Grey skies have rolled in over the Bay, but with the spring school holidays still running there's plenty to keep the kids (and the grown-ups) busy indoors. Whether you're a local or here for the holidays, we've rounded up the best ways to make the most of a wet day in Port Stephens.

🎢 Toboggan Hill Park, Nelson Bay

The toboggan might be off the cards, but the indoor side of the park is made for wet days. There's indoor rock climbing, mini golf, plaster model painting, synthetic ice skating and a giant maze, plus an indoor roller skating rink for all ages. Long socks are required on the rink, so bring your own or grab a pair on site.

✈️ Fighter World, Williamtown

Next to Newcastle Airport, Fighter World celebrates the history of the RAAF across two hangars filled with aircraft and interactive exhibits. With a café on site, it's a solid choice for curious kids and aviation fans alike.

🦈 Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounters, Anna Bay

This family-owned, conservation-focused interactive aquarium is a popular wet-weather pick, with as much emphasis on learning about the marine world as the encounter itself.

🎳 Ten-Pin Bowling and Arcades

SuperStrike Salamander Bay is a classic rainy-day option for families and groups. Over in Nelson Bay, Zone Out Amusement Centre has more than 40 arcade games, virtual reality experiences and mini golf.

🏊 Indoor Swimming

Lakeside Leisure Centre at Raymond Terrace has a heated indoor pool with a special "beach" area that's ideal for smaller kids.

🧸 Indoor Play for the Little Ones

Spirited – A Creative Play Café at Taylors Beach has baby, toddler and all-ages zones, along with coffee, food and comfy couches for mums, dads and carers.

🎨 Galleries and Local Makers

The Port Stephens Community Arts Centre in Nelson Bay is a warm and welcoming indoor escape, while the Artisan Collective showcases local talent across photography, ceramics, painting, glass, mosaic and weaving. The Port Stephens Shell Museum is another quirky spot worth a browse.

🐨 Wildlife, Rain or Shine

Oakvale Wildlife Park at Salt Ash works well on a wet day, with much of the experience under cover. The Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary is another option, and you'll find more ideas in our guide to the Best Places To See Koalas In Port Stephens.

📚 Library School Holiday Program

Port Stephens Libraries still have sessions running this week:

Fairy Garden – Wednesday 7 October, 10am at Tomaree and Raymond Terrace libraries. Create a miniature fairy garden with clay decorations. Ages 8–14.
Tea and Trinkets – Friday 9 October, 3pm at Tomaree Library. Sip bubble tea and craft keychains, earrings and bags. Ages 12–18.

Check the Port Stephens Council website for bookings and availability.

🎉 Free Fun at Shoal Bay Country Club

Free kids' activities run on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from 12pm to 2pm during the spring school holidays, and they're held in the club's indoor area, so the weather won't spoil the fun.

🍿 Catch a Movie

A wet afternoon is the perfect excuse for a film and a choc-top. See what's showing locally in What's On In Our Backyard: At the Movies.

🍽️ Head Out for a Long Lunch

Few things suit a rainy day better than a slow meal with a view of the water. Find a spot overlooking the bay and watch the weather roll in.

Looking for more? Check out our Spring School Holiday Guide and What's On This Week | Port Stephens for indoor events happening around the Bay.