INSPO FOR FUN TIMES
planes, trains & vintage vehicles
So you’re looking for an activity that mixes a sense of fascination with a bit of history and heritage? Maybe something for the kids that’ll keep them interested enough to behave for more than 5 minutes? There’s a range of museum experiences around here that will leave you feeling like a good parent, and surprised just how much the kids will love it!
So, what’s your jam?
Sky Soaring
If the winged mode of transport is more your thing, head to the HARS Aviation Museum at Shellharbour Airport. The passion and pride in the collection of historic aeroplanes is truly evident here. You’ll be guided around through the operational hangars and be able to get up close and personal with the aircraft. How does sitting inside the cockpit of an F1-11 or stepping out on the Wing of a 747 sound? This is the place to do it!!
Be amazed learning about the pilots cockpit operations and seeing how some of our flying pioneers braved the skys.
While you’re there – tuck into some lunch at Cafe Connie, affectionately named after the Super Constellation passenger aircraft.
Does exploring all those aircraft inspire you to take to the skys? Then Touchdown Helicopters is ready and waiting to take you on a scenic flight over the region or further if you choose. For the more adventurous take the control of a light aircraft with NSW Air Flight Training.
Get Steamrolled
Guess where you’ll find the Illawarra Light Railway Museum? That’s right! Albion Park Rail – it was meant to be!
Another one to delight the kids – learning about the mechanics and operations of the grand old steam engines and locomotives. It really is like stepping back in time and a glimpse of railway transport from yesteryear. A great opportunity for intergenerational bonding, bring the grandparents, ride on the steam train (there’s also a miniature railway for the kids), and ignite the senses with the sights, smells and sounds.
The Shellharbour Story
Have you been to the Civic Centre lately? The left side of the building, just behind the Civic Square Cafe, and houses the Shellharbour City Museum and it’s regularly changing set of exhibitions.
From artefacts, historical photographs and documents to oral histories, it’s a space to discover more about our local history and heritage and learn about the people, places and events that make Shellharbour what it is today.
The museum also provides a resource room with access to databases for family tree and history research.
Check it out!
The Oldsmobiles
Just a short drive tucked away in Kembla Grange you’ll find the Australian Motorlife Museum. This place has some seriously cool stuff! Collections of vintage cars, wagons, motorcycles, memorabilia – you’ll be amazed at the range on show. They sure don’t make ‘em like they used to!
Please Note: Due to COVID restrictions please check with each operator opening hours and booking requirements.
End of article
MORE FUN TO DISCOVER
Splash into Shellharbour
Discover amazing bush walks
A day on the greens
good times & fun vibes
who doesn’t love a sweet offer? Check out these local deals available in the shellharbour region!
Enjoy 20% off the Illawarra Fly Tree Top Walk
Adventure above the rainforest – the Award winning Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk is Australia’s Premier Rainforest experience. The 1500 metre rainforest experience includes the 500 metre long, 25 metre high Treetop Walk which provides a new and unique viewing perspective of the rainforest along the Illawarra escarpment.
Branches Restaurant Offer
Spend $40 on direct pick up orders and receive a complimentary bottle of wine.
Our fine dining Italian and Seafood Restaurant, known to locals as Branches, will cater to even the smallest detail offering personal and friendly service.
Specialising in Italian, Mediterranean and Seafood cuisine, using locally sourced premium ingredients, Branches offers something for even the most delicate palate.
25% discount on Family passes @ HARS Aviation Museum
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the history of aviation by taking a guided tour of the HARS Aviation Museum.
The unique tours allow you to see some uniquie historic aircraft including “Connie” Lockhead Super Constellaion, the airliner of the 1950’s that conquered the world, you can get up close and personal with the Neptune Bomber, sit inside the cockpit of an F1-11 and many more. Tours are available 7 days per week from 10am until 2.30pm.
WIN 1 of 13 PRIZE PACKS UP FOR GRABS
including an ultimate Shellharbour Experience package.
local spotlight
what i love about shellharbour
Being a photographer, I love the diversity of the Shellharbour region. There's pristine beaches and the lake, to rolling hills, rainforest and, of course the escarpment - all within a 20-minute drive. Plus with the airport and soon to be marina - Shellharbour has it all!
We love living in Tullimbar Village, it has a fantastic sense of community! We enjoy spending time in the Village eating at cafes and our dog Peggy loves the beach. Peggy's Bistro emulates everything we love about Shellharbour and feel lucky to be part of the wonderful community our customers create.
