What to do in Wollongong – Best Activities Illawarra Wide
Looking for your next epic weekend plan or a must-do Illawarra experience? Whether you are a local Wollongong resident searching for a fun weekend activity, or a tourist, looking for the authentic Illawarra experience while on holiday, we’ve got you covered.
Check out this list of must-do activities below to enjoy the best our region has to offer. With a combination of indoor and outdoor options, there is sure to be something on this list for everyone.
You may also like What to do in Wollongong this Week and Month. Find Events & What’s On Illawarra wide and Best Things To Do in Wollongong & The Illawarra. Get Inspired
Main title image c/o Early Start Discovery Space
Leap over the stunning Wollongong coastline with Skydive Australia
Take the leap from Australia’s highest altitude—up to 14,000 feet—right above North Wollongong Beach. Feel the insane rush of freefalling at over 200 km/h, then float peacefully under canopy, soaking up epic views of Wollongong and the Southern Sydney coastline.
Skydive Australia-Wollongong are based right in Stuart Park, just 100m from the sand—the perfect spot for your next big adventure. Whether you’re chasing thrills or ticking off a bucket list, their expert team makes every jump safe, unforgettable, and totally epic.
For a limited time only, take the ultimate leap of up to 15,000ft at Skydive Wollongong, for just $389 per person! Jump solo or with friends – book your Wollongong skydive today!
Get ready for heart-pounding fun at Revolution Laser Arena – the Illawarra’s ultimate destination for laser tag action!
Whether you’re planning an unforgettable birthday party or just want to jump into an adrenaline-packed game with friends or family, Revolution Laser Arena’s state-of-the-art arena delivers non-stop excitement for all ages – blending heart-pounding laser tag action with next-level party options. Their laser tag kids’ parties include a dedicated host, private party space, personalised player cards, and flexible catering options – even BYO! Revolution Laser Arena is a completely exhilarating experience that captivates and engages. Book now.
Don’t forget to check out their brand-NEW VR Escape Rooms and VR Arcade experiences here – get 20% off your 1st session now!
Just Launched in Wollongong: The Recovery Room at Hangdog!
Wollongong’s coolest (and hottest) new wellness spot is here – featuring a next-gen infrared sauna & ice bath combo. Open to All (no climbing needed). Located inside Hangdog Climbing Gym.
Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or just need a serious reset while the kids climb – this is your go-to recovery zone. Epic value – best bang for your buck in Wollongong – casual visits from $10 & Weekly Memberships from only $20. Unwind. Recover. Recharge. Book your session now
Also – Whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned climber, Hangdog Climbing Gym is your go-to indoor climbing centre in the Illawarra. Learn more here!
Soar, Swing & Zip Through the Trees at Treetops Adventure Nowra
Just an hour south of Wollongong, Treetops Adventure Nowra is the ultimate South Coast thrill! Soar, swing, and zipline through the forest canopy, with aerial courses ranging from 1 to 35 metres high, all set above the stunning Shoalhaven River.
With 2.5-hour sessions, options for ages 3 and up, and adrenaline-pumping ziplines along the cliff’s edge, it’s the perfect outdoor adventure for families, friends, or fearless first-timers. Open Tuesday to Sunday—and daily during school holidays—it’s a must-do Illawarra experience you won’t forget!
Wollongong’s NEW VR Escape Room Experience is HERE!
where mind-bending adventures meet next-level tech! Book now and get 20% off your first VR session!
- Perfect for parties, team events, or a fun family day out (VR Escape Rooms are for ages 15 yrs +)
- Fully immersive. Seriously thrilling. Totally unforgettable.
- You can also check out their VR Arcade experiences for ages 8 years. Battle zombies, solve puzzles, explore ancient ruins, or float through space! Fun for the whole family.
- Age-appropriate options for kids, teens, and adults.
- Book now/learn more here & experience the future of fun!
Don’t forget to also check out their exhilarating and adrenaline-packed laser tag action at Revolution Laser Arena.
Hangdog Climbing Gym – Wollongong’s Indoor Climbing HQ
Hangdog Climbing Gym in Wollongong is the Illawarra’s indoor climbing hub. From fully supervised top rope climbing to dynamic bouldering, auto-belays, and unique vertical challenges, there’s something for every age and skill level.
Kids can join term-based Learn to Climb classes, school holiday workshops, or progress to youth climbing squads, while adults can train casually, join social nights, or become part of their friendly climbing community. Ready to take things outside? Try one of their guided outdoor climbing days. Hangdog is your go-to for fitness, fun, and fearless adventure. Get started now.
Don’t forget to check out Hangdog’s new Recovery Room with next-gen ice bath and infared sauna combo – open to all (no climbing needed). Epic value – casual visits from $10 & Weekly Memberships from only $20.
Wollongong Botanic Garden – A Local Hidden Gem
Rated #1 on TripAdvisor for things to do in Wollongong, the Wollongong Botanic Garden is the perfect place to unwind, explore, and reconnect with nature. With scenic walking paths, peaceful garden collections, and loads of hidden treasures, it’s a must-visit for all ages.
Kids will love the all-abilities playground, duck pond, and wildlife spotting—from Kookaburras and Ringtail Possums to native bees and mini beasts. Wander the Go Slow for a Mo’ nature trail, or get lost in one of Australia’s largest Illawarra Rainforest collections. Whether you’re after calm or curiosity, this is where it all blooms.
Step into the Sky at HARS Aviation Museum
HARS Aviation Museum at Shellharbour Airport, is one of the Illawarra’s best-kept secrets for a fun, family-friendly day out! Step inside real aircraft, sit in cockpits, and explore Australia’s aviation history—including the last Boeing 747-400 in the country.
With hands-on exhibits and towering hangars full of flying legends, this interactive museum is a must for curious kids and history-loving adults alike. Check out their monthly Tarmac Weekends – details here.
Explore, Create & Play at Early Start Discovery Space
Located at the University of Wollongong, Early Start Discovery Space is Australia’s only dedicated children’s museum on a university campus—and it’s packed with hands-on fun for kids aged birth to 10 years and their grown-ups!
From messy play in the outdoor mud kitchen and loose parts building, to digging for fossils, crawling through caves, performing on stage, and creating with LEGO, there are over 20 interactive experiences to spark curiosity and imagination. Backed by UOW research, every activity is designed to support learning through play. It’s the perfect day out for curious minds and playful hearts.
Take in a Basketball Game at WIN Entertainment Centre
Right in the heart of Wollongong, the WIN Entertainment Centre is the Illawarra’s biggest and boldest venue—hosting everything from concerts and comedy to kids’ shows, sports, and major events with a crowd capacity of up to 6,000!
Home to the Illawarra Hawks, you can catch all the fast-paced, high-energy action of the NBL right here. Cheer on our local team as they take on Australia’s best in an atmosphere that’s electric from tip-off to the final buzzer. Check out upcoming events and grab your tickets today!
Feel the Roar at WIN Stadium – Wollongong’s Iconic Sports Arena
Set against a stunning ocean backdrop, WIN Stadium is the Illawarra’s premier outdoor venue, hosting up to 22,000 fans for epic sporting clashes and major events. With three grandstands, a general admission hill, and an adjacent training field, it’s built for both atmosphere and action
Home turf of the St George Illawarra Dragons, this is where you can experience the thrill of live NRL. From passionate fans to big-game intensity, every match at WIN Stadium delivers a heart-pounding, crowd-lifting experience. Check out upcoming games and join the roar!
Science Space Wollongong – Hands-On Fun for Curious Minds
Get ready for the ultimate interactive experience at UOW Science Space—NSW’s largest hands-on science centre, located at the University of Wollongong’s Innovation Campus. With over 100 fun and quirky exhibits, a mind-blowing planetarium, live science theatre shows, and even a STEM-packed Science Shop, it’s no wonder this local icon is one of the Top 10 Fun Places for Kids in the Illawarra!
Perfect for ages 0–12 (and fun-loving adults too), whether you’re exploring the stars, launching rockets, or watching experiments explode—learning has never been this fun. Open daily and weekends.
Go on a South Coast Adventure with Jervis Bay Wild
Experience the stunning beauty of Jervis Bay with unforgettable whale watching and dolphin spotting cruises with Jervis Bay Wild. Glide through pristine waters, surrounded by white sandy beaches, towering cliffs, and a thriving marine ecosystem.
Catch a glimpse of dolphins, whales, seals, and more as you discover the wonders of Jervis Bay Marine Park. Book your adventure today and dive into the magic of Jervis Bay!
Merrigong Theatre Co – Wollongong’s home of live performance
Merrigong Theatre Company is Wollongong’s home of live performance, proudly operating the Illawarra Performing Arts Centre (IPAC) and Wollongong Town Hall. As a not-for-profit company, Merrigong presents a vibrant mix of theatre, dance, music, and family-friendly shows all year round.
Beyond hosting some of Australia’s leading performing arts companies, Merrigong creates and tours original work, supports emerging artists, and helps bring bold, new ideas to life. From big-name concerts to cutting-edge contemporary theatre and community events, Merrigong is at the heart of Wollongong’s cultural scene. Build your Season Ticket – Pick 4+ shows and save 20%, or 6+ to save 30%.
Strike up some fun at Northern Bowl, Bellambi
This iconic Illawarra hotspot isn’t just a bowling alley — it’s a full-on family entertainment centre with arcade machines, a cosy café, and good vibes all around. Whether you’re catching up with friends, planning a fun day with the kids, or just after something different, Northern Bowl has something for everyone for some nostalgic fun.
Keep an eye out for great deals too, like Cheap Tuesdays and League Try-Out Thursdays. Ready to roll? Call their friendly team at (02) 4283 6222 or book online here.
Get Airtime at Flip Out Albion Park
Looking for all-weather, all-ages fun in the Illawarra? Flip Out Albion Park is your go-to indoor adventure zone! Open 7 days a week, this isn’t just a trampoline park—it’s a full-on family experience packed with action, energy, and excitement.
From wall-to-wall trampolines to ninja courses and more, there’s something for everyone to jump into. Perfect for birthday parties, weekend fun, or rainy-day energy burns. Get ready to flip, bounce, and laugh the day away!
Fresh Air, Farm Fun & Hands-On Learning at Green Connect Farm
Looking for something different to do with the kids? Just 13 minutes south of Wollongong CBD, Green Connect Farm in Warrawong is a hidden gem offering fun, educational adventures for all ages. From guided farm tours and school holiday programs to playgroups, school visits, and even corporate volunteer days, there’s something for everyone on this award-winning, 11-acre urban farm.
Kids will love the Children’s Garden, nature play zones, and getting up close with animals, while adults can enjoy fresh air and beautiful views from the Education Hub. Come connect with the land, the people, and the planet—you’ll leave inspired.
Soak in the Natural Beauty of Bundanon
Just one hour from Wollongong, lies the stunning & scenic Bundanon – a one-of-a-kind cultural destination set on 1,000 hectares of stunning bushland, along the Shoalhaven River. Home to an award-winning Art Museum, immersive creative learning spaces, and the historic Arthur Boyd Homestead, it’s a place where world-class art, rich heritage, and natural beauty meet.
Explore contemporary exhibitions, peek inside the legendary artist’s studio, walk serene bush trails, and unwind with a delicious local menu at Ramox Café – or even partake in any one of their beautiful picnic spots. Whether you’re after live concerts, hands-on workshops, or just a quiet moment surrounded by beauty—Bundanon is a must visit on your Illawarra bucket list.
Step back in time at the Illawarra Light Railway Museum
All ages will love riding restored steam and miniature trains while exploring the rich history of rail transport in the region at the Illawarra Light Railway Museum in Albion Park. Get up close to trams, locomotives, and carriages, plus enjoy lively, history-filled tours.
- Steam Train Rides – Second Sunday of every month
- Diesel Train Rides – Fourth Saturday of each month
Bring a picnic, enjoy the café and BBQ areas, and make a fun day of it. Book your tickets online now!
Tickle your funny bone at Wollongong Comedy
As the Illawarra’s longest-running comedy club, Wollongong Comedy has been delivering top-notch Australian stand-up for nearly two decades! With open mic nights, comedy festivals, and monthly showcases, they’re your go-to for a good laugh.
Check out all upcoming events and get ready for some serious comedy fun!
The Sea Cliff Bridge
Ahh the majestic Sea Cliff Bridge, Wollongong. It’s one of the most scenic spots on the South Coast NSW Australia, the highlight of the famous Grand Pacific Drive. This top Illawarra tourist attraction is also on my daily commute.
Every morning I get to drive the half-kilometre of gently curving bends that hug the sandstone cliffs. Below, the glorious blue sea stretches out to the horizon, ever-changing. I’ve lived here all my life, and this stunning drive still takes my breath away. Read the Sea Cliff Bridge local’s guide to checking out this iconic landmark.
Enjoy a Picnic in Unbeatable Locations
One of the best things about Wollongong is the beautiful, natural landscape of where we live, so it’s no surprise that one of our favourite things to do when we have a little downtime is to relax and enjoy it. Choose from one of our Top Ten Picnic Locations around the Illawarra (pictured above: Bundanon) and then create your own picnic or collect some takeaway from one of our favourite beach-side locations. It’s a simple, low-cost way to enjoy the region and the best way to get in touch with the spirit of this beautiful place we call home.
Take a Walk on one of our Favourite Local Tracks
If you prefer a more active way to connect with our stunning landscape, be sure to take advantage of one of the many walks throughout the escarpment and surrounding national parks. While there are too many to mention here, you can check out some of our favourites listed in a recent article, Five Walks in the Illawarra your Family will Love. Choose from lush rainforest to waterfalls and views that are well and genuinely Insta-worthy. Be sure to look for the notes on terrain to ensure it is an enjoyable experience for everyone in your group.
Plus you may also want to check out our other best local walks here:
Best Illawarra Escarpment Bushwalks. Where to Hike in Wollongong Nature
Mount Keira Walks & Lookout in Wollongong. Your Guide to Visit, Hike & Explore
Bald Hill Lookout. Reviews & All You Need to Know
Walking Wollongong’s Gibson Track – Illawarra Bushwalk Guide
Cool off with a Swim at our Local Pools and Beaches
If you had to pick one aspect of the Illawarra that sets us apart from the rest, it would have to be our beaches, pools and waterways. Especially in the warmer months, these are great places to enjoy with the family or when flying solo to reset the mind and body. In the cooler parts of the year, be sure to spend time enjoying the ocean and beaches, as the lower crowd levels make them the perfect place for long walks and exploration missions with the kids. Are you looking for a list of our favourite pools for summer? Check out our must-visit list here
Make sure you also put these popular ways to cool off on your bucket list:
Best Waterfalls Wollongong. Illawarra Walks with Swimming Holes and Waterfalls
Best Rock Pools and Tidal Pools for swimming around Wollongong & Illawarra
Things to do in Wollongong this weekend – Best Events Guide
Are you looking to get into something different this weekend? Wollongong’s event calendar is a tapestry of diverse experiences waiting to be explored. All year around, chances are there is something on somewhere to tickle your fancy. From vibrant Arts & Culture festivals to thrilling live music gigs that will have you dancing the night away. Our Live Music guide is updated regularly and is a great place to keep an eye on the local scene. From the lively atmosphere of outdoor markets to celebrations of Sports and community – there is something for everyone. Families can look forward to kid-friendly events filled with laughter and silliness, especially in the warmer months. We’ve written a round up of the best Music, Arts and Food & Drink festivals for the coming year here.
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We offer our gratitude and deep respect to the lands, waters and skies of Dharawal Country. We stand in solidarity with its traditional custodians, the Dharawal and Wodi Wodi people, whose sovereignty was never ceded.
