31 Best Stops Between Coonabarabran and Wagga Wagga
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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedApr 10, 2023
How long is the drive from Coonabarabran to Wagga Wagga?
The direct drive from Coonabarabran to Wagga Wagga is 340 mi (547 km), and should have a drive time of 7 hrs 21 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Coonabarabran to Wagga Wagga, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Dubbo, as well as top places to visit like New South Wales and Coo-ee Heritage & Visitor Information Centre, or the ever-popular Siding Spring Observatory.
The top city between Coonabarabran and Wagga Wagga is Dubbo. It's 2 hours from Coonabarabran and 5 hours from Wagga Wagga.
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Dubbo
Dubbo is a city in the Orana Region of New South Wales, Australia. It is the largest population centre in the Orana region, with a population of 43,516 at June 2021.
The city is located at the intersection of the Newell, Mitchell, and Golden highways. Dubbo officially became a city in the year 1966. Wikipedia.
Most popular city on this route
2 minutes off the main route, 26% of way to Wagga Wagga
Best stops along Coonabarabran to Wagga Wagga drive
The top stops along the way from Coonabarabran to Wagga Wagga (with short detours) are Taronga Western Plains Zoo, CSIRO - Parkes Observatory, and Junee Licorice & Chocolate Factory. Other popular stops include Old Dubbo Gaol, Temora Aviation Museum, and New South Wales.
Mountaintop site with a variety of large research telescopes, plus tours, a cafe & exhibitions.
A fantastic place to visit. A wonderful drive with amazing scenery and when you reach the top of the mountain you have the observatory. There is a visitors centre with cakes and drinks and you can book a tour into the telescope. Ring ahead first. Highly recommended
peter kop — Google review
We missed out on the guided tour which was a shame as we drove almost 1hour from our campsite. Also, it would have been great if the telescope was open to the general public for viewing. Otherwise, the location is good with breathtaking views.
Rajiv Garg — Google review
Well worth the stop. Don't do the tour. Check for tour times before you get there. It's recommended not to tow trailers or vans up there. There's a place to unhitch at the turn off. Very interesting stuff
Ian Beverley — Google review
Had a nice tour led by Donna the Astronomer. She’s super friendly and being working decades in the observatory. That’s a fantastic experience standing beside the telescope while the huge machine is moving. Also that is nice to bring kids there to show them the starry night we could never see in the city.
Terrence H — Google review
An amazing vista and the place is oozing history - we spontaneously detoured off the main road and stumbled unexpectedly on this gem, highly recommended, well worth taking a break on your long drive to visit Siding Spring. Or plan more time to properly explore Warrumbungle National Park - stunning hills, great camping and bush walks.
Philip Brookes — Google review
The tour, held by the same guy (long hair, I can’t remember the name) that held the stargazing tour the previous night at the Gateay Caravan Park. The tour was awesome and we stepped in the room with the telescope. It was mind blowing
Massimiliano Trenti — Google review
Well worth the visit! Amazing place with loads of telescopes, including the large AAT. The solar system drive is a great experience for kids. Recommend the tour.
Sean Carritt — Google review
Observatory visitor centre was closed when we arrived (Wednesday mid-afternoon) but if you wander closer to the base of the observatory you can take a lift up into the viewing platform - fascinating astronomy and telescope posters, video and view into the main telescope area. Panoramic views of the Warrumbungles from the lookout at the base of the observatory. Reasonably accessible; some stairs and an incline to the observatory itself.
Unique, well-maintained and well worth the visit particularly with the closest planets of the Solar System Drive on the way up! A must-see for any astronomy buff.
Grace Wong — Google review
The tour is absolutely worth it with Branioc. Great pace, enthusiasm, and a sound knowledge of facility that he articulates well.
Do it. You will not regret a minute of it
The view from drome's Walkway platform is worth it alone, The view is spectacular over the whole Warrenbungles volcanic area.
Tours are scheduled, and you can book ahead.
Check with the info centres at Gilgandra or Coonabarabran.
He also I ffers a tour of the Southern Sky at Coonabarabran. See photo of contact card.
His coffee is good too!
Steve Manuel — Google review
This place is absolutely stunning, would highly recommend coming up and have a look at the current state of astronomical research being done in Australia. No tickets required, plenty of parking, and there's a gift shop with a café as well.
Benjamin Lowe — Google review
Very educational and interesting, perfect for budding astronomers and science minded people, i thoroughly enjoyed and the guy there was really helpful and knowledgeable 🙂
Cowan Caldwell — Google review
Attended Starfest 2023. So glad we were able to as we thought the whole experience was awesome. Loved going into the different areas to see different telescopes and the work astronomers do. Our two daughters were in awe of it all. Was a great learning experience for us all. The Anglo Australian Telescope is huge! There was a free bus to take us around to the different places. Took lots or photos of which a small selection are here. If you can attend a future Starfest, then do so!
Helen Di Domenico — Google review
This place is worth a visit to view the actual size of the telescope. Nice view of the Warrumbungles. There is a tour you can pay to go on to see more about the telescope. Cafe was a let down for a tourist destination.
Leo — Google review
We visited while the cafe and main visitor centre was closed - but that turned out fine as there was nobody there! And we still got to see the AA telescope itself in the visitors gallery and look at the exhibits in there. Just follow the path upwards and anyone can just walk in and take the elevator up. Nice views too.
Good to see accessible toilets there, and there is a ramp all the way up to the AAT, although it may be steep for some wheelchair users without assistance.
Also we loved the scale model of the solar system around the area too! The inner planets are all on the drive up to the observatory
Stacey Duffy — Google review
What a wonderful experience.
Don't miss seeing this interesting site.
Tour inside the telescope, and watching it move and walls rotate was an adventure.
The spectacular views of the Warrumbungles from outside of the telescope, 6 stories up were an extra bonus.
The guide was especially knowledgable of the workings at site.
Next day we also did a walking tour of the entire site surrounding the area.
Home to many birds, this heritage-listed, dark sky park offers a visitor centre, campsites & trails.
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Coo-ee Heritage & Visitor Information Centre
Tourist information center
Visitor Centers
How can you not love a clever wire sculpture of an elegant flying piggie? We had a brief comfort plus coffee stop - barely caught the cafe as it closed, so continued across the river and found a shady tree on the Coona Rd. Excellent coffee, need to come back to Gilgandra for a proper look. But, that flying piggie!
Phillip Hall — Google review
Have not called in for a while. Amazing fixed displays especially the co..eee March. Also I loved the fossil exhibit.
Went out back to the little coffee shop. The young lady was delightful
Also the front desk inquiry officer was busy answering questions. Beautiful clean toilets. The ladies loo had a stunning photograph on the wall. Breathtaking
Brandon and Lynne McDOUGALL — Google review
Steeped in history, great displays, first time I have heard of the Cooee March to Sydney in 1915 for the war
Geoff Cook — Google review
Amazing service with a smile. Food and coffee are so yummy.. Beautiful location for coffee with good friends
Lisa Marchant — Google review
Excellent place to go for the Coowee history, nice brand new building
Greg Yarwood — Google review
Fantastic. A must stop and have a look through. An interesting little war museum. Plenty of tourist items for sale.
Greg Jones — Google review
Dime great history in here regarding the First World War. The Coo-ee March, worth stopping for a look
Lesley Warfe — Google review
Great little museum. Well worth the visit.
Nicholas Mills — Google review
Called in for a coffee and snack closed for a few days should be able to work around what's happening the place is new for God sake
Robert Edwards — Google review
Such helpful staff and a museum well worth seeing. Great history told .
Joanne Barnes — Google review
Excellent place to stop and explore on the way to Warrumbungle or Kaputar, all new and now with a small cafe. Do not expect much of souvenir shopping.
Tatiana Gerus — Google review
The Coo-ee march exhibition is so interesting, comprehensive & moving.
The staff are very friendly & helpful.
Fully recommend allowing enough time for a proper visit. There's a cafe there too!
Barbara M — Google review
This has to be one of the best information places I’ve visited. They have an excellent gallery.
On site coffee shop is sensational
John Adcroft (Ringo) — Google review
A great display of the Cooee march . Very clean facilities and a great coffee shop. Well worth a visit
Brian Dowley — Google review
Found my Great Grandfather's recognition and details as among the first 25 of those men from Gilgandra to march to Sydney for WW1. 1915. So Proud of those locals
Loved this place!!What a great find this museum was with so many items on display and such a wide variety of pieces to look at.The volunteers on site were super friendly and their passion for the region and the need to preserve these pieces of working history for many generations was both very impressive and obvious -We 100% recommend taking the time to stop in and you’ll need to factor in 1-2 hours to get the most from your stop.
Jim Gray — Google review
Really good little Museum well worth a visit
Mark Harrison — Google review
Huge collection of historical items. Took me longer than expected. The main exhibit could use some better lighting though.
Tara Cheng — Google review
If you enjoy history and machinery, a must visit in Gilgandra for a very affordable $5 entry fee (kids get in free!). A great collection and well cared for, with labels and information for almost everything.
We spent about an hour wandering through which was plenty for me, but you could spend hours there if you wanted to! It was great way to bring back some old memories.
Josh Hughes — Google review
Nice little stop with lots of historical artifacts. Some more interpretation and explanation of the items would make this even better.
Nick Geoghegan — Google review
Just loved it. Excellent mix of exhibits from household items, farm equipment, transport and information about the life experience of those who inhabited and developed the area. Buildings relocated here and filled with items of interest.
Well worth $5 entry to help maintain the site for future travellers to appreciate.
Thanks Gilgandra -
now get your younger people involved to keep it going.
John Roger — Google review
Great museum plenty to look at, really enjoyed it.
Worth a look.
Harry Harriss — Google review
Excellent, very comprehensive range of historical farm machinery. Definitely worth a visit
Great displays and information. Had lunch at the cafe, burger and chips more than enough. Bought some things at the shop all profits go back into supporting the RFDS. Staff very friendly and know their stuff.
Ray — Google review
We had a lazy late afternoon visit, and would recommend that you leave a little more time, especially if you haven't got little kids - there was plenty of things for them to interact with and enjoy the experience, but oh so much detail that older children and adults can absorb. The guided experience was so welcome, with experts able to point out things we didn't notice by ourselves. The gift shop is filled with all the things you want to buy, top quality and very enticing, but not an obnoxious maze you need to navigate in order to leave either. I could have sat and enjoyed the live update map for quite some time. A lovely cool oasis and extremely informative on life and innovation in our non urban areas.
Kat Smith — Google review
A great facility though the echo from people talking in the huge shed makes it difficult to read and concentrate on what you're looking at. The interactive attractions are fabulous. It was nice to learn about how the RFDS all started and to read and watch how the RFDS has helped people who are isolated and in need of help. I would have loved to learn more about the people that work there, how they deal with the unknown, how many people go to incidents and how they decide how many to send, qualifications of staff, how you can get involved, what roles there are and what paths you take to get employment with the RFDS. It was also frustrating that the interactive screens in front of the main screen go off during the "movie". I was half way through one when it went off. They were the last things we had left to do but not enough time to stay through the movie to do it...I love in alice springs they have a cockpit you can climb through. I assumed it might be the same at dubbo but it's not.
The people working here though were very nice.
Row O'Toole — Google review
Hands down a absolute highlight of our visit to Dubbo. So unbelievably informative, interactive experience not only for children, but definitely for adults. The short video of actual people helped by RFDS was great. Seeing real time data of where planes were travelling to was really interesting. Helpful people available for any questions you may have. Nice cafe available to have a sneeky drink and snack.
Highly recommend. Don't forget to make a small donation to keep this amazing service in the air.
Kathy B-bear — Google review
Fabulous exhibition space, interactive displays, great use of technology to get their message across. I learnt so much about this crucial service and its history. The volunteers were passionate about their job and very friendly. Thank you Flying Doctors service for all you do to support rural and isolated communities. Very worthwhile activity when visiting Dubbo. Highly recommend it for all age groups.
Bianca Cooke — Google review
There is an entrance fees which is reasonable to up keep this high tech display. Great information
Jit Lim — Google review
It is easy for city residents to go to a hospital. But for regional residents the nearest hospital might be hundreds of miles away. Any emergency or life and death situations, every minute is crucial. Flying doctor service is an important part of regional living and an essential service for maintaining wellbeing of regional residents. The Royal Flying Doctor Service Visitor Experience was fun and interactive. I support the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Highly recommended
Simon Leung — Google review
Great place to visit in dubbo! If like me you are prone to getting emotional, pack your tissues- some of the stories will make you ball your eyes out.
Perfect for learning more about the RFDS and teaching group the kids about the importance of this amazing service.
The volunteers are amazing and help your experience to be fantastic.
Kylie Archer — Google review
Friendly, helpful staff. A good history of the origins of the RFDS, lots of interactive displays. A nice gift shop and Cafe on site.
Ian Drury — Google review
Strong recommendation if you're in Dubbo for a weekend.
It's a fantastic way to spend a few hours. Includes heaps of different content - interactive displays, videos, information boards, functional replicas, memorabilia... You name it. And it showcases an underappreciated service that has positively impacted so many Australians. Get around it.
Brad — Google review
Located at Dubbo Airport near RFDS Dubbo Operations.
The exhibition has interactive displays, and tells the history and current goals of the RFDS. It does this through displays and augmented reality experiences. This includes aviation, showing current and past aircraft. Communications, where you can try a pedal powered radio, or see where any one of the current fleet of 70 aircraft are based or on a current mission right now at this moment.
The experience also explains the other support services, patent transfers, dental truck, operations and administration.
There is a great Cafe on site, where you can have refreshment, a meal or a snack next to one of its retired actual planes, a Fox Moth.
RFDS Visitor Experience have a well stocked gift shop, and I would say it has a great selection of shirt, jackets, and memorabilia items that you can take away and actually use.
It's just a great experience.
Greg Shore — Google review
We had a really great time visiting the RFDS and was amazed by all the displays. We learnt so much about the important work by the RFDS and our community is extremely lucky to have such a wonderful service. The staff were absolutely lovely and gave us a personal tour, including the upper viewing deck of the airfield. Thank you to our doctors, nurses and volunteers who truly go above and beyond to give such exceptional health care and service.
Michelle Parry — Google review
RFDS provides a life saving and in some circumstances, a mobile medical treatment (akin to a GP visit) services. Highly underfunded, though one of the most important medical services in our country. A little disappointed Alice Springs was not so referenced because ASP played an integral part of RFDS infancy days. *** PLEASE buy something from their gift shop, as ALL proceeds go to the RFDS.... Enjoy your visit :-)
Allan Jones — Google review
This an absolutely fabulous place to visit! The cafe was lovely, with great food and drinks at reasonable prices. They have a number of gluten and dairy free options, and lactose free milk available.
The information centre is well worth the entry fee, with fantastic displays, interesting information and a great video presentation. I was especially pleased to see that all the video resources were captioned! They also have wonderful volunteer guides to show you around and give you additional information about the history and current operations of the RFDS, which we loved!
They have excellent toilet facilities, including an accessible bathroom with a spot for you to put your bag down!
Kimberly Matthews — Google review
We had a very humbling experience from our visit of the RFDS at Dubbo. The effort that goes in providing top class health care services to our remote outback is just amazing. The displays at the centre were very informative and easily understandable. The staff was corteous and very respectful as well as patient with our questions. Hats off to all the doctors, nurses and staff involved with the RFDS.
Picturesque, free-admission garden with 4 areas, including a traditional Japanese landscape garden.
We visited the Shoyoen Japanese Garden, which forms part of the Botanical gardens. It was beautiful. The gardens are well maintained, and there are some interesting trees and plants. The small lake is idyllic with its little waterfall, birdlife and Koi fish. There is a replica Japanese house which can be viewed from the outside. There is no charge to explore the garden which provides a restful retreat, particularly for tourists such as my wife and I. I recommend finding the time to spend an hour at these beautiful gardens.
David Stephenson — Google review
Beautiful gardens to wander through. Japanese gardens include ducks, carp, Lilly pads and waterfall. Sensory garden includes vertical growing walls with strawberries, lemon trees, and a vegetable patch, lavender, stepping stones across a pond and more.
Marita — Google review
A step away from the everyday, yet right on Dubbo’s doorstep. I instantly felt like I was transported to Japan, and I loved it! A great place to come and get in touch with nature and to clear out your head!
Adrian Pich — Google review
Very nice gardens, the Japanese and Sensory gardens are very well manicured and look amazing. There are huge Koi fish in the ponds of the Japanese garden. Not a big garden but very beautiful nonetheless. Well worth a visit while in Dubbo.
Kim Osborne — Google review
Beautiful gardens. Absolutely loved exploring them. The playground right next to them is EXCELLENT! One of the best I've ever seen. Kids loved it.
Kate Armstrong — Google review
It is a lovely serene place. I dashed around with an umbrella, leaping over puddles while admiring the Japanese section.
One day I hope to go back when the sun is shining. The plants were happy in the rain !
Julie Forster — Google review
Beautiful nature. Highly recommend for visitors to this area. IF YOU LOVE ❤️ NATURE, NATURE WILL SAVE YOU 🌲🌳🌴🪵🌱🍂🍁🍃💐🪷🌺🌸🌼🪺🌻🪻
Rajitha Amarasinghe — Google review
One of the best ever visited. Well done to those who maintain the gardens.
Donna Roberts — Google review
Such a tranquil garden setting as soon as you enter the gates. Smell the sweet perfume of the beautiful wisteria, listen to the sound of running water, and enjoy the sheer beauty of this hidden oasis.
Ingrid White — Google review
Beautiful free attraction. Really well looked after with so many aspects of the gardens to look at. Very easy to walk around even with someone elderly with a walker. We visited in April but could easily see the hard work getting ready for spring. A wide range of bird life and a huge parking area. There are public bathrooms in the wonderful park located right next to the gardens.
MsKoshe — Google review
Delightful little gardens, including a Japanese garden, and a biodiverse section which is pretty interesting. It is very relaxing wandering about and there are some benches to sit and reflect. Good fish in the ponds too. Well worth a visit. Also the adventure playground is next door for the kids to cut loose.
Angus Webb — Google review
We spent the morning here on the way out of Dubbo and enjoyed the peace and beauty of the Gardens especially the Japanese Shoyoen Garden. A lovely space to stroll or relax. Some nice areas to sit and enjoy. Definitely worth a look.
Stylish, modern center offering art & cultural exhibitions, educational programs & a daytime cafe.
Fabulous fresh breakfast and coffee, at the Creo cafe today.
The outdoor area is a wonderful place to sit. We then wandered through the Animal studies exhibition by Jack Randell which was excellent. The simplicity and sense of movement in each work was amazing
Judy Morse — Google review
Great experience, many historical information.
Friendly and welcoming staffs.
Leumeah foodies Tangguh — Google review
Absolutely fantastic! The new management makes all the difference. Well priced, well placed, delicious food and friendly staff. Try the burrito bowl with haloumi, you won't regret it! I'll definitely go back.
Stopped to charge the Tesla at the super chargers. Great place for a stop. Clean facilities. Great coffee and food!
Gerard Nathan — Google review
Absolutely fantastic facility. The museum was in the same building as the art gallery with a fantastic restaurant between them. The museum was very informative and the displays were innovative. I found the art exhibition somewhat confronting and feel that it needed a warning for parents. Highly recommended when in Dubbo
peter kop — Google review
Lots of interesting information about local residents from times gone by as well as a 50s class room. There also had a good art exhibition. And, a good cafe! 😀
Lesley May — Google review
I’ve done a very quick visit but the exhibits were very interesting
Massimiliano Trenti — Google review
Fantastic place to visit, whether local or tourist. With a variety of exhibits, there is something for everyone. I particularly enjoy local content, especially Indigenous pieces. The museum section is a fascinating history lesson of Dubbo and surrounds. Also, try out the fabulous cafe. Well worth it.
sue wade — Google review
The stories accompanying the exhibits are excellent and provide context for the whole town.
We were lucky to also see the exhibition of photos from the Australian Museum, which were wonderful
Shauna Pollard — Google review
First time at the cultural centre. Had a very nice time.
Highly recommend the Creo cafe, will be going back to try the breakfast menu.
Ric Warnock — Google review
Site of an old school and features a cafe with a view. Houses the Dubbo Regional Museum (including a preserved classroom) on the one side, and a Community Arts Center on the other. Both feature temporary and longer term exhibitions. Free entry.
O Roldan — Google review
Lovely Cafe, good food and nice indoor/outdoor seating plus the museum and gallery make it a worthwhile day out.
Guided tours, interactive exhibits & re-enactments offered in a penitentiary used from 1847–1966.
We enjoyed our visit here, really interesting to learn about the history of this jail. The shows at 10am and 11am were entertaining and informative, went for about 30min each which maybe was a little too long. We ended up being here for around 1.5 hours but would have been less if shows were not on as took us around 45min or so to wander through the buildings. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in Dubbo for a couple of days or more.
Paolo B — Google review
a small gaol with some different buildings. It was quite interesting to visit, but we found it is too touristy (got a bit crowded at few areas). It is good to check during a visit at Dubbo. We did not visit it last time we went there so we decided to check it this time as we purchased Dubbo Experiences (discounted tickets bundled with Zoo and Royal Flying Doctor). The street parking is only 1 hour so we did not spend too much time there.
M D — Google review
An absolutely amazing compound with some awesome history, well worth stopping in and having a look, would highly recommend spending some time reading the information as you walk around, some of the info blew my mind. Also super convenient that it is dog friendly.
Chris Hardstaff — Google review
Absolutely 5 out of 5. The Old Dubbo Gaol was so much fun. The kids absolutely loved
the two very informative performances, the staff were wonderful, had great knowledge of the history of the gaol and were very funny and engaging. You can walkthrough and explore all parts of the gaol at your own pace. Staff were always available to answer any questions. The ticket multiple entry and exits within the same day. Parking was 1 hr street parking.
Bakso Suka — Google review
Blew my mind. If you are Into architecture or Australian history this is a must visit.
Created with a friendly smile and great customer service interaction from Jordan? (well, the cash register said it was Jordan serving us).
Children are given a workbook and must think of clues and information within the kail and fill it out as they go. It's got some easy questions and some you need to think about. All the clues are within the facility tho.
Having served as a real Goal in its life it's rather moving and haunting to step into some of the cells. Be warned tho, though you don't know who you might run into.
Just when you are on your self-guided journey something interesting happens. I don't want to give away all the details but make sure you participate and watch what occurs. You might be lucky enough to be picked on by the Goal's very own prison officer, enough about that tho.
The Goal also has a very small gift shop filled with some great gifts so you can take home a memory from this amazing visit you will have.
Prices are affordable and reasonable. I would recommend you make this an attraction you don't miss out on. It's a true part of Australian history and the workers do take pride and this facility and their work.
Ray — Google review
Had a great visit to Old Dubbo Goal today. Attended the 3pm escapees talk with my hubby and two kids (10 & 7). The historian who presented was very knowledgeable, enthusiastic and charismatic, he kept all the children and adults entertained for the best part of an hour. Highly recommended.
Sonia Roberts — Google review
We loved Dubbo Gaol. The history is so interesting, We especially liked the displays, the structures and the buildings that have been preserved. Unfortunately, there was some sort of school excursion on the day. The noise totally spoilt the presentation and the atmosphere. Fortunately, we had visited the Gaol previously, so we knew what to expect. We suggest that you check with the Gaol before you plan your visit. It is well worth a visit.
John Gadsdon — Google review
A very interesting introspective into the dark side of Australian history. Very confronting at times. You’d be surprised what would have constituted a crime that would put you in the gaol back then. Some heartbreaking stories, as well as some ‘amusing’ facts, quotes and anecdotes. Obviously well maintained. A reverent place that I personally wouldn’t take children under the age of 12/13 to, as some of the younger children that were there (I thought) weren’t respectful of the history of the grounds.
Overall a great experience and one I think everyone should be made aware of. History that should be respected and learned from.
Elly K — Google review
One of the beautiful place to visit in Dubbo. We had great time with family. Explaining about jail escape was much informative session and the lady explained it in much interesting way
Sudesh Adhikari — Google review
Fun and interesting visit in Dubbo. The shows were good and fun and the staff was friendly. Entrance fee is a little pricey and probably not worth it if you don't watch the show. Toilets were well maintained and the gift shop had some pretty fun stuff.
Serene Tlw — Google review
Had a great time exploring the gaol. The two talks they gave were wonderful, informative and very interactive, the employees doing these were absolutely amazing. Definitely a must see when going to Dubbo.
Kylie S — Google review
An entertaining tour (our tour guide was knowledgeable, funny and kept the big crowd entertained)
I almost felt guilty for having so much fun.
Well worth the visit when people come to Dubbo.
Our 6 year olds loved it too.
Jody Graham — Google review
Tells the story of lives and living conditions of prisoners held in different jails across NSW. Prison is restored as a museum.
Tickets costs a 22.5$ per person and in my opinion it’s bit expensive.
Place is carefully managed and pretty clean.
Chathu Kularathna — Google review
We took our Granddaughter to Dubbo Gaol and she loved it as did we.
Tilly was amazing really plays her part well, we couldn't stop talking about her.
She always involved the crowd and everyone was happy to participate.
Alot of History at the Gaol and it was good for our Granddaughter to learn about our Histroy.
Lynda — Google review
Excellent location. Great restoration & fantastic interpretation resources on site. Takes about an hour and a half to explore and soak in the atmosphere and study the signage.
Geoff Mason — Google review
Right in the middle of town so easy to find.
Easy to get tickets and pay.
Friendly and helpful staff.
The gaol has been restored to a point where it is easy to understand the history and hardship of the inmates and prison officers.
There is an mobile online walk through of the exhibits along with a printed copy. Each physical area of interest has a summary near its entrance. It helps you get a feeling of life as an inmate and officer only worse.
There is an air conditioned area for smaller exhibits, e.g., batons, hanging ropes, and lots more. Plus it has movies / slides to help you visualise the experiences and how the items were used.
The buildings are real and displayed with the real inmates and wardens identities and stories.
Greg Shore — Google review
Was fascinating. Very informative, great staff very friendly, helpful and make you feel welcome.
Great show they put on. We went during the school holidays. My boys are still talking about it and bragging about being chosen as a volunteer in the show. Great actors, too, wonderful work, ladies.
Wonderful place, highly recommend a visit. The history is a little dark and sad, but it's great to know how far jails have come since then.
Definitely put this as a stop on your itinerary, allow an hour or 2, and definitely bring a camera. You won't be disappointed. Make sure you get there as it opens, and there should be a short wait time.
Em Mann — Google review
A must do --- Allow min 1hr. Costume show is not to be missed (they lock the front gates though you can still get out). A very passionate team and very interesting walk back in history. Highly recommend.
Allan Jones — Google review
Nice but could be more interactive. Takes 30-40 min to see everything. A lot of pictures with text that you have to read about each prisoner and their stories, we got bored of reading.
Santa St — Google review
Entering the Dubbo Gaol to the very theatrical performance by Billy is a very neccesary and light hearted way to take the edge off what you are about to see. To say the Gaol captures a dark side of Australian History is an understatement. You feel it in the walls of the cells, in the photos and stories of the former prisoners, the eyes of the executed and certainly from the artifacts used in daily life there including for the executions. A sombre and at times frightful journey. But a fact of life.
Make sure to watch the interactive performance by the actors beforehand as it really does balance the whole experience.
Well done to all staff. Highly recommended.
Established in 1977, this 300-hectare open-range zoo features animals from around the world.
We had an amazing experience at the zoo! The fallow deer was a standout as we happened to be there at feeding time.
The zoo was busy in the morning but from about 2:30 onwards a calm descended over the zoo and it was wonderful.
We went back a second day because we loved it so much.
Kylie Archer — Google review
We had a great time at the Zoo. Driving around takes about 3hrs to see most of the exhibits but not rushing. Next time we will be going using the electric buggies and would recommend going this way if you have a family or small group.
The animals appear to have great enclosures with lots of space to roam, not feeling trapped. They all look well taken care of.
There’s plenty to look at and the information on available to learn digitally about the exhibits is handy. More QR codes with text sites or videos would be appreciated.
Take the day and explore this awesome zoo.
Daniel B — Google review
Great zoo experience. We booked tickets online and a golf cart to drive around the zoo. Booking online enables you to largely skip the ticket queues. Hire times are from 9am - noon and 1pm -4pm. Whilst the carts are fun, you are competing for parking around the exhibits with other carts and cars. If it's not a rainy day it's better to hire one of their bikes or ride your own. That way you can ride right up to the exhibits. The Cafe serves delicious food and the gift shop has items for all budgets.
Jennie McKern — Google review
This is one of the nicest, prettiest, well laid out and presented zoos that we have ever been to. We decided to walk around the zoo, rather than drive a car, hire a buggy or a push bike. We loved the way that the open enclosures were set out, giving you the feeling that you were seeing the animals in the wild. The highlight of our visit? Going into the lion enclosure. What a fabulous experience seeing these magnificent animals up so close. Thank you so much for a fabulous experience.
John Gadsdon — Google review
Great zoo, friendly staff, and way to see all the exhibits. Recommend the bike hire. The bikes are well maintained, have disc breaks, and no need for gears as the paths and roads are flat. Only criticism is the signage can send you round in circles and or back to the start.
Lucy Robson — Google review
What a wonderful experience we had at the Toronga Western Plains Zoo Dubbo.
We hired a golf cart to get around which was great. Unfortunately I booked the AM session twice by accident and the incorrect booking was not refundable. Next time we would use our own vehicle to travel around the park (which you can do) but at least we had fun in the cart and can tick it off our bucket list. Along with feeding the giraffes 🦒. This experience is definitely worth the extra fee.
Keeper talks are informative and you can tell from the enthusiasm in their voice that they love their job and the animals they care for.
Whilst there are 2 places to eat and vending machines at picnic spot, I definitely recommend bringing your own food, snacks and cold drinks.
Our teenage children loved the experience and close they could get to most of the animals.
We will be talking about the memories we made today for a long time to come.
Vanessa James-McPhee — Google review
A significant place for families to have fun there. Animals all have prominent places to play and live, that's important for them. There are many kinds of animals, from giraffes, hippos, and rhinos to sea otters, tigers, and lions……
It would help if you wear comfortable shoes, because there is a long way to walk. But you can hire/take a bike if you can ride; it will be a brilliant idea.
Just remember to bring enough water on a hot day. It's hard to find a water fountain, or maybe they don't have one. Purchasing a bottle of water from the machine costs $7.70.
Zhuping Zheng — Google review
Had an absolute awesome time, would definitely recommend to anyone of any age. We had our two kids both under 3 and the grandparents and everybody had a ball. It works out cheaper of you get tickets online, there is concession prices available and kids under 3 are free. You can hire a 6 seater cart to drive around the zoo with the option of putting your kids car seats in the cart. There was also bikes available for hire if you wanted to have a ride around the zoo. Your able to drive your own vehicle or walk as well. I really loved how natural it was, there wasn't really cages rather open areas with appropriate fencing suited to that animal, with quite a few having motes around them. We had the cart for the day which I found was a good amount of time with kids to see all the animals, as you have to walk to a lot of them from the parking bays they have.
Skyandra Trinder — Google review
Great zoo with plenty of things to see.
Carts were good with room for only one car seat though and only 3 hours seems a bit short for the amount of attractions.
Bikes with kid seats and trailers seem like the better option for families to have the full day.
Decent food available and good gift shop.
robert sampson — Google review
The African zoo to see in Australia. Drive, bike or walk to the many different animal exhibits on offer. All tickets purchased give two days of access to the zoo and you'll need it. Walking shoes are a must. We loved every minute. Definitely will come again in the future.
Timothy Blick — Google review
You can bike, walk and drive it. You can also hire a buggy. The zoo is fabulous, they have feeding and talking times about all the animals. Plenty of cafes around the park and amenities. The keepers do a fabulous job with there info on their animals that they take care of. You can experience this on your 2 day pass. They also have accommodation.
Lyn — Google review
We had the most amazing time at Dubbo zoo today. There are many different ways of getting around the zoo you can drive your car, hire a cart or bike but we chose to walk around. The enclosures were spaced apart well and noticed the animals were well looked after. The animals were all amazing and I cant wait to come back again sometime soon!
Mitchell Sleeman — Google review
We really enjoyed our day at the Zoo! Animals clearly looked after very well, loved the layout, and the carts and bikes made it much easier to get around. One of our family did the hippo encounter which was amazing. We also did the safari which we all enjoyed.
A few bits of feedback though:
Even with the cart there was a lot of walking required to see things (which having an ankle injury I struggled quite a bit more than I expected to with a cart). Not being able to go backwards in the cart meant we had to park and walk back to some exhibits as the talks didn’t align with the animal encounters we booked.
There is not enough water refill stations and we ran out of water (it was hot and we packed 3 large bottles which wasn’t enough to get between taps to refill).
The map on the app isn’t great - the paper one is much easier to use.
Take hats and plenty of sunscreen/long sleeved shirt as there’s not a lot of shade to take refuge under.
The hire bikes are great, but there are none with training wheels and our daughter was too big for the bike trailer. We ended up having to get a cart instead which was fine but a lot more expensive.
Kerri Favarato — Google review
We absolutely loved a day at the Open-Plan Safari Zoo. The freedom to drive through the zoo in your own vehicle adds an adventurous twist to the traditional zoo visit.
Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by the option to hire golf carts or bicycles, providing convenient and eco-friendly ways to explore the expansive grounds. For those who prefer a leisurely stroll, walking paths wind through the zoo.
The zoo’s regular animal shows provide captivating entertainment for visitors of all ages. There are many picnic facilities and a food shop on the premises. A visit to this zoo was surely a memorable experience for us all.
Mandy Kaur — Google review
Such a cool zoo with environmental and conservation measure and efforts in place. The best way to enjoy the zoo (especially in the heat of summer) is to drive your car through. They also have buggy’s for rent as well as bikes if you are feeling up for it. My favourites were the rhinos and the tortoises. Must say that the australia exhibits were really lacking compared to the rest of the park
Madi Ainsworth — Google review
Amazing zoo, lots of animals, can get pretty hot in the summer but easy to navigate around. They also offer bike option and golf cart. The staff were super friendly, knowledgeable and love to answer questions. There are a lot of talks and shows available so get a timetable before you start. Highly recommend to visit!
R C — Google review
A beautiful place to visit with your family! Having a Zoo Friends family pass allowed us unlimited entry into the park so we could take our time to go around with the little ones.
If you can, I’d recommend visiting from age 1 up as the little one can ride with n adult on the bike or cart. It makes getting on and off a breeze without the hassle of buckling and unbuckling them from a car seat.
Also I 100% recommend staying onsite for at least a night, again with kids it allows you to take the time to explore without the rush. We stayed at the Zoofari Lodge which was pricy but absolutely worth it at least once, especially in the animal view room where you can sit back and watch the rhinos sleeping, giraffes eating. It includes a behind the scenes tour in the afternoon where you can feed giraffes, a morning tour seeing elephants bathe and a drive inside the safari to see the animals up close. My little one loved it! Also recommended for at least 2.5 years up so the little ones can understand and appreciate it better.
Dinner was a mini banquet style dinner, for us being big eaters with was on the lighter side and a tad sweet for our preference but still enjoyed it. They were also able to accommodate dietaries the best they can. Breakfast was more filling as we could add on items, they had a option for pancake & full English breakfast, I had both 🙈
I only wish the check out was later so we could enjoy the view for longer, so I do suggest if you can skip one of the tours just so you can take time to enjoy the views especially if it’s winter where the sun goes down earlier.
Staff were all wonderful and hard workers! Doing the tours and serving us at dinner/breakfast.
Would go again!
Amy L — Google review
Sensational zoo! We had THE best day. Super happy healthy animals with lovely roomy habitats - such a joy to see. The zoo keepers talks were so informative and interesting as well. Coffee was great too!
Sandy Abbey — Google review
Amazing wildlife experience, you can walk, ride a bike, hire an electric buggy or drive your vehicle around the 5km of roads and tracks. The ticket is valid for two days. Well worth it when in Dubbo. Excellent facilities all around the zoo, with two large cafes and a kids waterpark. Allow plenty of time to attend the feedings and guide talks throughout the day.
Kim Osborne — Google review
It's such an amazing zoo.
We spent the day driving around the zoo with our own car. The animals have so much room that you can see how happy and healthy they are. We did the hippo experience with zoo keeper Glyn he was amazing it was one of the best animal experiences ever learned so much about these beautiful animals and got to feed them up close, we also did the safari tour with Kate she was amazing. The whole day here, and it was filled with unforgettable memories. We highly recommend this zoo.
alisa cosgrove — Google review
Such a lovely zoo, you can hire bikes, safari cart (seats 6) or drive round the zoo. We hired the bikes, with a baby seat. It's a work out but worth it. You don't have to park and keep hoping out and in.
Only downside was that we needed to get back by half 3 to get the bikes back but the park doesn't close until 4, we found that we had to rush round the end of the park.
What was really cool at the time was the hospital was showing a lion on the table that was getting a check over. Super awesome.
This Is a must see if you are in the area
Betheny P — Google review
Loved this zoo & the fact you could drive around like we did or hire bikes or carts. Whole day experience, my son loved the water park. Perfect having the cafe half way through. Enjoyed the enclosures where you could walk in with the animals! Was a wonderful family day out!
Margaret Rowe — Google review
Highly recommend doing the early walk pre-opening as a great way to see much of the zoo and get a nice insiders perspective before all the crowds. The volunteers are very friendly and insightful and do a great job of guiding the group around with the commentary.
If you come during Easter, get in early! Unsurprisingly very very popular but worth visiting if you’re in the area.
Buy tickets online to save time and get a bit of a discount.
Anna Goldfeder — Google review
Just do this and enjoy the moments.
You need more than a few hours. It’s around 5kms long but you need to stop often and read the QR code information about each amazing animal.
You’ll be amazed at the array of animal the park has and seeing them in a relaxed natural environment.
Staff are fun and informative.
You can bike, cart, tour and self-drive yourself around each point.
A few toilet spots throughout and a cafe also.
Absolutely worth visiting the whole day!
T T — Google review
Really enjoyed it. Went Easter Saturday. Was very, very busy. The zoo layout handled it, though. We drove our car, got out at each area, and had a look. Was a warm day, and some animals had retreated to the shade. But hey, you can't control these things.Canteen struggled with the high volume of people, especially as a lot of people waited till they got to the cashier before deciding what they wanted. It was very frustrating,especially for the staff. I was in awe of their patience 👏👏👏
A great place for child and adult alike.
Tony Jones — Google review
Fantastic for the family. Stayed in the savannah cabins for a few nights and is so worth the money for the serenity. Was a very immersive experience and being so up close to all the wildlife is phenomenal. Best zoo I have been to so far. All my kids loved the experience! Will be back again absolutely!
Dominique Herisson — Google review
It was an amazing experience driving our own car inside the zoo! The animals living there have plenty of room to roam around and they seem to be quite happy :) There was a long queue at the entrance though (better to purchase tickets online before arrival).
A real treasure and well worth a visit. Recommended by my son, otherwise may have missed it. Well curated with lots of fascinating information, was not aware Narromine had such a rich aviation history. A replica of the Wright Brothers’ model A plane, and it has been flown in Narromine, The flight commemorated by Buzz Aldrin. The volunteer on duty was superb, very informative without taking over. A top attraction, just a short trip from Dubbo. Five stars.
Lorraine Clarkstone — Google review
Absolutely fabulous and our lovely tour guide was amazing with so much knowledge.
Julie Tracy — Google review
Wonderful place,rich in history and how dedicated Aussies were (and are) to defending our heritage.
Well done 👏
Vince Rossini — Google review
Great aviation museum run by dedicated volunteers. I didn't realise Narromine had such a rich history with aviation and is still one of the best destinations in the world for gliders!
Bianca Cooke — Google review
Well worth a visit, some great displays and it was all very informative of Narromine's and Australia's part in aviation.
Mick Dawson — Google review
If you know nothing about aviation it doesn't matter. Here your mind will be nudged for past events that you lived through as well as many that you didn't. A great tribute to Narromine and the history of aviation. Worth making time for.
Ian Sugden — Google review
Excellent display, Sandy was extremely helpful
Narelle Walters — Google review
Very comprehensive and informative!
Shaun Hunt — Google review
Wonderful exhibition and collection of Australian air history. It's like walking back in time. Very emotional for those with family and relations in the forces. A place to be proud of.
Janet Blishen — Google review
A delightful, small aviation museum. Very well laid out collection and friendly, helpful staff. Well worth a visit.
David Jones — Google review
Historic plane replica which had actually flown 16 hours flying time. No other examples known to exist in the world.
Built in 1999 in Noromine. Can fly speeds of up to 70 kilometres per hour. Dedicated by astronaut Buzz Aldrin
Robert Burnelek — Google review
Very informative host Peter thankyou
john limond (funcoach4u) — Google review
4.7
(102)
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4.5
(13)
Narromine Tourist Park, 4108 Mitchell Hwy, Narromine NSW 2821, Australia
Not being a sports fan I didn't really appreciate the statue. But the location has public facilities and green grass. The town is lovely - love wide streets and trees. And there is well tended colourful plants in the main street which makes being a tourist enjoyable. Just surprised there isn't more park benches in the main street. Saw a mum and three kids crouched on the sidewalk in the main street enjoying their pies, would have been nice if they could have relaxed in the shade at a table AND the shops are interesting enough to linger. Fabulous looking florist at the other end of town.
Trish J — Google review
Felt good standing next to the statue of one of the greatest pace bowlers in history. I only wish they made it life sized, it looked a bit small, like 5 feet 6 inches, when you know that he was almost a foot taller than that.
Shyam Koundinya — Google review
Worth a stop. And the butchers across the road had fantastic sausages
Jenny Doeblien — Google review
Its great to look at but the statue doesn't look like him. I know him and looked at him all these years, he is lot taller and the face and body does not match at all.
Sirajum Munira — Google review
Really good likeness except for his height
Cass — Google review
Nice spot to have lunch
Draw back no toilets that we could see
Tracey Callaghan — Google review
Historic place, fun place to visit.
Harpreet Singh Bhatia — Google review
4.5
(25)
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4.5
(13)
13 Burraway St, Narromine NSW 2821, Australia
12
Wellington Caves
Holiday park
Nature & Parks
Caverns & Caves
Very interesting tour for all ages. Our tour guide Bec was lovely and catered the tour for old and young adventurers alike. There are also other activities besides the tours that are accessible for free including a bush walk with marked fossil sites and an information centre. An excellent day trip
JACQUELINE Alchin — Google review
Unable to prebook tickets. I arrived just before it opened and somehow it was booked out until 10:30am. We decided to wait around but unfortunately it wasn't worth the wait. The tour guide was amazing though. He was genuinely passionate about his job, loved sharing all his knowledge of the caves and was great with all the kids on the tour (even the bratty ones).
Rhi B — Google review
Good beginner caves for kids. Not super impressive if you’ve been to many caves before, but staff is really well trained to entertain and engage with the public and it made the experience really memorable. For only 1 cave, I thought the price was a bit high, though.
girl2wise — Google review
Fantastic experience. Unfortunately only the Gaden cave was open when we went (we would love to have seen these other caves), but the staff were very friendly and helpful.
Thanks to our guide Paul who was very knowledgeable and friendly.
We will definitely be back to see the other caves once they open.
Mick Read — Google review
Cathedral Cave was a great first time cave experience for our children (11 and 13). The cave goes down quite deep with the grand finale being a small well filled with beautiful blue water.
Caramello Koalie — Google review
A hidden gem. I cannot believe we nearly
Missed this. Such history for the area… with a fabulous guide that as very interesting and engaging. The caves a beautiful. Make sure you have covered in shoes, but the walk is not to challenging… it does have a few steps, which is to be expected.
kathy lewis — Google review
Not great access for disabled. Over 100 steps after walking up a steep incline before being able to go to caves. I understand that they are caves and it is understandable that people with walking difficulty should forget it. There is a nice Japanese walk next to the centre and we enjoyed that. The staff in the centre were very friendly and we had coffees and 1 blueberry muffin between us! My sister in law’s idea as we don’t need the calories but the bit I had was delicious.
Elizabeth Maunder — Google review
You need to book during school holidays. I only rated this 1 ⭐️ so this I for would come up.
The museum is small but has a great interactive video work and a great megafauna skeleton.
They also have a great free self guided fossil walk which is flat about 800m loop. 20 to 40 mins
Thirdly they have a Japanese garden which is free and good for 20min look around or a picnic (no picnic tables)
Kids play ground next visitor Center too
Hurricane — Google review
Amazing place, did guided cave tour today which was amazing. Paul, our guide was very knowledgeable with good sense of humour. Highly recommended!!
Lost Angel — Google review
The caves tour is excellent. This is a great tourist attraction. Well done Wellington.
Cool sight! Very recent mine, from 1996 to 2001! Amazing feeling looking down into it. Only 100m-ish from the carpark and the walk was easy. Facilities are clean too, nice flushing toilet and hand basin. Came here in the late afternoon and it was all still open
Stephanie Reyes — Google review
Very interesting old gold mining history. Worth the walk to the first viewing platform but the mosquitoes nearly carried me away on the walk around to the other much smaller open cut mines.
Geri Haydon — Google review
This attraction is free. There's enough parking as it wasn't very busy and the parking available is suitable for caravans (a few vans at least).
There's a couple of walks to do and several lookout points. Some of the track includes an include. It's a gravel surface track and there are lots of ants around so be careful where you stop for photos. We ended up with dozens of large ants walking all over our shoes as we didn't look down when taking our first photo.
I think it's worth having a look if you're interested in this type of thing or you happen to be passing by and it's convenient to stop. I wouldn't go out of my way again to visit it though.
Sta1e — Google review
Short walk from carpark to first viewing platform. Good information boards dotted around area. Worth stopping off to see.
jennifer bradford — Google review
Peak Hill is a little gem located midway between Parkes and Dubbo. The old open cut mine is very impressive - there are a couple of walks to do, best is the longest away from the car park. Toilets available and audio (located to the left of the entrance) pod gives you a run down of the mines activity and life. Decent presentation of the mine site, easy parking and walk to view the mine for disabled and wheelchair bound visitors.
Andrew R — Google review
I done the whole walk, got a bit lost at times, came across a few creepy mine shafts that were making scary noises.😂
Loved looking at the mine and the different levels, it was very interesting, recommend doing this walk, took a lot of photos.
Lyn Williams — Google review
Great lookout to see the old disused open pit gold mine. Information about the mine is on an under cover sign board. It has an interesting history. You can walk around the pit on the outside rim on the walking track. There are few pieces of mining equipment laying around but not much. There isn’t any buildings or toilets.
Shez H — Google review
This place was a bonus
Driving past and seen the sign so we thought we have a look
Free entry. Worth the look
Leo Cooper — Google review
Interesting sight to see. Give yourself a couple of hours to do the complete lap. The bottom track from one end of the mine to the other is an easy walk.
Brad Williams — Google review
Very well set up and easy to walk to the lookout.
Greg Yarwood — Google review
Great view. Clean and well presented. Interesting history. Worth a visit. Not far from the main road
Tim Peden — Google review
What an amazing site to visit, real Aussie history. There’s plenty of parking to be had. No dogs allowed though.
We only spent about 15 mins here, which was enough but made for a good break.
The view over the mine was pretty amazing and the info provided along the walk was perfect.
Well worth a visit.
Paul Tooze (No Journey Too Small) — Google review
So so so worth the visit. Am so glad I went there as what a beautiful sight. Mine is only a few minute walk from the car park. You can take a walk around the path or just visit the mine and return to the car park which is what we only had time to do. And it’s only a one minute drive from the Main Street.
Sue Thomas — Google review
This is such an interesting site with great information boards. You can walk to, and around all 5 open cuts. It is a lovely bush walk with great views. It took us about an hour with all the stops to read signs and admire the view. Would highly recommend taking the time to walk around.
Fiona G — Google review
A great way to show off the local history of an old mine. Visually very impressive. If nothing else it's a good chance to stretch h your legs on a road trip. Some really good signs and interactive displays explains the history process and lifestyle.
A brilliant experience with a ton of history. I could sit for hours and just watch The Dish turn and work. Staff is super friendly and I'd come back anytime.
Lars Klint — Google review
Great stop for either the casual tourist or space buff. Plenty of information with all of the exhibits, including the control panel that was recreated for the movie - a nice little "fact vs fiction" panel about the contents of movie too. Great to see that credit is given to Honeysuckle Creek and the roles the two stations played during Apollo 11.
A lot of the exhibits are about how the telescope is used today - Parkes isn't a communications telescope, it is a radio telescope. There's a lot to learn if you have ~45 minutes to read all of the information there.
I really enjoyed the exhibitions on how objects look in radio spectrums vs how they look in visual spectrum only. The large display that had the galaxy being surveyed as a small circle (visual) surrounded by an absolutely massive web of radio signals was both pretty/artistic and informative.
The gift shop is really well stocked with everything space related. I didn't get an opportunity to watch the 3D movie that was playing due to time constraints. The café service was very quick.
Micheal Connor — Google review
I am glad we stopped here and had a look at this magnificent facility.
Just outside if the main entrance are two dishes setup approx 10m apart through which you can communicate to each other. Fascinating.
We even arrived just in time for the 3D movies. They show three short movies which explain the purpose of the dish and the history of our universe in a child appropriate way.
The kids had a ball on the playground outside and the interactive displays inside. There are lots of little puzzles around the place that kids as well as aprrbt slikr to get their teeth stuck on.
Fantastic gift shop with great science games for kids and and interesting book selection. Of course, you have to get "The dish" stubby cooler while you're here.
The staff are very welcoming and friendly. The toilet block immaculately clean.
Sonja Ceri — Google review
Very cool place to drop by. After watching the dish (2000), it was awesome to see the radio telescope in the “flesh”. They also have some 3D movies on slave and the telescope available
Madi Ainsworth — Google review
Definitely worth the visit to see this beautiful part of international history. I was amazed at how beautiful this observatory is. Excellent information on its history is available. Coming from Cowra there is about a ten km unsealed road but if your car is not too low it can definitely be driven on( just a slower drive.
Sue Thomas — Google review
What a fantastic achievement for Australia. We were so thrilled to visit this wonder of the world and the staff in the information centre and cafe are fantastic. While we there we actually got to see the Dish move and what an experience. Both of us had this on our bucket list and anyone in the area would be crazy to not go and visit
Well done CSIRO AND ALL THE PEOPLE INVOLVED IN THE CONSTRUCTION THIS IS AN AMAZING PIECE OF MACHINERY!!!
A brilliant experience with a ton of history. I could sit for hours and just watch The Dish turn and work. Staff is super friendly and I'd come back anytime.
Lars Klint — Google review
Great stop for either the casual tourist or space buff. Plenty of information with all of the exhibits, including the control panel that was recreated for the movie - a nice little "fact vs fiction" panel about the contents of movie too. Great to see that credit is given to Honeysuckle Creek and the roles the two stations played during Apollo 11.
A lot of the exhibits are about how the telescope is used today - Parkes isn't a communications telescope, it is a radio telescope. There's a lot to learn if you have ~45 minutes to read all of the information there.
I really enjoyed the exhibitions on how objects look in radio spectrums vs how they look in visual spectrum only. The large display that had the galaxy being surveyed as a small circle (visual) surrounded by an absolutely massive web of radio signals was both pretty/artistic and informative.
The gift shop is really well stocked with everything space related. I didn't get an opportunity to watch the 3D movie that was playing due to time constraints. The café service was very quick.
Micheal Connor — Google review
I am glad we stopped here and had a look at this magnificent facility.
Just outside if the main entrance are two dishes setup approx 10m apart through which you can communicate to each other. Fascinating.
We even arrived just in time for the 3D movies. They show three short movies which explain the purpose of the dish and the history of our universe in a child appropriate way.
The kids had a ball on the playground outside and the interactive displays inside. There are lots of little puzzles around the place that kids as well as aprrbt slikr to get their teeth stuck on.
Fantastic gift shop with great science games for kids and and interesting book selection. Of course, you have to get "The dish" stubby cooler while you're here.
The staff are very welcoming and friendly. The toilet block immaculately clean.
Sonja Ceri — Google review
Very cool place to drop by. After watching the dish (2000), it was awesome to see the radio telescope in the “flesh”. They also have some 3D movies on slave and the telescope available
Madi Ainsworth — Google review
Definitely worth the visit to see this beautiful part of international history. I was amazed at how beautiful this observatory is. Excellent information on its history is available. Coming from Cowra there is about a ten km unsealed road but if your car is not too low it can definitely be driven on( just a slower drive.
Sue Thomas — Google review
What a fantastic achievement for Australia. We were so thrilled to visit this wonder of the world and the staff in the information centre and cafe are fantastic. While we there we actually got to see the Dish move and what an experience. Both of us had this on our bucket list and anyone in the area would be crazy to not go and visit
Well done CSIRO AND ALL THE PEOPLE INVOLVED IN THE CONSTRUCTION THIS IS AN AMAZING PIECE OF MACHINERY!!!
Did not allow enough time this trip to visit all the viewing opportunities. Really enjoyed the free history lesson in Parkes replica house! (Still a bit too costly for pensioners like us.)
Flossie Peitsch — Google review
Really great exhibits and very friendly and knowledgeable staff
Max D'Argenio — Google review
Great staff and great history. Our younger generation need to know where we came from.
Peter Kazzi — Google review
Wonderful Elvis display - we even had an opportunity to purchase some Elvis hair!! The Car Museum is great collection to view too. The friendly staff were very helpful.
Craig and Susan — Google review
After visiting the Henry Parkes Centre my interest in Moat House was piqued. I was going to England and so went to find the original house. The replica house at the Centre is really a true representation.
I hope you like the photos attached. Unfortunately it’s now a private residence but amazing to think that it’s survived since before 1840, so no internal photos.
It’s good to see that it’s very well maintained and the plaques are still there but it would have nice if it was owned by the National Trust.
Paul Tooze (No Journey Too Small) — Google review
We thought it was fantastic and you could easily spend 2 to 3 hours there
John Moreton — Google review
Lovely people! Great place to stop if in Parkes.
Samuel Case — Google review
Henry Parkes Centre, NSW is a great stop, besides being a information centre it’s also a good car museum and Elvis Presley museum. There’s a good range of cars and bikes through history and the display of Elvis Presley memorabilia is very nice and interesting.
Vincent Jessop — Google review
Very good place, definitely will need at least 4 hours. Must place for fans of Elvis Presley. Volunteers were nice and sweet, were happily sharing the history of the place. Place contains the history about single teacher schools. Also has collection of vintage cars, old farm equipments, tractors. There is also the coach of the first reverse cycle air conditioned train, the Silver City Comet.
m.manikandan sairam — Google review
Such friendly women volunteers. We stopped for a toilet break and they said we could bring the dog in with us. Just so nice and an interesting place to visit
Andrea Haigh — Google review
A wonderful experience!
Loved the old vintage vehicles and of course The Elvis Memorabilia.
Dianne Markow — Google review
Stopped for driver reviver coffee on our way thru. Ladies were lovely and friendly.
Awesome place for camping and a lot of awesome walking track’s, cool waterfall to climb up. It’s 1 hours from Cowra
Kierran Mackenzie — Google review
Quiet camp by running water. Had problems finding walk tracks, all grassed over, so walked along the roads. Interesting old Orchard and sheds at Cassey farm.
4WD track to lookout Mt Nangar worth doing.
Lynne Boladeras — Google review
This is a great place to visit. It has some great views and lots of history and wildlife but the track to the top is quite rough. there are toilets at the campground and a few viewing platforms like the one at dripping rock
All in all i loved the place and would recommend camping there.
There is a video i made on my Youtube channel
Jamie Ramsay — Google review
Worth a visit. Such a beautiful part of Australia and well serviced by NSWNP. Easy access by car, nice walks and excellent campground and picnic area.
Victor Ramanauskas — Google review
Beautiful national park, just beware that the roads are often fire trails, so some low vehicles need to go very slowly. It is absolutely gorgeous in spring, particularly after the rains, the green hills and wildflowers are unbelievable! It was very striking red dirt too, the Nangar Lookout walk is highly recommended, but I would also love to take advantage of the camping grounds and picnic areas too.
A fantastic collection of interesting vehicles from the early 1900's to the early 2010's. Vintage, performance, convertibles, sports cars and everything between. Very well presented and great variety. Lovely owner always has time for guests coming to his museum. Friendly staff, always helpful and available to help. Ample parking, close to town, highly recommended. A great gift ship full of car related gifts and memorabilia, huge range of model cars and other toys as well for your perusal.
Chris Boyadjian — Google review
When you're at Forbes, never miss the chance to see the collection of vintage cars alongside its story in this museum.
Worth visiting! The lady at the shop is very nice and kind. She even offered to take a photo of me & my husband as we struggled to get a "selfie" 😁
Nice museum. There are plenty of motor vehicles to look at 😊
Indeed, a splendid experience ❤️
Mera Savage — Google review
Definitely worth the visit if you are a car enthusiast. Well presented Cars and Motorbikes of all ages and models. The owners are very knowledgeable and friendly. And there's a new model car store recently incorporated into the venue, with a good selection of very reasonable priced models.
Larna Clarke — Google review
Run by the owners. They are fantastic and full of knowledge. There are so many cars and bikes to see that are beautifully restored.
Peter Kazzi — Google review
A really charming collection of old cars and bikes. Many more modern Australian cars so should appeal to all ages. So many cars that I had ridden in or lusted after over the years 😁. Maybe I showed my age by the cars that I photographed 😂
Hilary Stuart-Williams — Google review
Loved to see all the old cars and toys and the mannequins in vintage clothing.Also thoroughly enjoyed the history of the vehicles from the owners.
louise fowler schafer — Google review
Loved this place. Very well set up, clean and well set out. Loved the manequins dressed to the year of the cars. Things to buy as in toy cars and collector toy cars. McFeeters are a lovely family and run it very well. Well worth the visit.
Cherie Colbert — Google review
Motor enthusiasts..you've got to stop here! One of the best! They have range of die-cast model cars. You could easily spend hours here!!
Hubby loved it! He spent quite a bit on the die-cast models, he brought 5 home.
Highly recommend it!!
Road side parkings as well as parking inside their parking area and its drive through caravan too!😃👍👍
Julet Julet — Google review
MCFeeters isn't a secret and easily enough found with a car sitting on top of the building. What a surprise! Ladies, these period cars are accompanied by mannequins in period costume. Its evident the family who own the business are passionate about presentation of their exhibition. It rates higher than the maximum 5 stars. The boy wearing the Cubs uniform once was worn by the gentleman standing alongside him.
Carol Kemp — Google review
Really great range of cars veteran and vintage and modern. Great place to pop in on your way through Forbes.
Kellie THOMAS — Google review
Great selection of cars with a great history, very nice owner! If you're passing through, I'd highly recommend dropping in
Tory Palmer — Google review
What a gem of a place. So many wonderful cars and bikes from first cars to a Holdem Maloo. Worth a visit if visiting Forbes
Julie French — Google review
What a wonderful way to spend 3 plus hrs. If you are lucky enough, you may be able to chat with Bill, the owner like we did. He is so knowledgeable and has wonderful stories to tell. His info on places to visit in the area was very well received... Please visit you will not be disappointed. Thank you Bill
Ellen EDMUNDS — Google review
Great for car lovers and there were many interesting cars to look at. I think its a good place the stop by when travelling across the town
Dana Yang — Google review
Really cool place to go if you're interested in cars, but also cool to see if not. It was really cool to see that all the cars were in such good condition. Definitely recommend making a quick stop whenever.
Elizmarie Pretorius — Google review
4.6
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5.0
(106)
Newell Hwy & Oxford St, Forbes NSW 2871, Australia
What a beautiful meal! They were really busy so we had a bit of a wait.
We both had the quiche with salad. The quiche was so filling neither my Mum or I could eat all of it + the salad.
Karlene Heathcote — Google review
Never went into the visitors centre. Convenient toilets there. Interesting seeing the way some people park there. Those white circles to mark out the parking spots seem to be ignored and people seem to try and take up more than one spot lol
David soper — Google review
Really good info the building worth a visit just for the history
Dennis Orgill — Google review
Never went in but had to stop here to get photo with Ben hall statue. The worker was standing outside. She was friendly and smiled. I feel for this town with there flooding. There was evidence of flooding when we went. Caught an awesome car show there at river by accident
Crosby R — Google review
Lovely lady with great info about the town and events couldn't help enough.although in the middle of moving to a different location..
Shane Dawson — Google review
Visited the info centre on the 10th of January, found staff to be very friendly, helpful and informative. Obviously very proud of their beautiful town. Thank you ladies ♥️ love the sample bag 😊
Fiona — Google review
The ladies were very helpful with recommendations and brochures. The gift shop display was excellent and the facilities were very clean. I hope someone takes over the empty restaurant space. It looks a winner.
John D — Google review
Sorry I was disappointed in the variety of souvenirs available. I needed 3 more gifts. Nothing for grandkids. With a caravan on it easy to shop at information centre s.
neena s — Google review
Thank you to Wendy and Julie for their warm welcome , Julie served me with maps etc and was extremely helpful. Much appreciated. Lovely place .
Wendy Woolley — Google review
Julie at the Information centre was very helpful. We'll have plenty to keep us busy in Forbes.
Robyn Keates — Google review
Had an absolute brilliant experience with the greeting and atmosphere and cafe and couldn’t be happier to call it home. What an amazing little sight and breath of fresh air. Service was beautiful.
Katharine Wright — Google review
Fantastic venue, and hopefully we get another café there soon! The staff were very willing to help and share a story or two. Hopefully the vintage village can get brought back to life one day.
Jacob Degeling — Google review
Lovely lady who was very helpful and gave us details on the sculpture trail. Loved every moment of this drive
Linda Wing — Google review
Wonderful, friendly and helpful. As soon as we walked in, Julie was out of her seat, around the counter to greet us and it really felt like we were old friends she was glad to see. While we were talking to Julie, giving her information about what we wanted to see, Karen was busily gathering maps, brochures and looking up websites. They both went the extra mile to help us and to make us feel welcome. We would give 10 stars if we could.
Thank you ladies, you are great ambassadors for Forbes.
John & Kyla
John McEwan — Google review
Excellent customer service and very attentive to all visitors.
Steve Scott — Google review
4.4
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4.5
(15)
Lachlan Vintage Village, 46 Mary Street, Forbes NSW 2871, Australia
A beautiful gallery full of amazing works. I knew the second we walked in my wife wasn’t leaving without parting with some hard earned.
Mark Burgess — Google review
Beautifully handcrafted unique glassware. Elaine is very informative and offers helpful advice from her experience with her creations.
slb bls — Google review
Whenever we're passing through West Wyalong, it's always a must to stop at Elaine's Hot Glass Gallery to purchase her unique pieces of glassware for family, friends+ ourselves. Annually we like to travel from Melbourne+ look forward to a friendly chat with Elaine (she is very talented). Just purchased more pieces for Christmas" in July".🎁Dawn+Rob
Dawn Harrison — Google review
A great Studio by a lovely, talented glass artist. Beautiful glass pieces for sale too.
Must do in Cootamundra. $5 per adult to immerse yourself into the life of the greatest ever cricketer Sir Donald Bradman born in this house in Adams Street.
Peter Watson — Google review
What a gem this place is! And Philip the volunteer - such an amazing bloke with so much knowledge! Great collection about Bradmans belongings and records! Must visit! And special thanks to Phillip and wish him the best ahead!
Jay Ruparel — Google review
Very enthusiastic guide, lady stationed there could easily pass off as Bradman's no.1 fan with the caveat that if you asked her anything that she might know the answer to, she'll happily Google it 😉
Addy C — Google review
We visited the house where Sir Donald Bradman was born on our way back to Sydney. Lovely little stop to see where it all began for the legend of cricket.
$5 tickets for adults and children are free amd you get souvenir tickets. The gentleman who greeted us at the house was very knowledgeable and welcoming.
We loved looking through all the artefacts and Memorabilia house. Wish we had more timr to look at everything.
You can alao purchase souvenirs.
Thry accept card or cash paymemts.
Kylie S — Google review
absolutely fantastic museum for cricket fans 🏏🏏🇦🇺🇦🇺
Sean King — Google review
Lovely little museum with very knowledgeable volunteer. Well worth the $5 entry. Don't forget to check out the memorabilia collections in the little house adjacent.
Catriona Lamberton — Google review
Lots of memorabilia of Bradman here. It's worth a visit for cricket and Bradman fans.
Deidre Curry — Google review
A must when visiting Cootamundra. Very reasonable entry fee of $5 for adults (kids are free). So much history of Sir Don and a must for any cricket fan.
SARGES’ Family — Google review
It's pretty good if you are into Don Bradman
Harmony Moxham — Google review
While driving from Sydney to Melbourne we took a detour to Cootamundra to checkout Sir Don Bradman’s birthplace. Being a cricket fan it was great to see the room in which Don Bradman was born, it’s well preserved with lots of memorabilia and things about Don’s cricketing career. There is small entry fee of $5 for adults and kids are free. The Midwife who delivered Sir Don Bradman ran a small private hospital from the front room of her house, it was refurbished in 1991 and opened to public in 1992. Definitely worth a visit for every cricket fan.
The Captains walk itself is interesting but it is also part of a great park with bbqs, shelters, playground, toilets. Great to amuse the kids whilst you appreciate the cricketing history. I learnt a few things as did my Dad and he knows way more cricket than I do.
Parking is easy right out front.
Russ J — Google review
Great walk displaying all the past to present Australian cricket captain's & the legend Sir Don Bradman.
Brian Clarke — Google review
A must for the cricket enthusiast. A short walk with busts of past Australian cricket captains complete with a little info on each.
SARGES? Family — Google review
Good concept but average facility maintenance for a supposed "must visit" of Cootamundra...thought the Council could at least cut the long grass.
Rob McHenry — Google review
Awesome walking and mountain bike track.
Brian McManus Real Estate — Google review
Unfortunately, the council is doing lots of work at the park, so the grounds are not as good as it could they could be. The busts were very well done, quite close to the subject recommended visit
Richard Murray — Google review
Good idea for a small country town! Also encouraging for cricket fans. It is good to know a few more names and their achievements for Australia and the world of cricket. A nice short walk done in a beautiful park and they have all the basic well maintained amenities nearby!
Nellerichal Sreeju — Google review
If you're a cricket fanatic or someone who just respects the greats of the game, this is for you. It's having some repair work at the moment due to recent floods in the area, but it is still a good place to visit.
Deidre Curry — Google review
While it was great to see all former captains of the Australian Men’s Cricket Teams, it was bitterly disappointed that not one female captain is yet to feature in the walk. Because this walk is NOT called Australian Men’s Captains Walk. There is in fact no mention of gender and yet only one gender is represented here.
We’ve had female test cricket captains for at least 90 years. Why are they not here too?
Louise Walsh — Google review
The park is being redeveloped and it's a bit messy at the moment, but you can still see all the captains. It's going to be great when it's finished
Marie Scott — Google review
Heaven for cricket lovers.. One of the best places I’ve ever visited in my life. Captain’s walk is a beautiful park with all the Australian Test Captains’ sculptures.. their records and stats engraved on each sculpture. Bradman’s Birthplace is about 3 minutes from here. A great historic place. People in Cootamundra are lucky to be part of this heritage. The park consists of bbq, children play area and a beautiful walking path.
Sheshagiri V — Google review
4.5
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4.5
(83)
157 Wallendoon St, Cootamundra NSW 2590, Australia
Aviation museum featuring a number of historic military craft & regular flying displays.
This museum has been on my bucket list forever! Finally got there a couple of weeks ago. A five star affair, where every aircraft in this museum flies. You've probably seen them in action at various airshows. They have a big warbirds one coming up in October here at Temora. Fingers crossed I can get back down for it.
Rod Howarth — Google review
Great display of ex military aircraft. Great to see them being restored. Only have three stars as woman on front desk rude, didn't even tell us where to go to for display etc. To keen to take our money and get back to her phone call
Ty Lynch — Google review
Temora Aviation Museum is the most impressive aviation museum I have visited. The staff here are welcoming and wonderful. The collection of warbirds is wide-ranging, each of them meticulously maintained and presented. The biggest highlight however, was our tour guide, Malcolm. Malcolm was a breath of fresh air with a deep and profound knowledge of the planes on show and beyond. Malcolm conducts tours every Thursday and I cannot recommend seeking him out, enough. Thank you Malcolm and thank you Temora Aviation Museum for making our experience so brilliant. P.S. Malcolm, the Ryan is for you.
Ashley Hendry — Google review
A magnificent display of Aircraft from different era,
Well done to all involved.
Look forward to Warbirds Down under. 😎
Wayne Boggs — Google review
Always a great place to visit.
Even better on showcase days with spectacular flying in some iconic aircraft.
Two flying Spitfires, Hudson, Vampire, Meteor, Dragonfly Tiger Moth, 2 Ryans, Canberra, Cessna O2A, Bird dog, Boomerang and Wirraway!
Some rare aircraft in brilliant condition and people around more than willing to provide any info you need.
Love this place.
Now has 3 flight simulators as well. Spitfire P51 and P40. Well worth a visit.
Jenni Clark — Google review
Awesome collection of fully serviceable historic planes. Two Spitfires, a Canberra class, a Boomerang and so much more. Highly recommended.
Lars Klint — Google review
Awesome museum. Well worth the visit. If you are travelling with a caravan the caravan park is one of the best around
Nicholas Mills — Google review
It was an amasing place and staff that I had never seen before. 🤩
I heard the history of the war. Louis, Yasmine and all the staff were always nice and friendly.
Each plane has a detailed explanation with a video. It was interesting to be able to see an airplane with a history up
I heard the show goes on 16 September, and I'd like to join again.😘😘
Dandaisy Art단데이지 — Google review
Truly a national treasure 🙌
A combination of incredible history through the age of flight, amazing tourism backed by local dedication, and military support in the air and on the ground. When you combine this with Warbirds Australia, you have a seriously impressive experience, which is nestled on the outskirts of a beautiful country town..
This museum is guaranteed to impress, no matter how old or young you are and the kids will love it too. Oh and if you are not the kind to buy souvenirs, good luck with that, there are so many choices.
Absolutely stunning ❤️🍻
Steve Coatez — Google review
Nice peaceful walk around some Australian Aviation history, fantastic exhibits, very good facilities, no cafe just yet, but it is coming
Martin Tuckwood — Google review
Fabulous showcase! First visit and we'll be back. Superb organisation at this brilliant museum. Weather was also amazing which topped off a wonderful day
NEIL HORNSBY — Google review
We went to the Temora Aviation Museum and were shown through by one of the guides who had great knowledge and interesting stories to tell. The aircraft are very well looked after and the collection is very interesting. Would love to go back for an airshow.
It is a must for any aviation enthusiast.
Tony Bernardo — Google review
A fantasic display if rare airworthy warbirds. Well set out and very informative. Staff are very friendly. Well worth a visit.
Alan Magarry — Google review
Went to one of their aviation show days. Happen every few months. As a museum it's very well done. Good explanation panels and planes right up close. On show days plane's are up flying with a terrific MC giving you a running history of the individual plane. The pilots can be quizzed directly after landing. It's great!
Just a wonderful experience...
So interesting with much history...
Love the history behind every piece...
sharon Kennedy — Google review
Rural museum was very nice. It took over 2 hours to walk the whole thing. So many things to see. Id recommend 3 hours for the whole thing thoroughly. Lots of stuff the turn of the century. Toilets on the way. Id recommend taking a snack or two a picnic on the way. Our favourites were the ambulances and fire trucks. also the fossils, stones and shells were all pretty special too!!! Oh watch out for the crocodile he seems very scared!!!!
Crosby R — Google review
Wow what a hidden gem at this Temora visitor centre. So many awesome exhibits to see Don Bradmans childhood house, a church, flour mill, printing press, school room and classic cars, fire trucks and tractors and so much more and entry is free.
Melody Pascoe — Google review
Stopped here last Saturday on trip around the country side, good place to visit for trip back in time with all the old machinery on display, you can spend over a couple of hours roaming around the place. And they also a souvenir shop when you first walk in, have been here a few times now when in town
William Bynen — Google review
As a newly arrived resident in Temora, I wanted to explore my new world. A beautiful day yesterday, so decided to go for a walk and ended up at this stunning site. Never have I seen such a stunning exhibition of early country life. Extensive indoor and outdoor exhibits in appealing grounds, all well-labelled with explanations. There is even a little old church and an extensive rock, mineral, fossil and shell exhibition. The attention to detail is most commendable. Expect to spend a chunk of time here and enjoy.
- Gemma Wiseman aka Pamela Adams
Gemma Wiseman — Google review
Very impressive amount of antiques and vehicles. Wonderful that everything is labelled and well set out. A lot of love has gone into this place! Definitely a history lesson for the young and maybe not so young. Certainly worth the small entry fee.
An old flour mill that has renovated to a high standard and would be fantastic for engagement or wedding venue. Great watching how they make the yummy chocolate and licorice. Staff also very friendly and helpful. We didn't get to eat there but would really like to next time we visit there.
Joanne Rogers — Google review
The grounds are beautiful to look at, and sit in. The staff very friendly. The food in the restaurant part was very disappointing, couldn't order from the menu, only could order pizzas today, and they weren't very nice, we couldn't eat them, we tried, but felt sick after.
The gift shop upstairs had a nice range of local and non local wares.
The chocolate factory, u could see them making it through the windows, and you could make yr own chocolate too for a price, then you could go to the chocolate and licorice shop and buy some goodies to take home.
Outside they had a big shed that was full of vintage automobiles, for a gold coin entrance.
Monica Wylie — Google review
Took the opportunity to have lunch here while in the area. Great to see they were dog friendly in the outdoor eating area.
The menu has changed since last here with some interesting new additions.
The staff are super friendly and accommodating to requests.
Lunch we tried the the Vegemite croquettes, an acquired taste I think, not for us.
Steak sandwich and the squid tacos were delicious.
Craig Cochrane — Google review
If you are passing through Junee make sure you stop at the chocolate factory here for some delicious chocolates which will not disappoint you. I know I enjoyed the chocolate coated nuts 😁. But overall this place is great whether you want to just look how they make things, to stopping and enjoying their cafe to just buying chocolates. See my YouTube the Travelling social worker in Thailand for a walkthrough this place
GREGORY EGAN — Google review
Beautiful grounds full of old world charm. An interesting collection of Ford cars. Most excellent licorice and chocolate. A lovely venue for a coffee and cakes, or lunch. The gift shop has some very lovely things, though not cheap.
Amanda Shaw — Google review
Visited over the Easter weekend and it was quite busy. We didn’t do the tour, or eat at the restaurant, but food looked and smelt great. Got a coffee and dessert from the cafe which were both fantastic. Also loved the liquorice store and wish I stocked up on the raspberry bullets! YUM!
Would love to come back and try the food. Very nice atmosphere. Be mindful of the vehicle you drive in, as it’s loose gravel. Also found this cute friendly dog wondering around outside 🥰
Alexandra Lawrence — Google review
Absolutely love this place. We visited 2yrs ago and made it a, must stop this road trip past. kids enjoyed making their own feckle, beautiful old factory that also serves great coffee and the chocolates are amazing as well. Sadly their rocky road was Gluten free but they changed the recipe and now it's not, and it was the best rocky road I've ever tasted.
Kristy K — Google review
We went to have a look at the chocolate factory but I was very pleased to see the local car museum there as well. Being a car guy I spent more time there having a chat about the collection.
The chocolate factory is very good, well set-up and the chocolate is delicious.
Peter Buggy — Google review
Well worth visiting and we will definitely be back to enjoy a meal. The shop staff were so helpful and friendly. The chocolate selection was extensive and tastes amazing. Chocolate coated Ginger and chocolate coated coffee beans taste divine.
Kayleen Z — Google review
I really loved this place. It was our destination for our weekend trip to Junee and I travelled with my wife, kids and parents-in-law. We visited Saturday and while there were no scheduled tours, we asked and the lovely staff organised on for us and a few other families. The lady giving the tour, Katrina, was excellent and taught us a lot about how the products were made. We had fun too with the vertical bowling too and my son was delighted to win a prize. Lovely gift shops and cafes very reasonably priced. The coffee and hot chocolates were the best we had in town, we were back Sunday morning for another round! Definitely worth a visit.
Dean Adams — Google review
Tours are run daily at 10:30am and 1:30pm so unfortunately we missed the tour however we were able to walk around and have a look through the windows at some of the production. Upstairs is a gift shop with a range of different items not related to the licorice and chocolate factory. For $5 you can make your very own big chocolate freckle in the freckle hut. There are several places to sit and enjoy some food. The hot chocolate’s are delicious.
Jo Seaby — Google review
Unfortunately no chocolate was being made the day we visited but despite that the building was beautiful to look around. The gift shop was pretty but honestly had very little amount of items related to the chocolate shop, to me it seemed very sporadic. The licorice shop smelt amazing, and the staff were lovely. Beautiful gardens as well. There is very little storage and unfortunately the building seemed more like a storage place, than a building where chocolate is made, as well as a cafe etc. There were cardboard boxes everywhere, plastic crates and a random ratty old computer chair. All in all it was a beautiful building to visit & the licorice is delicious.
Belinda C — Google review
This place is amazing! The service and friendliness of the lovely lady in the licorace shop on Thursday 22/02/2024 in the afternoon was first class. Fabulous place to visit, see their working factory and taste their wares. Lovely cafe too.
Buttons and Bowes — Google review
The place is easy to find. Lots of shaded parking. The venue is goregous and recently renovated. The chocolate gift shop is also worth visiting.
The food was yummy and the chocolate was made infront of some massive glass walls. The other gift shop also has lots of trinkets in it
Sue Dillon — Google review
Lovely space to visit! Super different from when I was a kid and I must say, I’m a huge fan of the changes. I love that you can view how everything is made without paying. The cafe area and licorice shop were a beautiful layout and vibe as well as the upstairs homewares shop! Would definitely recommend the activities you can do within the factory!
Shannon Grace — Google review
We always make sure on our motorhome travels to drop in and stock up on licorice & chocolate as well as having breakfast or lunch. The atmosphere is fantastic with many different settings to sit and enjoy. Make sure that you check out the car 7 motorcycle museum across the way.
Steve Abbott — Google review
Junee Chocolate factory is definitely a must visit on the to do list. great place for the kids and family. the kids can pour their own chocolate freckles in the freckle hut.
they also have a classic car collection beside it (mainly Fords) and an old mower collection
Emmanuel Tan — Google review
4.5
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4.5
(592)
Licorice Factory, 45/61 Lord St, Junee NSW 2663, Australia
Reportedly haunted Victorian-era house hosting supernatural tours & an offbeat doll museum.
What an awesome experience. If you haven't been here, you should. The presenters were awesome people and the house is amazing to explore. The stories told of its history are wonderful to listen to and I wish it could have been longer... We are planning another trip down that way again soon so we can spend some more time there.
DJ Croft — Google review
Fun to visit. There are definitely ghosts at the property. Lovely older lady that served my family and I.
Sadly it wasn't very well maintained outside and wasn't very good the second time visiting.
Charlotte Ford — Google review
This is an excellent experience. Lawrence is a passionate story teller so be prepared to be scared out of your skin. I'm in awe of the work the family has done over the years. Highly recommend the overnight experience.
Sarah Stewart — Google review
Loved it. What a place and a story. We got to meet Olive and she signed the book my wife bought. We would love to do the full night time guided tours with over night stay that they offer but, unfortunately they are booked out until late May, so if you want to do this book now.
But the homestead and the ground are worth a walk around to take in the story.
Thanks Olive.
Oliver Fullerton — Google review
The house is beautiful in terms of its architecture and for the rooms (8 in total that were open for viewing) that were furnished and kept clean. However this is not a historic haunted house, they have rather made it a dirty old rundown place with weeds, termite infestation, spiders and wasps making nests wherever you see outside of these 8 rooms. Part of the house is closed due to being in tatters. The outhouses were some of the most crazily dirty rooms I have ever seen in Australia. The owners are lazy and do not believe in cleaning and mopping the place.
Laden with cobwebs and insects of all varieties it was a nightmare to see this place and felt really sad for how they are treating such a historic house. All it takes is a mop and bucket to clean and I can't believe they can't afford it!!!
Nothing haunting abt the house except the tacky mannequins unnecessarily added to the house making it haloweenish while it doesn't need it.
A sincere request :- CLEAN UP!!!
RANT ENDS
vidhi mathur — Google review
Amazing place . got a big story in their life. Thanks for opening the house to visit us . Lovely peoples and good service . thanks for all .
Nilantha Bandara — Google review
The young lady that does the meet, greet and money taking, is fantastic, will talk and guide you on what to look for is upbeat and certainly knows the history of the place. Worth a visit, steeped in history, and we also took her up on a discountbdeal for the group, so be nice and she may also offer you a deal.
Go see if you can bump into a ghost or 2!
Leon De Bourgonniere — Google review
Super cool experience! Definitely worth seeing the homestead, even from a historical perspective. We did the night tour, dinner and stay and it was definitely worth it! Would love to go again.
Madeline Joy — Google review
Amazing. Loved the vibe. Loved the energy. Loved chatting to the owners. What a memorable experience. While it may be Australia's most haunted homestead, I felt completely at home playing with the spirits. Saw things move. Saw orbs. Heard voices and my daughter felt her head being touched... maybe it was a spider web. Creepy but fun.
Claire Chancellor — Google review
The owners of this Homestead have done an amazing job of curating quite a collection of antiques and objects. Whilst we didnt see or hear a ghost during our visit, the ambience is definately quite unusual. We went during the day, I can imagine it would be atmospheric at night! The owner gave a talk when we purchased our tickets and entered the grounds, he provided us with a map which detailed the main house and surrounding grounds. Very interesting!
Lee's Lens — Google review
Great experience at the Monte Cristo homestead after wanting to visit since I was ten years old. I would love to go back and stay overnight sometime too but for now it was just a stop over on our way home.
We explored the home and it was super cold in the servants quarters as well as the old cart stables. We got one live picture of a few orbs floating around which was weird and cool.
Besides those new things it was a really nice stop over in a very historical building that I had known of most of my life, and always wanted to visit. So it was nice to finally do that.
Ashlee Jayde — Google review
We went to mote cristo homestead and Junee
This was great place to vist
I would highly recommend this as a must do.
Billy Bottrell — Google review
Wow what an experience, owner was so lovely and friendly staff . I little
Piece of history here .
Very informative tour. Interesting and close looks at various trains. Highly recommended.
Terry Baker — Google review
Went here last Saturday to before I went to the chocolate factory. They have a great selection of old trains and carriages on display plus gift shop and working train models. You could spend about an hour looking through the old trains
William Bynen — Google review
We had an excellent afternoon experience the early modern train locomotives from steam to the modern day in the largest and oldest roundhouse with huge turntable in the Southern Hemisphere.
The mini model train run was outstanding!
Loved the place.
Syed Quddusi — Google review
Interesting train carriages with good interpretation. Being a working roundhouse, I was able to watch while a diesel engine came in to the roundhouse and then transfer to a bay. There is a great working and large train set on display. It reminds me of what we had at home. The volunteers are also great with much information.
Tina Willmore — Google review
A must see for all railway enthusiasts. There's a model railway that visitors can operate. The steam crane is impressive. Many locomotives and rolling stock that can be entered.
Glenn Eaton — Google review
Wonderfully maintained part of Australia's history. The volunteers, Bob and Rob, were great at making us feel welcomed and gave us a great tour.
Mary Lange — Google review
This is an awesome display of railway history. 🛤 A credit to those who put it together and continue to make it such a wonderful experience for visitors.
Rod Faithfull — Google review
Absolutely must see if you visit Junee and have any interest in trains. View the model train set, then go inside the roundhouse and get to walk through train history that's very well cared for by the Fantastic helpful volunteers who are so knowledgeable. My kids and teenager really enjoyed their visit.
Kristy K — Google review
An amusing railway museum with a lot of history and information to learn. Had a wonderful guide who told us all about train piloting and engines..
vidhi mathur — Google review
We went to the museum in the morning . very friendly staff explained about the history of the museum. .Many things to learn for kids about the old steam train . Must visit the place if around there . recommended.
thanks
Nilantha Bandara — Google review
Great working museum.$10 entry per person. Impressive collection of old diesel locomotives and train carriages of yester year. The old mail train is probably the highlight.
Beverley Holmes — Google review
We visit here 3 or 4 times a year. Great to see the old trains and working roundhouse.
Highly recommended.
Leon Maguire — Google review
Loved the train museum. The guides were awesome with lots of great information about the trains and other memorabilia. My 11yo loved it too. There was lots to see as you could go inside some of the trains.
Deidre Curry — Google review
It's an outstanding piece of the local history encapsulated in a round facility building. Can you believe that once this place was full of energy, steam and people? It's a "must see" place for everyone interested in railways and trains.
Wojciech Klepacki — Google review
I love this place..been a couple of times this time took our 11yr old grandson..he was amazed by every single aspect of the place..Hunter says also ask about the story of little Fanny.. he loved hearing all about her.. The staff are beautiful 😍
Sjs mum Carmen heron — Google review
A small museum housed in the old railway buildings, the highlight is the roundhouse with the preserved trains and carriages. Dog friendly.
Andy Petrie — Google review
Fantastic place to visit. The carriages and locomotives on display are great, and the roundhouse itself is very interesting.
The staff were excellent (special thanks to Ian for taking the time to explain the history of the roundhouse and the locos) and the model railway was incredibly detailed.
Craig Nash — Google review
A wonderfully preserved and operating roundhouse. The static displays are great. Especially the postal car!
Jayne Calvert — Google review
The volunteer staff make the $10 ticket worth more.
You can go on some beautiful, well maintained old carriages. the mail van is a highlight of all.
Beautiful historic building with plenty of stories and pieces of history inside to explore. Guide at the front counter was a delight to talk to and was also extremely knowledgeable about the building and the town's history.
Be sure to get a demo of the Lamson cash delivery rail system, possibly one of the last standing of its kind in Australia
Rhys — Google review
A great place to visit when in town. The volunteers are friendly and knowledgeable about the building, its history and the locals.
Jackie Ashby — Google review
Great old fashioned store used as a museum. Excellent metal scrap sculpture insoired by the "Little Rascals" playing marbles by Andrew Whitehead
Graeme Hills — Google review
Absolute must-see! Can’t leave Coolamon without seeing the last of its kind cash delivery track systems in Australia! Perfectly demonstrated by a local volunteer. Unfortunately some missing pieces in the history of the town of Coolamon, would visit again! If ever again in coolamon
W.G. Meijer — Google review
I remember visiting the Up To Date store back in February 2018 as the tour guide John was very informative not only about the store itself, also the town of Coolamon. It's worth a visit if your ever travel down south to the Riverina region.
dja69 — Google review
A museum with some very interesting exhibits. Our guide was entertaining and knowledgeable.
Rob Quee — Google review
Wonderful preserved things from our past.
Margaret Hanlon — Google review
Very interesting well worth going to have a look.
Geoff Ware — Google review
4.4
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4.5
(23)
Corner Loughnan Street and, Cowabbie St, Coolamon NSW 2701, Australia
Having stopped at Coolamon to visit the cheese factory, we walked past the Fire Museum and decided to poke our head in… well what a fantastic museum. Located in the former fire station, the museum houses a wide collection of fire memorabilia.
The owner is knowledgeable and will talk through what the equipment is and how it was used. If you are ever near by, then stop in and discover some Australian history!
Andrew Gatley — Google review
Definitely worth a visit. Chris gave us a detailed look at the rich history of fire fighting. While most of the collection was Australian there was a mix of memorabilia from around the world.
Tom Cook — Google review
A great destination to visit for the locals who love fire trucks. There's such a great variety of fire engines and equipment to look at, both old and new. The kids and elderly will probably love it too! 🚒🔥🚒
Kevin Burgackler — Google review
Extremely friendly host. An absolutely staggering array of fire-fighting memorabilia from all around the would. An absolute must-see if you’re driving through this district.
Jules Andrews — Google review
What a fantastic display of fire brigade memorabilia. Chris has done a great job collecting and displaying a lot of rare and current items. Well worth a visit.
John Vandeven — Google review
What a brilliant place to visit. Stopped for 10 mins and spent over an hour. You have to admire the dedication and the personal investment of Chris. We absolutely loved the information he passed on.
David Roberts — Google review
A great museum in a small country town. The guy looking after it is an ex firefighter and has a heap of information... very interesting and worth a stop
182 DRIVER — Google review
The museum and Chris are simply amazing! Full of an incredible collection from all over the world.
Kevin Viereck — Google review
Awesome day out. Plenty of history and a great collection
John — Google review
Here here debbie! You took the words right out of our mouth! Chris thank you for you passion and curation of one of best collections we’ve of fire stuff, we’ve ever tumbled across! Especially being interested in the dutch memorabilia and sure confirms the cliche: happy life happy wife! Wt40
One of a kind experience. We are very passionate about olive oil and olives , its an essential part of our diet. The experience was complete by a guided tour by the the owners whom were very welcoming and friendly and shared informative history and facts about olive planting, olive oil extraction. The tasting was absolutely divine.
Thank you guys and very well done love your work and passion about the olives.
rula karali — Google review
Very knowledgeable about olives.
The olives with mandarin are delicious.
I will book in for a tour next time I am in Wagga Wagga.
Noelene George — Google review
Do yourself a favour and call in for the tour and tastings. Tour was done by one of the owners Lovely lady very informative. Products were amazing! Rosemary Olives are to die for! Definitely recommend.
julie davis — Google review
The owner gave us a private tour without any booking he was so great and personal! And I’ve never tasted such amazing olives before!
Cheryl Mack — Google review
Joo Yee and Bruce are so knowledgeable and lovely! We had a great tour around their olive farm and tasting their olives and award winning olive oils. The olives were so plump and their olive oils were amazing
Sheree Lam — Google review
Our stop in Wagga wouldn’t have been complete without the tasting sesh at Wollundry Grove Olives. The table olives and olive oil are delicious, with mandarin infused table olives being a personal favourite. The owners Joo-Yee and Bruce are very personable - we learnt a lot.
Jeanette Zhang — Google review
Excellent place to visit, had a great time doing the olive oil tasting, with the owners producing award-winning extra virgin olive oils. The owners were extremely friendly and educated us on olives and olive oil. They helped us take some photos with the olive trees, as they were not too busy when we arrived. Seeing that we were tourists, they also suggested nearby local specialties to visit and experience. Great place to visit and would recommend a visit and purchase their wonderful olive oil.
Niven Ang — Google review
I had a great trip out to the Wollundry Grove today. The owners are super friendly and super informative, answered all my questions and the tasting was absolutely divine. Totally enjoyed myself and took home several bottles bc I simply couldn’t get enough. You guys are great! Keep on doing what you are doing bc I want to come back next Time we are around. All the best.
Linda Seide — Google review
This farm is on a bucolic hillside a few minutes north of Wagga Wagga, producing award-winning extra virgin olive oil and first-rate table olives.
The entire range at Wollundry Olive Groves is grown, processed, packaged or bottled at the farm, and you can find out more about every stage on a visit.
You’ll meet the growers, tour the picture-perfect groves and sample some of the best olive oil and olives you’ve ever tasted.
What’s fascinating is that the oil’s complex aromas and flavours vary by season, and you’ll discover just why.
Ankit Patel — Google review
Great quality Australian olive oil. Well worth a visit to see for yourself the process.