Oakvale Wildlife Park: Self-Guided Audio Tours

This self-guided audio walking tour explores Maitland’s railway heritage, local history, and Steamfest atmosphere. It will appeal to first-time visitors, families, history lovers, and anyone curious about how trains, museums, and civic landmarks helped shape the city. The route starts at Hunter Events NSW in the Station Precinct, where Maitland’s connection to rail travel comes into focus. From there, you move past the Maitland Community Markets, Maitland Public School, Grossmann House, and St Mary’s Anglican Parish, tracing a path through everyday local life and some of the city’s best-known heritage sites. The walk then returns to the Steamfest area, with several stops linked to Hunter Valley Steamfest and the Rally Ground. In the final section, the tour heads through the Museum of Arts & Sciences, Maitland Regional Museum, and the Maitland Steam & Antique Machinery Association before ending at another Steamfest stop near the rail precinct. Along the way, you can expect the memorable contrast of grand historic buildings, community gathering places, museum collections, and the powerful romance of steam engines, whistles, and vintage machinery that give Maitland its distinctive character.

Tucked within 25 acres of pristine Australian wilderness, the Oakland Wildlife Park is a haven for diverse wildlife. This haven is home to native Aussie species, adorable farm dwellers, and unique denizens including koalas, kangaroos, Tasmanian devils, and even alligators. Guests can enjoy a day of adventure and amusement with opportunities to hand-feed animals, attend Keeper Talks, and watch captivating feeding shows. Feeling the mercury rise? The Splash Bay Water Park is the ideal retreat to chill out and enjoy some splash-filled fun. What's more, it's open throughout the calendar year - so don't forget to pack the swimwear!