Queens Wharf is the centrepiece of Newcastle's harbour foreshore redevelopment — a multi-level venue with a pub, café, restaurant, ferry terminal, and an observation tower that gives the best elevated view of the harbour. The tower is free to climb and the panoramic view from the top takes in the river, the industrial port, the sand dunes at Stockton across the water, and the ocean beyond Nobbys.
The surrounding precinct has been steadily improving since the BHP steelworks closed in 1999. The old harbour-side warehouses and industrial buildings have been converted into bars and galleries, and the foreshore walk between Queens Wharf and the museum precinct is pleasant at any time of day. Ferry services to Stockton depart from the wharf — crossing the river takes about five minutes and gives a water-level view of the city skyline.