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

Holiday Haven is offering 30% OFF stays of 2 nights or more across all parks, including cabins and sites — but this exclusive deal is for members only. Not a member yet? Join for just $20 for a 2-year membership and unlock the savings. Winter is the perfect time to slow down and explore the stunning South Coast without the crowds. This offer won’t last — book now and use code WINTER26.

Discover The Icon – Wollongong’s Best Bar, Cafe and Restaurant for DJs, Dining, Cocktails and Functions. Located in the heart of Wollongong, The Icon is the perfect spot to kickstart your weekend with drinks, delicious food, and tunes in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
The Icon is also home to what might just be the greatest Happy Hour on Earth! Every Thursday, enjoy their famous $12 Chicken Schnitzel with chips and gravy from 11am until late, alongside all-day Happy Hour featuring $12 cocktails and $7 tap beers, wines and shooters. Then keep the good times rolling Friday to Sunday from 4pm–7pm with $7 tap beers, wines and shooters, plus a $12 Cocktail of the Month. Whether you’re after a bargain lunch, after-work drinks, dinner with friends or a big night out, The Icon delivers some of Wollongong’s best food and drink specials. Bookings are highly recommended—call (02) 4244 3737 or book online.

Looking for a unique and lesser-known thing to do in Wollongong? Try Barefoot Bowls at Wiseman Park Bowling Club! Perfect for your next event, celebration, or team-building day, Barefoot Bowls offers a fun and relaxed way to connect with friends or colleagues.
For an even more memorable experience, check out Glow Bowls – bowls after dark with glowing balls and lights, available seven nights a week. Family and kids pricing available too. Book your group online today – fun on the greens awaits!

Perched high above the coastline, Altitude 1148 serves up a beautiful high tea experience with sweet treats, savoury delights and endless tea – all paired with stunning escarpment and ocean views. Perfect for birthdays, catch-ups, bridal showers or a special occasion, it’s the kind of relaxed, scenic setting that turns a simple afternoon into something memorable. Book your table here now.

Looking for one of the best things to do in Wollongong and the Illawarra? Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures is an absolute must. Just a short drive from the coast, it offers a unique way to experience the region – walking high above the rainforest on the Treetop Walk, taking in sweeping escarpment views, and exploring the magical Enchanted Forest. For those chasing a bit more adventure, the Zipline Tour brings serious thrill and unforgettable views. It’s a standout local experience that combines nature, adventure and fresh air – perfect for visitors and locals alike. Book your Illawarra Fly adventure here.

Perched at Bulli Tops with sweeping escarpment and coastal views, Gelato Emporium is a must-visit for artisan gelato lovers. Enjoy handcrafted gelato, quality coffee, gourmet sandwiches and sweet treats in a relaxed, family-friendly setting with alfresco dining. Browse a curated range of Australian-made pantry products and gifts, or pick up everything you need to create your own gelato, sorbet or frozen yoghurt at home. Perfect for a scenic coffee stop, takeaway treat or even small functions, it’s a delicious destination for locals and visitors alike. Plan your visit to the Gelato Emporium here.

Experience Wollongong Like Never Before with Skydive Australia! You don’t need to travel overseas for a bucket-list adventure—one of Australia’s most spectacular skydives is right here in Wollongong! Jump from 15,000 feet, freefall at over 200km/h above the breathtaking Illawarra coastline, then soak up incredible views of Sea Cliff Bridge, WIN Stadium and the coastline before landing right beside the beach. As the only beach skydive in the Greater Sydney and Illawarra region, it’s an unforgettable experience whether you’re chasing your first jump or your next adrenaline hit. Book your skydive today and see home from a whole new perspective!

Hello Petal Flowers’ Flower & Sip Workshops are one of the Illawarra’s favourite creative experiences. Spend two relaxing hours creating your own beautiful seasonal flower arrangement while enjoying a glass of wine with friends. This winter, July and August workshops are just $99 (usually $110) and include fresh flowers, a ceramic vase to take home, expert floristry tuition, and a relaxed, small-group setting in Fairy Meadow. Perfect for a girls’ night, birthday, hens party or simply trying something different—book early, as these popular workshops regularly sell out!

Always wanted to learn to dance? Now’s your chance! Miss Zoe’s School of Dance is launching brand-new Beginner Adult Dance Classes at its Wollongong studio, with welcoming 8-week courses in Tap, Ballet, Hip Hop and Jazz—no experience required. Whether you’re looking to get active, improve your fitness, learn a new skill or simply try something different, these supportive classes are designed to help you build confidence while having fun. They’re also a fantastic way to meet like-minded people, make new friends and enjoy a regular social activity in a relaxed, encouraging environment. As Miss Zoe’s celebrates 20 years of inspiring Illawarra dancers, there’s never been a better time to join in. FREE trial Tap classes are available, but places are limited, so book your spot today! Learn more and get started here.

Get ready for a huge night of stand-up comedy as the Australian Comedy Roadshow comes to The Fraternity Club. Featuring Peter Berner, Simon Kennedy and Bonnie Tangey, this fast-paced showcase delivers sharp wit, big personalities and non-stop laughs. Whether you’re planning a night out with friends, date night or simply looking for a great evening of live entertainment, this is one show you won’t want to miss. Book your tickets now and enjoy an unforgettable night of live comedy at The Fraternity Club. For ages 18 years +. Book your tickets here now

Celebrate the opening of Stellar Experiences’ brand-new Illawarra social space and discover how they’re helping young adults aged 16–35 living with mild to moderate disability build confidence, create meaningful friendships and live more connected, independent lives. Tour the new space, meet the friendly team, learn about their programs and supports, enjoy light refreshments and connect with families, carers and community professionals. FREE to attend and no bookings required—everyone is welcome! Learn more here now.

REMINISCE 80’s & 90’s is bringing the party back in a big way with their Black & White Party featuring a Michael Jackson Tribute on Saturday 1 August at Frisky’s, North Wollongong. Get ready for an electric night as the incredible Jason Jackson brings the King of Pop to life, performing all the hits — Billie Jean, Beat It, Thriller, Smooth Criminal and more. Expect a full dancefloor with DJ Claude & Stanthaman spinning classic 80s and 90s club anthems all night long. Doors open from 8pm at Frisky’s (Novotel Wollongong), with a dress-to-impress black and white theme. This one will sell out — grab your tickets online now.

If you’re chasing live music in Wollongong, it doesn’t get more iconic than Dicey Riley’s Hotel – Wollongong’s only Irish pub and a true cornerstone of the local music scene. Pull up a stool at the bar, order a proper pint & settle in

Looking for a fun thing to do in Wollongong for kids, teens and adults? Game Point Coniston is Illawarra’s home of indoor pickleball — a welcoming, purpose-built venue where all ages and abilities can play, learn and get social all year round. Whether you’re introducing kids to a new sport, teens keen to build skills and confidence, or adults looking for a fun, low-pressure way to stay active, pickleball is easy to learn and seriously addictive from the first rally.
Game Point offers social play, coaching, intro programs, court hire and regular kids, teens and adult sessions, with all equipment provided and paddle hire available. With easy bookings, plenty of parking and a friendly community vibe, it’s a great all-weather activity for families, friends and locals. Find Game Point at 30 Miller Street, Coniston, or call 0438 800 250 for details.

Escape the winter chill and discover one of Wollongong’s most unique wellness experiences. Saunaus combines a traditional hot rock sauna with invigorating ice baths to help you feel amazing this winter. Boost wellbeing, reduce stress, improve recovery, warm up, slow down and reconnect. There’s never been a better time to experience the power of hot and cold therapy.
Upcoming Winter Events:
– Breathwork Sessions — 8 July & 5 August
– Perimenopause Information Evening — 14 July
– Kids & Family discount packages also available
Check out their winter events and book your session now.

Open Wednesday to Saturday in Woonona, Barney’s has built a loyal local following for its incredible wood-fired pizzas, handcrafted menu and unique Australian wild game offerings, including venison, boar and wallaby. With seven new pizzas, Kids Eat FREE Wednesdays, a New York-inspired venison lasagne, fresh seasonal sides and desserts that are worth the trip alone, every visit delivers something memorable. Whether you’re dining in, grabbing takeaway or taking advantage of their new home delivery service, Barney’s is serving up bold flavours and quality ingredients that set it apart from the ordinary. Check out the menu and discover what everyone’s talking about.

Join Ride4Rotary on Sunday 13 September for a fun, family-friendly charity ride raising vital funds for Southern Youth and Family Services (SYFS), helping vulnerable young people access education, employment and training opportunities. As the finale of Ride Wollongong’s 16-Day Festival of Cycling, the event features ride options for all ages and abilities—including the popular Loop the Lighthouse course and a dedicated kids’ ride. Better still, registration is FREE! After your ride, enjoy the Family Fun Day at Lang Park from 9am–2pm, with food trucks, exhibitors, a petting zoo, arts and crafts, and plenty of activities for the whole family. Register now and ride to make a real difference!

Expect a magical evening of food, live music, markets and family fun as Eats & Beats Oak Flats returns on Saturday 19 September 2026 from 4:30pm–8:30pm.
This vibrant twilight festival celebrates the heart of Oak Flats, bringing the community together with entertainment, local businesses, delicious eats and plenty of FREE activities for all ages. Wander the streets, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy a fun night out close to home. Families can also enjoy carnival rides thanks to Oak Flats Primary School, with ride passes available to purchase on the night to support the school’s fundraising efforts.

Pro Wrestling Australia: Prize Fight Comes to Thirroul! Following multiple sell-out Sydney events, Pro Wrestling Australia is bringing its uniquely Australian live wrestling spectacle to the iconic Anita’s Theatre, Thirroul this September. Expect a huge night of hard-hitting action, larger-than-life personalities and elite athleticism, with 7 bouts on the card including a must-see PWA Heavyweight Championship Match. Featuring standout Australian wrestling talent seen across WWE Tryouts, Australian Survivor and international NJPW competition, this is one high-energy live event wrestling fans won’t want to miss. Recommended 16+ — book tickets online now.

Experience Two of the Illawarra’s Biggest Race Days! Whether you’re dressing up for the glamour of The Gong, Saturday 21 November or celebrating the Kembla Grange Cup Tuesday 3 November & Melbourne Cup Day, Kembla Grange Racecourse delivers unforgettable days of elite racing, premium hospitality, live entertainment and a buzzing social atmosphere. Cheer on Australia’s best horses and jockeys, explore vibrant bars and precincts, indulge in everything from gourmet dining to food trucks, and soak up the excitement with friends. From The Gong’s $2.5 million race program and post-race entertainment to Cup Day’s eight local races, live Melbourne Cup broadcast, DJs and all-day celebrations, these are two must-attend events on the Illawarra social calendar. Secure your tickets now and experience race day at its very best!

Looking for a unique and lesser-known activity in Wollongong? Wollongong Tennis Club offers so much more than just tennis! As a relaxed, family-friendly venue, they’re known for excellent courts, expert coaching, and delicious food. Whether you want to hire a hard or grass court for a casual game, join one of their school holiday camps, or take part in elite junior squads, there’s something for every player.
With Tennis Australia-qualified coaches and programs for all ages and skill levels – including the popular ‘Hot Shots’ children’s program – Wollongong Tennis Club is the perfect spot to get active, learn new skills, and have fun. Enquire now and discover all they offer.

Looking for a fantastic family day out in Wollongong? The Early Start Discovery Space is a vibrant, hands-on destination where children aged birth to 10 can explore, create and imagine alongside their grown-ups. From loose parts play and mud kitchen fun to building with LEGO, digging for fossils, crawling through caves and performing on stage, there’s something to spark every child’s curiosity. Located on the main campus of the University of Wollongong, this research-backed children’s museum blends play and learning beautifully — making it a must-visit spot for families, especially during school holidays when it’s open nearly every day from 9am to 3:30pm.

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.

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.

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.

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.
Great Bowling Deals at Northern Bowl! Northern Bowl has you covered with $10 Cheap Tuesdays, great-value Family Passes, Unlimited Bowling every Friday & Saturday for just $29 per person (minimum 4 per lane), plus a Social Night Special with 2 games for only $22. Ready to roll? Call their friendly team at (02) 4283 6222 or book online here.

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!

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. The Museum is opened to the public for Steam Train Rides on the Second Sunday of Each Month from 10am – 2pm. Bring a picnic, enjoy the café and BBQ areas, and make a fun day of it. Book your tickets online now!

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!

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.

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, 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.

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

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
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.