Make the most of your Open Day weekend

For those who like to cram their weekends like they cram for exams.

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Open Day at the University of Wollongong (UOW) isn't just about exploring the campus, accommodation, and learning about degrees. It's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and lively community of Wollongong. Whether you're a prospective student, a parent, or just curious, here's how to turn your visit into an unforgettable weekend adventure.​

Arts and culture

  • Wollongong Art Gallery: Explore the city's rich and diverse creative DNA, featuring significant Australian, Indigenous, Asian and contemporary artworks. 
  • Nan Tien Temple: Wander through the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere and stay for a delicious vegetarian lunch.
  • Local museums: Uncover the history of this beautiful place. 
  • Merrigong Theatre Company: Catch a live performance at the Illawarra Performing Arts Centre, featuring a diverse lineup from local and international artists.
  • The Servo Food Truck: Check out what's on at The Servo which hosts a range of gigs including live music, comedy, poetry and more.
  • La La La's: If live music is what you're after, this is the place to check out in the centre of town.

 

Student lifestyle - cafe

Eat, Shop, Play

  • The Boathouse, North Wollongong: This chic beachside bar and bistro has quickly become a local hotspot for its vibe, stunning ocean views, and fun-loving crowd. 
  • Diggies Café: Start your day with a hearty breakfast and ocean views at this iconic beachside café.
  • Lee and Me: Have breakfast in a converted terrace house in the centre of town.
  • Principle Brewing: Taste locally crafted beers and indulge in southern-style fried chicken at this popular brewery in Fairy Meadow.
  • Breakout Bar and Escape Rooms: Grab some friends and try your luck in the escape rooms, or grab a microphone and belt out some karaoke tunes!
  • Holey Moley and B Lucky & Sons: bounce between these neighbouring venues for a spot of golf and a round in the 80s-inspired "bar"cade
  • Wollongong Central and Crown Street Mall: For those in need of retail therapy.
  • Thirroul Village: head up north to the sleepy coastal suburb, packed with vintage shops, quirky boutiques and cute cafes.
  • The Fitz: enjoy a sunset dinner and drink with a mountain view at this Melbourne-inspired rooftop bar in Bulli
  • Moominn Bar and Kitchen: Discover an exceptional drink and dine hotspot at this Insta-worthy Crown Street venue. Indulge in a menu that playfully blends Eastern European and classic Asian flavours, paired with a delectable drinks list.
  • Pepe's On The Beach: Craving sun-soaked vibes, delicious bites, and awesome tunes? Pepe's On The Beach is your go-to for tasty eats and a vibrant atmosphere. 
  • North Gong Hotel: An iconic hotel located in the heart of Wollongong.

Outdoors

  • Illawarra escarpment: Pick a path and explore the landscape. Venture up Mount Keira or Mount Kembla, or challenge yourself with the steps to Sublime Point (the view is totally worth it).
  • Visit stunning waterfalls such as Fitzroy Falls, Belmore Falls, and Macquarie Falls, all within a short drive, as well as the Royal National Park.
  • Skydive the Beach: Join 19,000 people who jump from perfectly good planes every year at the only place in NSW where you can land on the beach.
  • Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk: Zipline or walk through 45 metres above the forest floor.
  • Grand Pacific Drive and Sea Cliff Bridge: Cruise along the scenic coastal road.
  • Walk the Blue Mile: Stretching from North Beach to the Harbour, the Blue Mile is the perfect place for walking, cycling, swimming, jogging and dining.
  • Whale spotting: This is prime whale-spotting season. Keep your eyes peeled from one of the many coastal lookouts, including Bald Hill
  • The Waterfront Shell Cove: Go for a leisurely stroll around the newly built Marina and breathe in the ocean air.
  • Wollongong Botanic Gardens Just across the road from UOW, take a stroll through the gardens, learn about conservation or just relax and soak up some nature.

Make your UOW Open Day weekend more than just a campus visit. Immerse yourself in the experiences that make Wollongong a unique and exciting place to live and study.