As a parent of three wild children, I find restaurants that cater to the needs of both adults and children are a big win. You’ll get my loyalty and that of the many other local parents looking for a nice meal and a break from life. Happy, occupied children mean relaxed parents and more dining time.
I’m always on the hunt to find local eateries that have playgrounds. The kids can easily come and go as they please, eating a chip here and a drink of water there, while my partner and I get to relax and unwind on the weekend.
After living in the area as a parent for more than six years now, here is my list of restaurants with playgrounds.
- Tradies Helensburgh – Tradies has two playgrounds, one inside and one outside. Both can easily be seen from dining areas.
- Helensburgh Hotel – Offers a playground out the back, so kids can run back and forth from the tables outside.
- Towradgi Beach Hotel – Book the playground deck that directly overlooks where the kids play.
- Dapto Leagues Club – The indoor playground, called 'Tabatinga', offers a drop & dine service for kids aged 3 to 12. You can enjoy some alone time while they have fun.
- Fraternity Club – Enjoy the al fresco dining area at La Trattoria. Grab a meal and watch the kids play in an enclosed playground.
- Shellharbour Club – This club has both indoor and outdoor playgrounds. The indoor playground, 'Block House', is next level, keeping the kids entertained for hours.
- Wollongong Golf Club – Offers an enclosed outdoor playground that can be seen from most tables outside.
- Woonona Bulli RSL Club – This spot has a few playgrounds around the outdoor dining areas and often provides jumping castles of a weekend.
Am I missing one? Please share your go-to and I’ll see you there next Friday!
