Things to do with Kids this Weekend in Wollongong / Family Fun in the Illawarra
Discover Illawarra’s best things to do with kids this weekend & month. Parents Guide Illawarra is the ultimate guide to kids and family fun. You can choose from family-friendly events, outdoor attractions, playgrounds, educational experiences, playcentres and school holiday activities. Read where to eat with kids, walk with kids, and swim with kids, Written by local mums, we’re here to help you plan an awesome outing with toddlers to teens.
Ready to get inspired? Choose your next family activity & outing below. Let’s do this!
Family & Kids Events Near Me
Visit our Parents Guide Illawarra What’s On for Kids page to see:
- Local markets with food, kids activities and live music
- Family Events & Festivals
- Weekend workshops and school holiday programs
- Seasonal community festivals for families
Dragons v Storm, WIN Stadium, Saturday 14 March
The St George Illawarra Dragons’ first home game of the regular season is set to bring big energy to WIN Stadium on Saturday 14 March, and with a family-friendly evening kick-off at 5:30pm, it’s the perfect outing for fans of all ages. Make an afternoon of it — gates open at 3:00pm with the NSW Cup kicking off at 3:10pm, before the NRL action lights up the stadium later in the day. Expect big hits, passionate fans and an electric atmosphere as the Dragons take on the Melbourne Storm. Bring the kids, grab your seats and enjoy a great family night of footy by the beach. Grab your tickets to the Dragons v Storm, WIN Stadium, Saturday 14 March here.
Sunset Cinema Wollongong: Get 20% off all tickets with Parents Guide Illawarra
Get ready for magical summer nights under the stars as Sunset Cinema returns to Wollongong from 11 December 2025 to 28 March 2026! Set in the beautiful Wollongong Botanic Garden, this outdoor cinema is the perfect way to unwind with friends, family, or someone special. PLUS – get 20% off your tickets now with Parents Guide Illawarra here.
You’ll find all the movie-night essentials on-site — from freshly popped popcorn and sweet treats to a food truck and licensed bar — or you can pack your own picnic for a classic outdoor experience. Children under 3 are FREE.
Keira Laneway Live, Wollongong, Sunday 22 March
Save the date! Keira Lane is transforming into a lively family-friendly laneway festival for Keira Laneway Live on Sunday 22 March. Expect live music, roving performers, fun games and activities for kids, plus plenty of delicious food from local favourites including Ruki, Amigos, K’Malu and Balinese Spice Magic. This free community event is the perfect way for families to spend a relaxed Sunday in the Wollongong CBD – wander through the laneway, enjoy the entertainment, grab a bite to eat and soak up the vibrant street atmosphere together. Plan your visit to Keira Laneway Live here.
Easter Events across Wollongong, Shellharbour & Illawarra
The Easter long weekend is packed with family-friendly fun — from Easter egg hunts and markets to live entertainment, Easter raffles and special dining events at local clubs and venues. Whether you’re chasing chocolate, planning a relaxed long lunch, or looking for something to keep the kids busy this Easter, there’s plenty happening right across the Illawarra. Plan your Easter in the Illawarra here.
Wings Over Shellharbour, Sat 16 & Sun 17 May
Sydney’s premier airshow is back! Wings Over Shellharbour returns to the South Coast for an adrenaline-charged weekend of high-energy aviation action. Watch the skies explode with historic warbirds, modern aircraft and breathtaking aerobatics, while the ground comes alive with a huge family-friendly festival – rides, kids’ zone, food trucks, Defence Force activations, live entertainment and more. Early Bird tickets on sale now – grab 2022 prices for a limited time. One epic weekend. Fast, loud and unforgettable.
WIN Entertainment Centre – Rodeo 4 Life, Family Night Out, 30 May
Round up the family for an unforgettable night of rodeo action, live music and entertainment at the MJ Rowles Rodeo 4 Life at WIN Entertainment Centre on 30 May 2026. Watch Australia’s top bull riders take on the arena in a thrilling showcase of skill and courage, alongside a live performance from Robbie Mortimer. Kids and adults alike will love the spectacular Lachie Cossor’s Outback Stockman’s Show and plenty of laughs from crowd-favourite rodeo clown Big Al.
With exciting action, great entertainment and even the chance to win $10,000 in cash prizes, it’s shaping up to be a fun-filled night out for the whole family. Tickets and family bundles available now.
Kids & Teens Fun Pickleball Sessions & Junior Pickleball Program
Pickleball at Game Point is a fun, inclusive sport for kids and teens looking to stay active, build confidence and try something new — not just during the school holidays, but year-round. Perfect for beginners, pickleball is easy to learn and hugely enjoyable, with lightweight paddles, fast rallies and games that keep young players engaged from the very first hit.
Sessions are led by friendly, kid-focused coaches who create a supportive environment through games, drills and match play that develop coordination, teamwork and social skills. All equipment is provided, so kids and teens simply need comfy shoes, a water bottle and snacks — making it an easy, low-pressure way to get involved in sport, make friends and have fun on court. For more details, call Game Point on 0438 800 250 or get in touch with them here. Game Point is located at Unit D2/30 Miller St Coniston.
Sunday Funday every Sunday at Warilla Hotel – free kids activities
Looking for an easy, fun Sunday outing with the kids? Warilla Hotel hosts Sunday Funday every week — a relaxed, family-friendly afternoon designed just for Illawarra families. From 12pm–3pm, kids can enjoy FREE face painting and family fun, while parents settle in for a laid-back lunch and drinks. With a big outdoor playground, plenty of space to relax and a welcoming local vibe, Sunday Funday is the perfect way to wrap up the weekend together. Book your table or cabana for lunch here now.
Best Outdoor Attractions for Kids & Family
Best Things to Do with Kids in Wollongong – Sea Cliff Bridge
Wollongong and the Illawarra region offer a plethora of free places to explore and attractions to check out. You can find awesome playgrounds, many of which are located beside the beach, with cafes and beautiful walking trails. Additionally, there’s a great beachside cycleway and places with awesome bike trails, providing you with a wide range of free activities to choose from. Free and low-cost kids activities are high on the Illawarra’s agenda. Check out the beautiful Wollongong Harbour and Blue Mile walk, the Sea Cliff Bridge, and Bald Hill lookout (drive from Wollongong to Stanwell Park for glorious ocean view tops along the way).
Best Beaches, Rock Pools & Swimming
Best Things to Do with Kids in Wollongong – Towradgi Rock Pool
Take the plunge! Wollongong and South Coast NSW boasts some of the most beautiful beaches and swimming spots in New South Wales. North Beach and City Beach are perfect for families, offering safe swimming areas, picnic spots, and playgrounds. The pristine sands and gentle waves provide endless entertainment for kids, whether they’re building sandcastles, splashing in the surf, or enjoying a beachside barbecue. We also have a very beautiful continental pool to enjoy (and many rock pools that are well-maintained and free).
Best Playgrounds & Parks
Best Things to Do with Kids in Wollongong – Cringila Hills Playground
Plan a trip today to our best Wollongong Playgrounds & Illawarra award-winning parks here. Some are fenced, some have cafes, most have toilets. With sensory play at the forefront of many, it’s an activity that gets everyone outdoors, in the fresh air and enjoying some time together. Wollongong Botanic Garden ticks all the boxes with the gardens to explore, a coffee van onsite, toilets, and a fenced playground. We have a great article here also on the best playgrounds, parks and beaches in Shellharbour for families.
Best Nature & Bush Walks For Kids – Illawarra Escarpment
Best Things to Do with Kids in Wollongong – Madden Falls
Plan a bush walk this weekend! The Illawarra Escarpment offers various bushwalking trails that are suitable for families. Tracks like the Sublime Point Walking Track offer spectacular views and a chance to experience the region’s natural beauty up close. These walks range in difficulty, so you can choose one that fits your family’s fitness level and enjoy a day immersed in nature. The Gibson Track is another beautiful walk, while Cascade Falls is a short 2km walk with a beautiful waterfall and places for the kids to splash in along it.
Activities & Experiences For Kids & Families
Treetops Adventure Nowra
Treetops Adventure Nowra is Australia’s first tree ropes and cliff edge park, and it’s only an hour from Wollongong and is located along the stunning Shoalhaven River. It’s definitely worth the drive! Come and go above and beyond at Treetops Adventure Nowra.
Sessions run for 2.5 hours, including gearing up. During this time, participants can choose to navigate their way through the treetops. You can start with something closer to the ground or go higher and test your nerves right away for an adrenaline kick. The park is designed for all ages from 3 years old and up. The challenging courses will offer something for the whole family to enjoy!
Why not make a day out of it? Treetops Adventure Nowra is located inside the Shoalhaven Zoo so you can be a monkey while checking out the monkeys! A discount on zoo tickets are available to Treetops Adventure Nowra customers. Learn more here.
Early Start Discovery Space
A hands-on science museum where play, education and fun are intrinsically linked, the Early Start Discovery Space is a place you don’t want to miss. With indoor and outdoor sections that include a construction site, cave, Lego room, archeological dig, a creek, and so much more, there’s something to keep your kids happily occupied for the whole day. They even have free lockers and affordable entry. Bring lunch or snacks to eat outside by the creek, or buy something from the fantastic cafe. Don’t forget a change of clothes for kids who can’t help but splash in the creek.
Science Space
Best Things to Do with Kids in Wollongong – Science Space
Science Space is another amazing science centre the University of Wollongong has brought us. There are so many fantastic hands-on activities to inspire and teach your kids. The staff are enthusiastic and run daily workshops that will inspire your kids (and you) to engage in the world of science. The Science Space is also home to the most amazing Planetarium where you can sit back and travel into space for a while, it’s always our absolute highlight.
The Shellharbour Club
The Shellharbour Club is the ultimate destination for families, offering modern surroundings, friendly service, and endless entertainment for kids of all ages. With six delicious dining options – from slow-cooked barbecue and juicy burgers to handmade pizzas and club classics – there’s something to satisfy every appetite.
The vibrant Precinct brings the buzz of an indoor street market, complete with street food favourites and unique audio-visual entertainment, while little ones can explore the Block House play area filled with slides, interactive spaces, and colourful shipping containers designed for imagination and fun.
Families love Kids Eat Free Tuesdays at Fiftysix Dining, plus Friday night entertainment in the Precinct from 6–8pm that guarantees laughter and excitement. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, enjoying a family meal, or simply looking for a place where kids can play while parents relax, The Shellharbour Club delivers the perfect mix of food, fun, and family-friendly vibes.
Hangdog Indoor Climbing Gym
Want to climb to the top, race your friends, and try something awesome? At Hangdog Climbing Gym, there’s a whole world of fun waiting for kids — with towering walls, cool climbing challenges, and even no-rope bouldering! Whether they’re a first-timer or a little monkey on the move, Hangdog have got climbs made just for them. Come with your family, join a school holiday workshop, or be part of their fun climbing squads. So grab your water bottle, bring your energy, and get ready to climb, laugh, and explore!
Revolution Laser Arena – now with NEW VR Arcade Experience!
The Best Laser Tag Experience in Town Just Got an Upgrade! Looking for something exciting, active, and a little out of the ordinary? Revolution Laser Arena delivers heart-pounding laser tag action and now features our brand new VR Arcade + Escape Rooms for the ultimate adrenaline-packed experience!
- Intense, high-energy laser tag battles
- Private party and event spaces available
- All-new VR experiences – battle zombies, solve escape room puzzles, or explore space! Use code PGVR2025 to get 20% OFF your first VR Arcade or Escape Room booking!
Bush Magic Adventures – child-led, inclusive, therapeutic, nature-based programs
At Bush Magic Adventures, every child is given the chance to play, explore and learn in nature, guided by a team of skilled educators, counsellors and mentors. Their inclusive, therapeutic programs — from Bush School and after-school nature immersion to school holiday adventures and birthday parties — help children of all abilities, including those supported through NDIS or private funding, build confidence, independence, emotional regulation and social skills. With activities like archery, shelter building, fire making, creek play, bushwalking and nature art, kids have so much fun they don’t even realise they’re learning skills that last a lifetime, all while connecting with nature and forming meaningful friendships. Located at Avondale & Keiraville.
HARS Aviation Museum
Best Things to Do with Kids in Wollongong – HARS Aviation Museum
The HARS Aviation Museum, located at Shellharbour Regional Airport in Albion Park, is a fantastic local museum that showcases some of Australia’s aviation history. Visitors have the opportunity to board many of the aircraft, walk through the hangars, sit in some of the cockpits, and explore the planes on display. Families can enjoy getting up close and personal with the planes. There is also a great café on-site for a pit stop, offering meals, coffee, cold drinks, and ice creams.
Illawarra Light Railway Museum
Best Things to Do with Kids in Wollongong – Illawarra Light Railway Museum
Explore the rich history of rail transport by riding the steam trains and miniature rail trains at the Illawarra Light Railway Museum. The interactive tours provide a fascinating experience and up-close encounters with various trains, including trams, locomotives, and carriages. Additionally, the miniature train rides that are sure to delight both kids and adults. The museum also offers a cafe and BBQ picnic areas for visitors to enjoy. It’s worth noting that the venue is wheelchair accessible, and arrangements can be made for wheelchair users to participate in some of the train rides.
Green Connect – Farm Kindy
Join in at the Green Connect Farm each Thursday from 9am-11am for a wonderful morning of nature-based learning and play.
Each week they’ll enjoy the sandpit, mudpit, and changing loose-parts, meet the farm animals and explore different parts of our beautiful farm. There’ll be a big focus on using natural materials to understand the world around us. They’ll build, draw, make and create, as well as get dirty and immerse themselves in the great outdoors.
Farm Kindy is aimed at children aged 2-5 years. Younger children are very welcome to join, though activities may be aimed at slightly older children. Secure your child’s spot here now.
Flip Out, Albion Park
More than just a trampoline park, Flip Out in Albion Park has something for everyone, from children to adults. It features an amazing Ninja Warrior zone to challenge the kids’ skills, a Parkour zone, and a junior area for younger children to bounce safely. The foam pits are always popular with visitors as well.
Jamberoo Action Park (open Sep-May)
Open Sept-May and just a short drive from Wollongong, Jamberoo Action Park is a fantastic destination for a day of excitement. This water park features thrilling slides, wave pools, and a lazy river, offering something for kids of all ages. It’s the perfect place to cool off on a hot day and create lasting family memories.
Best Indoor Play Centres & Activities
Rainy days can be a struggle, with kids bouncing off the walls. Luckily, Wollongong is home to several fantastic indoor play centres just perfect for a rainy day. Places like the Science Space, the Early Start Discovery Space, Flip Out Albion Park, and the HARS Aviation Museum are some great options. We’ve listed a few more options below.
- Tabatinga – Dapto Leagues Club is a great indoor play centre for kids, which also offers a Drop & Dine service where children can be left in the fully supervised care of Tabatinga staff, while parents enjoy some adult time in Dapto Leagues.
- Revolution Laser Tag gives your kids a specialised laser tag experience, with challenges to complete, and a safe environment to run and practice those critical problem-solving and team-building skills, laser tag is a fun experience for the whole family.
- Hangdog Indoor Rock Climbing is a brilliant indoor space that kids love. They can burn some energy, learn new skills, and develop skills in footwork, balance and mindset.
Art Galleries, Museums & Educational Experiences
Introduce your kids to the world of art and culture at Wollongong’s galleries and museums. The Wollongong Art Gallery hosts a variety of exhibitions that can inspire young minds, as well as weekly art classes during term and school holiday programs. The Wollongong City Museum provides insights into the city’s history through engaging displays and artifacts.
Science Space with its planetarium is a must-visit for families with a keen interest in astronomy. The planetarium offers fascinating shows that explore the stars, planets, and the wider universe, making it a wonderful educational experience for children.
Wollongong City Libraries host fantastic educational programs for toddlers, babies, preschoolers, and school-aged children during term time. These programs aim to foster a love of learning and reading in young people while also offering creative activities to inspire children.
What to do with Kids in School Holidays
You’ll find the best updated holiday fun here – What’s on for Kids School Holidays Wollongong & Illawarra. Fill your kids’ school holidays with purpose, fun, and accidental learning with these activities. For more ideas check out your local churches too for kids’ clubs.
Science Space is a school holiday program that combines interactive, hands-on science with a full day of learning. Kids come home raving about what they’ve learned. Each day is different, and each school holiday has a theme, so check out their program to find the perfect fit for your child.
Wollongong City Libraries provide a variety of engaging activities for school-aged children during the holidays in small groups, that are always carefully planned and fun.
Best Places to Eat with Kids
Kid-Friendly Cafes & Restaurants
Wollongong & The Illawarra has amazing cafes, restaurants and clubs that are best for kids and families. We have found the best low-cost, or free meal deals for families with children. There are also some fabulous restaurants with delicious food and great playgrounds for kids.
Gelato Emporium, Bulli Tops
Looking for a fun place to take the kids? The Gelato Emporium at Bulli Tops is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Little ones will love choosing their favourite artisan gelato flavours, while parents can enjoy quality coffee and gourmet treats — all with stunning coastal views as the backdrop. It’s an easy, relaxed outing that feels like a treat for the whole family. Plan your visit to the Gelato Emporium here.
- Woonona Bulli RSL offers outdoor seating that includes both covered and uncovered areas, creating a lovely atmosphere. The food at Woonona Bulli RSL is delicious and reasonably priced. Additionally, the kids’ meal deal is fantastic, including a free drink and dessert.
- Tabatinga Dapto, located in Dapto Leagues Club, offers a great option for keeping both kids and adults happy. The facility features a dedicated, enclosed indoor playground and offers a drop-and-dine option on Friday and Saturday nights from 6:00 pm to 9:30 pm. This allows parents to enjoy a relaxing meal while their kids are in a safe and supervised environment. It’s a win-win situation for everyone, ensuring that both children and adults leave content and satisfied.
- Five Barrel Brewing (below) is a family-owned and operated brewery located in the heart of Wollongong. They offer amazing craft beer, awesome live music, and incredible food and burgers, making it a popular hangout for everyone. Additionally, Five Barrel Brewing hosts Family Fun Days on the 2nd Sunday of every month. During these events, you can bring the whole crew and enjoy free games for all ages, free kids’ entertainment, delicious food and drinks, and a family meal deal offer on the day. It’s a great opportunity to relax and have a good time in a brewery atmosphere.
- The Fraternity Club has a huge outdoor playground connected to the restaurant, along with an indoor arcade that is perfect for kids and families. Their pizzas receive rave reviews, and we definitely agree. In addition to their authentic Italian cuisine, their other dishes are also very tasty, so you definitely won’t leave hungry. And, their amazing desserts are a must-try!
- The Balgownie Hotel has outdoor games in the beer garden that are popular with both kids and adults. It’s a great opportunity to have some fun together and bond over a game of cornhole, table tennis, and other available options. They also hold family-friendly monthly events with face painting and lots of fun activities for the kids.
- The Shellharbour Club offers dedicated indoor and outdoor play areas for kids. You can relax with a drink while keeping an eye on them from nearby seating. Additionally, kids eat for free on Tuesdays for lunch or dinner (one free kids meal with a paying adult meal).
- The Lake Illawarra Hotel (pictured above). The newly refurbished Lake Illawarra Hotel in Windang is a perfect family-friendly destination, offering a modern bistro open 7 days, great daily dining and drink specials, a huge kids playground with cabanas for parties, and plenty of indoor and outdoor seating.
- North Nowra Tavern The newly renovated North Nowra Tavern is your go-to local for great food, cold drinks, family-friendly fun, and unbeatable atmosphere. With a new kids play area, Kids Eat Free Mondays, and versatile function spaces perfect for parties and events.
Picnic Spots and BBQ Areas
For a more casual dining experience, take advantage of Wollongong’s numerous picnic spots and BBQ areas. Stuart Park and Wollongong Botanic Garden are perfect locations for a family picnic, offering ample space, facilities, and beautiful surroundings. Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a meal outdoors with your loved ones.
Budding Bookworms at Wollongong Botanic Garden
Stories, sing-alongs and smiles at Budding Bookworms at the Wollongong Botanic Garden! Join in for this free event of magical and engaging stories, sing-alongs, rhymes, wiggly dances and crafts on Fridays near the Garden’s Japanese Tea House (west of the Rose Garden) from 10am. Lots of fun for you and your pre-school aged children (3-5 years). Bookings not required. Learn more here.
Kid-Friendly Markets & Events
Best Things to Do with Kids in Wollongong – Sunset Cinema Wollongong
From early December till late March screening Thursday to Saturday, Sunset Cinema Wollongong will be bringing its signature mix of new releases, family faves and all-time classics from under the stars at the Wollongong Botanic Garden. PLUS – this December there will be two weeks of Christmas Films.
Cozy up on a bean bag, grab burgers from His Boy Elroy + enjoy a fully licensed bar & fresh popcorn. Perfect for a family fun, night out under the stars. Children under 3 are free. Secure your tickets now.
Get ready for summer movie nights under the stars as Sunset Cinema Wollongong returns 11 Dec 2025 – 28 Mar 2026 to Wollongong Botanic Garden. Early Bird Prices: Adults $18 | Kids $13 – limited time only! Lock in your pass now & SAVE. Don’t miss out – passes sell fast every year. This season they’ve got a blockbuster program of new releases, timeless classics & everything in-between for all ages.
FAQs
What are the best beaches in Wollongong for families? Wollongong Harbour Beach is a top choices for families due to safe swimming areas, playgrounds, and picnic spots.
Are there indoor activities for kids in Wollongong? Yes, Science Space Wollongong and various indoor play centres provide excellent indoor activities for kids.
Can we find kid-friendly restaurants in Wollongong? Absolutely, Wollongong offers many kid-friendly cafes and restaurants with special menus and play areas.
What seasonal events, upcoming festivals and markets are available in Wollongong? Wollongong & The Illawarra have amazing events and festivals in summer and various indoor events during winter, ensuring year-round fun
About the Author: Lisa Hagan
Lisa grew up in Thirroul and is a mum of four children. A student to life, Lisa loves learning and searching for the most fun things to do with her kids. She loves exploring the Illawarra and its surroundings. Searching for fun and educational activities is her favourite for her kids whom she homeschools.
Finally, make the most of family life in our stunning Illawarra – Subscribe to the ultimate guide to family living weekly email by Parents Guide. Say NO to bored kids and get inspired! Click and sign up for our Parents Newsletter here. Get all the local inspo!
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