20 minutes’ drive north of Newcastle, is a unique and totally hands-on museum dedicated to Australian aviation. Visitors can wander through two hangars full of exhibits, touching and looking into the cockpits of famous aircraft like the Gloster Meteor, the first Vampire jet built in Australia, and the mighty F-111. There’s also the opportunity to sit in the cockpit of a Mirage interceptor and Macchi jet trainer and experience first-hand what it’s like to be one of Australia’s ‘Top Gun’ pilots in today’s hi-tech world.
Newcastle is famous for it’s stunning beaches, but if you want to do as the locals do, make sure to leave time for a swim at Newcastle Ocean Baths. Opened in 1922, the complex is fronted by the magnificent art deco facade of the pavilion which offers the perfect photo op. The baths are open all year round, subject to maintenance and cleaning, offering a picturesque and wave-free swim for families.
Gosford Classic Car Museum is one of the top five largest car museums in the world and the largest in the Southern Hemisphere. Ideally located just one-hour north of Sydney, it’s the perfect day trip for the family.
The museum is home to a collection of over 400 cars valued at $70 million. The diverse collection of vehicles range from classic heroes to modern supercars, so there’s something to suit all tastes and ages.
Spend some time in the country and enjoy life on the farm with the family at Hill Top. Enjoy the spectacular views of the Hunter Valley and Wine Country on horse-back and explore 300 acres worth of trails. Hunter Valley Horse Riding & Adventures offer riding experiences everyday, for first-timers all the way to experienced riders.
The Australian Reptile Park, located at Somersby on the Central Coast, guarantees exciting daily hands-on wildlife shows, uniquely themed exhibits, loads of native and exotic animals and non-stop fun. Set in the magic of the Australian bush, families can get up-close with dingoes, wombats and even a huge Galapagos tortoise!
The closest thing you’ll find to Willy Wonka’s in the Hunter Valley, the Hunter Valley Chocolate Factory was established at the turn of the last century and has grown to become one of the region’s premier attractions. With a reputation for quality and innovation, you and the kids can get your hands on all kinds of handmade chocolate goodies here.
Whet your appetite for nostalgia at Heddon Greta Drive-In: the only drive-in theatre in the Hunter Valley servicing Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Cessnock and Heddon Greta. The whole family will love getting comfy in the car with pillows and blankets and catching a flick on the big screen. Mainstream movies are screened on Friday and Saturday nights.
Main image: Hunter Valley Gardens © The Legendary Pacific Coast
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