The 10 Best Things to do Good for Kids in Wollongong, New South Wales

Science Space is the only dedicated science experience in NSW and is a place where anyone, young and old, can come and see how science and technology discoveries have become reality. It is a place to be inspired about what the future holds and empowered to help change it for the better. Science Space is the proud home of the DIGISTAR 6, Australia’s #1 most digitally advanced Planetarium. The 4k laser projection system is a first for Australia and allows the public to experience science and technology like never before. Science Space is founded upon the principles of education, hands-on learning and accessibility. Existing to advocate the value of science and technology and increase general science literacy. Science Space brings over 100 interactive exhibits, Science Shows, Workshops and Australia’s #1 Planetarium to the Illawarra region.

Nan Tien is very different from most tourist attractions because there is so much to offer: the visual delights of grandeur architecture, art & culture including unique exhibitions & festivals, Buddhist festivals, vegetarian culinary delights, educational & healthy life style classes & retreats, accommodation, top class conference and auditorium facilities as well as beautiful gardens & walks. There is also the spiritual and religious experience that is unforgettable and even life changing for some.

Grand Pacific Drive is a 140km coastal drive, starting just 45 minutes south of Sydney, NSW, Australia in the beautiful Royal National Park. Driving scenery includes, coastal rainforests to quaint villages and over the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge. The drive heads into Wollongong then through to Shellharbour, Kiama and the Shoalhaven. Experience ‘beyond’ into the scenic Southern Highlands, Batemans Bay, Canberra, the greater South Coast and onto Melbourne. Local Tips: - Driving through the Royal National Park is free. Fee of $12.00 applies if stopping to enjoy this picturesque playground. - Parking for the Sea Cliff Bridge can be found north of the Bridge at Leeder Park or Coalcliff Beach. - Free Parking at all beaches along the Grand Pacific Drive Wollongong offers free on-street parking on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. - Keep a look out for the many information centers along the Grand Pacific Drive. Public Transport: - Sea Cliff Bridge: Premier Bus # 2 from Coalcliff to Wollongong and return. Closet Train station is Coalcliff with an 800 walk to the start of the Sea Cliff Bridge on the Northern Side.

Located in the heart of Wollongong's Arts Precinct, Illawarra Performing Arts Centre (IPAC) is the region's most loved and respected venue for the performing arts. Comprising three versatile spaces, it plays host to a variety of events, from internationally renowned theatre, music, dance, comedy and children's programming, as well as a wide range of community events. Merrigong Theatre Company is the venue manager of IPAC and a vibrant regional theatre company in its own right - producing, presenting and touring exciting contemporary theatre and supporting the development of a wide range of theatre-makers and local independent artists. The name Merrigong, found in early accounts of European exploration of the Illawarra, is thought to be a derivation of the indigenous word for the region's distinctive escarpment.

The Australian Motorlife Museum has a unique position in the Illawarra tourism arena and has a national reputation within the heritage motoring community. We are one of the largest museums of its kind in Australia. The current collection comprises thousands of items with over 4,000 sq. meters of display area. The collection includes vehicles from the early 1900’s through to the 1960’s. Motorcycles, trucks, a Penny Farthing bicycle and others, a 1924 Fire engine complete with brass helmets, an FJ Holden with a Caravan, typewriters, gramophones, picnic gear, irons, signs galore, advertising material, NRMA and Wayne Gardner dedicated historical displays. Early petrol pumps are a feature. Even from this brief overview it is obvious that The Australian Motorlife Museum has a great deal to interest everyone from the casual observer to the motoring enthusiast, from the youngest to the oldest visitor. It is echoed throughout a visit comments like ‘I learnt to type on one of these’.

Escape the everyday! Immerse yourself in nature at the Wollongong Botanic Garden with an excellent network of paths to explore and hidden treasures to discover. In addition to the many garden collections displaying local plants and plants from around the world, the Garden is home to a range of wildlife including Bower Birds, native bees, Ring Tail Possums, Kookaburras, plenty of mini beasts, and so much more. You can also escape with a walk through one of the largest rainforest collections in Australia, featuring a broad collection of Illawarra Rainforest species. Kids will love the all abilities playground, visiting the duck pond, the nature-based school holiday activities. There’s something for everyone with regular gardening and sustainability events and workshops, live music, historical tours, nature walks, guided tours, picnic spaces, and BBQs. Coffee and a range of snacks available at the Garden Grounds cafe.