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
the season for bush walking
A day on the greens
good times & fun vibes
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Andaman Thai Special Offer – 10% OFF Online Orders
Located in the picturesque Shellharbour Village Andaman Thai offer delicious traditional authentic Thai and Asian cuisines using the freshest of ingredients with sauces made from scratch. Andaman Thai have a wide variety of Thai and Asian dishes including Money Bags, Crying Tiger, Salt & Pepper Squid, Lamb Shanks, Massaman Curries, Satay’s, Pad See Ew, Pad Prik Gang, Pad Khee Mao, Cashew Nut Noodles, Pad Thai, Green and Red Curries, mouth-watering Duck dishes and lots more. Chef Specials and Banquets are also available.
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Arabella Day Spa, Step into Spring Package
Situated in the beautiful Shellharbour Village. Relax and enjoy the serenity, being pampered and indulging in all that our spa has to offer. Massage, facials and spa treatments. Finish off with a herbal tea or champagne on the balcony overlooking Shellharbour Harbour.
Arabella Day Spa have spa packages including lunch packages. Group bookings available.
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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!
Having been the head chef at Branches Restaurant for the past 25 years, I have cooked for and come to know many of the local community, and it is this community that I love most about Shellharbour. I have always said that Shellharbour is the perfect location, being able to enjoy all that the coast offers as well as the benefits of country living.I love the simplicity of being able to go fishing or see the ocean before and after work.
