Landmarks
The Obelisk
.
Nobbys Head
. Nobbys island is connected to the mainland by a pier built using convict labour completed in 1846. The pier is accessible to pedestrians, and is flanked by Nobbys Beach. It provides an excellent vantage point to take in views of the harbour and Stockton Beach across the water.
Queen's Wharf Tower
Suggested as resembling a large phallic symbol but great views.
Heritage architecture
in and around the city. Notable buildings in the CBD area include the courthouse top of Bolton St, former Customs House, Newcastle Railway Station, and Post Office cnr of Hunter St and Bolton St.
Museums and art galleries
Fort Scratchley
. A historic site which now houses a military museum. The fort defended Newcastle in 1942 when a Japanese submarine surfaced shelling the city. Fort Scratchley has recently been refurbished and is open to the public, great views to the north and over the city are a highlight as well as the history. Just east of the fort is Newcastle ocean baths a great place to swim and meet some local characters.
The Lock Up Cultural Centre
. Incoporates a Police Museum and the John Paynter Gallery, which hosts resident artists all year round.
Newcastle Region Art Gallery
Well worth a visit. The gallery houses a high quality collection of works by Australian artists and also stages its own and travelling exhibitions.
Parks and gardens
The foreshore
Large grassed open spaces on the old goods marshalling yards at the eastern end with playground equipment for children. Bars, cafes and restaurants overlooking the harbour starting from Queens Wharf where live music can be listened to on the outdoor area over the water Hunter Riverbut very little grassed areas.
King Edward Park
A great place for a picnic or a BBQ. Nice views of the ocean.