10 Excellent Things to do in Port Stephens when it rains with kids

Don’t let the rain ruin your holidays. Here are 10 excellent things to do in Port Stephens when it rains with kids.

“When life throws you a rainy day, play in the puddles” _{Winnie the Pooh}

I’ve lived in Port Stephens for over 12 years raising kids from 2 years to now grown ups and think I have a pretty good idea of what to do when the kids start climbing the walls when it rains.

So, here are some ideas to help you out when the weather is not so good. They are also great things to do in heatwave conditions too.

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But first, here are some useful weekend guides to help you make the most of your holiday with your kids and family.

How to Spend a Weekend in Port Stephens with kids

How to Spend a Fun Family Weekend in Port Stephens

Fighter World

Fighter World is located at the end of the runway of Newcastle Airport and the Williamtown Airbase. There are more than 15 aircraft and replicas on display in two hangars, visitors can get up close, I mean you can sit in the cockpit of some of Australia’s most iconic fighter and training aircraft.

Got a budding Top Gun pilot (or maybe you want to be one yourself)? Why not try the ultimate Flight Simulator experience.

There are two packages available:

• our fixed base simulator is suitable for ages 7+, starting from just $20 for 15 minutes,

or

• for the ultimate ride, try our motion simulator with a complete F/A-18 Hornet cockpit. This package is suitable for those aged 12+, starting from $35 for 15 minutes.

Bookings are essential.

There is also an observation deck where you can see the entire runway and a cafe.

Several times I have been driving past the end of the runway and pulled off to the side of the road (and everyone behind me seemed to follow) to witness some breath taking aerial performances. My favourite, as I found out later, was when one of the top fighter pilots was retiring and they gave him a full tank of fuel! Well, he went ballistic, full vertical climbs, roll overs, loops – you name it, he did it and we got a free airshow for ½ hour. Another time, just after the Pacific Airshow, the Americans came to visit. I’m sure they almost took the roof of Maccas off they were flying so low. So if you hear a roar, look to the skies and find the fighter jets training (they won’t be where the noise is coming from).

Pro tip – RAAF flight training occurs between 9am to 5pm Monday to Thursday and 9am to 4pm Friday. That does not mean the planes are flying all the time. RAAF planes are generally more active between 2pm – 4pm (take it from a local who listens to them fly everyday).

Toboggan Hill Park

Toboggan Hill Park has the most epic toboggan run but did you know that it also has indoor activities including indoor rock climbing, roller skating and the Pavillion filled with coin operated amusement machines and rides.

The Lollybug

The Lollybug is the most awesome lolly shop ever!

It’s like being in the Willy Wonka chocolate factory!

It is easy to spend an hour here exploring the kaleidoscope of colours and flavours of different American and British lollies, different flavoured drinks, chilli sauces with a hotness rating of 9/10, HOT Doritos with a warning label.

There are two Lollybugs in Port Stephens. One is located on the main street of Nelson Bay (this is the best one) and the other directly opposite the caravan park at Shoal Bay has an ice creamery attached.

Nelson Bay Cinemas

Of course, everyone knows that when it is raining, it is time to catch up on the new releases at the cinema. Nelson Bay Cinemas are located just up the hill from Woolies on Stockton Street. OK, so it doesn’t have Gold Class or reclining seats, but do the kids really care?

Ten Pin Bowling

Take the kids Ten Pin Bowling at Super Strike in Salamander Bay at the opposite end of the car park from KFC. Catering for all ages and abilities, Super Strike has bumper bowling and ramps for the not so coordinated, little ones, grandparents not so stable on their feet or our disabled friends. Book your lane if it is raining as it can get very busy.

Zone Out Arcade

Zone Out Arcade is located at the Marina. The centre features over 60 brand-new arcade machines to suit all ages. When you have finished at the arcade, drop into the Ice Creamery directly across for an ice cream indulgence. They close at 8pm in summer and earlier in winter.

Slot Car Racing

Try slot car racing at Show Us Ya Slots in Lemon Tree Passage. Challenge your friends and family to slot car racing. For only $6 per person for 30 minutes, you can race on 4 epic racetracks. This one is a little tricky to find, its located at 12 Industrial Crescent, Lemon Tree Passage on the right hand side down the driveway between the red brick building and the green building. Generally, they are open Thursday to Sunday 11am – 4pm. Check with them first as they are sometimes closed for competition meetings.

Spirited Play Cafe

Spirited Play Café is located behind Bunnings in the industrial area. Targeted at preschool aged kids, it’s a great place for young families to escape the rain or the heat and tire the little ones out. Bookings recommended during school holidays and rainy days.

David Graham’s Golf Complex

David Graham’s Golf Complex located on Nelson Bay Road at Anna Bay has several activities that are under cover. So as long as it isn’t driving rain you can

• Test your skills on the 20 hole putt putt course
• Challenge each other in a golf driving competition. There are targets set out on the range to aim for.
• Battle it out in the Batting Cages

Sock Wrestling Championships

Sock Wrestling Championships. Got energy to burn and going loopy? Clear a wrestling area. Each opponent has one sock on. Wrestle with your opponent until you get their sock off. Who will be the grand champion in your family?

I hope you enjoyed 10 excellent things to do in Port Stephens when it rains with your kids. I’d love to hear any other ideas for things to do in Port Stephens when it rains.

You may also find 20 free things to do in Port Stephens useful.

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