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 Parks. 30% off all cabins & sites, Shoalhaven & South Coast

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.

Harlem Globetrotters – WIN Entertainment Centre, Monday 6 July

Looking for an unforgettable school holiday event the whole family will love? The world-famous Harlem Globetrotters are bringing their 100 Year Anniversary Tour to Wollongong for one incredible show packed with basketball, comedy, crowd interaction and jaw-dropping tricks. Expect gravity-defying dunks, unbelievable skills, hilarious entertainment and plenty of moments that will have kids and adults alike saying “WOW!” Celebrating 100 years of thrills, laughs and family fun, this special tour also features exciting fan experiences, pre-game entertainment and opportunities to meet the stars after the show. If your kids love basketball, sport, action or simply being entertained, this is one school holiday event they won’t want to miss. Tickets are on sale now – secure your seats before they sell out!

Your Ultimate School Holiday Guide is Here!

Looking for ways to keep the kids entertained these school holidays? We’ve rounded up 50+ of the best school holiday events, activities, workshops, shows, free fun and family adventures happening across Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama & the Illawarra. With something for every age, interest and budget, our guide is updated daily so you won’t miss a thing. Start planning your family’s best school holidays yet!

Barefoot Bowls & Glow Bowls at Wiseman Park Bowling Club

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!

Altitude 1148’s High Tea with a view? Yes please….

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.

Illawarra Fly

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.

Gelato Emporium, Bulli Tops

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.

Miss Zoe’s School of Dance FREE Open Week for Kids & Adults, 29 June – 4 July

Thinking about dance classes for yourself or your child? Miss Zoe’s School of Dance is inviting kids and adults to try any class for FREE during Open Week from 29 June – 4 July. With classes for everyone from 12-month-old toddlers through to adults, it’s the perfect opportunity to discover a fun, welcoming and supportive dance community. No experience is needed—just come along, meet the friendly team and see why so many local families love dancing at Miss Zoe’s. Calderwood/Tullimbar • Kiama • Coledale locations. Reserve your free spot today[email protected] | 0407 921 054

Miss Zoe’s School of Dance Adult Beginner Dance Classes

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.

Australian Comedy Roadshow – The Fraternity Club, Friday 10 July

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

Live Music Events at Dicey Riley’s Hotel

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

  • 𝓕𝓻𝓲𝓭𝓪𝔂: Live music rock cover bands from 9pm. Free Entry.
  • 𝓢𝓪𝓽𝓾𝓻𝓭𝓪𝔂: Dicey’s Saturdays with rock, punk, hip hop, country and alternative gigs presented by Yours & Owls from 9pm. Free entry.
  • 𝓢𝓾𝓷𝓭𝓪𝔂: Rock over bands from 3pm – free entry. Free pool & darts from 5pm & pool comp at 7pm. Last Drinks DJ from 9pm til late.
  • Late-night pizza from 10pm til close all weekend long!

Gather your crew now!

Pickleball sessions for beginners – advanced at Game Point Coniston

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.

Saunaus Wollongong

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.

Barney’s Wood-Fired Pizza & Wild Game Butchery

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.

Eats and Beats Oak Flats, Saturday 19 September

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! Saturday 26 September, Anita’s Theatre

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.

Kembla Grange Racecourse – Kembla Cup & The Gong Race Days (November)

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 DayKembla 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!

Wollongong Tennis Club

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.

Early Start Discovery Space

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.

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.

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.

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!

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. 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!

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, 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.