Top things to do in Dubbo, in the Orana region

The Dubbo region is an ever-popular holiday destination thanks to its exciting attractions and culinary offerings.

We’ve put together a list of the top things to do in Dubbo to ensure that you make the most of your time in this bustling city in the Orana region of New South Wales. 

 

 

Taronga Western Plains Zoo

 

No list of things to do in Dubbo would be complete without Taronga Western Plains Zoo. Spanning a five-kilometre circuit, this famous zoo is home to all your favourite animals, including native creatures such as koalas, kangaroos, wallabies and echidnas. 

The zoo hosts a variety of animal encounters during the day, offering the chance to meet a Sumatran Tiger, or stand tall with the giraffes. Visitors are also encouraged to hire bikes as a way of getting around the track. Or, with the recent introduction of the Savannah Lake, you can cruise along the primate enclosures by boat, for an up-close look at spider monkeys and lemurs. 

If you feel like resting your legs after a long day, the Savannah Visitor Plaza hosts a shop, playground and cafe for all to enjoy. 

 

 

Old Dubbo Gaol

 

The Old Dubbo Gaol began as a courthouse lock-up in 1847, growing to house more prisoners as the populations in surrounding towns increased.

Now, this 19th-century prison stands as a window into the reality of prison life. Visitors can discover the daring escapes and fascinating prisoner stories through an entertaining mix of theatrical performances and immersive displays.

The night tours are perfect for fans of horror and mystery, as visitors are guided through cells by torchlight to uncover the grizzly underbelly of prison life, including tales of death and punishment. 

 

 

Western Plains Cultural Centre 

 

As a hub for arts and creativity, the Western Plains Cultural Centre hosts local and national artists all year round. The constant rotation of exhibitions and displays showcases the best work on offer, shining a spotlight on the power of art, history and performance. 

The cultural centre has also been collecting various artifacts including photographs, books and maps for almost 60 years. The collection offers a glimpse into Dubbo’s fascinating past, and its future ambitions. 

 

 

Burrendong Botanic Gardens and Arboretum

 

Wander more than 164 hectares of colourful flowers, native botanicals and towering trees at the Burrendong Botanic Gardens and Arboretum. Here, visitors are encouraged to pull their walking boots on and explore at their own pace.

No matter which way you trek, there’s plenty to see and explore. The Fern Gull is a man-made rainforest found beneath a thatched canopy, with so many birds and critters to find. Free monthly tours are also available by arrangement, for a unique and personalised look at this sprawling land. 

The team here is dedicated to conserving the flora and fauna, as the gardens are home to one of the largest collections of Australian plants in cultivation.

 

 

Dubbo Regional Adventure Playground 

 

When travelling with kids, it can be hard to find new and fun ways to keep them entertained. Luckily, the Dubbo Regional Adventure Playground features more than 40 play elements, including a flying dox, giant slide and basket swing.

With so much to enjoy, you may want to bring supplies and make use of the BBQs for a delicious cooked lunch while the kids clamber, climb and swing the day away.

 

 

Dubbo Observatory 

 

At the Dubbo Observatory, astronomy and night sky viewing sessions are run almost every day. Each show includes an astronomy presentation, where an expert guide discusses the incredible galaxy above our heads, and the chance to take an astrophoto through the telescope when you bring your own camera.

For a more personalised experience, the Premium Tour is a private night sky viewing with access to more telescopes and a pair of astronomy binoculars. Visitors on this tour will be provided with a previously captured astrophoto, and receive a more comprehensive demonstration on how to shoot the stars for themselves.

 

 

Dundullimal Homestead

 

Step back in time when you enter this historic homestead and the surrounding parklands.

Originally a 10,0000-hectare working property, Dundullimal is an 1840s homestead expertly restored as a testament to historic Australia. Inside the building, you will find wide halls and cedar finishings. In the gardens, you can explore the sandstone stables, church and blacksmith’s forge to fully immerse yourself in the lives of people working on a sheep and cattle station in 1800s Dubbo.

Leashed dogs are welcome to wander the garden, and the Shed Cafe serves delicious snacks for afternoon tea.

Can’t get enough of these top things to do in Dubbo? For our favourite places to eat and drink, click here.