Things to do in Dubbo
Discover Top Tourist Attractions in dubbo, nsw
Nestled in the scenic Macquarie Valley, Dubbo is a lively regional city with a warm, welcoming vibe. Proudly known as the number one family destination in NSW, Dubbo offers an ideal setting for memorable family adventures or refreshing interstate escapes.
From embarking on the great Australian journey to enjoying a spontaneous weekend getaway, the Dubbo Region is brimming with things to do. Discover local attractions, create lasting memories, and experience the best of Dubbo.
Welcome to Dubbo, NSW – where adventure and relaxation converge!
Taronga Western Plains Zoo
Embark on an unforgettable zoofari adventure at Taronga Western Plains Zoo! Discover hundreds of rare and endangered animals as you explore the 5km zoo circuit by car, on foot, or by renting bikes or carts. Enjoy engaging zookeeper talks, behind-the-scenes tours, and exciting up-close animal encounters.
Old Dubbo Gaol
A must-see state heritage-listed site, Old Dubbo Gaol offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. Operating for 119 years from 1847 to 1966, this remarkably preserved gaol remains a key landmark on Dubbo’s main street. The collection of 19th and 20th-century buildings provides a captivating journey through history, with immersive experiences that bring the past to life.
Royal Flying Doctor Visitor Experience
Dive into the fascinating history of the Royal Flying Doctor Service, established in 1928 by Reverend John Flynn, who is featured on the $20 Australian note. This engaging exhibition offers interactive displays that provide insight into the service’s operations and its ongoing significance. Experience firsthand how the Royal Flying Doctor continues its proud tradition of delivering essential healthcare to Australia’s rural and remote communities.
Wellington Caves
Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of Wellington Caves, just a 45 minute drive from Dubbo. Explore stunning limestone formations, including the breathtaking Cathedral Cave, and uncover ancient fossils that tell the story of this unique subterranean world. Perfect for an unforgettable day trip!
Dundullimal Homestead
Step back in time and explore the rich pioneer history at Dundullimal Homestead. Stroll through the historic homestead, groom’s cottage, stables, and machinery shed of a squatter’s run established before Dubbo’s founding. Discover intriguing artifacts in the Dundullimal collection, relax in the beautiful gardens, and savor delightful Devonshire teas.
Dubbo Observatory
Discover the wonders of the night sky at Dubbo Observatory. Use telescopes to view planets, stars, and galaxies, and bring your SLR camera for astrophotography. Bookings are essential. During the day, you can also observe sunspots and solar prominences, and enjoy a round of Astro mini-golf.
Dubbo Regional Botanic Garden
Stimulate your senses as you explore four distinct garden areas. Shoyoen, a traditional Japanese garden, features exquisite architecture and horticulture. The Biodiversity Garden highlights native plant communities. The Sensory Garden offers a dynamic experience that engages all five senses—smell, sight, sound, touch, and taste. Oasis Valley showcases dry rainforest species, illustrating the evolution of local bushland from the ancient forests of Gondwanaland.
Western Plains Cultural Centre
Dubbo’s creative hub, the Western Plains Cultural Centre, features a state-of-the-art gallery, museum, and contemporary café. The Centre showcases a dynamic range of high-quality exhibitions and installations by both local and visiting artists.
Dubbo Regional Theatre and Convention Centre
Dubbo’s premier venue for performing arts, the Regional Theatre and Convention Centre hosts a diverse range of local, national, and international performances. This 500-seat, fully air-conditioned, tiered theatre is centrally located in Dubbo’s business district and offers views over the scenic Victoria Park.
Dubbo Regional Adventure Playground
Let your kids unleash their energy at the Dubbo Adventure Playground. They can zip along the flying fox, zoom down the giant slide, and soar high on the basket swing! With amenities like BBQs, toilets, a wheelchair-accessible Liberty Swing, and a fitness area for seniors, this playground is designed for enjoyment by all ages and abilities.
Dubbo Aquatic Leisure Centre
Enjoy summer family fun at the Dubbo Aquatic Leisure Centre! Kids can splash around in the children’s pool, conquer the water slides, or play with the enormous tipping bucket in the splash pad. For bigger kids, there are giant twin waterslides and an Olympic swimming pool for laps. The centre also features a kiosk and free BBQs for a perfect day out.
