Stunning sight two hours from Sydney

Just a couple hours north of Sydney, mythical creatures, dinosaurs and giant bugs are being brought to life in a thrilling school holidays attraction for the whole family.

Just a couple hours north of Sydney, mythical creatures, dinosaurs and giant bugs are being brought to life in a thrilling school holidays attraction for the whole family.

The impressive Hunter Valley Gardens in Pokolbin is hosting the event — called Mega Creatures — until May 4.

Visitors of all ages can enjoy fairground rides, interactive fossil digs, a dinosaur egg hunt, alongside the giant animatronic mega creatures. There are even cute baby dinos puppets doing the rounds, so kids can get up close and personal.

That’s one funky-looking dragon.

While some of the biggest dinos, like the imposing T-rexes, can be confronting for the smallest kids — there’s a big selection cute smaller creatures that can help put them at ease.

The 2025 exhibition also sees the launch of the new ‘Land of Legends’, where fantastic mythical creatures transport visitors to a magical realm that blends fantasy and history. The fantastic creatures will mesmerise attendees as they wander around the top of the Sunken Garden Waterfall.

Kids and parents alike can engage with the fierce Cerberus, guardian of the gates to the underworld, a Phoenix rising from the ashes, the mythical Pegasus, and the Griffin, known for its strength and power.

This was actually an adrenaline rush!

The Garden’s Dragons Den invites families to explore the legendary creatures up close, meanwhile, the Reptile Road features Hunter Valley Gardens’ collection of snakes and lizards on display for visitors to see and interact with during their visit.

Families can embrace the thrill from as little as $6 a ticket for amusement rides inside the gardens. From The Venetian Carousel to the classic Tea Cups and family favourite Ferris wheel.

As the sun sets on the Hunter Valley, the creatures will come to life under the night sky during the Mega Creatures Night Safari.

Near the ride marquee, families will find the Night at the Museum display, which invites budding archaeologists to discover mythical fossils and learn intriguing dinosaur facts to engage their curious minds.

Look, the drive to the Hunter is a bit of a slog from Sydney. So a hot tip, find somewhere to stay.

We stayed at the Leisure Inn, just outside the gardens in Pokolbin. It’s like holiday park with gorgeous modern cabins — with Wifi, ‘Little Explorer’s Packs’ filled with snacks and fun for the kids and stunning surrounds.

There’s also a pool, rustic cafe and a playpark on-site to keep the lil ones entertained.

Stunning views at the Leisure Inn.

The rooms are spacious and fun too.

There’s an awesome view over the valley and lake when you wake up. As the mist rolls away, there’s horses riding by and ducks coming up to greet you as you tuck into breaky.

For more details on Mega Creatures, tickets and program please visit the Hunter Valley Gardens website.