Things to do in Dubbo

Whether you're embarking on the Great Australian journey, planning a weekend break, or a spur of the moment getaway, escape to the Dubbo Region and make memories to last a lifetime.

Set on the banks of the meandering Macquarie River, Dubbo is a vibrant regional centre with a relaxed country atmosphere. It’s a good five and a half hours’ drive west of Sydney (approx 400km), but the picturesque passage across the Great Dividing Range and the fertile plains of the Central West means it’s a trip worth doing over a number of days.

While many visitors are drawn to Dubbo by the expansive Taronga Western Plains Zoo, don’t be fooled into thinking this is a one trick town. Scratch the surface and you’ll find fabulous cafes, fascinating art and history as well as plenty of places for the kids to burn off their energy.

Where to eat in Dubbo

Just off the main strip, locals pack into Press, a reworked federation home with a peaceful alfresco section out the back (including a spot for the kids) where they serve impressive coffee and filling sandwiches and burgers.

The bucolic charm of Short Street Store is set a few blocks off the main road into town but it’s perfectly peaceful and a great spot for a salad or pasta.

As the cool of the evening descends, settle in for a craft beer, gin, or rum at the One or Two Brewing. A great hidden gem in the east loved by travelers and locals alike.

For something a little more upmarket, head to CSC Restaurant and Bar, grab an outdoor table under the street trees and tuck into the modern seasonal menu. For some fine dining and award-winning fare, One 7 Eight in Dubbo RSL is where you can sample the local produce while also having a cocktail or two.

Where to play in Dubbo

As a flourishing regional centre, Dubbo lays claim to an enviable mix of activities for all interests. History buffs (as well as the kids) will love glimpsing 19th and 20th century prison life at the Old Dubbo Gaol, including night and ghost tours.

The Western Plains Cultural Centre is one of the state’s best kept secrets with ever changing exhibitions and a permanent collection with an emphasis on animals. There are workshops for young and old and if you time your visit for the first Saturday of the month, join locals at the centre and take in a cult film.

To truly get into the country life and wash off the red dust, dive into a number of great swimming holes on the banks of the Macquarie River (taking the usual precautions) at either Sandy Beach or Butlers Falls Reserve. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the 12.5km Tracker Riley Cycleway out past the zoo or you can hire a canoe and paddle down the Macquarie.

For a scenic afternoon, stroll Victoria Park and pop into the swimming pool – complete with splashpad – to cool off.

What to see in Dubbo

The Taronga Western Plains Zoo is the reason many people are drawn to Dubbo. And for good reason. Beyond a trip to Africa, this is possibly the best chance you’ll get to see the greatest species on the planet in a safari like setting. If you don’t have time to pack it all into one day, fear not – a ticket to the zoo is valid for two consecutive days.

For an up close look at First Nations culture, explore ancient Aboriginal grinding grooves in the Terramungamine Reserve. Located along the Macquarie River, the site was used by the Wiradjuri Tribe to shape tools and spears and was an important meeting place for the Tubbagah people. You can take a tour to the site with Senior Wiradjuri Elder Peter Peckham on First Lesson Cultural Tours, as well as visiting a Scarred Canoe Tree and learning about bush medicine and bush tucker.

Enjoy stargazing at the Dubbo Observatory with a Night Sky and Telescope Viewing session. Or take the whole family to explore the resilience and resourcefulness of the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

Where to stay in Dubbo

The recently refurbished Dubbo Holiday Park is just minutes from the town centre and a stone’s throw from the river. Pull up with your own caravan or choose from a self contained unit or a cabin, with options ranging from Studio, Deluxe and Family fitouts to the open plan motel accommodation perfect for large groups (pet friendly cabins are also available).

Rest your weary feet with a dip in the heated pool or let the kids loose on the playground equipment and in ground trampoline. Then prepare your own dinner on the extensive camp kitchen before joining your fellow travellers for a social yarn around the fire pit. The park also boasts a boat and van storage area and easy access to riverside walking tracks. To avoid disappointment, it's recommended that you book in advance.

NRMA Rewards members can also save on 15% on daily car hire rates and get a free upgrade SIXT.